If there’s one thing we all love, it’s the idea of making money without lifting a finger. The good news? There are ways to make money doing nothing — well, almost nothing. Whether you’re lounging on your couch, stuck in a waiting room, or just looking to monetize your downtime, these low-effort methods let you earn cash while you sit back and relax.
1. Watch Ads for Cash
Yes, you read that right. There are apps and websites that will pay you just to watch ads or videos. Platforms like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and more, will slip a little extra cash into your account for your time, and all you have to do is keep your screen running. It’s basically the digital version of getting paid to zone out.
2. Take Online Surveys
Giving your opinion has never been more profitable. Survey sites like Survey Junkie, Pinecone Research pay, and others, for your thoughts on anything from new product ideas to your latest shopping habits. While the payouts aren’t huge, they can quickly add up — especially when all you’re doing is clicking buttons. It’s one of the easiest ways to make money doing nothing from the comfort of your couch.
3. Passive Income from Cashback Apps
We all shop, right? With cashback apps like Rakuten, Dosh, Honey, and many more, you can make money back from purchases you’re already making. Simply download the app, shop through their portal or link your card, and watch your cashback balance grow. It’s basically like getting paid to do what you were going to do anyway.
4. Turn Your Internet into Cash
If you’re not using all your internet bandwidth, why not let it make you some money? Apps like Honeygain allow you to share your internet connection with their network in return for payment. Just install it, let it run in the background, and get paid. It’s as close as it gets to make money doing nothing.
5. Sell Your Data
Not the most glamorous, but it’s an option. Platforms like Nielsen and MobileXpression collect anonymized data from your smartphone or computer, such as browsing habits, in exchange for cash or gift cards. They’ll pay for the data that you’re already giving away to tech companies for free — so why not profit from it?
6. Invest in Micro-Saving Apps
You don’t have to be a stock market whiz to make a little extra dough on the side. Apps like Acorns or Stash round up your everyday purchases and invest the spare change in diversified portfolios. It’s a small but hands-off way to grow your savings over time, and all you have to do is let it do its thing while you sit back.
7. Rent Out Your Car, Driveway, or Garage
Got a car that you don’t use every day? Consider renting it out on platforms like Turo. Or, if you have a driveway or garage in a high-demand area, you can rent that space too. It’s an effortless way to make some extra money, and you don’t even have to leave the house. Simply list your space, sit back, and collect the cash.
8. Test Websites and Apps
If you don’t mind poking around a new website or mobile app, platforms like UserTesting or others, will pay you for your time and feedback. Usually, it’s a quick 10-20 minute session where you share your thoughts on a site’s usability or layout, and you can do it all from your computer or phone. Easy money for just clicking around!
9. Royalties from Creative Work
If you’ve got a stash of creative work gathering dust — like photography, music, or even e-books — you can make money doing nothing by licensing your creations. Platforms like Shutterstock for photos, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing for books, or SoundCloud for music can help you earn passive income on content you’ve already made.
10. Play Games for Pay
If you’re into gaming, you can make money doing nothing while having fun. Apps like Mistplay and Lucktastic pay you to play games, participate in contests, or spin for rewards. You won’t get rich overnight, but if you’re already playing games in your spare time, why not make a little cash on the side?
These simple, low-effort ways to make money while you chill might not make you a millionaire overnight, but they can certainly add up over time. So, the next time you’re lounging around, remember there are ways to put those idle hours to work — without ever having to leave your seat.
