We all find ourselves needing a bit of extra cash from time to time, and one of the simplest and most convenient ways to earn it is right in the palm of your hand your smartphone.

That device you’re holding can either drain your time or become a surprisingly powerful source of income.

Fortunately, there are several trustworthy apps available that make it fun and easy to earn real money, all from the comfort of home, straight from your phone.

11 Legit Ways to Earn Money Using Your Phone

If you’ve got spare time during the day or even in short bursts, here are some practical ways to turn your phone into a money-maker:

1. Take Online Surveys

While online surveys often get a bad rap, they’re actually a reliable way to earn a bit of money from your phone.

Platforms like MyPoints, Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Branded Surveys are among the top names in this space. Sign up for each and you could start earning just by answering questions while lounging on the couch.

Swagbucks even rewards you for browsing, watching videos, and playing casual games. These platforms are especially handy during downtime — like when you’re watching TV, on lunch break, or stuck waiting somewhere.

2. Play Mobile Games for Real Cash

Gaming on your phone doesn’t have to just be a time-filler — it can be profitable, too.

Apps like Blackout Bingo give bingo lovers a competitive twist. Whether you’re just in it for fun or aiming to play for money, it’s easy to get immersed in this fast-paced, exciting game.

Currently available for iOS and through the Samsung Galaxy Store, Blackout Bingo adds real incentive to your game time.

3.Earn Cashback on Your Shopping

Rakuten makes earning money from your shopping habits remarkably easy.

Whenever you buy items from partner retailers — clothing, electronics, even travel — Rakuten gives you a portion of that money back as cashback.

It’s effortless to use, and over time, those small percentages really add up.

4. Sell Your Data (Passively and Safely)

Nielsen, a respected global research company, lets you earn money simply by sharing your regular internet usage.

Their Computer and Mobile Panel app runs quietly in the background, collecting anonymized data as you go about your normal digital activities.

Once installed, you’re automatically enrolled in the reward system — meaning you’re earning from your phone without even lifting a finger.

5. Declutter and Get Paid for Unused Items

If you’ve got old electronics, games, or media gathering dust, Decluttr can turn them into cash.

The process is simple: use the app, send in your items using the provided shipping materials, and get paid. They’ll take care of wiping your tech clean and reselling it responsibly or recycling it.

No more holding onto things you haven’t used in years — let your junk make you money.

6. Resell Your Textbooks

At the end of the school term, your textbooks don’t need to collect dust — they can earn you money.

BookScouter is a free app that helps you compare offers from over 30 book-buying vendors. Simply scan your book’s barcode, ship it off for free, and get paid.

It’s fast, easy, and far better than tossing those books into storage or the trash.

7. Turn Photos into Income

Your phone’s camera could be the key to a new income stream.

Platforms like Shutterstock allow you to upload and sell your photographs. Once your images are accepted, you can start earning royalties whenever they’re used.

Another great app is Foap — a community-driven platform that connects photographers with brands looking for content. If you enjoy snapping photos, this is a fun way to monetize your hobby.

8. Get Paid for Reviewing Products

UserTesting lets you share your feedback on websites and apps in exchange for cash.

Tests typically take around 20 minutes and involve giving your honest opinion while interacting with a product or service.

You’ll need a clear speaking voice and comfort using a mic, but you can take tests from a mobile device or desktop. The payout varies, and your dashboard will always tell you how much a particular test pays before you accept it.

9. Earn Just by Walking

If you’re walking anyway, why not get rewarded for it?

Sweatcoin is a step-tracking app that pays you in digital currency for every 1,000 steps you take.

You can redeem these Sweatcoins in their built-in store for items, services, or experiences. Available on both Android and iOS, it’s a fun way to make your fitness habit more rewarding.

10. Take on Small Local Jobs

Apps like Steady, TaskRabbit, and Gigwalk connect you with people nearby who need help with chores and odd jobs.

TaskRabbit, for example, allows you to create a profile and start applying for gigs like painting, furniture assembly, gardening, or repairs.

It’s a great option if you enjoy hands-on work and want to earn locally through short-term or ongoing gigs.

11. Get Paid to Run Social Media

If you’re skilled with social platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, you can find remote work managing accounts for small businesses.

Many companies are looking to improve their social presence but don’t have the time or know-how to do it themselves.

Through sites like FlexJobs, you can find remote social media roles — allowing you to post updates, answer messages, and engage with customers on behalf of a business, all from your phone.