In 2025, your smartphone isn’t just for scrolling or snapping selfies, it’s a tool that can help you boost your income. Whether you’re aiming to pad your wallet or dive into a new side gig, opportunities abound right in your pocket. Here are 10 legitimate ways to make money on your smartphone in 2025.
Participate in Online Surveys and Market Research
Apps like Swagbucks and Branded Surveys pay you for sharing your opinions. Swagbucks has rewarded users with over $290 million since it started, boasting a community of over 20 million people.
Getting Started:
Download the app, set up your profile, and start participating in available surveys and activities.
Maximizing Earnings: Fill out your profile completely to receive more survey invitations. Use multiple survey apps to boost your earning potential, and refer friends for bonus points.
Popular Survey Apps Comparison:
| App | Features | Payout Methods |
| Swagbucks | Surveys, videos, shopping | PayPal, gift cards |
| Survey Junkie | Focused on surveys | PayPal, e-Gift cards |
| InboxDollars | Surveys, games, videos | Check, ePayment |
| Branded Surveys | User-friendly interface | PayPal, gift cards |
Note: While online surveys won’t make you rich, they’re an easy way to earn a bit of extra cash during your downtime.
Earn Cashback on Shopping with Ibotta and Rakuten
Make your regular shopping trips more rewarding with apps like Ibotta and Rakuten. These apps give you cashback on purchases you were going to make anyway, it’s like finding a few dollars in your pocket that you didn’t know you had.
Steps to Start:
- Download Ibotta or Rakuten.
- Browse offers before shopping.
- Shop online or in-store and receive cashback.
Tips for Maximizing Cashback: Combine cashback apps with store loyalty programs and credit card rewards. Check the app for deals before making a purchase, and earn bonuses by inviting friends to join.
Popular Retailers Offering Cashback: Walmart, Target, Amazon, Best Buy, and Macy’s.
Get Paid for Achieving Health Goals with HealthyWage
Ever thought of turning your fitness goals into financial gains? With HealthyWage, you can bet on your own weight loss and earn cash if you meet your goals.
Considerations:
Set realistic goals that are healthy and achievable. It’s always wise to consult a professional before starting any new diet or exercise program.
Alternative Health Apps: StepBet and Sweatcoin.
Complete Small Tasks and Errands with TaskRabbit
Use your talents to help others in your community through TaskRabbit.
Types of Tasks:
- Furniture assembly
- Moving help
- Minor repairs
- Running errands
Safety Measures: TaskRabbit verifies all Taskers for safety, handles transactions securely, and provides a messaging system for transparency.
Invest in Stocks and Cryptocurrencies with Robinhood, eToro, and Binance
You don’t need a Wall Street office to start investing. Apps like Robinhood, eToro, and Binance let you trade stocks and cryptocurrencies right from your phone.
Getting Started:
- Educate yourself using in-app resources and tutorials.
- Start small with your investments.
Important: Investing involves risks. Never invest money you can’t afford to lose.
Investment Apps Comparison:
| App | Assets Available | Fees |
| Robinhood | Stocks, ETFs, Crypto | Commission-free |
| eToro | Stocks, Crypto, Forex | Variable spreads |
| Binance | Cryptocurrencies | Low trading fees |
Sell Items Online with eBay, Amazon Seller, and Poshmark
One person’s junk is another person’s treasure, or so they say. Selling unused items online can put cash in your pocket and clear up space in your home.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality photos.
- Include detailed descriptions.
- Research similar items for competitive pricing.
Platforms: eBay, Amazon Seller, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace.
Offer Tutoring Services with TutorMe, Chegg, and VIPKid
Turn your knowledge into income by tutoring students online.
Benefits:
- Flexible hours
- Set your own rates
- Make a difference in students’ lives
Platforms: TutorMe, Chegg, and VIPKid.
Participate in the Gig Economy with Ridesharing and Delivery Apps
Turn your car into an income generator with apps like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart.
Opportunities:
- Drive passengers with Uber and Lyft
- Deliver food with DoorDash
- Shop and deliver groceries with Instacart
Tips for Maximizing Earnings: Work peak hours, provide excellent service, and take advantage of app promotions.
Monetize Your Social Media Presence
Got a knack for creating content? Turn your social media presence into income.
Platforms:
- TikTok
- YouTube
Ways to Earn: Sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, ad revenue, and selling products.
Building an Audience: Create engaging content, interact with followers, and leverage hashtags and trends.
Participate in Microtasking with Amazon Mechanical Turk
Got some spare time? Microtasking platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk let you earn by completing simple tasks that require human input.
Tasks Include:
- Data entry
- Content moderation
- Transcription
- Surveys
Tips: Choose high-paying tasks, check requester reviews, and work efficiently.
Alternative Microtask Platforms: Clickworker and Appen.
Conclusion
Making money from your smartphone isn’t just a pipe dream, it’s a reality that’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re looking to make a few extra bucks or aiming for a significant side income, there’s an option out there that fits your lifestyle. Find what works for you, give it a shot, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Additional Resources
Managing Your Earnings: Use budgeting apps like Mint or Personal Capital to track income and expenses. Don’t forget to set aside money for taxes.
Staying Safe Online: Be cautious of scams, research apps and platforms before joining, and protect personal information with strong passwords.
Learning More: Join online communities and take advantage of tutorials to enhance your skills.
By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can turn your smartphone into a powerful tool for generating income in 2025 and beyond. Start exploring these options today and see where they take you.
FAQs
1. What are some legitimate ways to make money using your smartphone?
You can take surveys with apps like Swagbucks and Branded Surveys, earn cashback through Ibotta and Rakuten, complete tasks on TaskRabbit, sell items on eBay or Poshmark, and offer tutoring services online.
2. Which apps are best for earning money without any initial investment?
Apps like Swagbucks, Ibotta, and Rakuten require no initial investment. You can start earning immediately by completing simple tasks or shopping through the app.
3. How can students make money from their phones?
Students can tutor on apps like TutorMe and Chegg, participate in online surveys, sell unused items, or offer freelance services like writing and graphic design.