Looking to make some extra cash online without much hassle? Online surveys might just be the answer you’ve been looking for. They offer a simple way to share your opinions on products, services, and other topics—and get paid for it. Whether you’re a student, a stay-at-home parent, or someone wanting to supplement your income, online surveys are a great way to earn money without leaving your home.
In this guide, we’ll explain how online surveys work, where to find legitimate platforms, and how to maximize your earnings. You’ll also learn about the best practices to ensure you’re not wasting your time and making the most out of each survey you complete.
What Are Online Surveys and How Do They Work?
Online surveys are tools used by companies to gather consumer feedback. Brands are always eager to hear what people think about their products and services, as this information helps them improve and stay competitive. For your time and opinions, they offer rewards such as cash, gift cards, or points.
How Do Online Surveys Work?
- Sign Up: To get started, you sign up for an online survey platform.
- Complete Surveys: Once registered, you will be invited to take surveys. The questions you answer are usually about various products, services, or topics.
- Earn Rewards: After completing a survey, you earn rewards in the form of cash or points.
- Redeem Rewards: Rewards can be redeemed for PayPal cash, gift cards, or other prizes, depending on the platform.
Where Can You Find Legitimate Online Survey Sites?
When looking to earn money through online surveys, it’s important to find reliable and trustworthy platforms. Some sites may waste your time or even scam you. Below is a list of some of the most reputable and trusted survey platforms that you can sign up for.
1. Swag bucks
- What it Offers: Swag bucks rewards you for taking surveys, watching videos, and even shopping online.
- Payment Method: PayPal cash, gift cards.
- How to Get Started: Sign up, fill out your profile, and start earning Swag bucks (SB) points by completing surveys and other activities.
2. Survey Junkie
- What it Offers: Survey Junkie connects you with surveys that match your interests and demographics.
- Payment Method: PayPal cash, gift cards.
- How to Get Started: Create a free account, complete your profile, and start taking surveys to earn points.
3. Inbox Dollars
- What it Offers: Inbox Dollars offers multiple ways to earn, including surveys, videos, and reading emails.
- Payment Method: Cash (via check or PayPal).
- How to Get Started: Register, choose tasks that interest you, and start earning cash directly.
4. Pinecone Research
- What it Offers: Pinecone Research offers high-paying, targeted surveys, and occasionally product testing.
- Payment Method: PayPal or points.
- How to Get Started: Join by invitation, take surveys, and earn rewards.
5. Toluna
- What it Offers: Toluna offers surveys on a variety of topics and product testing.
- Payment Method: PayPal or gift cards.
- How to Get Started: Sign up, fill out your profile, and start participating in surveys and product tests.
How to Get Started with Online Surveys
If you’re ready to dive in, here’s how to get started with online surveys in a few simple steps:
1. Select Trusted Survey Sites
Make sure the platforms you sign up for are legitimate. The platforms mentioned earlier have been verified as trustworthy and offer real rewards for your time. Joining multiple platforms increases the number of available surveys, which means more earning opportunities.
2. Complete Your Profile
Survey sites often ask you to fill out a profile when you first register. This helps match you with relevant surveys. A detailed profile can increase your chances of qualifying for more surveys, as platforms will know which topics and industries best suit you.
3. Regularly Check for New Surveys
Survey invitations are usually sent via email or through app notifications. It’s essential to stay on top of these notifications because surveys can fill up quickly, and you may miss out if you don’t act fast.
4. Be Consistent
Online surveys are not a get-rich-quick way to earn money. They are best used as a consistent source of extra income. Set aside a few minutes each day to complete surveys, and over time, you’ll start earning a decent amount of money.
5. Stay Organized
Keep track of your completed surveys and earned rewards. Many platforms have dashboards where you can see your progress. Staying organized will help you manage your time and know when to redeem your earnings.
How Much Money Can You Earn from Online Surveys?
Online surveys are a great way to make extra cash, but it’s important to manage your expectations. While they can provide a steady stream of side income, they are not a substitute for a full-time job.
- Average Earnings Per Survey: Depending on the length and complexity, you can earn between $1 to $5 per survey. Longer, specialized surveys may pay even more.
- Weekly and Monthly Earnings: If you complete 10-20 surveys each week, you could make anywhere from $50 to $200 per month, depending on the site and the surveys you qualify for.
Maximizing Your Earnings with Online Surveys
To maximize your earnings, here are some tips to help you earn more efficiently:
1. Focus on Higher-Paying Surveys
Not all surveys are created equal. Some surveys pay more than others, especially those that are longer or more detailed. Look for product-testing surveys or specialized topics, which tend to offer higher rewards.
2. Sign Up for Multiple Platforms
By signing up for more than one survey site, you increase your chances of getting more surveys. Different platforms offer different opportunities, so the more you sign up for, the more earning potential you have.
3. Take Advantage of Referral Bonuses
Many survey sites offer referral programs where you can earn bonuses for inviting friends and family to join. This is a great way to earn passive income as you get a commission when your referrals complete surveys.
4. Be Honest and Consistent
Survey sites value honest and thoughtful answers. If you consistently provide genuine feedback, you’ll increase your chances of being invited to higher-paying surveys. Avoid rushing through surveys or providing inconsistent answers, as this may disqualify you from future opportunities.
5. Redeem Rewards Quickly
Most platforms allow you to redeem your rewards once you hit a minimum threshold. Don’t wait too long to redeem your points for PayPal cash or gift cards. The sooner you redeem, the sooner you can enjoy your earnings!
What to Expect from Your Online Survey Earnings
As mentioned earlier, online surveys won’t replace a full-time job, but they can help you earn extra money on the side. To give you an idea of potential earnings, here’s a rough breakdown:
- $1 to $5 per survey for general surveys.
- $10 to $50 per survey for longer, product-testing surveys.
- $50 to $200 a month if you complete multiple surveys per week.
While this isn’t going to make you rich, it can certainly help cover small expenses, or allow you to save up for something special.