Imagine a world where you get paid to lounge around, scroll your phone, and watch videos — all from the comfort of your couch. The best part? This world already exists. Thanks to the rise of money-making apps, you can earn cash for almost zero effort. And if you’re looking for the ultimate way to get paid to watch ads, take surveys, or even play games, look no further. Here are the top apps that let you make money doing almost nothing.
1. Swagbucks: The All-in-One Earning Platform
If you want to get paid to watch ads, take surveys, and play games — all in one place — Swagbucks is a fan-favorite. The app rewards you in points (Swagbucks or SB) that you can redeem for gift cards or PayPal cash. And it’s as simple as watching short ads, completing daily tasks, or shopping through their affiliate links. It’s basically a money-making machine for your downtime.
2. InboxDollars: Make Cash for Watching Videos
InboxDollars is another popular app that lets you get paid to watch ads, check emails, or take surveys. Unlike Swagbucks, InboxDollars pays you in actual dollars, so you can see the money you’re making right away. Watching video playlists is one of the easiest ways to earn — just click play, sit back, and cash out once you hit the minimum balance.
3. MyPoints: Shop, Watch, and Earn
MyPoints is part shopping app, part paid-to-watch platform. It works similarly to Swagbucks, offering you points for completing simple tasks like watching ads, playing games, and shopping online. What sets MyPoints apart is the variety of ways to earn — making it a great option for anyone looking to maximize their couch-time earnings.
4. Mistplay: Get Paid to Play Mobile Games
Gamers, rejoice! Mistplay is an app designed to reward you for trying out new mobile games. The more you play, the more points you rack up, which you can then redeem for gift cards. And if gaming is already your guilty pleasure, why not earn a little extra while you’re at it?
5. Nielsen Mobile Panel: Earn for Sharing Data
The Nielsen Mobile Panel is one of the most straightforward ways to make money without doing much. Simply install their app, let it run in the background, and get paid for sharing your phone usage data. It’s anonymous, doesn’t drain your battery, and the best part? You don’t have to do anything but download the app and let it work its magic.
6. Lucktastic: Win Rewards by Playing Scratch-Off Games
Lucktastic is like bringing the fun of scratch-off lottery tickets to your phone. Play digital scratch-off cards, enter sweepstakes, and watch ads for the chance to win cash and gift card prizes. The more you play, the more chances you have to earn, making it an entertaining way to get paid to watch ads and try your luck.
7. App Trailers: Make Money Watching Videos
App Trailers is exactly what it sounds like — an app that pays you to watch short trailers for other apps, movies, or games. Each time you watch a video, you earn points, which you can cash out through PayPal or redeem for gift cards. It’s one of the simplest ways to turn spare minutes into dollars.
8. Earny: Get Paid for Price Drops
Earny is a cashback app that not only gives you rewards when you shop but also tracks price drops for items you’ve already purchased. If the price drops after you buy something, Earny automatically requests a refund for the difference. It’s a great way to make money passively — without even realizing it.
9. Ibotta: Earn Cashback on Groceries and More
If grocery shopping is on your weekly to-do list, why not make a little cash while you’re at it? Ibotta is a cashback app that rewards you for purchasing certain products at participating retailers. Just upload your receipt, match it to the offers on the app, and collect your cashback.
10. YouTube & Twitch: Get Paid to Watch Streams and Videos
While not directly paying you in cash like some other apps, platforms like YouTube and Twitch offer opportunities to earn through rewards programs, ad revenue, or supporting streamers. Some streamers offer giveaways, and YouTube channels may give gift cards or products to loyal viewers — so there’s always a chance to make money just by tuning in.
So, if you’re looking to get paid to watch ads, shop online, or play games in your spare time, these apps are the perfect way to make a little side cash without even breaking a sweat. All you need is a smartphone, a bit of time, and the willingness to let these apps do the heavy lifting while you sit back and relax.
Now go ahead — start earning from your couch. You’ve got nothing to lose (and some extra cash to gain).
