Earning extra money can buy you freedom in more ways than one. If you’re looking to pay down debt faster, fund a vacation, or enjoy going out with friends more, working a side gig can help.
Sometimes, picking up additional work on the side sounds exhausting. But by using your phone, it is possible to make money texting.
How to Make Money Texting
You text every day anyway. You might as well get paid for doing a little more of it. Not all work from home opportunities are legit, but that’s why we’re here.
For help weeding out scams and finding the best places to pick up texting gigs, keep reading. We’ve found four legitimate ways to make money texting.
1. 1Q
1Q is a company that pays you for answering questions. The texts you get on your phone are either market research questions, an offer, or a coupon. The messages are sent using the 1Q app or by text using your native messaging platform.
After filling out your demographic information, the app matches you with companies. If you enable location tracking on your iOS or Android device, you can have more questions sent to your phone. And that gives you the chance to maximize the money you earn.
Each question or offer is known as an Askvert. Each Askvert has a payout of 25 or 50 cents. Responding to the message will send cash to your PayPal account.
The lower payment option will give you access to more questions to answer, and 1Q suggests you pick that.
2. IMGR
IMGR is an instant messaging platform. You transmit messages to friends and contacts, and points accumulate with each one you send.
Earning cash appears to be available only to iOS users. The company’s FAQ claims the app is available on Android, and the website has a link to download it from the Google Play Store. But the link takes you to an error page.
Attaching an advertisement to each text message you send will earn you one point. Your points are only valid if you send and receive messages. If you send 100 branded messages and get 50 replies, you only get credit for the ones that received a response.
The minimum payout is 300 points, which is roughly $3. Your payments are sent through PayPal, which makes it easy to access. When you first start, the earnings can go up to $20 a month.
Your account gets upgraded to premium status if you earn at least 2,000 points for six months. Premium users can make up to $40 a month.
According to Scam Detector, it has a score of 100% and is a safe and secure site.
3. KGB
KGB (the Knowledge Generation Bureau) pays you to answer questions. It’s only open to U.S. citizens. They might ask for proof of your Social Security number to prove your citizenship.
Signing up to make money texting with KGB isn’t open to everyone. Not only do you have to be an American, but there’s also a screening process to assess your skill set.
They’re mainly looking for people with excellent research and communication skills. Because they provide in-depth information and directory assistance, you need to have a talent for fact-finding.
The two payout levels are 10 cents and 5 cents per response. You earn the higher 10-cent rate for researching and providing an answer independently. If you find and forward a response from KGB’s information database, you receive a rate of 5 cents for each answer.
KGB doesn’t use PayPal like a lot of other money-making apps do. Instead, you can expect payments to go directly to your bank account.
4. McMoney
McMoney is an Android app that pays you to receive text messages. When you download and use the McMoney app, you’re helping them test SMS routes. They send random text messages (you don’t know when you’ll receive them), but you’ll receive your first text within three days of registering.
The app works with most Android phones, and you get paid for every text message they send you. You earn real cash for receiving texts and can cash out when you reach the specified threshold for your country.
McMoney isn’t transparent about how much they pay per text or how much you’ll make using the service.
Instead, they state that you’ll be paid for every text they send recognized by their server, so it’s not money to rely on, but it could be good ‘fun money.’
5. Just Answer
If you’re a professional in your industry, you can make good money with Just Answer, a texting service that allows people to ask questions of experts.
You don’t need specific training. Just Answer is another way to use your expertise and make extra money. Whether you’re a mechanic, lawyer, or veterinarian, you can get paid to answer questions within your specialty.
To qualify, you must complete an application and pass a background check, but then you can start making money immediately.
Just Answer claims experts make $2,000 to $7,000 a month. It depends on how many questions you answer, as you’re paid by the answer. You control which questions you answer, so you control your income.
Learn More: Just Answer Review
6. Hummr
Hummr is another app that pays you to answer questions. You can text or call about professional topics with others in your industry or be a professional that others need. For example, lawyers, software developers, teachers, and photographers use the app to help others make money.
You can connect with anyone worldwide, and it’s available on Android and iOS devices.
You set your rates for texting and calling, so you’re in control of how much you make. The money is transferred directly to your linked bank account, so you don’t have to do anything else.
7. Fiverr
Fiverr is a marketplace where sellers can advertise their gigs, and buyers can find and buy the services. Text messaging is one of the services you can offer. On Fiverr, you control what you offer, so be specific about the texting service you’ll provide.
A couple of examples include:
- SMS marketing
- Sending reminder texts
- Text message translation
It’s easy to sign up. Just create a seller’s account and then create your gigs. You can create as many gigs as you want, each with up to three tiers or options.
You choose how much you charge for your gigs. They typically start at $5 and up, but there’s no limit regarding how much you can charge. Fiverr holds the funds earned for 14 days after you complete the job and the buyer accepts it.
8. Premium.chat
On Premium.chat, you get paid to talk to others. They can be your current clients, prospective clients, or even followers. This works great for coaches, consultants, and influencers because, after all, your time is worth money.
Setting up an account and creating a profile takes only a few minutes so people can see what you offer. Then, you can share your profile on social media, email campaigns, and text, and you can get paid to text or video call.
All payments go through the app, and they accept all credit cards.
You set your fees for Premium.chat either per minute or a flat fee.
9. Fibler
Fibler pays you to chat as a professional with customers and clients. The private consultations are secure, and your clients can’t search for other professionals in the app, so you don’t have to worry about losing clients.
You must apply online to verify your qualifications, and then you can offer consultations and video chats in one click. You set your schedule and fees, charging per minute. Of course, you can change your fees at any time, too.
You are in control of how much you charge.
10. RentAFriend
Do you enjoy meeting new people and making friends? Did you know you can earn money just by being friendly and sociable? It’s true! With websites like RentAFriend.com, you can turn your social skills into cash.
Here’s how it works: first, sign up on RentAFriend.com as a “Friend for Hire.” Then, create an appealing profile highlighting your interests, hobbies, and what makes you a great friend. People looking for companionship in various activities, such as attending events, exploring new places, or simply hanging out, can browse profiles and choose someone to spend time with.
Once selected, you and your new friend can agree on a price for your time together. It’s that simple! Whether chatting over coffee, exploring a museum, or attending a concert, you can earn money while enjoying yourself and making meaningful connections.
11. WorkingSolutions
Are you looking for a cool way to earn cash from home? Becoming a chat agent with Working Solutions is your ticket!
Here’s how it works: sign up on their website and go through their simple application process. Once you’re in, you’ll be matched with customers who need help—just like texting with friends, but you’re getting paid for it! You’ll assist with questions, troubleshoot problems, and provide friendly support—all while sitting comfortably at your computer.
The best part? You can choose your hours so they fit around your schedule. You’re in control, whether it’s after school, on weekends, or whenever you have free time! Using your awesome communication skills is a fun and flexible way to make money.
12. MoneySMS
Money SMS pays you to receive text messages on your phone.
Here’s how it works: first, download the Money SMS app from moneysmsapp.com and sign up. Then, let the app run in the background while you go about your day. You’ll start getting text messages with random codes—nothing personal, just numbers. And guess what?
Each message you receive earns you cash! It’s like getting paid to text your friends, but even better because you’re making money! You can cash your earnings through PayPal once you reach the minimum payout. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to make some pocket money, try Money SMS!
13. Papa
Want to make money by doing something you already love? Well, get ready to turn your texting skills into cash with Papa Pals!
Here’s the lowdown: first, sign up on their website. Once you’re approved, you’ll be matched with seniors who could use a friendly text buddy. From there, it’s as easy as sending messages! Share jokes, ask about their day, or chat about whatever’s on your mind. Every text you send earns you money, and you can do it all from your phone—no fancy gadgets required!
You’ll be spreading smiles and making someone’s day brighter with your kindness. So, if you’re ready to make money while making a difference, Papa Pals is where it’s at! Sign up today and start texting your way to extra cash!
14. TalkSpace
Talkspace offers a convenient way for therapists to connect with clients through text-assisted therapy. As a licensed therapist with Talkspace, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of working from home and setting your schedule. You can choose your caseload and utilize video and audio therapy options to expand your services and leverage your communication skills.
With Talkspace, you earn $67.90 per hour for live sessions conducted via video, audio, or chat, all through their secure HIPAA-compliant app. Talkspace handles insurance claims and other expenses, making your job simpler.
To join Talkspace, apply. If accepted, you’ll receive online training and guidance on using the platform before starting with clients. Requirements include holding an LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, or PhD in Clinical Psychology, having professional liability insurance, residing in the USA, passing a background check, and maintaining a reliable internet connection and individual NPI number. Plus, you’ll only work with clients in the state where you’re licensed.
15. Coachbit
Looking to make a difference in the lives of kids and teens while honing your coaching skills? Look no further than Coachbit! This leading platform for academic coaching is dedicated to helping young learners enhance their study and life skills.
As a Coachbit coach, you’ll engage in daily coaching sessions, spending 15 minutes with each student from Monday to Friday, ensuring their growth and progress. These sessions can occur via video chat or text-based communication, providing flexibility for coaches and students. Whether you’re seeking part-time or full-time opportunities, we have options to suit your schedule and availability.
Ready to embark on this rewarding journey? Download the Coachbit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to start. Join their team of dedicated coaches and empower the next generation to reach their full potential with Coachbit!
What to Watch Out For When Getting Paid to Text
Understanding the difference between a real opportunity and a scam is important. If you work with a shady company, you could compromise your privacy or you might not get paid.
It’s also essential for you to know that text message and data rates still apply, even if the service is free to join. If you don’t have a phone plan that includes unlimited texting and data use, this might not be the best way to make extra money.
If you still want to earn money this way, monitor your monthly text limits to avoid additional charges from your carrier.
A few other things to watch out for:
- Guard your information. Your phone contains a lot of sensitive information, and you don’t want just anyone to have access to the data you have stored on it.
- Not getting paid. Take the time to verify the companies behind the apps to reduce the risk of not getting paid for doing the work.
- Too much time commitment. Pay attention to how much time it takes to earn money to ensure it’s worth what you put in.
- Beware of “adult” apps. If making money from flirting and sharing photos doesn’t interest you, ensure you know what you’re getting into before signing up.
Summary
There are lots of ways to use your phone to make money. Most of the opportunities center around an app you download to your smartphone.
If you don’t have a smartphone, whether by choice or necessity, you might not be eligible for some paid opportunities.
But virtually every phone has texting capabilities. Some companies that pay you for texting don’t have an app to download. Instead, the text messages are sent straight to your phone using traditional messaging. Having this option makes it easier to earn money by texting.
It’s unlikely you’ll earn enough money to retire early. But texting gigs can give you a little extra cash while doing mindless tasks, such as waiting in line or watching TV.
