Taking surveys is an easy way to make some extra cash. They don’t take a lot of time and you can do as many as you qualify for. There are many sites that offer surveys. But how do you earn extra cash with these sites, and what should you know before signing up for the best survey sites?
What are Survey Sites?
Survey sites are online platforms that connect individuals with market research companies, allowing them to participate in paid online surveys and earn rewards. These sites act as intermediaries between consumers and businesses, providing a convenient way for individuals to share their opinions and feedback on various products, services, and topics. Survey sites typically offer a range of surveys, from short and simple to longer and more in-depth, and reward participants with cash, gift cards, or other incentives.
Are Paid Survey Sites Legitimate?
Yes, many paid survey sites are legitimate and offer a genuine way to earn money online. However, it’s essential to be cautious and do your research before joining any survey site. Look for sites with a good reputation, clear terms and conditions, and a transparent payment system. Be wary of sites that ask for payment or personal information upfront, as these may be scams. Legitimate survey sites will never ask you to pay to join or participate in surveys.
How to Choose the Best Survey Site
Look for online survey sites that have multiple opportunities. Some may include:
- completing paid surveys
- product testing
- focus groups
You’ll also want to sign up for sites that offer various ways to pay you. Do they offer gift cards or cash via PayPal? They all have different ways of paying, so go with the one that works for you.
Avoid Scam Sites
Be cautious of paid online survey sites that offer high payouts or require you to pay fees to join. They should only be paying you, not taking money from you. Go with sites like Swagbucks and Pinecone Research; these are legitimate sites that have been around for years. Check when sites were established to assure yourself.
Ensure the site has secure payment methods. Many legitimate sites use PayPal for cash transactions. This adds a layer of security. But they should only ask for PayPal information once you’ve signed up, not during the sign-up process.
Survey sites must ask some personal questions to match you up with surveys. Some of these might:
- age
- income
- sex
- ethnicity
But a site shouldn’t ask for information like your Social Security number. If you provide too much personal information, it could lead to identity theft or other fraud.
This is an often-overlooked step, but it’s important to read the terms and conditions on any survey site you sign up for.
This will outline several items, such as:
- how payments are processed
- what the expectations are
- how the site operates
The privacy policy should also be read. It will tell you how your personal information will be used. In other words, who will share it with?
Watch out for sites that send you unsolicited emails or messages. Don’t open links if you don’t know them. If the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Scammers will try to get personal information from you or convince you to sign up for illegitimate sites.
And finally, stay away from sites with bad reviews. If the site has numerous satisfied participants, it’s usually legit.
Getting Started with Survey Sites
Getting started with survey sites is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose a reputable survey site: Research and select a survey site that aligns with your interests and demographics.
- Sign up: Create an account on the survey site by providing basic information such as name, email address, and password.
- Complete your profile: Fill out your profile completely, including demographic information, to increase your chances of receiving relevant surveys.
- Browse available surveys: Explore the survey site’s dashboard to find available surveys that match your profile.
- Take surveys: Participate in surveys that interest you and earn rewards.
- Redeem rewards: Cash out your rewards once you reach the minimum payout threshold.
How to Increase Your Earnings
There are several ways to maximize your earnings. But you need to approach the sites strategically. The fundamental goal is to complete surveys regularly to take as many surveys as possible.
Multiple Survey Sites
Diversify your options by signing up for as many survey websites as possible. That way, you’ll have access to more surveys and, therefore, more opportunities to make money.
You aren’t married to just one site, so branch out.
Hint: create a separate email account for surveys only. This way they won’t get mixed into your regular email. It’s the best way to avoid missing one.
Not all Surveys Pay the Same
Make it a point to focus on high-paying surveys. In-depth surveys offer more money per survey. That’s because they are often more detailed.
To maximize your earnings by prioritizing them. Don’t always skip the lesser paying ones, but keep a look out for the big return.
Bonus Opportunities
Taking paid online surveys starts when you sign up. Many survey sites have welcome bonuses. But it doesn’t stop there. There may be bonuses available for activities like:
- daily profiles
- profile completion
- participation in special studies
Bonuses add up over time. So, keep an eye out for these opportunities.
Honesty and Consistency Pay Well
Honest feedback is the hallmark of what a survey site wants. By providing truthful answers, you give the companies the information they need. It also gives you credibility.
By being consistent with your responses, you'll have more survey opportunities. That's because survey sites often reward participants who consistently use the platform. You'll receive more survey opportunities.
Be Prompt
Most survey sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. That means the faster you can complete the survey, the more you'll have the opportunity to do.
Make it a point to set aside specific times to take surveys. Some people take the easier ones while watching TV. This habit helps you stay consistent and may boost your income.
Referral Programs
Many survey sites offer referral programs. This gives you the opportunity to refer friends and family to join the site. You'll be given a specific link. Share this link on social media or email. You'll receive a bonus whenever your friend signs up.
Record Your Earnings
Keep a record of earnings from the different survey sites. This way, you can identify which ones are the most profitable and focus on them.
It also helps manage your income. You want to be sure you’re paid for every survey on a timely basis.
How Survey Sites Pay
Some survey sites pay you through gift cards. These vouchers are usually good for:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Starbucks
There are sites that pay based on a point system. You earn points by completing surveys. Once you have accumulated a certain number of points, you redeem them for prizes.
Some survey sites make cash payments. They will direct deposit to your bank account or pay via PayPal.
There are numerous sites to choose from!
Popular Survey Sites
There are numerous survey sites to choose from. Once more, you don’t have to choose just one. Sign up for as many as you can handle.
Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a prominent survey platform known for its user-friendly interface and straightforward point system for earning rewards. It has a minimal cash-out threshold, making it easy for users to redeem their earnings. By participating in surveys, users can influence products and services. Survey Junkie is popular among users for its ample survey opportunities and transparency in payments.
Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys has a 100-point welcome bonus. With over $60 million paid to participants, they are an established online survey company, making them a reliable option for those interested in online paid surveys.
They offer weekly bonuses with their Branded Elite loyalty program and referral rewards. You can earn up to 500 points by referring a friend; this equals five dollars.
Depending on availability, you can earn five to $100 a month.
Toluna
Toluna offers paid surveys as well as product testing. You earn points for each completed survey. The points can be redeemed for cash or gift cards. Toluna provides a social aspect. They have a platform that allows participants to engage with each other and share experiences.
InboxDollars
InboxDollars is another site with a welcome bonus. You can join for free and get paid five dollars. Most online surveys pay between $0.50 and five dollars to take. But there are some that pay $10 to $20. It depends on whether you match the needed demographic.
Most surveys take between three to 25 minutes.
Besides surveys, InboxDollars offers other ways to make money. Some of these are:
-
game playing
-
cashback for online shopping
-
read emails
-
grocery cash rewards.
InboxDollars has paid millions since it was founded in 2000.
Common Questions and Concerns
Here are some common questions and concerns about survey sites:
Q: How much can I earn from survey sites? A: Earnings vary depending on the survey site, survey length, and frequency of participation. On average, you can earn between $5 to $10 per hour.
Q: Are survey sites a scam? A: No, many survey sites are legitimate and offer a genuine way to earn money online. However, be cautious of sites that ask for payment or personal information upfront.
Q: How long do surveys take to complete? A: Survey length varies, but most take between 10 to 30 minutes to complete.
Q: Can I participate in surveys on my mobile device? A: Yes, many survey sites have mobile-friendly platforms, allowing you to participate in surveys on-the-go.
Q: How do I get paid? A: Payment methods vary depending on the survey site, but common options include cash, gift cards, and PayPal.
Conclusion
Taking surveys won’t make you rich, but if you do several sites consistently, you could make a few hundred dollars a month.
