13 Apps That Pay You Real Money: Earn Up to $100 a Day
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Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. Imagine finding extra money in your bank account every day. What would you do with it? Would it go straight to paying down your credit card debt? Or find its way into your dream vacation savings account? (which we hope is a high-yield savings account). No judgment on how you spend it, but we have some advice on what you can use to turn that dream into reality right now: your phone. There are money-making apps that pay $100 a day for doing tasks like answering survey questions or playing your favorite games. That means you can make this extra cash from your home, during your commute on the bus, or while you sit in the waiting room at the dentist’s office. Just whenever you have some spare time. We list these money-making apps below and explain how you can get paid. How to Make $100 a Day with Apps Another great aspect about these money making apps is you’re not limited to just one. You can stack your earnings by downloading and using multiple apps. However, the money doesn’t just roll in without a little bit of effort. While some can offer a quick payout, the best way to maximize your cash flow with these apps is to organize your time on them and use them consistently. Set aside a certain amount of time each day that, let’s be honest, many of us would use to mindlessly scroll anyway. You might as well make money while you’re on your phone. Top Apps That Pay You Listed below are apps that can pay $100 a day, along with some of their features and how you get paid. 1. InboxDollars: <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-360x240.jpg" alt="A man lays in the grass as he uses his cell phone." class="wp-image-164901" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/03092502/manage-subscriptions-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Getty Images By signing up for a free account with InboxDollars, top users can earn up to $225 a month. They send you short surveys every day, which you can fill out while dinner is in the oven or you catch up on your favorite reality TV. Although InboxDollars won’t replace your full-time job, it’s something easy you can do when you have some extra time throughout the day. Payment Options: PayPal, gift cards, or checks. 2. Solitaire Cash: <img decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-360x240.jpg" alt="A woman gets excited when she plays a solitaire game on her phone." class="wp-image-196237" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21121754/solitare-game.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Solitaire Cash is a mobile app that allows players to compete in tournaments for real cash prizes. It takes the fun of a traditional solitaire game and adds the excitement of winning real money. It’s also on The Penny Hoarder’s list of games that pay real money. The amount of money you can win playing Solitaire Cash depends on your skill level and the tournaments you enter. Cash prizes in tournaments range from $7 to $83. Entry fees for these tournaments are typically between $1 and $5. Payment Options: PayPal or direct deposits. 3. MyPoints: <img decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-360x240.jpg" alt="A woman does online shopping from the comfort of her bed while eating popcorn." class="wp-image-190233" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/10091906/dollar-store-online-shopping-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Getty Images With MyPoints, you can earn points by shopping online, completing surveys, and reading emails. You first take a survey to introduce yourself, earn points by giving your honest answer in surveys, and redeem your points for gift cards. You can also earn your points through playing games, shopping online, and more. Plus, you can redeem these points as travel miles. Payment Options: PayPal, gift cards, or travel miles. 4. FreeCash: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="320" height="200" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14173620/Freecash-overflow.png" alt="Man outside earning money on Freecash on his smartphone" class="wp-image-187075" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14173620/Freecash-overflow.png 320w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14173620/Freecash-overflow-100x63.png 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/14173620/Freecash-overflow-300x188.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /> Data is currency these days, and many companies are willing to pay cash for it — up to $1,000 per month. To make it easy to find these companies, Freecash compiled all sorts of quick cash tasks from about a dozen advertisers and market research companies looking for data. You can choose your tasks and complete them at your convenience. The coins you earn from each completed task can be converted into things like Visa gift cards, Amazon gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cold-hard PayPal cash. Payment options: PayPal, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. 5. Bingo Cash: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="Three children crowd around their father to look at his phone in their home." class="wp-image-134953" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/14100241/low_cost_phone_plans-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images Play bingo, earn up to $83 per win. That’s the deal with Bingo Cash. It’s a mobile app that offers an innovative approach to the classic bingo game by blending fast-paced, skill-based gameplay with the opportunity to win real money. Payment Options: PayPal or your bank account. 6. KashKick: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios-360x240.jpg" alt="woman uses her tablet while lying on her couch" class="wp-image-21458" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios-357x237.jpg 357w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/29142038/WatchVideosCouch-cc-Phase4Studios.jpg 640w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Phase4Studios/Shutterstock First, register on Kashkick with your phone or computer, and then Kashkick will show you all sorts of money-making tasks you can do to pad your bank account. You’ll earn various dollar amounts (up to $1,000 a month) for answering survey questions, playing games, watching videos, and reviewing things — you pick which opportunities you want. Payment Options: PayPal. 7. Scrambly (iOS only): <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-360x240.jpg" alt="Mom with kid sitting on the grass and enjoying park with phone and laptop." class="wp-image-195938" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-768x511.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/15165243/negotiate-benefits-schedule-flexibility-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Scrambly is an app that pays you for things you’d be doing to relax, anyway. Things like exploring new products and services, conquering levels in popular games, or completing quick surveys. It’s your go-to for easy, easy money — we’re talking between $50 to over $500 a month. Payment Options: Gift cards or PayPal. Payment Options: PayPal or direct bank deposit. 8. Vybs (Android only) <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-360x240.jpg" alt="A man plays a game on his cell phone." class="wp-image-196475" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/23124640/five-bingo-games.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Getty Images You can play multiple mobile games to win cash or digital gift cards on the free VYBS app. Games on the rotating lineup include Coin Master, Dice Dreams, Domino Dreams and Solitaire Cash. Here’s how it works: Download the free VYBS app on your Android device and create your free account. Then, launch the games through the app and reach the required milestones. It’s important to note you must launch the games through the app so it can track your progress, and there’s a $550 maximum in redemptions per calendar year. VYBS also makes our list of games that pay real money. Payment Options: PayPal or gift cards from popular retailers. 9. Turo: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-191702" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/03111036/car-insurance-rates-2.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images Have a car you don’t use every day? Turn it into extra money with Turo, a peer-to-peer car-sharing app that lets you rent out your vehicle to others from your phone. Whether you’re working from home or heading out of town, listing your car is easy and only takes a few minutes. You get to choose your price, set your availability, and even screen potential drivers. Turo offers a truly hands-off experience. You can coordinate key handoff through the app using contactless remote unlock features, so you never have to meet in person. With average monthly earnings reaching around $900 per vehicle, depending on your car type and location, this is one of the best passive income apps for those with an idle car in the driveway. It’s also ideal for those looking for money making apps that don’t require you to stare at your screen all day. Just list your car, and let the earnings roll in. Payment Options: Direct deposit to your bank account 10. SurveyMonkey Rewards <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A woman laughs while playing on her cell phone." class="wp-image-181104" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/05140738/best-cheap-cell-phones-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images If you’re looking for legit money-making apps that don’t require much effort, SurveyMonkey Rewards is a great pick. This app pays you for completing surveys on a variety of topics, from consumer products to current events. The surveys are usually short — typically under five minutes — and you’ll be notified when one is available. Each completed survey earns you around $0.75, and once you hit $5, you can cash out for gift cards or donate your balance to charity. SurveyMonkey will match your contribution if you choose to donate, doubling your impact. It’s not flashy, but it’s steady, which makes it one of the most accessible money making apps out there. Use it during your commute, your lunch break, or while watching TV. It’s a stress-free way to earn money when you’ve got a few minutes to spare. Payment Options: Gift cards or charity donations 11. Fetch Rewards <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A woman grocery shops." class="wp-image-177827" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/06160724/grocery-shopping-one-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images Do you do any shopping online or in stores? If yes, then Fetch Rewards should be on your phone. This easy-to-use app lets you scan your grocery and retail receipts in exchange for points that can be traded for gift cards. Most receipts work — no barcode scanning, no tracking down specific products. Fetch also includes in-app games and promotional tasks that can help you earn rewards even faster. You can even earn bonuses by referring friends or completing partner offers. It’s a consistent, low-effort way to gather points over time and adds up faster than you think. Regularly using Fetch can easily lead to $100+ in rewards over time, making it one of the best apps to make money passively. Payment Options: Gift cards or charity donations 12. Swagbucks <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A man plays on his phone while sipping an iced coffee outside of a coffeeshop." class="wp-image-121878" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/25140020/App_MakeMoney-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Carmen Mandato/The Penny Hoarder Want to get paid for doing the stuff you already do? Swagbucks is one of the OG money making apps, and it’s still a solid earner today. You can earn points (called SB) by watching videos, completing surveys, shopping online, playing games, or using your browser to search the web. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure app that lets you decide how you want to earn extra cash. Every 100 SB points is worth about $1, and you can cash out once you hit around 300 points. Use your points for paid cash via PayPal or grab a gift card from your favorite store. This is one of those free apps that pay real money instantly without much stress. Do a few tasks while waiting at the DMV or binge-watching your latest Netflix obsession. Payment Options: PayPal or gift cards 13. Mistplay <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A girl checks her phone in Chicago." class="wp-image-121959" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/09133032/Girl_with_phone-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Carmen Mandato/ The Penny Hoarder Love mobile games? With Mistplay, one of the best money making apps, you can get rewarded for playing mobile games on your phone. You’ll get a curated list of games to choose from, and as you play, you’ll earn points that can be exchanged for gift cards to stores like Amazon and Google Play. It’s easy to rack up points if you stick with a game and hit in-game milestones. Some games offer extra rewards for longer sessions or frequent log-ins. While it might not be one of the apps that pay $100 a day, Mistplay is one of the most fun ways to work your way toward extra money. Pro tip: The longer you play and the more consistent you are, the better your point multiplier becomes. Payment Options: Paypal or gift cards Other Money-Making Apps That Pay You: New, Niche, and More Looking to branch out from the standard money apps? These apps aren’t quite mainstream yet, either too new or too niche to be on our main list. Still, they’re interesting options if you want to try something different or stay ahead of new trends. Passive Income Apps Honeygain: Earn small amounts passively by sharing your internet bandwidth. Gaming Tournament & Testing Apps Blitz – Win Cash: Compete in skill-based games and tournaments for cash prizes (entry fees apply). WorldWinner: Play classic games like Solitaire and Trivia in cash tournaments. Testerup: Get paid to test out new apps and games. Earnings depend on available offers. Niche Survey, Learning, and Fitness Apps Zogo: Complete short financial lessons and quizzes for small rewards. OnMyWay: Get paid for safe driving and building better habits. Sweatcoin: Tracks your steps and rewards you with points you can trade for gift cards or products. Multi-Purpose/Cashback & Finance Apps Super.com: Newer cashback app with discounts and some earning features. Tips for Maximizing Earnings with Money-Making Apps It seems obvious that the more of these apps you use, the more money you stand to make. That is true, but making the best use of your spare time will make you the most money. Commit to spending at least a certain amount of time each day on the apps you choose and keep track of your tasks. That way, you can prioritize the apps that pay you the most as well as tasks with a higher payout opportunity. Also, remember that any of the apps also have referral bonuses. So you get even more extra money if you get a friend or two on board. Don’t forget to take advantage of those if they offer them. Staying Safe With Apps That Pay You These apps can help you get some extra cash, but you’ll need to commit some time to them. Use the apps you download for a certain amount of time each day to bulk up your payout potential. It’s also important to verify what you’re downloading to avoid scams. Look to see if the app has a lot of generally positive reviews, and take the time to read negative ones. To that point, here are some simple tips to help keep your money and personal info safe: Use strong, unique passwords for each app you sign up for. Never pay an upfront fee just to join—legit apps don’t charge you to get started. Only download apps from official app stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Check reviews and ratings before signing up, and be wary of apps with lots of complaints or low ratings. Read the privacy policy to understand what data the app collects and how it’s used. Don’t share sensitive information like your Social Security number, bank login, or passwords unless it’s a trusted app you’ve researched. Watch out for payout promises that seem too good to be true—most apps only pay a few dollars here and there for average users. Start slow and cash out early to make sure payouts work before you commit lots of time or effort. If an app suddenly stops paying or disappears, stop using it and don’t give it any more info. Keep your device and apps updated to protect against security vulnerabilities. Following these tips can help keep your earnings and personal information safe while you try out different money-making apps. Are Money-Making Apps Worth It? FAQs and Insights These apps can help you get some of the extra cash you need, but you’ll need to commit some time to it. Use the apps you download for a certain amount of time each day to bulk up your payout potential. It’s also important to verify what you’re downloading to avoid scams. Look to see if the app has a lot of generally positive reviews, and take the time to read negative ones. FAQs: Apps That Make You Money This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
24 Legit Real Money Games to Play in 2025
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. In today’s digital age, gaming has become more than just a fun way to pass the time — it’s turned into a potential income source. […] This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. In today’s digital age, gaming has become more than just a fun way to pass the time — it’s turned into a potential income source. Games that pay real money really do exist. Most offer small but legit earnings for playing bingo, puzzles, solitaire, arcade games and more. In this guide, we’ll talk about 24 real-money gaming apps so you know which ones are trustworthy, how payouts work and what to expect. You won’t earn enough to replace your full-time job, but these apps can offer fun, low-stakes ways to earn a little extra cash if you enjoy mobile games. TL;DR: Real money games pay through cash tournaments, reward points or token systems. You can often cash in through PayPal, bank transfers, Cash App or gift cards. Earnings are typically small, and how much you make will depend on the game, your skill level and location. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-360x240.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-196236" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/21120803/bingo-game.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Getty Images At a Glance: Types of Real Money Games (2025) Real-money games fall into a few categories. Each has their own style of gaming and earning potential. Here are the types of games included in our list: Bingo — Quick matches, fast scoring, competitive rooms Solitaire — Classic card play, timed matches, skill-based tournaments Match-3 & Puzzle — Bubble shooters, tile matchers, logic puzzles Arcade & Skill — Swipe, tap, reaction-based challenges Casino-Style (21+) — Restricted games like slots, blackjack and poker Crypto Reward — Earn points that redeem for small amounts of crypto Multi-Game Hubs — Platforms that offer several cash games in one app Quick List – Best Games That Pay Real Money in 2025 Ready to discover games that pay real money? We vetted these legitimate, real-money gaming apps so casual players can enjoy small but real earnings. Here’s a list of some of our favorites. Read on to see the full list and descriptions of games that pay real money. Note: Ratings and payouts change often; verified as of December 2025. Winning is not guaranteed. Earnings vary by skill, location and in-app purchases. Offers change; verify terms in the app. How We Tested These Real Money Games We put each game to the test ourselves. We verified payouts and reviewed user feedback to help you make a more informed choice. Our process included: Downloading and playing each game in both free and paid modes Verifying payout methods such as PayPal, bank transfer, Cash App and gift cards Checking withdrawal thresholds and estimating payout speeds Reviewing App Store and Google Play user feedback Confirming developer legitimacy, terms, privacy policies and safety signals It’s important to note that payouts and availability can change. Make sure to verify terms directly inside the app. How These Games Actually Pay You This is how you can earn money on most of these real-money apps: Cash tournaments — You compete against players who have similar skill levels Tokens or points — That you redeem for cash through PayPal or gift cards Sweepstakes entries — Allowed in regulated states Crypto rewards — Small amounts of crypto sent to a wallet Prize chests or bonuses — Occasionally redeemable for cash equivalents You may be able to cash in right away on some apps, but for most games there will be a withdrawal threshold, like $5. Are There Online Games That Pay Real Money Instantly? Bingo Cash and Solitaire Cash are games that pay real money directly to a bank account, often as early as the next day, but timelines can vary. Whether or not it’s “instant” depends on how you’re paid and the identity verification requirements. For example: PayPal withdrawals may process in minutes once your account is verified Cash App payouts depend on the app’s internal review process Gift card codes can arrive quickly but vary by partner Bank transfers often take longer Many apps also require a one-time ID check to prevent fraud, which can delay first-time payouts. The best way to make sure you’re paid quickly is to know how you’re getting paid before you start and how you’ll have to verify your identity. If you’re using PayPal or Apple Pay, make sure your account is set up and ready to go. For bank transfers, double-check that your information is up to date. How to Choose the Best Real Money Game for You If you know you love bingo or Solitaire, it should be an easy choice. Outside of game preference, you should choose a game based on your goals, skills, preferred payout method and comfort level with in-app purchases. Here’s what you may want to consider. Match the Game to Your Goals Think about if you prefer: Short sessions → Match-3 or arcade games Strategy and math → Solitaire or 21 Blitz Relaxed play → Bingo or puzzle games Crypto rewards → Apps like Bitcoin Blast All-in-one variety → Pocket7Games or VYBS Understand Payout Methods & Thresholds These can all vary in each app: Minimum withdrawal amounts Accepted payout methods (PayPal, Cash App, bank, gift cards) Estimated processing times Identity verification requirements These can all affect how quickly and easily you’ll get your money. Know How In-App Purchases Work Many real-money apps offer free practice modes, but you will pay an entry fee for cash tournaments. Always consider: Whether paid entries are optional Your comfort with risking money Refund or cancellation policies In most games, spending money will increase competition level, but it won’t guarantee earnings. How to Withdraw Money from Real Money Games Most legit apps let you withdraw through PayPal, bank transfer, Cash App, gift cards or occasionally crypto. Here’s what you can expect: Withdrawal thresholds: Some apps require earning around $1–$10 before cashing out Processing times: Usually hours to a few business days Verification: Many apps require ID checks to prevent fraud Taxes: Winnings may be taxable; apps may issue a 1099 if you exceed reporting thresholds Back to top of page 24 Legit Real Money Games You Can Play in 2025 These apps offer small but real earning potential through cash tournaments, token rewards or redeemable points, depending on the game. We organized our list by category so you can browse based on your preferred game. Back to top of page Bingo Games For bingo lovers, these are some bingo gaming apps that allow you to win cash. If you’d like to learn more, see our list of the best bingo games. Bingo Bling, iOS Another app that allows you to win money playing bingo from your phone is Bingo Bling. You can enter tournaments and win real cash (if permitted in your state) and cash out through platforms like PayPal. The app is free to download, and there are options to play for free as well if you want to build your skills before you enter a cash tournament. Key Features: No bots. Fair matchmaking. Payouts available to your bank account. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Bingo Bling review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="150" height="150" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/29095727/bingobling-150x150.png" alt="Bingo Bling" class="wp-image-196972" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/29095727/bingobling-150x150.png 150w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/29095727/bingobling-100x100.png 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/29095727/bingobling.png 288w" sizes="(max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Bingo Cash, iOS and Samsung A game we all know and some of us love — bingo. Bingo Cash™ is one of several bingo gaming apps that allow you to win cash. It’s free to download the app, and there also are some no-cost gaming options. However, entering cash competitions is a great way to boost your earnings (these are restricted in states such as AZ, IA, LA, and SC). Key Features: Get your winnings transferred directly to your PayPal or bank account. Multiplayer tournaments. Available on the App Store, Samsung Galaxy store and Google Play. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full Bingo Cash review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186625" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144324/Bingo-Cash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Bingo Clash, iOS Another popular bingo app where you can win money is Bingo Clash. You’ll play against real people who are at a similar skill level as you. Free game options are also available. Cash games are restricted in AZ, AR, CT, DE, LA, MT, SC, SD, TN, and VT, but the free games are available. There also are “mini games” like Lucky Box and Dice Tour. Key Features Choose between free or cash games. Win real money. Withdraw earnings through PayPal. Apple Pay, Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Venmo also are supported. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Bingo Clash review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186626" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144327/Bingo-Clash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Blackout Bingo, iOS Blackout Bingo has attracted more than 5 million players worldwide, and you could win real-world rewards and cash prizes (where available). The games are quick — each session lasts about two minutes, and everyone sees the same balls and cards. As the numbers are called you mark them on your card. It’s about accuracy and speed. Key Features: Win cash prizes (where available). Fast and engaging game. Games are in fun locations like New York and Paris. TPH Gaming Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Blackout Bingo review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="297" height="170" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29130107/Horizontal-Blackout-Bingo-Logo.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-188179" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29130107/Horizontal-Blackout-Bingo-Logo.jpeg 297w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/29130107/Horizontal-Blackout-Bingo-Logo-100x57.jpeg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 297px) 100vw, 297px" /> <a href="https://redirect.viglink.com/?format=go&jsonp=vglnk_171854307524813&key=2508a3f68320af4cc0f282fdaa75a5ec&libId=lxhk5z580102vho0000ULbn3rw88h&loc=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thepennyhoarder.com%2Fmake-money%2Fgames-that-pay-real-money%2F&v=1&out=https%3A%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fblackout-bingo-win-real-cash%2Fid1464235676&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F&title=24%20Legit%20Gaming%20Apps%20that%20Pay%20Real%20Money%20(2024)&txt=iOS">iOS Download Back to top of page Solitaire Games Solitaire lovers have a lot to choose from when it comes to real-money gaming apps. We also have a list of the best solitaire games here. Solitaire Cash, iOS and Samsung Solitaire Cash™ is another solitaire app that’s free to download and has free playing options. But you win real money by paying to enter tournaments, so it’s a good idea to get your skills up beforehand. For this app, cash tournaments are restricted in AZ, IN, IA, LA, ME, SC, and MT. Key Features: Tournaments where you can win real money. Transaction options include PayPal and Apple Pay. Available on the App Store and Samsung Galaxy store. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Solitaire Cash review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186637" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144406/Solitaire-Cash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Solitaire Smash, iOS and Samsung With Solitaire Smash, engaging gameplay meets the thrill of competition and the chance to win real cash prizes. Experience a carefully designed, modern and sleek interface that retains the much-loved classic elements of the Solitaire game. Immerse yourself in a secure and socially competitive platform where fairness and skill are at the forefront, guaranteeing an evenly matched and enjoyable gaming experience. (Cash tournaments are unavailable in AZ, AR, CT, DE, IN, IA, LA, ME, MT, SC, SD, and TN. However, if you are in these states, you can still enjoy the game using virtual currency for a fun experience.) Features: Real money tournaments. Safe cash-out options. Ad-free gameplay. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Solitaire Smash review. Back to top of page <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="341" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-1024x341.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186639" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144413/Solitaire-Smash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Solitaire Cube, iOS Solitaire Cube is a modern version of Klondike Solitaire. You can enter multiplayer tournaments and play in head-to-head competitions. And, you could win real cash prizes. Cash tournaments are unavailable in AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, and SD, but users can play with virtual currency. Key Features: Play classic Klondike Solitaire. Win cash prizes. Loyalty program. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Solitaire Cube review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186638" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144409/Solitaire-Cube-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Solitaire Clash, iOS and Samsung Solitaire Clash is another Klondike solitaire app that connects you with real-time competition and the chance to win real money (where available). Being quick is key: it challenges players to organize and sequence cards swiftly to pull ahead of competitors. Local regulations may make cash prizes not available in your area. Key Features: Multiplayer tournaments with real opponents. Cash out options include PayPal, Apple Pay and other reliable methods. As you advance through levels, you can unlock VIP perks. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Solitaire Clash game review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="225" height="225" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01170700/Solitaire-Clash.jpeg" alt="Logo for Solitaire Clash game app" class="wp-image-190939" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01170700/Solitaire-Clash.jpeg 225w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01170700/Solitaire-Clash-150x150.jpeg 150w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/01170700/Solitaire-Clash-100x100.jpeg 100w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Solitaire Master: Win Cash Users of Solitaire Master: Win Cash play Solitaire for the chance to win real cash rewards. Local regulations restrict cash-prize games in some regions, including DE, LA, MD, MT, TN, IN, ME, and TX in the US, and ACT, VIC, QLD, and NT in Australia. Features: Top scorers can earn real money. Multiplayer tournaments against other skilled players. Cash out options include PayPal, Apple Pay and other reputable services. Gain VIP status by unlocking certain levels. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full Solitaire Master game review. Back to top of page Match-3 & Puzzle Games If you’re looking for something a little different than bingo and solitaire, you can also compete in puzzle games and match-3 games. Bubble Cash, iOS and Samsung Fans of bubble shooter games can win money with the Bubble Cash™ app, where you can compete against other players. Here’s how you play: you match three or more bubbles that are the same color to burst them and clear the board. You just drag to aim and release to shoot and try to clear the bubbles as quickly as possible. The app is free but cash tournaments aren’t available in AZ, IA, LA, and SC. Players who live here can still play outside of the cash prize tournaments. Features: Tournaments where you can win real money. You can use PayPal and Apple Pay for transactions. Available on the App Store and Samsung Galaxy store. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Bubble Cash review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186630" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144342/Bubble-Cash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Match to Win, iOS and Google Play Are you a fan of puzzles? Match to Win is a match-3 puzzle game app that has puzzle “adventures” where you explore places like Hawaii, Paris and San Francisco. There are more than 100 levels, and there’s no wager required. You earn tokens that you can later redeem as cash through PayPal. Just install the app and start your journey. Key Features: Earn tokens and redeem for cash through PayPal. Enter sweepstakes for chances to win cash prizes. TPH’s Game Rating: 3/5 stars. See our full Match to Win review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186635" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144359/Match-to-Win-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD GOOGLE PLAY DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Bubble Cube 2, iOS Match up the colors and pop bubbles to win money. Bubble Cube 2 offers a speedy and dynamic experience where you can either play for fun or play to win money (restricted in states like AR, CT, DE, LA, and SD, but virtual currency is available). Each round is only a minute or two long, so it’ll benefit you to be a quick player. Key Features: Players get the same bubbles in the same sequence. Win real cash prizes. Loyalty program. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Bubble Cube 2 review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="341" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-1024x341.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186631" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144345/Bubble-Cube-2-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Cookie Cash, iOS and Samsung iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Cookie Cash™ is another match-3 gaming app that has puzzles, mini games and collectible items. And you can enter cash-based tournaments (unless you live in AZ, IA, LA, and SC, then you play without the cash prize aspect). For the best experience, make sure your internet connection is solid before you start playing. Key Features: Genuine cash rewards. Withdrawals available through PayPal and Apple Pay. Special features like mini-games. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. See our full Cookie Cash review. Back to top of page Lucky Match, iOS and Google Play Looking for a more relaxing game but still want the opportunity to win cash prizes? Lucky Match, a match-3 mobile game, gives you the chance to earn rewards without pressure. The easy-to-play games and occasional opportunities to win real cash prizes are a great way to unwind. You can choose the game you play: match-3 puzzles, wheel spins or scratch-offs. Accumulate rewards and tickets that could translate to cash prizes. Key Features: Relaxed gaming that is centered on fun rather than high stakes. Players’ lounge where you can connect with others. Play at your own pace. TPH’s Game Rating: 3/5 stars. See our full Lucky Match review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186634" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144356/Lucky-Match-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD GOOGLE PLAY DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Arcade & Skill-Based Games You can bring the arcade to your phone with arcade and other skill-based games. Blitz – Win Cash, iOS Blitz – Win Cash also gives you a list of different games to choose from, include Bingo, Solitaire, Match3 and Ball Blast. There’s a practice feature that allows you to warm up your skills before you enter cash tournaments. It also has strict rules against bots, so you know you’ll be paying with other gamers like you across the world. Cash prizes aren’t available in AR, MT, LA, and TN. However, users here can still play free games. Key Features: Cash out earnings from platforms like Venmo, PayPal, Apple Pay or directly to your bank account. Win real money. Multiple games to pick from. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Blitz – Win Cash review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186628" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144334/Blitz-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page 8 Ball Strike, i0S and Google Play 8 Ball Strike lets users play competitive billiards and earn real money. You aim the cue and take shots for different bonuses. There’s options to play for free or pay to enter tournaments. Try to get a high score within a certain time frame to beat out your competitors. And note cash games aren’t available in AZ, AR, CT, DE, LA, MT, SC, SD, TN, and VT. Features: Play games with Gems and potentially win real cash. Multiplayer tournaments. Skill-based games. Withdrawal options include PayPal, Apple Pay and Venmo. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full 8 Ball Strike review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186621" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144309/8ball-Strike-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD GOOGLE PLAY DOWNLOAD Back to top of page 21 Blitz, iOS 21 Blitz is a mix of Solitaire and 21. You aim to make 21s or stacks of five cards to earn points. You also get a bonus for beating the clock. You can play for free and work your way up to cash games where you pay to play. The latter are not available in AR, CT, DE, IN, LA, ME, and SD. But players in these states can use virtual currency. Key Features: Single and multiplayer tournaments. In head-to-head, both players tackle the same deck; highest scorer wins. Available only on iOS. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full 21 Blitz review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" class="alignnone wp-image-186622 size-full" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz.jpg" alt="" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144312/21-Blitz-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Big Buck Hunter, iOS Big Buck Hunter: Marksman takes the excitement of hunting and adds the twist of competition. You choose an animal and hunting spot then challenge other hunters to win virtual currency or real cash. Cash game are restricted in AR, CT, DE, LA, and SD, but players in this states can play with virtual currency. Key Features: Win real money. Precise shots boost your Marksman Streak, which can earn you extra points. Player loyalty program. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full Big Buck Hunter review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186624" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144320/Big-Buck-Hunter-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Cube Cube, iOS If you love a game that requires a little strategy, delve into Cube Cube. The puzzle game has both one-on-one battles or multiplayer tournaments, and you can win real cash prizes (restricted in AR, CT, DE, LA, and SD, but virtual currency is available). For the matches that are timed, you have a three minute window to get the most points. Key Features: Strategic gameplay. Loyalty program. Fair play guaranteed in head-to-head matchups (players get the same sequence of shapes). TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Cube Cube review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186632" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144349/Cube-Cube-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Yatzy Cash, iOS and Samsung Yatzy Cash blends dice games with the chance of winning real money. You pay an entry fee to enter the cash-prize tournament (not available in AK, CT, DE, LA, SD). There are over 13 rounds. In each round, you can roll the set of five dice up to two additional times. You aim to fill one of the 13 slots available, but each category can be used only once. You want to get the highest score by the time the game ends. Key Features: Anti-cheating technology fosters an unbiased gameplay environment. Win real money Withdrawals available through PayPal. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full Yatzy Cash review <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186640" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144416/Yatzy-Cash-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD SAMSUNG DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Casino-Style Games (21+; geographically restricted) It’s very important that you are 21 and older and you follow local restrictions and guidelines. Many of these apps are not available based on local laws. If you’re in the clear, here is a game you may enjoy. Borgata Casino, iOS and Google Play Bring the fun of casinos right to your phone. The game gives avid gamblers the chance to enjoy classic casino games right from their mobile devices. You can play slots, poker, blackjack, roulette and more for a comprehensive experience — all along with the grandeur of Atlantic City. Players must be 21+ and located in New Jersey or Pennsylvania. Key Features: Extensive game list. Live dealer interactions. Must be 21 and older. TPH’s Game Rating: 4/5 stars. See our full Borgata Casino review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186629" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144338/Borgata-Casino-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD GOOGLE PLAY DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Crypto-Reward Games Are you all in on crypto? You could play for things like Bitcoin. Bitcoin Blast, iOS Bitcoin Blast offers match-3 games that integrate cryptocurrency designs and themes. Players need to align three or more similar colored Bitcoin symbols. There are hundreds of levels, so the experience is always evolving. It does, however, take a long time to earn enough points that translate to a meaningful amount of Bitcoin. Key Features: Cash out real Bitcoin. Brain-stimulating puzzles. Available on iPhone. TPH’s Game Rating: 3.5/5 stars. See our full Bitcoin Blast review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186627" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144331/Bitcoin-Blast-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Multi-Game Hubs / Platforms If you like variety, multi-game hubs can give you choices when it comes to your gaming. VYBS, Android VYBS is a free app where you can play multiple mobile games to win cash or digital gift cards. Games on the rotating lineup include Coin Master, Dice Dreams, Domino Dreams and Solitaire Cash. One of the best parts is there’s no entry fee. Just create your free account after downloading the VYBS app on your Android device. Then launch the games through the VYBS app and reach the required milestones. It’s important to note you must launch the games through the app so it can track your progress, and there’s a $550 maximum in redemptions per calendar year. Key Features: Rotating list of games across genres. No entry fee. Redeem PayPal cash ($20 minimum) or gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks and Walmart. U.S. users only. TPH’s Game Rating: 4.5/5 stars. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="480" height="480" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money.jpg" alt="vybs games that pay real money" class="wp-image-214877" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money.jpg 480w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money-360x360.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money-150x150.jpg 150w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money-100x100.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/15104948/vybs-games-that-pay-real-money-300x300.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" /> GOOGLE PLAY DOWNLOAD Back to top of page Pocket7Games, iOS Pocket7Games provides arcade-style gaming with the excitement of playing for real cash rewards. There are more than 10 engaging games to choose from. Just pick whatever appeals to you. While cash games are not available in AZ, AR, CT, DE, LA, MT, SC, SD, TN, and VT, users here can play the free games. Players also need to be 18 or older. Key Features: Play against real players who are at a similar skill level. Withdrawal options include PayPal, Apple Pay, and others. There are mini-games like Lucky Box and Dice Tour. TPH’s Game Rating: 5/5 stars. See our full Pocket7Games review. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="400" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-186636" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games-360x120.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games-768x256.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games-100x33.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/29144402/Pocket7Games-300x100.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /> iOS DOWNLOAD Back to top of page How to Tell if a Money Game Is Legit and Will Actually Pay There are several red and green flags to look out for when it comes to gaming apps. A legit money game shows clear payout policies, transparent terms and consistent user feedback. Here’s a quick checklist you can use: Legitimacy Signals (Green Flags) Clear payout options (PayPal, Cash App, bank, gift cards) Transparent terms and privacy policy Verified developer listing in the App Store or Google Play Many recent reviews, not just a handful Optional practice modes before entering paid tournaments Reasonable withdrawal minimums ID verification that matches standard fraud-prevention steps Customer support access (email or in-app chat) Earning estimates are realistic Consistent, recent updates to the app Red Flags Guaranteed earning claims Pop-ups saying you “won” hundreds after only minutes of play No clear payout method or unclear withdrawal terms Apps demanding excessive personal data No listing on official app stores Suspicious reviews posted within a short time frame Anytime something feels off, it’s best to avoid spending money in the app. More Ways to Make Money Playing Games If you want to earn through gaming without using cash tournaments, here are alternatives: Live streaming (Twitch, YouTube) — Earn from ads, donations or memberships Esports tournaments — Competitive matches for prize pools Game testing or QA work — Provide feedback for developers Coaching beginner players — Some popular titles have coaching markets Sell in-game items (where allowed) — Marketplace-supported games only These options often take more time and skill, but they can offer steadier earnings than mobile cash games. Things to Know Before You Start Playing Real Money Games Most real-money apps are safe when used responsibly, but it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. Before you play: State restrictions apply: Some games aren’t allowed in certain locations. ID checks may be required: Many apps verify identity before your first withdrawal. Payouts take time: Processing ranges from minutes to a few business days. Games involve risk: Paid tournaments don’t guarantee winnings. Earnings are small: These apps provide side cash, not steady income. Taxes may apply: Apps may issue a 1099 if you exceed reporting thresholds. Offers change: Developers frequently update payouts, promotions and rules. Realistic expectations are important for an enjoyable experience. If you know what you’re signing up for, the apps can be both rewarding and fun. Back to top of page FAQs – Real Money Games Final Verdict Real money games can be a fun way to earn a little side cash, but expectations matter. These apps offer small rewards, not guaranteed income. They work best for people who enjoy mobile gaming and want low-stakes entertainment with the chance to earn a little extra on the side. As mentioned earlier, payouts depend on skill, gameplay style and location, and offers can change at any time. Back to top of page This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Should You Save or Pay Off Debt to Prepare for a Recession?
A recession can wreak havoc on your finances. So it’s understandable if you’re worried by recent headlines. Economists are increasingly pessimistic amid tariffs, which could lead to higher prices. Companies and the government are cutting jobs, which has led to higher unemployment. If you’re worried about a recession, there are steps you can take to […] This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
A recession can wreak havoc on your finances. So it’s understandable if you’re worried by recent headlines. Economists are increasingly pessimistic amid tariffs, which could lead to higher prices. Companies and the government are cutting jobs, which has led to higher unemployment. If you’re worried about a recession, there are steps you can take to safeguard your money. But you’re probably facing some tough choices because your paycheck will only stretch so far. One big decision to make: Should you save money or pay down debt to prepare for a recession? Saving vs. Paying Off Debt Before a Recession There’s no hard-and-fast rule that determines whether you should save or pay off debt when you’re worried a recession is imminent. Often, the best move is to split any extra money you have in your budget between boosting your savings and reducing your debt. Financial planners typically recommend a six-month emergency fund, but that’s just a general rule. The exact number you should aim for depends on your personal circumstances. You may be able to get away with three months’ worth, for example, if you’re young and healthy and you work in a field that’s relatively insulated from layoffs, like health care or education. A bigger emergency fund has some obvious advantages: It buys you more time to look for a job should you get laid off. You’re also less likely to need to raid your retirement funds early to meet your short-term needs. Doing so can be costly, not just because of the taxes and penalties, but also because you may be selling investments while they’re down. Of course, if you’re affected by a recession, you’ll want your bills to be as low as possible. Paying off debt will free up money in your monthly budget and save you money on interest. If you’re paying down credit cards, your savings will be especially significant, given that the average annual percentage rate (APR) was above 24% as of October 2025. But here are some situations when you may want to prioritize saving over debt payoff, or vice-versa. When Saving More Makes Sense Consider making savings your top goal in the following situations — but keep making debt payments, of course. You don’t have at least three months’ worth of savings. Though a six-month emergency fund or even a 12-month emergency fund in some cases is considered the gold standard, it takes time to build this level of savings. At the very least, aim for a three-month emergency fund. Should you get laid off, that financial cushion will give you time to apply for new jobs and make your way through the hiring process. You’re worried you’re about to lose your job. If your company has announced layoffs or hiring freezes, you may want to double down on savings for now. The same goes for if you work in a field that’s especially vulnerable to economic downturns, like hospitality, real estate or retail. You don’t have high-interest debt. In the best-case scenario, you only have low-interest debt, like a mortgage, car payment or federal student loan. In that case, you may want to focus on boosting your savings to a level that you’re comfortable with. When Paying Off Debt Makes More Sense Paying off debt before saving more money makes sense if these circumstances apply. You’re already behind on payments. If you’ve fallen behind on bills, getting caught up is your top priority before you save money. Getting credit is often much harder during a recession. A downturn will be even more painful if you’ve tanked your credit score. You have credit card debt. Because credit cards have exorbitant interest rates and interest rates are rising, paying off credit card debt is typically a smart move once you have a three- to six-month emergency fund. You’re comfortable with your savings level. If you have a decent emergency fund and you feel your job is secure, go ahead and pay down debt if you prefer lower expenses to a bigger bank balance. Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. She writes the Dear Penny personal finance advice column. Send your tricky money questions to AskPenny@thepennyhoarder.com. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
How to Stop Impulse Buying: 12 Ways to Quit Mindless Shopping
Impulse buying can wreak havoc on your bank account. Here’s how to cut that mindless shopping habit out of your life. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. Are you prone to impulse buying? Have you given in and made random, unnecessary purchases that eat into your potential savings without forethought? That could be why you can’t seem to recall what happened to that $20 bill in your wallet or how your budget got so off balance. If you use a budgeting app like Cleo, you can see how quickly impulse buys add up — your morning $6 Starbucks pick-me-up, the stylish $30 bag you saw and just had to have during your Target grocery run, the $5 cookies you bought from the Girl Scouts — it’s a good cause, right? — and the $12 you spent at Chipotle when you decided to grab a burrito on the way home because you’re too tired to cook. Before you know it, you’ve spent more than $50 over the course of the day on impulse buys. It happens to the best of us. Retail marketers are trained in sneaky tactics that influence our urge to buy. Our personalities and moods can also lead to impulse shopping — retail therapy is real. In an article in Psychology Today1, public health specialist Elana Sandler wrote that retail therapy can be a beneficial way to feel renewed, especially in difficult times. No matter your trigger, it’s important to become more conscious of your spending habits. Imagine how much better off your finances would be if you saved every penny you mindlessly spent on stuff you don’t really need. How to Stop Impulse Buying Find yourself getting sucked into frivolous spending? Here is some practical advice you can put into action to keep more money in your wallet. 1. Get Serious About Your Budget Have a clear picture of your finances and review them monthly, if not weekly. Everyone can use a little help or motivation with budgeting, and there’s an app for that. Monarch and Cleo are two of our top picks. Or, use the cash envelope method to help stick to the budget you’ve set. When you have defined financial goals and a budget to match, impulse buys will be harder to justify. Unless you have the self-discipline of a monk, there are going to be times when you want to indulge just a little bit. A budget that only covers basic life essentials? Not fun. Add room in your budget for discretionary spending. That way you can make those random purchases without feeling guilty. 2. Set a Goal That Inspires You to Avoid Spending All those little impulse buys can drain your savings or leave you paying off debt instead of enjoying what you love. Maybe that’s a much-needed vacation. Then plant reminders around your home and in your wallet to remind you why you don’t really need that impulse buy. It could be photos of your dream destination or silly things like a straw hat and sunscreen — anything that reminds you that you have bigger plans for your cash. 3. Ask Yourself if Every Purchase Is Worth It Before you reach for your card (or hit the purchase button if you’re shopping online), ask yourself a little question: Is this worth it? You can even attach a sticky note with that question to your credit card. If it’s a $3 magazine that’ll keep you from being bored to death on a flight, then maybe that answer is yes. If it’s a pair of shoes that cost the equivalent of an entire day’s pay and you’re already stressed about debt, then take a hard pass. Staying aware of your goals can steer you away from unnecessary purchases. If you’ve got it on your mind that you want to get out of debt in 12 months, you may not be as inclined to buy that $15 graphic T-shirt. Shifting your way of thinking can snap you out of the habit of mindlessly buying stuff you don’t need. Take a moment to consider what you’re spending money on and why. 4. Delete Your Ordering Info From Retail Websites Online retailers want buying to be as simple as the click of a button. They offer to save your debit or credit card information so you don’t have to pull out your card and type in a bunch of numbers each time. If you’re trying to fight impulse shopping, however, taking that additional step gives you more time to reconsider your purchases. Remove your financial information from online sites to prevent effortless impulse buying. 5. Put Parental Blocks on Your Own Devices You don’t have to have kids to find the benefit in parental control settings. Block your favorite retail sites or set up purchase restrictions for the App Store or Google Play. Sure, you’ll know the code to circumvent the parental controls, but having that extra layer to get around might deter you from buying on impulse. Removing retail apps from devices altogether can also help. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A woman looks at her phone while laying down in her bed in her studio apartment. " class="wp-image-169179" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/14160604/mindless-spending-unsubscribe-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images 6. Unsubscribe From Emails and Text Alerts Oh, the temptation of all the deals. That email for 30% off all footwear that just popped up in your inbox has you dreaming about getting new sandals, even though you already own several pairs. Did someone tell them shoes are your weakness? Avoid the trap by unsubscribing from email lists or text alerts from shops, restaurants or businesses you know will be hard to resist. There will always be another sale. 7. Understand the Tricks Retailers Play The shops you frequent have entire marketing teams working to entice you to buy through product placement and other clever strategies. If you’re trying to save money, fight against the temptation. That can mean ignoring the pretty displays for stuff you didn’t think you needed until you saw it. Or perhaps taking a closer look at that “great sale” turns out to be for a product whose packaging has shrunk, making it easier to walk away. And those outlet mall deals might not be such a steal. Teaching yourself to be a shrewd shopper can help you avoid being lured by clever marketing. 8. Shop With Your Financial Accountability Buddy A friend or family member who’s aware of your financial challenges and goals is the perfect person to bring along on shopping trips. Your accountability buddy can reign in your tendency to overspend on the unnecessary. Just make sure it’s someone who’s not afraid to speak up on your budget’s behalf. 9. Carry a Limited Amount of Cash If you tend to rely on your credit card to cover impulse purchases when you’re shopping, switch to cash and only carry the amount you need for that day. Using your credit card for impulse purchases only adds extra cost — in the form of interest — to something you didn’t need to buy in the first place. You could literally freeze your cards in a block of ice, shred them to pieces or simply keep them hidden away at home. Stick with cash only, plan your purchases in advance and take only the amount of money you’ll need for that one shopping trip. 10. Give Yourself Time Before Deciding to Buy That gotta-have-it-now feeling is what leads so many of us to buy things on impulse. But pressing pause on buying is often all it takes to realize what we’re craving isn’t something we really must have. Some people implement a 30-day rule — delaying a purchase for about a month — but you can really give yourself any length of time. While you’re waiting, take inventory of what you already have. You know that coffee mug with the witty saying you just had to buy? It’ll end up in the kitchen cabinet along with a dozen similar ones you already own. Coffee is great, but when you can fill up an entire dishwasher with mugs alone, you gotta start saying “no” to more. Taking stock of what you already own at home — whether it’s clothes, shoes, books or dishware — can help you put things in the right perspective when something attractive catches your eye while shopping. 11. Track Your Daily Spending Don’t wait until the end of the month to analyze your spending and see if everything matches up to how much you said you’d spend in your budget. When you take note of what you spend each day, those unnecessary impulse purchases stick out like a sore thumb. 12. Find Something You Enjoy Besides Shopping Many people treat shopping like a hobby or something to do to pass time on the weekends. Others use shopping as a cure for a bad mood, but turning to retail therapy as entertainment or to bring you joy could make you more vulnerable to impulse spending. Instead of shopping for fun, find activities to fill that void. Have a picnic in the park. Take a walk or meditate. Call a friend. You could even make some money by working out. When Impulsive Buying Becomes a Bigger Issue As Penny Hoarders, we hate losing potential savings to frivolous impulse spending, but a few spur-of-the-moment purchases every now and then aren’t the end of the world. If shopping habits, however, seem beyond your control or are becoming detrimental to your financial life, relationships or general feeling of well being, then you should seek professional help. A licensed therapist could help you manage impulsive behavior. Debtors Anonymous2 also offers support to those whose shopping habits lead them to unmanageable debt. Contributor Veronica Leone Matthews is a North Carolina-based freelance writer with 11 years of experience writing for non-profits and higher education. She covers lifestyle topics for The Penny Hoarder. Nicole Dow is a former staff writer at The Penny Hoarder. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
5 Strategies to Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt
Personal loan, balance transfer or HELOC? Credit card debt consolidation can save you some serious money, and we’ll help you decide which of these five ways is best for you. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. So, you’re falling behind on your credit card payments. Hey, it happens to the best of us. We’ve been there. What are you going to do about it? If you have a lot of credit card debt, you should seriously consider consolidating it. Credit card consolidation is when you borrow money at a lower interest rate and use that loan to pay off your higher-interest credit cards. It’s a twofer: You can save a ton of money on interest payments, and you free up cash to pay off debt faster. Here’s your guide to consolidating your credit card debt. Should I Consolidate My Credit Card Debt? You should consider consolidating your credit card debt if you can answer “Yes” to the following question: Would a lower-interest debt consolidation loan save you money each month and/or speed up the debt payment? There’s also a part 2, though. Don’t run up debt again, or you’ll soon be in the same predicament. Our Favorite Ways to Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt You have a few options to consider. Keep in mind what your ultimate goal is: to borrow money at a low interest rate that you then use to pay off your high-interest debt. Hopefully, it leaves you with one payment and much lower interest. Here are some of our favorite avenues to consider, with the full list below. 5 Ways to Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt Let’s take a look at five different ways you can consolidate debt. 1. Get a Debt Consolidation Loan Because they tend to have lower interest rates than credit cards, many people will take out a personal loan to pay off existing debts. Just make sure you’ll be able to repay the lender a fixed amount every month for the term of the loan. The pros: You can often apply for a personal loan without hurting your credit score, and you don’t usually need a high score to qualify. The cons: These loans also usually have an upfront origination fee, and interest rates vary based on your credit score. It’s important to shop around for a good rate at a respected lender. Someone with a “good” credit score (between 700 and 749) should expect fixed rates close to current averages. Credit unions tend to have the best rates locally, but if you don’t have time to apply for one, you can search the web. Fortunately, instead of spending hours scouring the internet, you can go window shopping at an online marketplace that’ll help you pinpoint the best loan offers. Here are two of the best places to find a credit card debt consolidation loan: MoneyLion: Get the money you need MoneyLion can match you with a low-interest loan you can use to pay off every credit card balance you have. The benefit? You’re left with just one bill to pay every month, and because the interest rate is so much lower, you can get out of debt so much faster. Plus, no credit card payment this month. MoneyLion can help you borrow up to $100,000 (no collateral needed) with fixed rates starting at 5.99%. MoneyLion won’t make you stand in line or call a bank. And if you’re worried you won’t qualify, it’s free to check online. It takes just two minutes, and it could save you thousands of dollars. Totally worth it. AmOne: Get out of debt faster If you owe your credit card companies $100,000 or less, AmONE will match you with a low-interest loan you can use to pay off every single one of your balances. The benefit? You’ll be left with one bill to pay each month. And because personal loans have lower interest rates (AmONE rates start at 6.40% APR), you’ll get out of debt that much faster. Plus: No credit card payment this month. It takes less than a minute and just 10 questions to see what loans you qualify for. 2. Use a Balance-Transfer Card If you have good or excellent credit, you could apply for a zero- or low-interest credit card, and if approved, transfer the balance from your high-interest cards. You’ll usually need a credit score around 700 to get approved, but balance transfer credit cards offer a 0% interest rate on transfers for 12 to 21 months with credit limits up to $100,000. Of course, that’s not as long as the two- to five-year time frame that a personal loan will give you to pay back the money you owe, so this method is best for those with small amounts of debt compared to their income. The pros: If you transfer a credit card balance and repay it during your new card’s 12- to 21-month promotional period, you’ll pay no interest. And you won’t run into prepayment penalties you see in some personal loans. SCORE! The cons: After that sweet, sweet promotional period ends, a high interest rate usually kicks in. If you don’t have your balance paid off by then, you’re back to paying high interest all over again. And many cards will charge you a balance transfer fee — usually something like $5 or 3% of the balance you’re transferring. It’s also important to be aware that if you miss a payment, it might nullify the 0% offer. And you usually can’t get approved for a transfer from a card with the same issuer. 3. Borrow or Withdraw From Your Retirement Plan Here’s an interesting reality check: Virtually any financial adviser, and most Penny Hoarders, will tell you that this is a bad idea, because it will impact your retirement savings. But 1 out of every 4 American households ends up withdrawing or borrowing from a 401(k) at least once, according to a study from the financial website HelloWallet. So clearly, a lot of people feel it’s a valid option. Let’s go over the basics of a 401(k) loan here: You can borrow as much as half the balance of your employer-sponsored 401(k), up to $50,000, without penalty. You can only withdraw money you contributed to the plan; you can’t withdraw your employer’s match. You typically have to repay the loan within five years. If you leave your job, you’ll have to pay back the loan within 60 days or take the amount as a heavily taxed distribution. The pros: There’s no credit check to take out a 401(k) loan, so this could be a good option for someone with a low credit score. Interest on a loan from your 401(k) is paid to yourself instead of a bank, and the loan won’t be taxed if you repay the money within the term. The cons: You give up any growth that money would’ve seen in the market. And if you cannot pay the loan back, you’ll pay a 10% penalty and taxes on the amount come April. 4. Borrow Against the Value of Your Home If you own a home, you could also consider getting a home equity loan or line of credit. These typically offer way lower interest rates than credit cards. That’s because you’re borrowing against your equity. What’s equity? Every time you make a mortgage payment, and every time your home’s market value goes up, you’re building equity. So if you’ve owned your home for a while, you probably have equity you can tap into. So what’s the difference between a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit? With a home equity loan, you’re borrowing a fixed amount of money, which you receive in a lump sum. You pay it back at a fixed interest rate over a set period of time, like three or five years. In contrast, a home equity line of credit offers you more flexibility. It allows you to just borrow money whenever you need it, using your home as collateral. The interest rate you’re paying on the money you borrowed may go up or down, depending on how financial markets are doing. The pros: The interest rate will almost certainly be lower than what your credit cards are charging you, and the term is longer — up to 15 years. The cons: You are putting your house at risk if you default on the loan, so this is not the safest get-out-of-debt strategy. Another option? Hometap. While it doesn’t loan you money, Hometap can help you tap into the value of your home. It invests between $15,000 and $600,000 in your home — and gives you a lump sum of money in exchange for a cut of its future value. This can be your primary home, a rental property or vacation home. Since it’s not a loan, there are no monthly payments. Instead, when you settle your investment, Hometap gets an agreed-upon percentage of the new home value. You have 10 years to settle, and you can do whatever you want with the money — pay off debt, fix your roof or go back to school. After you close on the investment, your funds are wired within a matter of days. To get started, request a quick online investment estimate to find out if this is a good fit for you and your property. You’ll need a credit score of at least 550 to qualify. 5. Use a Debt Management Program Finally, debt management programs can help with your credit card consolidation. With debt management programs, you’ll be assigned a credit counselor, who will set up a repayment and education plan for you. They’ll handle your consolidation and negotiate better interest rates and lower fees. Credit counseling usually consists of a review of your household budget, credit reports and consumer debt with the goal of improving your financial situation. This program is specifically for unsecured debts, like credit cards and medical bills. The pros: A debt management program pays your creditor for you, ensuring you stay current on the monthly payments of your debt. Your credit score may even improve during the program. The cons: If you miss a payment, you can be dropped, and you’ll lose all the benefits you gained. The program typically lasts three to five years and may not have an option to pay off your debt faster. Do your due diligence when seeking out a program. Look for nonprofit financial education institutions like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling to avoid getting scammed. You can also work with debt settlement companies like National Debt Relief to potentially reduce how much you owe by letting them negotiate with creditors for you. Tips For Making Any Debt Consolidation Work Debt consolidation isn’t for everyone. It’s not a magic wand. It’s actually a yearslong process that requires discipline. Here’s how to make sure it’ll work for you. 1. Stop Using Your Credit Cards First, make a budget you can actually stick to. Spend a few weeks tracking what you really spend. What seems like small costs — going out for lunch or coffee every day — add up over time. Here’s a good Penny Hoarder tip for budgeting: Cut back to one monthly payment method — paying with all cash or with one debit card, for example — to make it easier to track your expenses. Cut up your credit cards or lock them away. Put yourself on a spending diet. If you can’t pay cash for it, you don’t need it. You don’t need to close all your credit card accounts. That would increase your credit utilization rate — the percentage of your overall credit you’re using — which could hurt your credit score. You need to do to take away the temptation to spend more than you’re bringing in. Do whatever you need to do. 2. Figure Out How Long You’ll Need to Pay Off Your Debt This is important: To successfully pull this off, you should be able to pay your debt in two to five years, the typical length of a debt consolidation loan. To determine whether you can do that, figure out what you owe. If you have more debt than you can pay off in five years, focus on getting it down to a manageable number. Once you start paying attention to your spending, you’ll usually find paying off debt can be done more quickly than you initially thought. 3. Build an Emergency Fund Things will come up as you repay your credit card debt, so get prepared before you start. Build an emergency fund of at least $1,000 to cover emergencies and unexpected expenses. This fund will help you maintain momentum on your debt-free journey when expenses come up. If You Can’t Afford to Pay the Credit Card Debt If you really can’t repay your debts, consider bankruptcy as a last resort. Here’s the skinny on filing for bankruptcy and how it affects your life. That shouldn’t be your first choice, though. Bankruptcy will be a black mark on your credit history — one that lasts up to 10 years. The bottom line: If you’re deep in credit card debt, consolidating is a smart, strategic way to lower interest rates and pay it down faster. FAQ on Credit Card Debt Consolidation Loans Consolidating credit card debt can be a strategic move to manage your finances more efficiently. Let’s address some common questions. Do credit card debt consolidation loans really work? Yes, credit card debt consolidation loans can work effectively if used responsibly. They can simplify your finances by combining multiple credit card debts into a single loan with a fixed interest rate and payment schedule. This can potentially lower your overall interest payments and help you pay off debt faster, provided you get a lower interest rate than you were paying on your credit cards and you don’t accrue more debt. How do I consolidate credit card debt without hurting my credit? Research Your Options: Start by researching debt consolidation options, such as personal loans, balance transfer credit cards, and home equity loans. Compare interest rates, terms, and fees. Apply Carefully: When you apply for a new loan or credit card, it typically involves a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your credit score. To minimize the impact, apply for one option at a time. Maintain On-Time Payments: Once you consolidate your debts, continue to make all your payments on time. Payment history is a significant factor in your credit score. Keep Accounts Open: After transferring your balances to a consolidation loan or card, consider keeping your old accounts open without adding new charges to them. Closing these accounts can negatively affect your credit utilization ratio and the length of your credit history. Monitor Your Credit: Keep an eye on your credit report to ensure your payments are being reported correctly and to track how your credit score changes over time. What are the benefits of credit card debt consolidation? Simplified Payments: Consolidating multiple credit card debts into one loan means you’ll have just one payment to manage each month, which can make budgeting easier. Lower Interest Rates: Consolidation loans often offer lower interest rates than credit cards, which can save you money over time. Fixed Payment Schedule: Many consolidation loans come with a fixed repayment term, helping you know exactly when you’ll be debt-free. Potential Credit Score Improvement: By making regular, on-time payments on a consolidation loan, you can build a positive payment history, which can improve your credit score. How much can I borrow with a consolidation loan? The amount you can borrow with a consolidation loan depends on several factors, including your creditworthiness, income, and the lender’s policies. Generally, personal loans for debt consolidation can range from a few thousand to several tens of thousands of dollars. Lenders will look at your debt-to-income ratio, credit history, and possibly other factors to determine how much they’re willing to lend you. It’s important to only borrow what you need to consolidate your debts to avoid taking on more debt than necessary. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Don’t Toss Your Receipts. These 3 Apps Will Pay You for Them
Throwing away your receipts and deleting your emails could be costing you money. Here are eight apps that will pay you money for receipts when you shop. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. We’ve got news: Your grocery receipts are a lot more valuable in your hand than in the trash. Now, I’ll be honest … I’ve crumpled more receipts than I could ever count. I used to save them all, but my wallet could only hold so much. Once it got out of hand (like having years-old receipts…), I resorted to tossing them. Here’s why that was a mistake: Cash-back apps make it extremely easy to earn rewards for making purchases you were already going to make — and all you need is a receipt. 3 Apps That Will Pay You for Your Grocery Receipts To give you an idea of how cash-back apps can make your life easier and your wallet a bit fuller, we tested a ton of them and narrowed it down to the best, top-rated apps that will pay you for your grocery receipts. 1. This Free App Helps You Earn $290/Year on Gas, Groceries, and Dining An app called Upside helps you earn cash back on everyday purchases without any mental math. The app shows you participating local gas stations where you can beat the pump price by as much as 25 cents per gallon. Plus, you can earn cash back at grocery stores and restaurants including local favorites and national chains like Domino’s, Taco Bell, Burger King and Pizza Hut. People who use the app regularly earn as much as $290 every year. That’s cash money deposited straight into your PayPal or bank account. Or redeem it for a gift card from popular brands like Amazon and Starbucks. Here’s how to start earning: Just download the Upside app, set up a free account and check the map to find participating stores near you. When you’re ready, claim an offer, tap “Check In” before you pay with your linked card — easy money for a few seconds of your time. You can cash out any time, and you’ll get your money within two days of initiating a transfer. Download the Upside app and start earning. 2. Fetch: Cash Out For Gift Cards to Your Favorite Retailers If you aren’t picky about earning cash vs. gift cards, check out Fetch. Fetch lets you scan up to 35 receipts every eight days that turn into Fetch Rewards points. Earn enough points and you can cash out for gift cards to dozens of places, including big names like Target, Starbucks or Amazon. Unlike Upside (which uses a map and specific retailers to give you discounts), Fetch rewards are brand-centered. This works out great if you have brands that you’ll never forsake. That bond between you and your favorite beauty products could pay off. Just check out the list of eligible brands for earning points. Regular purchases like diapers are another one that really could earn you a little extra cash on the side. 3. Checkout 51: Let Your Receipt Get You Cash Back, Weekly Savings Is your shopping style less about loyalty and more about wherever you can get the best deal? Same. In that case, Checkout 51 is a great cash-back option. Redeem the app’s cash-back deals for specific products from any retailer (unless the offer specifies otherwise). If you prefer to shop online, Checkout 51 makes it easy to earn there, too. Just claim your offers by snapping a photo of your packing slip. No need to shop through a portal. Checkout 51 updates its offers each Thursday, giving you a week to get your shopping done. Oh, and the app tends to focus on name-brand items, so don’t forget to compare prices. Generic or store brands might be more affordable even without a rebate. Once you earn at least $20, you can transfer your Checkout 51 rewards to cash in your bank account. Maximize Your Rewards With These Tips Cash-back apps are pretty simple, for the most part, but there are still some clever ways to make the most of your rewards. Here are a few tips to help you get started: This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
10 Ridiculously Cheap Bottles of Champagne to Ring in the New Year
The iconic New Year’s celebration includes a countdown, a kiss and a glass of bubbly. Two of those are free, and the third doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to be perfect. Understanding the different types of sparkling wines can help you understand more about what you might want to buy to ring […] This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
The iconic New Year’s celebration includes a countdown, a kiss and a glass of bubbly. Two of those are free, and the third doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to be perfect. Understanding the different types of sparkling wines can help you understand more about what you might want to buy to ring in 2026 — or celebrate any special occasion. For the best cheap champagne, check out this list, and ring in the new year without breaking the bank. The Best Cheap Champagne for $15 a Bottle or Less We compiled a list of 10 sparkling wines that will make toasting in the New Year an absolute, inexpensive pleasure. We’ve given you sources to buy them online but you might be able to find them — or request them — at your favorite spirits purveyor. But first, here’s some background knowledge. Champagne vs. Sparkling Wine Real Champagne comes from the Champagne region of France, which is why no one else can use the word “champagne” on labels. French Champagne is made from specific grapes including Pinot noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes, as well as a few others. All that other bubbly we drink is called sparkling wine. Technically speaking, all champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is champagne. However, both are made with prescribed ways to press the grapes and a second fermentation that creates bubbles Luckily, sparkling wine doesn’t have to be expensive to be holiday-worthy. 4 Types of Sparkling Wine to Try There is no actual, officially designated Champagne on this list—since it sells for $30 or more a bottle. But regular sparkling wine can taste delicious to both regular wine drinkers and occasional celebrators. Here are four types of sparkling wine to consider for the best cheap champagne alternatives. 1. Prosecco One of the best-known sparkling wines is prosecco. Prosecco originated in the northeastern part of Italy, named after a little town in Trieste. Prosecco is more affordable than Champagne because the second fermentation happens in a vat, and then it is bottled. Champagne does its second fermentation in each individual bottle. Prosecco tends to be on the sweeter side. There are two main types of prosecco. Spumante is full on bubbly. Frizzante is fizzier with lighter bubbles. 2. Sparkling Rosé Rosé wine is made from dark-skinned grapes and some grape skin, but not enough to call it red wine. Dark-skinned grapes may be left to macerate (soften in liquid) and then blended in with other grapes. Sparkling rosé is fermented in a closed container, so the carbon monoxide can’t escape. A lot of sparkling rosés from California use the Pinot Noir grape. Sparkling rosé can be sweet or dry. 3. Cava Spanish winemakers’ process for making cava is similar to that of French Champagne, by doing the second fermentation in the bottle. One of the things that makes it more affordable is that the Spanish have machines doing the necessary rotating and tipping bottles during fermentation. The French usually do it by hand. Cava can have the same robust flavor as Champagne but is lighter, and cheaper, because of a shorter production time. Cava tends to be more dry, or brut. 4. Crémant Crémant is another sparkling wine from France, made outside the Champagne region, and uses a lot of the same methods. There are still pretty stringent regulations that must be met for a wine to be called crémant. Keep this in mind, since it costs a little less than Champagne but requires almost the same handcrafting and Champagne-method to make. Sparkling Wine Terms to Know There are a handful of terms that describe the sweetness of sparkling wine, which is great to know before popping the cork. Wine isn’t naturally sweet; sugar is added during the process to make the flavor more pleasing. Bruts are the driest designation, with brut zero having no additional sugar. Brut has just a couple of grams of sugar per glass. The dryness makes it an amiable partner with food. Extra dry is next. People often think extra dry is less sweet than brut, but the opposite is true, according to Paul Mulder of Total Wine & More. It’s still pretty dry, with maybe ¾ of a teaspoon of sugar per glass.This goes well with appetizers and light meals. Demi-sec is the sweeter sparkling wine, which people often serve with dessert. It has at least a teaspoon of sugar in each glass. Doux is what you should look for if you like really sweet sparkling wine. The Best Champagne-Like Bubbly Wines Traditional Champagnes made in the Champagne region of France are too pricey for our $15 list. These are the next best thing to capture the smoothness and balance of French bubbly. 1. Bouvet Signature Brut This French brut is dry and crisp and can be paired with appetizers or enjoyed solo. Your taste buds will detect nectarines or peaches in the mix. Price: $14.95 Empire Wine 2. Domaine Saint Vincent Brut With a very traditional flavor profile, a green apple start and citrusy finish, this is the classic brut Champagne-like taste. Even though it is brut, there isn’t a prominent acidity to it. Price: $13.97 Wine Chateau 3. Korbel Extra Dry If brut is too dry, Korbel is a light, crispy choice, easy on the wallet and tongue. It’s probably the best-known cheap champagne-like sparkler out there, for good reason. Price: $10.97 Total Wine, $14 Korbel Prosecco Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine and is often touted as a great accompaniment to appetizers. We recommend these three wines for that, but also for toasting the new year. 4. La Marca Prosecco When you see that beloved sky blue label, you know the party is off to a good start. La Marca is one of the best cheap champagne alternatives out there. Maybe get two bottles, since it is very easy to drink. Price: $12.57 Total Wine 5. Fascino Organic Prosecco NV Fascino makes the frizzante type of prosecco, with light, tickling, fruity bubbles. Plus it’s organic. It’s a blend of different vintages, which keeps the price low and quality high. Price: $12.89 Best Buy Liquors, $14.99 Stirling Fine Wines 6. Mionetto Prosecco di Treviso Brut This is a consistently highly rated cheap prosecco with a slight taste of tropical fruits and a smooth, creamy feel. It is less sweet than traditional prosecco. Price: $15 Wine Searcher Sparkling Rosé Not a fan of French taste? Toast with a sparkling rosé. California winemakers often use pinot noir grapes solely in their sparkling rosé but other producers use a blend of red-skinned grapes. Our budget suggestions here come from Chile and Oregon. 7. Cono Sur Sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé This is one of the best cheap champagne alternatives on the list and is arguably the best sparkling rosé. The climate for Chilean wine-making is perfect, and using prosecco-like methods keeps the costs low. You’ll love the berry and fruity flavors with strong bubbles that soften after a minute. Price: $12 Wine-Searcher 8. Del Rio Vineyard Estate Jolee Rosé This demi-sec rosé has a creamy, citrusy and tropical flavor and tastes way more lush than its price indicates. These Oregon winemakers balance sweetness with acidity, so there’s the right amount of each. Price: $15 Del Rio Vineyard Estates Cava Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine and tends to be sweeter and dryer than French Champagne. 9. Loxarel Saniger Penedes Brut Reserva 2021 This is an exciting wine discovery! This Spanish winemaker uses organic and biodynamic viticulture methods, combining older traditions with newer science. Consider it a fabulous option for New Year’s celebrations. Price: $13.97 PJ Wine 10. Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava Made with centuries-old cava traditions, this robust and fruity cava pairs well with seafood and cheeses or with that midnight toast and kiss. It’s a very refreshing drink that tastes similar to brut Champagne. Price: $11.99 InternetWines.com How to Up Your Champagne Game Whether it’s for a toast on New Year’s Eve or just a Thursday night treat, Champagne and sparkling wines benefit from getting the details just right. Grab the right glasses. A flute can make the best cheap champagne taste like the famous Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, which costs more than 12 times as much as any bottle on our list. “People like stemless glasses because they won’t tip over,” says Mulder. “They can diminish the presentation, though. Champagne flutes make the bubbles concentrate a little more.” Don’t use Champagne in cocktails. We can’t recommend using a good Champagne in your mimosas, since the orange juice would hide the quality. Every sparkling wine listed here would work well in “champagne” cocktails. Do make sparkling wine cocktails. Mulder loves the versatility of sparkling wine cocktails. He recommends a Bacio del Limone, which is the Italian liqueur limoncello mixed with prosecco and mixed berries. Try it with a bottle of St. Reine Blanc de Blancs Brut, just $13.99 at Total Wine. The Penny Hoarder contributor JoEllen Schilke writes on lifestyle and culture topics. She is the former owner of a coffee shop in St. Petersburg, Florida, and has hosted an arts show on WMNF community radio for nearly 30 years. Senior writer Robert Bruce and freelancer Adam Palasciano contributed. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
8 Flavorful Holiday Mocktails That Skip the Alcohol
New Year’s Eve is a major holiday for alcohol purchases, which can definitely add up. Bypass the booze and try these four mocktails instead. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
The holidays are the perfect time to eat, drink and be merry. But all that boozing gets expensive. Save yourself some money — and maybe a headache in the morning — with these eight mocktail recipes that skip the pricey liquor but keep all the festive flavors of the season. 8 Holiday Mocktails to Serve Guests or Enjoy Yourself Serve one of these festive mocktails at your holiday get-together — or indulge in one after a day of shopping and tree-trimming. Pink “Champagne” Mocktail Orange Cranberry Mimosa Spiced Virgin Apple Martini Sparkling Turmeric Tonic Nonalcoholic Coquito Smoothie Candy Cane Christmas Mocktail White Hot Chocolate Virgin Mary <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-1024x683.jpg" alt="a woman pouring pink champagne into a glass" class="wp-image-77956" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7825.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Carmen Mandato/ The Penny Hoarder 1. Pink “Champagne” Mocktail You can’t toast the New Year without bubbles. Fill your flute with this beverage when it comes time to clink glasses at midnight. Or, sip on one while you help prepare Thanksgiving dinner. The mix of juices — cranberry, pineapple and orange — create a pink appearance, and the ginger ale brings on the fizz. Check out the recipe from Allrecipes. 2. Orange Cranberry Mimosa Showcasing two fruity stars of the holiday season, this orange and cranberry drink will have you reminiscing about those big Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. This drink even sneaks in another seasonal favorite — sparkling apple cider. Be sure to add a festive garnish to your glass, like whole cranberries, a rosemary sprig or a cinnamon stick — or all three. Check out the recipe from Rhubarbarians. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-1024x683.jpg" alt="a spiced apple martini in a martini glass" class="wp-image-77957" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/21144113/IMG_7726.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Carmen Mandato/ The Penny Hoarder 3. Spiced Virgin Apple Martini That’s spiced, not spiked. This drink is a step up from your typical sparkling cider spritzer. It incorporates seasonal spices from cinnamon sticks and candied ginger into a simple syrup for added tastiness. You’ll also need to grab frozen apple juice concentrate, sparkling cider, a lemon, an apple, sugar and gingersnap cookies to make this concoction. Check out the recipe from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. 4. Sparkling Turmeric Tonic As the chilly weather ushers in the cold and flu season, try this mocktail to help combat those winter germs. Both turmeric and ginger — two of the main ingredients in this drink — are known for their antioxidant properties. The addition of club soda makes it nice and bubbly, and honey sweetens this spicy beverage. Check out the recipe from Making Thyme for Health. 5. Nonalcoholic Coquito Smoothie Even if you’ve gotten your fill of eggnog for the season, you’re going to want to try this Puerto Rican take on it. This particular coquito recipe is not only nonalcoholic, it’s also dairy-free and egg-free. Made with coconut milk, bananas, maple syrup and nutmeg, you won’t even miss the rum. (Maybe.) Check out the recipe from Punchfork. 6. Candy Cane Christmas Mocktail Sipping this mocktail is like eating a candy cane — only better. You’ll need cream soda, half and half, peppermint oil and simple syrup to make this sweet holiday drink. Decorate the rim of a martini glass with crushed candy canes to complete this mocktail. Check out the recipe from This Vivacious Life. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-1024x683.jpg" alt="A white drink with mint leaves in it" class="wp-image-77671" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/11135857/IMG_7902.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Carmen Mandato/ The Penny Hoarder 7. White Hot Chocolate This isn’t your average hot cocoa. If you’re missing the added warmth alcohol gives, why not go for a heated beverage? Make this drink with milk, vanilla extract and white chocolate pieces, and top it off with whipped cream or marshmallows. Check out the recipe from The Recipe Critic. 8. Virgin Mary Having old friends in town for the holidays is the perfect excuse to host brunch — and serve this nonalcoholic version of a bloody mary. Sans vodka, this drink is still super flavorful with tomato juice, lemon juice, celery salt, fresh ground pepper and a couple dashes of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Check out the recipe from The Spruce Eats. Nicole Dow is a former senior writer at The Penny Hoarder. Senior writer Robert Bruce contributed. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Turn Your Interests Into Cash: 25 Fun Money-Making Hobbies
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. Hobbies are an important part of many people’s lives. They bring fun and relaxation, but if you’re wondering about hobbies that make money, there’s a […] This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Some of the links in this post are from our sponsors. We provide you with accurate, reliable information. Learn more about how we make money and select our advertising partners. Hobbies are an important part of many people’s lives. They bring fun and relaxation, but if you’re wondering about hobbies that make money, there’s a lot of potential. Just a few money-making hobbies include playing mobile games like Solitaire Smash, photography, fitness and much more. That means there’s something for everyone when it comes to fun hobbies that pay. We’ll talk about some of our favorite money-making hobbies and how you can turn them into a side hustle. Can You Really Profit From Hobbies That Pay? Yes — but it depends on the hobby, time invested and how you monetize it. For example, selling your art could take extra work in terms of marketing. Or, it could take some time for your fashion blog to take off. Some of these could one day lead you to a full-time career. However, in the short-term, these are more like side hustles that act as supplemental income. But it’s a way to make some money while you have fun. How to Choose Hobbies That Make Money and Fit You Not every hobby is the right match for earning extra cash, and that’s completely normal. With so many hobbies that make money, choosing the one that fits your lifestyle, personality and comfort level makes a big difference. When you align your goals and available time with the right activity, you’re more likely to stick with it and enjoy the process. Factor 1: Your Goal Before you explore money-making hobbies, think about what you want out of the experience. Some people want to earn $50–$200 a month, while others are looking for a long-term hobby business that could eventually grow. The best approach is to stay realistic about what each hobby can offer. Smaller money-making hobbies can stay fun and low-pressure, while higher-earning ones may require more time and structure. Factor 2: How Much Time You Have Your weekly schedule will help you decide which hobbies to make money with. If you only have weeknights or occasional downtime, short tasks or simple online projects can work well. If weekends are your most open time, you can explore options that require travel or meeting customers in person. The key is matching your time availability with something sustainable. Factor 3: Startup Costs You’re Comfortable With Some profitable hobbies require almost no money to begin, while others need modest supplies. If your budget is $0–$50, digital projects, beginner-friendly crafts or transcription are ideal. If you’re okay spending $100–$300, hands-on ideas like car detailing or crafting can be a great fit. The goal is to reduce risk and build confidence before spending more. Factor 4: Your Personality and Preferences Your personality can guide how you want to earn. If you prefer quieter activities, transcription, freelance writing or selling digital products may feel natural. If you enjoy connecting with people, pet sitting, workshops or community building might be a better match. Choosing a business idea that fits who you are makes earning extra cash feel less like work. Factor 5: How Fast You Want to Earn Your First Dollar Different hobbies that generate income pay out at different speeds. Fast earners include washing cars, pet sitting or selling plants to neighbors. Medium-paced options include flipping items or selling templates. Slower options like YouTube, blogging or photography can still become lucrative hobbies, but they require patience and consistency before becoming a profitable venture. 25 Money-Making Hobbies to Try Here are 25 fun hobbies you might already enjoy — and ways to turn each into a legitimate income stream. 1. Playing Mobile Games <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-360x240.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-205254" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09124807/pexels-yankrukov-9071726-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Pexels If you love mobile games, you could actually win money playing them. Solitaire Cash is a mobile app that allows players to compete in tournaments for real cash prizes. It takes the fun of a traditional solitaire game and adds the excitement of winning real money. Another Solitaire game that pays real money is Solitaire Smash. If you’re looking for bingo games that pay real money, check out Bingo Cash. 2. Photography Do you have an eye for beautiful landscapes or Instagram-worthy food shots? Turn your photography skills into passive income. You can sell stock photos on sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. Or, you can offer mini photo sessions in your community. If you’re new to photography, keep your prices low to be competitive. For stock photos, start with your smartphone and upgrade your gear as you earn. Focus on in-demand niches like business imagery and travel. 3. Shopping Online If you already love online shopping, this one’s a no-brainer. You can find deals and even earn cash back with services like Capital One Shopping when you shop online at Amazon, Target, Walmart, Macy’s and tons of other stores. 4. Selling Art <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="246" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-360x246.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-205255" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-360x246.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-1024x701.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-768x526.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-1536x1051.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-2048x1401.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125000/pexels-olly-933255-300x205.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Pexels Think woodworking, paintings, pottery, etc. Whether you build birdhouses or make ceramic bowls, local art can bring in some money — especially on marketplaces like Etsy, at local art fairs or through yard sales. Ramp up production with your hobby, then sell the excess. Make sure you price your items to cover the cost of materials so you can make a profit. 5. Writing and Blogging If you love to write, start a blog, pitch freelance articles to businesses or ghostwrite for others. Freelancing is an extremely flexible way to make money. You can take jobs whenever you are available and negotiate your rates. If you want to start a blog, you can make money from sponsorships and affiliate marketing. Freelancing will require you to find clients and likely pitch ideas. The more work you have under your belt, the easier it will be to find these clients. Build a portfolio or website through WordPress as you publish more work. 6. Baking or Cooking Starting your own bakery is a huge investment and commitment. But there are ways to sell your baked goods without starting your own business. Think about selling to neighbors, friends and family, at farmers markets or through Facebook Marketplace. Make sure you check food laws and health regulations in your area before you start selling food. 7. Gaming and Live Streaming If you’re already gaming regularly, why not stream your sessions on platforms like Twitch or YouTube? You earn money through ad revenue, donations, sponsorships and affiliate links. It would be a small income stream at first, but if you build a following, you can make a decent chunk of change. As with most kinds of content creation, picking your niche and creating a community through your channel are keys to success. 8. Teaching or Tutoring <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-360x240.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-205256" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125158/pexels-yankrukov-8520461-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Pexels Do you love to play guitar or piano? Offer lessons to people who want to learn. You can find work on platforms like Preply or Forte. You can set your hourly rate, but if you’re new to it you can set it on the lower end to be competitive. Then, when you build up a client base, you’ll have a regular income stream. You could even record some courses to sell online for passive income. 9. Flipping Thrift Finds Turn weekend thrifting into a profit-making gig by reselling items on eBay, Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace. You already love looking through the treasures that thrift stores have to offer, so help others benefit from it as well. You can fix vintage clothing that’s missing buttons or has holes, clean up furniture or paint household decor to give it a fresh look. Then sell them for a profit. Research clothing and household trends then see what trendy (or potentially trendy) items you find at your local thrift. 10. Gardening and Selling Plants If you’ve got a green thumb, consider propagating plants to sell locally. There are many ways you could get your product out there, like local markets, yard sales and online neighborhood groups. You could also grow fresh herbs and vegetables to sell at farmers markets. Not only will your gardening hobby turn a profit, but your community will be happy to buy local or possibly save a little money by not going to a big-box store. 11. Selling Handmade Goods on Etsy Even if you’re not exceptionally crafty, if you like quilting, making stickers or making jewelry, you can do well on Etsy. You can get started with minimal costs, depending on the artistic endeavor. Take a look at other sellers in the category you want to get into. Then, get creative and add your own twist or something unique. 12. Fitness Coaching or Virtual Workouts If you’re into fitness, consider getting a fitness certification and offering virtual personal training or leading workout classes. You can do this online through virtual classes and videos, or work part time at a local gym. Or, if you do both, you can have both active income from the job and passive income from the content. Start out with a few videos to see how they’re received or do some fitness coaching for friends to get feedback. 13. YouTube or TikTok Creation <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-360x240.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-205257" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09125415/pexels-shvetsa-6593783-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Pexels If you’re pretty good at your hobby, other people may be interested in hearing about your expertise. Build a following by showing people your best thrifting tips, what you’ve learned from working on cars or giving book recommendations. You can make short-form content on TikTok or long-form content on YouTube. Stick with making content on your hobby. Eventually, you can make money from sponsorships, ad revenue and affiliate links. Short-form or long-form content can build a following — and eventually, a revenue stream. 14. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking can be one of the easiest side hobbies to make money. Apps like Rover or Wag help you find your first clients, or you can begin with neighbors for early reviews. There’s almost no startup cost — reliability matters more than gear. Once families trust you, this hobby can turn into a steady weekly income from pet owners in your area. 15. Car Detailing Car detailing is a great fit if you enjoy hands-on projects and quick, visible results. You can offer interior cleaning, upholstery refreshes, or wash-and-wax packages. Mobile detailing works well in residential neighborhoods, especially if you already understand basic market demand. Start with simple supplies and practice on your own car as you build confidence. 16. Voice Acting or Audiobook Narration Voice acting is one of the more unique hobbies that pays, and it doesn’t require a professional studio. You only need a clear voice and a basic home recording setup to get started. Platforms like ACX and Fiverr let beginners audition for small projects or narrations. With practice, you can build skills and eventually attract customers for larger or more consistent work. 17. Selling Digital Templates or Printables If you enjoy creating planners, invitations or simple designs, digital templates are a great option. You can sell them on Etsy, Gumroad, Creative Market or your own website. Templates can sell repeatedly, making this one of the easiest ways to generate passive income over time. It’s especially convenient if you’re familiar with tools like Canva or want an online business that fits into your own schedule. 18. Car Washing or Mobile Wash Service Car washing is a fast way to earn extra income on weekends or after work. Supplies like soap, cloths and a bucket are inexpensive, and you can begin with neighbors or coworkers. Affordable pricing encourages repeat business, especially in areas with local businesses nearby. This is an ideal option if you want low startup costs and fast results. 19. Renting Out Tools, Gear or Equipment If you already own tools, cameras, or camping gear, renting them out can be an easy win. Platforms like Fat Llama or local Facebook groups make it simple to connect with renters. This hobby requires minimal effort; just keep your gear clean and in good condition. Renting out equipment can also help niche skills or supplies find the right niche markets in your community. 20. Mystery Shopping <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-360x240.jpg" alt="A woman looks unhappy sitting on the ledge of a clothing store while holding her phone." class="wp-image-184565" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/15132232/mystery-shopping-scams-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> Getty Images Mystery shopping pays you to evaluate stores, restaurants or customer service experiences. Reputable companies like BestMark, Market Force and IntelliShop offer steady assignments. Some jobs reimburse meals or products in addition to a small fee. It’s a great fit if you enjoy noticing details, taking photos, and writing brief reports. 21. Hosting Local Workshops or Classes If you enjoy teaching simple skills, workshops can be a fun way to earn extra money. You can teach sewing, cooking basics, crafting or organization at home or in partnership with local shops. This option works especially well for people who naturally enjoy helping others. Over time, you can even expand by creating an online course. 22. Carpool/School Pickup Services If you already drive the same school routes, offering after-school pickups is a simple way to earn good money. Many working parents need reliable transportation help during busy weeks. Just check local rules, insurance expectations and communication needs. Once families trust your reliability, this can turn into successful businesses on a small scale. 23. Renting Out Extra Storage or Parking Space If you have unused space, renting it out can create very profitable business potential without much effort. Apps like Neighbor make it easy to list garage, shed or driveway storage. You earn a monthly fee as long as you keep the space accessible. It’s one of the easiest ways to earn extra cash with low involvement. 24. Transcription or Captioning Transcription is a great fit for fast typists or people who like working quietly. Platforms like Rev, Scribie and TranscribeMe offer flexible assignments you can complete anytime. Start with short clips to build accuracy and qualify for higher-paying work. This can grow into a full-blown business if you enjoy it long term. 25. Home Organizing Home organizing is perfect if you naturally enjoy order, labeling and creating systems. You can help people declutter closets, kitchens or home offices. Starting with friends or neighbors helps you collect photos, experience and early testimonials. As demand grows, this hobby can expand into packing help, move-in services and marketing materials for your brand. Tips for Success With Hobbies That Generate Income <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="360" height="240" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-360x240.jpg" alt="A person walks dogs." class="wp-image-109923" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/26212240/dogwalker.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /> hedgehog94/ Getty Images These tips can help you explore profitable hobbies without burning out or overspending. Start small, stay flexible and let your experience guide how far you want to grow. Tip 1: Start With a Micro-Win Aim to earn your first $10–$25 quickly so you can validate that your idea works. These small wins build confidence and momentum before you scale. Tip 2: Don’t Spend Money Early Use supplies you already have before buying anything new. Upfront spending isn’t necessary until your hobby starts earning. Tip 3: Test the Waters With Friends, Neighbors or Local Groups Your first supporters can offer feedback, photos and early reviews. This helps you refine your idea while keeping it low-pressure. Tip 4: Use the Right Platforms Etsy works well for digital downloads, Rover is ideal for pet care, Rev helps transcription beginners and Facebook Marketplace supports local selling. Using the right platform speeds up your earning potential. Tip 5: Start With Beginner-Friendly Pricing Lower prices help you attract early customers and build experience. Once your skills improve, you can raise rates to match demand. Tip 6: Reinvest a Portion of Earnings Upgrade tools, gear or supplies only after you begin earning. This keeps your financial risk low and sustainable. Tip 7: Keep It Fun to Avoid Burnout Protect your enjoyment by setting boundaries and keeping realistic expectations. This helps prevent your favorite hobby from becoming too stressful. Tip 8: Remember to Track Income for Taxes Any hobby that earns money should be tracked for tax purposes. Keep detailed notes or receipts so you’re prepared for tax season. Conclusion: Find Profitable Hobbies That You Love Making money while doing something you enjoy can be a win-win. As long as you’re committed to some of these hobbies that make money, you can be successful. But just because you can doesn’t mean you always should turn your hobby into a side hustle. It’s OK to not want to monetize it and just have it be a fun and relaxing activity for you. However, if you’re ready to see where these money-making hobbies can take you financially, try it out for a month and see if it’s worth it. Then you can go all in or maybe even find a different hobby you want to try. FAQ: Money-Making Hobbies This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
Live on the Cheap With These 16 Jobs That Provide Housing
There’s a whole category of job opportunities that often gets overlooked: jobs that provide free housing, for example. They include many entry-level and seasonal jobs, and they run the gamut of industries and careers. What they have in common is a significant way to save money by letting you live where you work. That might […] This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.
There’s a whole category of job opportunities that often gets overlooked: jobs that provide free housing, for example. They include many entry-level and seasonal jobs, and they run the gamut of industries and careers. What they have in common is a significant way to save money by letting you live where you work. That might be private rooms in a home or employee housing in a park or on a cruise ship. You can find jobs that include housing throughout the U.S. and even internationally, helping you save money on other monthly bills and, in some cases, even get free meals. What are some examples of jobs that provide housing? We’re glad you asked. And just remember, you don’t have to factor in rent when you’re looking at those estimated salaries. Save Money Outside of Securing Free Housing Free housing would be like hitting the jackpot if you need to save money, as it’s often our largest expense. But until you land one of these jobs that provide housing, there are other ways to get your budget on track. Check out some of our favorite ways to save money. 16 Jobs That Include Free Housing Private chef Au pair Cruise ship employee Military member Park ranger Building superintendent Live-in caregiver Nanny Clergy Faculty in-residence Oil rig mechanic Seasonal hotel/resort worker International English teacher Ranch hand International civil engineer Travel nurse 1. Private Chef As a personal chef, you’ll perform job duties like preparing daily meals for family members and guests — possibly including some gourmet meals and fancy parties. Chef jobs that include free housing mean you’re never far from the kitchen. Think “Downton Abbey,” but just 100 years later. Estimated salary: $30.66 per hour (Indeed) 2. Au Pair A what? An au pair is a young person — typically a woman — between the ages of 18 and 30 who provides child care for a foreign host family in exchange for free housing, board and cultural exchange. As an au pair, you’ll be expected to do a variety of household tasks such as making meals, doing laundry, transporting kids and light shopping. Estimated salary: Depends on the country. Pay in Australia ranges from $580 to $720 per month on the high end, while Spain ranges from $311 to $364 per month on the low end. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A person serves food to guests on a cruise ship. " class="wp-image-159269" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04141803/cruise_ship-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images 3. Cruise Ship Employee Maybe you like the adventurous nature of the park ranger but prefer the wide open seas over the forests and mountains. If so, you might like to work on a cruise ship. Job opportunities abound on cruise ships, with many industries represented — casino dealers, dancers and singers, as well as restaurant servers, chefs, deckhands, housekeepers, paramedics and so many more. Estimated salary: The average cruise ship worker makes $49,005. The range of jobs varies widely, making the salary range wide as well — from $14,500 to $102,500 depending on the position. (ZipRecruiter) 4. Military Member Joining the military can be a life-changing decision and a multi-year commitment. But it also comes with some perks: free room and board, food, health coverage, paid leave and great retirement benefits if you make it a career. Plus, you can feel fulfilled in the fact that you are serving your country. Estimated salary: It varies greatly by position, but the average Army private first class (infantry) makes $33,250 per year. On the other hand, an Army sergeant major (infantry) will make an average of $87,000 per year. (PayScale) 5. Park Ranger Love the outdoors? Don’t mind a slightly rustic way of life? You might be interested in being a park ranger. Your day job will involve giving tours, responding to emergencies and patrolling around the park — all with free accommodations in beautiful settings. Estimated salary: $38,660 per year (Park-Ranger.org). The top 10% make around $84,980 per year. 6. Building Superintendent Building superintendents live in apartment buildings or condo complexes in exchange for managing the property. They will be residents’ first go-to for complaints and requests. Generally speaking, they’re also in charge of cleaning, garbage collection and other maintenance throughout the building. Estimated salary: $62,460 per year (Indeed) 7. Live-In Caregiver For those who really have a heart for helping others, a job as a live-in caregiver could be a fulfilling career choice. You’ll help older adults or special-needs people with their daily needs, like dressing, bathing and meals. In return, you’ll have a free room within the house or on the property to live in. This job could also be great for someone who is thinking about a career in nursing but isn’t quite ready to make the schooling commitment. Estimated salary: $36,855 per year (Zippia) <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="A nanny lifts a smiling baby up in the air." class="wp-image-173954" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/15132934/nanny-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images 8. Nanny This is similar to an au pair but without the overseas commitment. A live-in nanny will take care of the kids, including making sure they get to and from school, helping with homework and providing healthy meals. Full-time live-in nannies will have access to sick/personal days and health care options. If you want to take your babysitting game to the next level, then a full-time nanny job might be for you. Estimated salary: Nannies make $19.14 per hour on average. (Nanny Lane) 9. Clergy Some church denominations provide free housing on-site for their clergy members. Obviously, being a pastor or religious teacher isn’t a job you just apply for overnight, but if you feel a spiritual calling in this area, then you might eventually find yourself in a clergy role. You’ll teach and counsel your congregants, and even direct funerals and weddings. Estimated salary: $63,587 per year (ZipRecruiter) 10. Faculty In-Residence If a career in education is your calling, you could live on campus as a faculty in-residence. These professors teach and work as mentors to the young students who live on campus and, in exchange, they receive free housing. Since they live on-site, they become much more visible and accessible for students. Estimated salary: The average salary for an associate professor in-residence is $91,678 per year. (Open Payrolls) 11. Oil Rig Mechanic If you don’t mind some rough and tumble accommodations, working on an oil rig certainly has its perks — including a really nice salary. In fact, it’s one of the highest-paying jobs that provide housing. In addition to mechanics, rigs also hire engineers, scuba divers and general management. Rig workers typically work two weeks on and two weeks off, which might be problematic for some families. Estimated salary: The average annual salary is $97,000. But depending on your experience, you can make up to $134,000. (Glass Door) <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-159271" srcset="https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-360x240.jpg 360w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-768x512.jpg 768w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-100x67.jpg 100w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-222x148.jpg 222w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-314x209.jpg 314w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-363x242.jpg 363w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-467x311.jpg 467w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-649x433.jpg 649w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-750x500.jpg 750w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-793x529.jpg 793w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final-300x200.jpg 300w, https://cdn.thepennyhoarder.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/04142651/hotel_worker-final.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /> Getty Images 12. Seasonal Hotel/Resort Worker Unlike clergy, chefs or mechanics, seasonal jobs don’t often require much, if any, experience — meaning this is a great entry-level job. If you’re looking for a career change, or just getting started and not sure what to do, seasonal jobs are good short-term gigs. Like a cruise ship, resort jobs run the gamut, from bartender to server to scuba teacher or receptionist. You’ll agree to work for at least several months in exchange for on site employee housing. And, depending on where you are, you could have amazing sights to see — mountainous ski resorts or glamorous hotels in the Caribbean — during your free time. Estimated salary: The average salary is $49,095 per year. (ZipRecruiter) 13. International English Teacher English teachers are in high demand all across Asia, making this a great option for a young graduate who isn’t tied down and who wants to experience the world while making a difference in young people’s lives. As part of a contract, it’s standard for many schools to provide housing and airfare. The other perks can vary, so make sure you know all the details before signing a contract (that’s just good advice for life in general!). Estimated salary: Pay varies wildly by country. See a full list of salary ranges at TEFL.org. 14. Ranch Hand Love the great outdoors and don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty? A ranch hand has housing provided in exchange for taking care of the animals on the ranch, maintaining the property, and greeting and interacting with guests. These jobs are usually available across the Western United States. Estimated salary: $73,209 per year (Comparably) 15. International Civil Engineer Yes, there’s a good bit of schooling that goes with being a civil engineer, but the rewards can be nice. Some countries simply don’t have a lot of civil engineers within their population, so they recruit these positions in all parts of the world. The job pays a solid salary and comes with free housing, and fully paid for round-trip flights back home. Estimated salary: $82,674 per year (ZipRecruiter) 16. Travel Nurse Travel nurses are employed by staffing agencies and take on temporary roles at clinics, hospitals and other health care facilities. Travel nurses usually have a wealth of benefits, including extremely good compensation. Estimated salary: $124,100 per year (NursingProcess.Org) Robert Bruce is a senior staff writer at The Penny Hoarder covering earning, saving and managing money. He has written about personal finance for more than a decade. This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.