Are you looking to make some extra cash by taking paid online surveys?
I know, there are so many survey sites out there it can make your head spin trying to figure out which ones are legit. Trust me, I’ve been there!
That’s why I wanted to share my personal list of the top survey sites that I’ve found to be the best for earning real money.
These are the sites I actually use and recommend to my friends. They are all free to join, have good reputations, and offer decent rewards for the time you put in.
So if you’re ready to start getting paid to share your two cents, check out my picks for the best paid survey sites below!
1. Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys has become one of my top recommended survey sites. With over 2 million members and a strong 4.1/5 Trustpilot rating, they have built a solid reputation in the industry.
The sign-up process is quick and straightforward, allowing you to start earning points immediately.
Each completed survey awards points that can be redeemed for PayPal cash or a variety of gift card options once you reach 500 points ($5).
One standout feature of Branded Surveys is their loyalty program, Branded Elite.
As you complete more surveys, you can move up the tiers from Bronze to Silver and Gold, unlocking bonus points along the way. It’s a great incentive to stay engaged and active on the platform.
In my first few hours on the site, I managed to earn over $7 and nearly reached the Silver tier. The platform also offers additional earning opportunities through daily polls, giveaways, and referral programs.
If you’re seeking a reliable and rewarding survey site, Branded Surveys is definitely worth checking out.
2. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is one of the most well-known and established players in the online rewards space, with over 20 million members worldwide.
What sets Swagbucks apart is the diverse range of earning opportunities available.
In addition to paid surveys, you can earn SB points by shopping online, watching videos, playing games, and more. This variety keeps things interesting and allows you to accumulate points in multiple ways.
As a new member, you can take advantage of a $10 welcome bonus when you spend at least $25 through one of their “Shop & Earn” partners, such as Amazon or Walmart.
Surveys on Swagbucks typically pay between $0.25 and $2, with most taking just a few minutes to complete.
In my experience, I’ve been able to consistently earn around $25-30 per month by engaging with various activities on the site.
The wide selection of gift card rewards and PayPal cash redemption options add to the platform’s appeal.
If you’re looking to maximize your earning potential, Swagbucks is definitely worth exploring.
3. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is another reputable survey site that has been operating for over two decades, with more than $80 million paid out to its members.
One of the aspects I appreciate about InboxDollars is their straightforward cash-based system.
Instead of using points, they offer cash amounts for each survey completed, making it easy to track your earnings.
Surveys on InboxDollars typically pay between $0.25 and $1 or more, with most taking just a few minutes to complete.
Occasionally, you may come across higher-paying opportunities, such as focus groups or more in-depth studies.
Signing up is a breeze, and you’ll even receive a $5 bonus simply for confirming your email address.
Apart from surveys, InboxDollars provides a range of other earning options, including playing games, watching advertisements, online shopping, and more.
The payout threshold is set at $15 for gift card redemptions and $30 for PayPal cash.
While slightly higher than some other sites, the variety of money-making opportunities and the user-friendly cash-based system make InboxDollars a solid choice for anyone looking to earn extra income online.
4. Ipsos i-Say
Ipsos i-Say is a highly-regarded survey site operated by Ipsos, one of the largest and most respected market research companies globally.
What I find appealing about i-Say is the engaging and thought-provoking nature of their surveys.
They cover a wide range of topics, from politics and current events to technology and consumer preferences.
Most surveys award between 45-90 points (equivalent to $0.45-$0.90) and take around 10-15 minutes to complete.
One notable feature is that even if you are disqualified from a survey, you’ll still receive a few points as compensation for your time.
Once you accumulate 500 points ($5), you can redeem your earnings via PayPal or select from a variety of gift card options.
Ipsos i-Say also offers a loyalty program that rewards you with bonus points and prize drawing entries based on your survey activity.
Ipsos i-Say stands out for its interesting and engaging survey content, competitive payouts, and user-friendly platform.
If you’re seeking a reliable survey site with a focus on quality and a good user experience, i-Say is definitely worth considering.
5. Prime Opinion
Prime Opinion is a relatively new entrant in the online survey space, but it has quickly made a positive impression on me.
The sign-up process is quick and easy, taking just a minute or two. As a welcome bonus, new members can receive up to $5 upon joining, giving you a nice little kickstart to your earnings.
What I find compelling about Prime Opinion is the diverse range of survey opportunities they offer.
Some surveys are short opinion polls that can be completed in a matter of minutes, while others are more comprehensive research studies that dive deeper into specific topics.
Payouts are competitive, typically ranging from $1 to $5 per survey, depending on length and complexity.
They even offer gaming and streaming gift cards as redemption options, catering to a wide range of interests.
Payouts can be requested once your balance reaches $5, which is a relatively low threshold compared to some other sites.
Overall, I’ve had a very positive experience with Prime Opinion thus far. The surveys are well-targeted, interesting, and fairly compensated.
6. Five Surveys
If you’re tired of complicated point systems and low payouts, Five Surveys is the perfect solution.
This user-friendly site pays you a straightforward $5 for every 5 surveys you complete. It’s that simple!
I was able to cash out my first $5 reward super quickly, and the process was a breeze.
With Five Surveys, you don’t have to worry about cherry-picking high-paying surveys since each one consistently pays $1. Plus, they offer a variety of payout options, including PayPal cash and gift cards.
Five Surveys is rapidly expanding its reach and becoming a top player in the industry. Give it a try and start earning today!
7. MySoapBox
MySoapBox is an excellent survey site for U.S. residents over 18 years old. They pay you for sharing your valuable feedback on the products and services you use every day.
I find MySoapBox to be a reliable and straightforward platform to earn extra cash. The surveys are engaging, and the rewards are fair.
It’s a great way to contribute your opinions and make a difference while earning some money on the side.
Signing up is quick and easy, so definitely give MySoapBox a try and start sharing your thoughts today!
8. LifePoints
With over 5 million members worldwide and a stellar reputation, LifePoints is a top choice for paid online surveys.
Formerly known as National Family Opinion, this company has been around since 1946, so you know they’re experienced and trustworthy.
There’s a wide range of survey topics offered by LifePoints, from technology to household brands.
While most surveys pay between $0.50 and $1, some can be worth up to $5 each. The more you participate, the more you can earn!
Signing up is free, and you’ll even get a small bonus just for completing your profile.
9. Freecash
Freecash is a relatively new survey site that’s been making waves in the industry.
They partner with reputable survey providers to offer you a wide variety of earning opportunities, with surveys being just one of the many ways to make money on the platform.
I love that Freecash offers a $1 sign-up bonus and the chance to win up to $250 more through their “Free Case” feature. The platform is user-friendly, and the surveys are engaging and diverse.
With over 5,000 different offers available, Freecash provides plenty of opportunities to boost your earnings. Some tasks can even pay $100 or more, which is pretty impressive!
If you’re looking for a comprehensive and exciting survey platform, Freecash is definitely worth checking out.
10. Pinecone Research
Pinecone Research is an exclusive survey site known for its high payouts. While it may be invitation-only and have limited availability, it’s definitely worth joining if you get the chance.
What sets Pinecone Research apart is their minimum payment of $3 per survey, which is quite generous compared to other sites.
However, the limited number of countries and the invitation-only system are the reasons it’s not higher on this list.
If you’re lucky enough to receive an invitation and live in one of the supported countries, Pinecone Research can be an excellent addition to your survey site lineup. Keep an eye out for those exclusive invitations!
11. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a well-established and highly-rated survey site that offers a variety of paid opportunities.
In addition to traditional surveys, you may also have the chance to participate in high-paying focus groups or phone interviews.
What I like about Survey Junkie is that they award points even if you don’t qualify for a survey, which is a nice gesture compared to other sites.
The platform is user-friendly, and most surveys are fairly easy to complete.
With a low payout threshold of just $5, you can quickly redeem your earnings via PayPal or gift cards. Survey Junkie is definitely a top choice for anyone looking to make money through online surveys.
12. American Consumer Opinion
American Consumer Opinion (ACOP) is a long-standing survey site with an excellent reputation.
Owned by Decision Analyst, Inc., this company has been in business for over 41 years and boasts an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
One of the best things about ACOP is how quickly you can start earning. Within just two minutes of signing up, you can begin taking paid surveys.
The site is straightforward and focuses solely on surveys, making it easy to navigate and understand.
While the payout threshold of $10 (1,000 points) is slightly higher than some other sites, ACOP’s reliability and user-friendly interface make it a great choice for survey enthusiasts.
13. MyPoints
MyPoints is a versatile rewards site that offers multiple ways to earn, including paid surveys, online shopping, watching videos, and more.
With over 10 million members and $236 million paid out since 1996, MyPoints is a well-established and trusted platform.
What sets MyPoints apart is its generous sign-up bonus. New members can earn a $10 Amazon or Visa gift card by spending at least $20 through the MyPoints shopping portal.
This bonus gives you a nice head start on your earnings!
The site uses a points system, with a wide range of gift card redemption options starting at just 480 points ($3).
While the minimum cash out for PayPal is a bit higher at $25, the variety of earning opportunities makes MyPoints a great choice for those looking to maximize their rewards.
14. Qmee
Qmee is a unique survey site that offers instant payouts with no minimum redemption amount.
This means you can cash out your earnings whenever you want, even if you’ve only earned a few cents!
In addition to paid surveys, Qmee also allows you to earn cash back for shopping online, similar to popular browser extensions like Rakuten. This feature makes Qmee a more well-rounded earning platform.
While the surveys on Qmee may not pay as much as some other sites, the instant payout feature is a huge plus for those who want to access their earnings quickly.
15. User Interviews
User Interviews is a bit different from traditional survey sites, as it focuses on connecting users with paid research studies, one-on-one interviews, and online focus groups.
These opportunities often pay significantly more than regular surveys, with some studies offering up to $250 for a 45-minute interview!
The downside is that it can be more difficult to qualify for these studies due to their specific requirements. However, if you do qualify, the payouts are well worth the effort.
User Interviews is an excellent choice for those who want to participate in more in-depth market research and potentially earn higher rewards for their time and opinions.
16. QuickRewards
If you’re looking for a survey site with an incredibly low payout threshold, QuickRewards is the way to go.
With a minimum cash out of just $0.01, you can redeem your earnings instantly via PayPal, making it one of the fastest-paying survey sites around.
In addition to surveys, QuickRewards offers a variety of other earning opportunities, such as watching videos, completing offers, and playing games.
This diverse selection of tasks helps keep things interesting and allows you to boost your earnings.
The only downside is that QuickRewards is currently only available in the United States and Canada.
However, if you live in one of these countries and want a survey site that pays out quickly, QuickRewards is definitely worth checking out!
17. Toluna
Toluna is a well-established market research firm that has been around since 1994.
With over 10 million members worldwide and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Toluna is a reliable choice for survey enthusiasts.
One of the best things about Toluna is the generous 500-point sign-up bonus you receive after confirming your email address. This bonus gives you a great head start on your earnings!
Surveys on Toluna vary in length and reward, with some offering up to 50,000 points (equivalent to $50).
While you won’t qualify for every survey, Toluna enters you into a sweepstakes drawing for each disqualification, giving you a chance to win prizes.
18. Survey Club
Survey Club, founded in 2005, is another reputable survey site with over 16 million members.
The platform connects you with paid surveys and also partners with other well-known sites like Survey Junkie and Pinecone Research.
What sets Survey Club apart is its focus group opportunities, which can pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour. These high-paying studies are a great way to boost your earnings!
For surveys hosted directly by Survey Club, you’ll earn cash that can be redeemed via PayPal once you reach a minimum balance of $25.
19. KashKick
KashKick is a popular survey site that offers a variety of ways to earn, including paid surveys, watching videos, surfing the web, and signing up for offers.
The platform is user-friendly and open to participants 18 years and older in the United States.
One thing to keep in mind with KashKick is the importance of staying active. If your account remains inactive for 60 days or you fail to verify your email address, you risk losing your earnings.
To avoid this, make sure to log in regularly and complete the verification process.
Payments are processed via PayPal every two weeks, with a minimum payout threshold of $10. KashKick is a solid choice for those looking to earn extra cash through a variety of online activities.
20. YouGov
YouGov is a unique survey site that focuses on topical issues like politics, public affairs, and current events.
By sharing your opinions on these matters, you can contribute to shaping public discourse and potentially influence decision-makers.
What’s really cool about YouGov is that the data from their polls is often featured in major media outlets like CBS News and Yahoo.
It’s exciting to know that your opinions could be part of these important conversations!
YouGov operates on a points system, with surveys varying in length and reward. As a new member, you’ll receive a 1,500-point welcome bonus just for signing up.
Points can be redeemed for cash or gift cards, making YouGov a rewarding and engaging platform for those interested in current affairs.
21. HeyPiggy
HeyPiggy is a newer survey site that’s quickly gaining popularity due to its high rewards and user-friendly interface.
Available in over 20 countries, HeyPiggy allows you to earn money by sharing your opinions through surveys and their mobile app.
One unique feature of HeyPiggy is that the more surveys you complete, the better your profile becomes. This leads to more targeted surveys that you’re likely to qualify for, increasing your earning potential.
With payout options starting at just $1 and immediate processing once your account is approved, HeyPiggy is a great choice for those looking for quick and easy rewards.
22. Crowdtap
Crowdtap is a popular survey site with over 2 million members, offering a variety of ways to earn beyond just taking surveys. You can participate in online discussions, product testing, content creation, and more.
While most surveys on Crowdtap pay between $0.25 and $0.75, there are occasional opportunities to earn $25 to $50 or more for special surveys.
The low payout threshold of just 500 points ($5) for gift cards is another plus.
In my experience, I earned 1,000 points ($5) in about 90 minutes after signing up, which isn’t the highest rate but still decent.
Crowdtap’s diverse earning options and low redemption minimum make it a solid choice for survey enthusiasts.
23. PrizeRebel
One of my favorite survey sites is PrizeRebel. They’ve been in business since 2007 and have already paid over $30 million to their 15 million members. That’s an impressive track record!
Signing up is quick and easy. After confirming your email, you can start taking surveys right away. Most pay between 40-60 points and take around 15 minutes.
I like that you only need 500 points ($5) to cash out. They also have a cool loyalty program where you can earn bonus points and discounts.
Overall, PrizeRebel is a great choice if you want a reputable site with good earning potential. Give them a try and see what you think!
23. Opinion Outpost
Opinion Outpost is another top pick, known for offering some of the highest-paying surveys around. I recently earned $2.50 for a 30-minute survey, which is pretty good!
The sign-up process includes a short screening to match you with relevant survey opportunities. Most surveys pay 3-30 points.
You can redeem for free gift cards or cash via PayPal once you reach 100 points ($10).
One downside is that there tend to be fewer surveys compared to some other sites. But the ones available often pay well for your time.
I also love that Opinion Outpost makes a monthly donation to the Red Cross to honor the time members spend on surveys. You can donate your points too if you want!
25. 1Q
If you’re looking for surveys that pay instantly, definitely check out the 1Q app.
Here’s how it works: they send you a notification when a new survey is available, you complete it, and earn $0.25.
The surveys are usually very short, often just one or two questions. So it only takes a minute to complete them and get paid.
Cashing out is easy too since there’s no minimum requirement. Whenever your balance reaches $25, you can request a payout via PayPal.
The main downside is that you might not receive surveys very frequently. Some users only get a few per month.
But I think it’s still worth it for the instant payout and easy, fast surveys. The earnings can add up over time with no extra effort!
26. Rakuten Insight
Rakuten Insight is a great choice if you want a reputable global survey site. They have opportunities for members in over 60 countries.
You earn points for each survey, which can be redeemed for cash via PayPal or gift cards. Many surveys pay $0.30-$1.00 and are on the shorter side, making it easy to earn points quickly.
It only takes $5 worth of points to cash out. Rewards are sent electronically and processed very quickly in my experience.
While the payout amounts aren’t always the highest, I like using Rakuten Insight for their international availability and quick, simple surveys. It’s an easy way to boost your earnings in just a few minutes!
27. Panda Research
Panda Research has been around since 2005 and has already paid over $2.2 million to members. They’re owned by a reputable company and have a solid track record.
To get started, you complete a profile and confirm your email and phone number. Then you can access surveys paying up to $50 each, which is one of the highest rates I’ve seen.
One unique thing is that you can also earn up to $25 per cash-out period for reading paid emails. So there are a few ways to boost your earnings.
Payments are made twice per month via PayPal for balances over $50. While the cashout threshold is high, many surveys have large payouts to help you get there faster.
If you don’t mind waiting a bit to cash out, Panda Research is definitely worth checking out for their sky-high survey rates! Just make sure to cash out as soon as you’re eligible.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings
When taking paid online surveys, there are a few key strategies that can help you maximize your earnings:
- Join multiple sites: By signing up for several reputable survey sites, you’ll have access to a wider variety of opportunities and can cherry-pick the highest-paying surveys. This allows you to make the most of your time and effort.
- Complete your profiles: Most survey sites will ask you to fill out a profile questionnaire. Take the time to complete these thoroughly and honestly, as this information helps match you with surveys that are most relevant to your demographics and interests.
- Be honest: It might be tempting to fudge your answers in an attempt to qualify for more surveys, but honesty is always the best policy. Providing accurate and consistent responses not only helps maintain the integrity of the research but also builds trust with the survey platforms.
- Set realistic goals: While paid surveys can be a great way to earn extra cash, it’s important to manage your expectations. Set achievable goals for yourself, whether that’s earning a certain amount each week or saving up for a specific purchase. Remember, slow and steady wins the race!
- Stay organized: As you join multiple survey sites, it’s easy to lose track of your login information and earnings. Consider creating a separate email address specifically for your survey accounts to keep your inbox clutter-free. You can also use a spreadsheet to track your progress and stay motivated as you watch your earnings grow.
By following these tips and approaching paid surveys with a positive, proactive mindset, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of this flexible and rewarding side hustle!
When to Avoid a Survey Site
While there are plenty of legitimate and reputable survey sites out there, not all platforms are created equal.
Here are a few red flags to watch out for when considering a new survey site:
- Upfront fees: If a survey site asks you to pay a fee to join or access their opportunities, it’s best to steer clear. Legitimate survey platforms will never require payment from their participants.
- Unrealistic promises: If a site claims that you can get rich quickly or earn a full-time income solely through paid surveys, be wary. While you can certainly earn a nice side income, surveys are not a replacement for a traditional job.
- Lack of transparency: Reputable survey sites will clearly outline their payment processes, minimum payout thresholds, and any other important information. If a platform is vague or unclear about these details, it may be a sign that they’re not entirely trustworthy.
- Limited payment options: While not necessarily a dealbreaker, a survey site with limited payment options may not be the best fit for your needs. Look for platforms that offer a variety of payout methods, such as PayPal, gift cards, or charitable donations, to ensure you can receive your earnings in a way that works for you.
- Poor user reviews: Before signing up for a new survey site, take the time to read user reviews and experiences. If a platform has a history of not paying participants, providing low-quality surveys, or exhibiting other problematic behavior, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
Remember, your time and effort are valuable. Be cautious and selective about the survey sites you choose to work with.
FAQs on Paid Online Survey Sites
1. What Kind of Questions Do Survey Sites Ask?
Survey sites ask a wide variety of questions to gather market research and consumer opinions.
I’ve seen everything from evaluating a store’s new advertising campaign to taste-testing the latest and greatest snack food.
Companies are eager to know your thoughts on their products, services, and even their customer support.
They might ask about your birthday, favorite movies, or even your preferred brand of toilet paper (yes, really!).
2. Do Online Surveys Really Pay You?
Absolutely! I can say with confidence that legitimate survey sites do pay. Over the years, I’ve personally raked in over 50 gift cards, checks, and PayPal cash payments just by sharing my opinions.
But watch out for scams! If a site promises you’ll get rich quick or asks for an upfront fee, avoid it at all costs.
3. How Do Online Surveys Pay You?
Survey sites offer a variety of payment options to suit your preferences. You might receive a check in the mail, PayPal cash, or gift cards to your favorite retailers like Amazon or Starbucks.
Some even offer Visa gift cards, charitable donations, or direct bank transfers. The options vary by site, but many let you choose your preferred payment method.
4. Why Do Some Survey Sites Pay More Than Others?
Not all survey sites are created equal when it comes to payouts. Some sites keep a larger chunk of the money paid by companies for the research, leaving less for you.
Highly specialized surveys that target specific demographics or require more effort often come with a higher reward.
The best survey sites out there offer fair compensation for your time, whether you’re answering a quick poll or participating in an in-depth study.
5. Are Paid Surveys Worth the Time?
In my experience, paid surveys are a great way to earn a little extra cash in your spare time.
They won’t make you a millionaire, but they can help you chip away at debt, save for a special occasion, or build up your rainy-day fund.
I love the flexibility of completing surveys whenever and wherever I want. Plus, it’s pretty cool to know that my opinions are helping shape the products and services of the future.
So, while you won’t be able to quit your day job, paid surveys are definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a low-effort side hustle.
Best Places to Take Paid Online Surveys – Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it – my ultimate guide to the best paid online survey sites. I hope you found this information helpful and feel inspired to start earning some extra cash.
Remember, taking surveys won’t make you an overnight millionaire, but it’s a fun and easy way to earn some free cash.
The more sites you join and the more consistently you participate, the more you can earn. And who knows, you might even discover some cool new products or services along the way!
So go ahead, give some of these top survey sites a try and see how much you can earn.
And if you ever have any questions or just want to share your success stories, feel free to reach out. I’m always here to help!
Let me know which alternative you prefer, and I’ll be happy to incorporate it into your article!
