When people hear the phrase “free money”, they usually assume it’s a scam. But here’s the truth: there are legit apps that pay you real cash, rewards, or gift cards without requiring you to invest or risk anything.
In fact, a recent survey showed that over 70% of smartphone users earn cashback or rewards from apps every year. From scanning receipts to walking with your phone, you can earn extra income just by doing things you already do daily.
In this guide, we’ll share 12 apps that actually pay you free money in 2025 all safe, simple, and beginner-friendly. Whether you want extra grocery savings, free Starbucks, or passive cash, these apps are worth trying.
App 1: Swagbucks — Earn Cash for Simple Tasks
Swagbucks is one of the most popular free money apps. It pays you points (SB) for completing simple activities like:
- Answering surveys
- Watching short videos
- Shopping through their portal
- Searching online
You can cash out via PayPal or popular gift cards like Amazon and Target. On average, users can earn $25–$50 per month with consistent use.
Tip: Use their daily goals feature to earn bonus SB points faster.
App 2: Rakuten — Best for Cashback Shopping
If you shop online, Rakuten is a must-have. It gives you real cashback whenever you shop at partner stores like Walmart, Macy’s, and Best Buy.
- Example: Spend $100 at a store with 10% cashback = $10 back in your pocket.
- Average users earn $10–$30/month just from regular purchases.
Rakuten also offers a $30 sign-up bonus for new users who make their first qualifying purchase.
Combine Rakuten with other cashback apps for stacked savings.
App 3: Ibotta — Grocery Savings Made Easy
Groceries are one of the biggest household expenses, and that’s where Ibotta helps.
- Upload your receipts to claim rebates on everyday items.
- Connect your store loyalty cards for automatic rewards.
- Works with big chains like Walmart, Kroger, and Costco.
Families can easily save $20–$50 per month using Ibotta.
Pro Hack: Pair Ibotta with coupons for maximum grocery savings.
App 4: Mistplay — Play Games, Earn Rewards
Love mobile gaming? With Mistplay, you can earn gift cards just by playing games.
- Download games, play, and level up.
- Collect units and exchange them for gift cards (Amazon, Google Play, Visa).
- Best for casual gamers.
Players often earn $5–$15/month, but it’s a fun side perk if you already enjoy gaming.
App 5: Dosh — Automatic Cashback App
Unlike other cashback apps, Dosh works automatically.
- Simply link your credit/debit card.
- Shop or dine at partner stores.
- Cashback is credited to your account instantly.
No scanning receipts or entering codes—just set it and forget it.
On average, users earn $10–$40/month with normal spending habits.
App 6: Fetch Rewards — Scan Receipts for Points
With Fetch Rewards, all you have to do is:
- Take a photo of your grocery receipts.
- Earn points instantly.
- Redeem for gift cards like Starbucks, Amazon, or Visa Prepaid Cards.
It’s one of the easiest ways to earn free money online no need to choose offers in advance.
Average users earn $10–$25/month.
App 7: Acorns — Get Free Money While Investing
Acorns isn’t just about investing—it’s also a free money app with perks.
- It rounds up your purchases and invests the spare change.
- Many brands partner with Acorns to give bonus cash when you shop through them.
For example, a $5 coffee becomes $6 charged, with $1 invested automatically.
Over time, you build a small investment portfolio without even noticing.
App 8: PayPal Honey — Auto Savings & Rewards
Honey (by PayPal) is both a coupon finder and a cashback app.
- It automatically applies coupons at checkout.
- Earn Honey Gold points redeemable for gift cards.
- Works at 30,000+ online retailers.
Hack: Stack Honey with Rakuten for double cashback + coupon savings.
App 9: Nielsen Mobile Panel — Get Paid for Data Sharing
Nielsen, a trusted market research company, has a mobile panel app that pays you for simply using your phone normally.
- You don’t have to do anything—just install the app.
- They collect anonymous browsing data.
- Users earn around $50–$100 per year passively.
This is one of the best passive income apps since it requires zero effort.
App 10: Google Opinion Rewards — Quick Survey Cash
Created by Google, this app pays you for short surveys about shopping habits, travel, or product feedback.
- Surveys usually take 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Payments go directly to PayPal or Google Play balance.
While small, you can earn $3–$10 per month consistently.
App 11: InboxDollars — Multiple Ways to Earn
InboxDollars offers a variety of ways to make money:
- Reading paid emails
- Watching videos
- Completing surveys
- Playing games
They also offer a $5 sign-up bonus. With steady use, users can make $20–$50/month.
App 12: Sweatcoin — Earn Free Money by Walking
Why not get paid for staying healthy? Sweatcoin rewards you for walking.
- Converts your steps into “Sweatcoins.”
- Redeem for discounts, gift cards, or PayPal cash.
- Average users earn around $5–$15/month.
It’s not a fortune, but it’s free money for moving your body.
Visual: Monthly Earnings Potential by App
Here’s a simple comparison chart:
| App | Type of Earning | Avg. Monthly Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Swagbucks | Surveys, shopping | $25–$50 |
| Rakuten | Cashback shopping | $10–$30 |
| Ibotta | Grocery rebates | $20–$50 |
| Mistplay | Gaming rewards | $5–$15 |
| Dosh | Automatic cashback | $10–$40 |
| Fetch Rewards | Receipt scanning | $10–$25 |
| Acorns | Investing + bonuses | Varies |
| Honey | Coupons + cashback | $5–$20 |
| Nielsen Panel | Passive browsing data | $50–$100/year |
| Opinion Rewards | Quick surveys | $3–$10 |
| InboxDollars | Surveys, tasks | $20–$50 |
| Sweatcoin | Walking | $5–$15 |
Tips to Maximize Free Money Apps
- Combine apps: Use Rakuten, Ibotta, and Honey together for triple savings.
- Cash out often: Don’t let rewards expire—withdraw regularly.
- Use referrals: Many apps offer $5–$20 bonuses for inviting friends.
- Set reminders: Scan receipts right after shopping to avoid missing rewards.
FAQs — Free Money Apps in 2025
1. Are free money apps legit?
Yes! Apps like Rakuten, Swagbucks, and Ibotta are widely trusted and have paid millions of users.
2. How much can I realistically earn?
Most people earn $20–$100/month, depending on the apps they use and how consistent they are.
3. Which app pays the fastest?
Google Opinion Rewards and Fetch Rewards usually process payments within days.
4. Do I need to spend money first to earn?
Not always. Some apps (like Nielsen Panel or Sweatcoin) pay passively, while cashback apps require purchases.
5. Can I use multiple free money apps together?
Absolutely! In fact, combining apps is the smartest way to maximize your earnings.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. While the apps listed are legitimate, earnings may vary depending on location, usage, and availability. Always read the terms of each app before signing up.
