MyPoints Review: Does It Really Pay and How Does It Work?

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If someone told you that watching videos, answering polls and clicking emails could earn you gift cards and PayPal cash, you’d probably raise an eyebrow. 

Fair enough. 

But that’s exactly what MyPoints claims to offer. This rewards site has been around since 1996 — yes, before Google — and it’s still kicking. 

But with so many rewards apps out there, it’s fair to ask: Is MyPoints legit? Does it pay real money — or just waste your time?

In this MyPoints review, we break down how it works, how much you can actually earn and whether it’s worth adding to your money-making routine.

What Is MyPoints and How Does It Work?

MyPoints is one of the original players in the online rewards space. It launched back in the dial-up internet days as a way to reward shoppers for spending online. 

Today, it’s owned by Prodege — the same company behind Swagbucks and InboxDollars — and has expanded far beyond cashback shopping.

At its core, MyPoints works on a simple system: Complete tasks, earn points and cash those points in for gift cards or PayPal cash. You can use the website, download the app or install the browser extension to track deals and earning opportunities as you go about your day.

From shopping at partner retailers to answering surveys or clicking through emails, there are plenty of ways to rack up rewards.

How Does MyPoints Stack Up Against Other Rewards Platforms?

If you’re interested in knowing how much you can earn with MyPoints, you might be interested in knowing how rewards platforms out there compare. Here’s a list of our favorite ways to earn a little extra pocket change online.

Offer What You Can Earn What You Have to Do Take Action
InboxDollars $225/month Complete short surveys
FreeCash $1,000/month Simple online tasks
GoBranded Up to $140/month Share your honest opinion
Kashkick $1,000/month Try out apps
Solitaire Cash Up to $83 per win Compete against other players

How Do You Earn Money on MyPoints?

There are lots of options for earning with MyPoints — and no, they don’t all involve taking surveys. The platform gives you a range of low-effort ways to earn points:

  • Online Shopping: Earn points when you shop through MyPoints’ portal at thousands of partner stores. Think of it like a cashback site, but with points.
  • Surveys: Share your opinions via market research surveys. Some are quick and easy; others are more in-depth (and pay more).
  • Watching Videos: Yes, you can earn small amounts of points just by watching ad-supported clips in specific playlists.
  • Special Offers and Games: Install apps, sign up for trial services or play games to get bonus points. Just be sure to read the fine print—some offers require spending money.
  • Daily Polls and Emails: Click-through emails and one-question polls offer micro-earnings that add up if you stay consistent.
  • Referrals: Invite friends and get bonus points when they sign up and start using the platform.

The consistently you engage with the platform, the more you can earn. But even casual users can find value in the occasional shopping spree or survey binge.

Does MyPoints Pay Real Money?

Yes, MyPoints does pay real money, but not in the form of a direct deposit to your bank account. Instead, you can redeem your points for:

  • PayPal cash
  • Gift cards (Amazon, Target, Walmart and many others)
  • United MileagePlus travel miles

For PayPal cash, you’ll usually need at least 1,590 points to cash out $10. Gift card redemptions start at lower thresholds—some as low as 480 points for a $3 Amazon gift card. Most rewards are processed within 3 to 5 business days and there are no hidden fees, although you may be asked to verify your identity for certain redemptions.

Pros and Cons of MyPoints

Let’s talk about trade-offs. No rewards program is perfect and MyPoints is no exception. Here are some pros and cons of MyPoints. 

Pros:

  • Offers multiple ways to earn—not just surveys
  • Long-running platform with a strong track record
  • Low redemption thresholds make it easy to cash out
  • Tons of gift card options, plus PayPal and travel miles
  • Frequent bonuses for new users

Cons:

  • Survey disqualifications can be frustrating
  • Some offers require purchases or subscriptions
  • Points-to-cash conversions may confuse new users
  • The earning potential is relatively modest unless you’re highly active

In short: While MyPoints stands out for having a solid reputation, a variety of ways to earn, and easy cash outs, it’s not going to replace your day job. But it can at least put a little something back in your pocket.

How and When You Get Paid

One of the best features of MyPoints is its flexible payout process. Whether you want to grab an Amazon gift card or cash out to PayPal, you have options. Most rewards are processed within a few business days, and the minimum redemption amount is reasonable.

For example, you can get a $3 Amazon gift card for around 480 points or $10 in PayPal cash for 1,590 points. Just make sure your PayPal account is verified to avoid delays.

What Real Users Are Saying About MyPoints

MyPoints has earned solid ratings on review sites like Trustpilot, with many users praising the variety of rewards and straightforward redemption process.

Positive reviews often highlight how easy it is to earn gift cards for everyday activities. Users also appreciate the huge selection of merchants for gift card redemptions.

However, not everyone is thrilled. Common complaints include disqualifications during surveys and the occasional glitchy app experience. That said, most users seem to agree: MyPoints is worth it if you manage your expectations and don’t rely on it as a major income stream.

Final Verdict: Is MyPoints Worth Your Time?

If you’re looking for a simple, low-effort way to make money online — or at least earn gift cards while doing the scrolling and online shopping you already do — MyPoints is a solid choice

It’s legit, it pays out reliably, and there are enough earning opportunities to keep things interesting. 

Play it smart, stack up your points, and cash out regularly — just don’t expect it to become your main income source. It’s better suited as a casual side hustle for people who enjoy multitasking while earning a little extra.

Want to make the most of it? Pair MyPoints with other similar apps and rewards sites to boost your earnings and maximize your time.