Looking for a quick, simple way to earn extra money? Whether youre a student, stay-at-home parent, or just need a side hustle, gig apps can be a great way to make fast cash—even if you have no experience. In this guide, Ill walk you through the best gig apps for beginners, what to expect, and how to get started safely and successfully.
Table of Contents
- Why Gig Apps Are Great for Beginners
- Top Gig Apps for Fast Cash
- How to Get Started (Step-by-Step)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Summary & Next Steps
Why Gig Apps Are Great for Beginners
Gig apps are designed to be easy to use, flexible, and accessible to almost anyone. You dont need a fancy resume or tons of experience. Many tasks can be done from your phone or computer, and you can start earning fast—sometimes within hours or days.
- Low barriers to entry: Most apps only require basic information to sign up.
- Flexible hours: Work when it fits your schedule, whether thats after school, during naptime, or on weekends.
- Fast payouts: Some apps pay instantly or within a few days.
Lets look at the best gig apps for beginners who want fast cash, including how they work, what you can realistically earn, and how to get started.
Top Gig Apps for Fast Cash
1. Survey Apps
Survey apps are one of the easiest ways to make money online with no experience. Companies pay for your opinions on products, ads, and trends. You simply answer questions and earn points or cash.
- Popular options: Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, InboxDollars
- Earning expectations: $1“$5 per hour, depending on survey availability and length
- Time commitment: As little as 5“10 minutes at a time; do surveys during breaks or while watching TV
- Requirements: Smartphone or computer, internet connection, basic English skills
- Startup costs: None
Pros: No experience needed, work from anywhere, instant sign-up, low payout thresholds (some as low as $1“$5).
Cons: Earnings are low, some surveys may disqualify you, not a full-time income.
Beginner Tip: Sign up for multiple survey apps to maximize your opportunities. Set aside a few minutes each day and cash out as soon as you reach the payout minimum.
Example: Emily, a college student, spends 20 minutes a day on Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. She earns about $30“$40 a month in Amazon gift cards, which helps pay for textbooks.
2. Microtask Apps
Microtask apps pay you to complete small online tasks like data entry, image tagging, or website testing. These are simple, repetitive jobs anyone can do.
- Popular options: Amazon Mechanical Turk, Clickworker, UserTesting
- Earning expectations: $2“$7 per hour, depending on task type and speed
- Time commitment: Flexible—work as much or as little as you want
- Requirements: Computer or smartphone, internet connection, attention to detail
- Startup costs: None
Pros: Variety of tasks, instant approval for many jobs, work from home.
Cons: Some tasks pay very little, competition can be high, not always consistent work.
Beginner Tip: Start with the easiest tasks to build your reputation. Read instructions carefully to avoid rejections.
Example: Mark, a stay-at-home dad, uses Clickworker during his kids nap time. He completes simple data entry tasks and earns an extra $50“$100 per month.
3. Delivery & Rideshare Apps
If you have a car, bike, or scooter, delivery and rideshare apps let you earn fast cash by delivering food or giving rides in your area.
- Popular options: DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, Uber, Lyft
- Earning expectations: $10“$25 per hour (before expenses), varies by location and time
- Time commitment: Choose your own hours—peak times (lunch, dinner) pay best
- Requirements: Valid drivers license, background check, vehicle (car, bike, or scooter)
- Startup costs: Gas, vehicle maintenance, sometimes insulated bags
Pros: High earning potential, instant payouts (with some apps), meet new people, tips can add up.
Cons: Vehicle wear and tear, expenses, must pass background check, not suitable for everyone.
Beginner Tip: Try delivering during busy hours for higher pay. Track your expenses for tax time.
Example: Sarah, a student, delivers with DoorDash on weekends and averages $80“$120 for a few hours work, using her bike to save on gas.
4. Freelance Gig Apps
Freelance gig apps connect you with people who need quick help—like writing, graphic design, tutoring, or even assembling furniture. You dont need to be an expert; many gigs are beginner-friendly.
- Popular options: Fiverr, TaskRabbit, Upwork
- Earning expectations: $5“$20+ per gig, more for specialized skills
- Time commitment: Set your own schedule; gigs can take from 30 minutes to a few hours
- Requirements: Varies by gig; some require basic skills or tools
- Startup costs: None for most online gigs; local gigs may require supplies
Pros: Flexible work, set your own rates, build skills and reputation.
Cons: Competition is high, may take time to get first clients, platform fees.
Beginner Tip: Start with simple gigs (like data entry or basic writing) and ask for reviews to build your profile.
Example: Alex, a beginner, offers basic proofreading on Fiverr and earns $50 in his first month while learning how to attract more clients.
5. Selling & Reselling Apps
If you have unused items at home, selling them on apps is a fast way to make cash. Some people also buy items cheap and resell them for profit.
- Popular options: eBay, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark
- Earning expectations: Varies—$5 to $100+ per item, depending on what you sell
- Time commitment: Listing takes 5“10 minutes; shipping or meeting buyers takes extra time
- Requirements: Smartphone for photos, items to sell, shipping supplies (for some apps)
- Startup costs: None if selling what you already own; shipping costs for some sales
Pros: Declutter and earn, no special skills needed, flexible schedule.
Cons: Items may take time to sell, platform fees, need to handle shipping or meet-ups.
Beginner Tip: Start with items you no longer need. Take clear photos and write honest descriptions. Price competitively to sell faster.
Example: Lisa, a stay-at-home mom, sold baby clothes and toys on Facebook Marketplace and made $150 in her first week.
How to Get Started (Step-by-Step)
- 1. Pick an app or two that fits your lifestyle and resources. For example, if you have a car, try DoorDash. If you prefer online work, start with surveys or microtasks.
- 2. Sign up and complete your profile. Use accurate information and set up payment methods (PayPal, bank account, etc.).
- 3. Read the rules and requirements. Each app has its own guidelines—follow them to avoid issues.
- 4. Start with small, simple tasks or gigs. This helps you learn how the app works and build confidence.
- 5. Cash out your earnings as soon as you reach the minimum payout. Dont let money sit in your account too long.
- 6. Watch for scams. Never pay to join a gig app. Stick to well-known platforms and check reviews if youre unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are gig apps legit?
Most major gig apps are legitimate, but always research new platforms and avoid any that ask for upfront fees or sensitive information beyond whats needed for payment and taxes. - How fast can I get paid?
Some apps offer instant or same-day payouts (like DoorDash Fast Pay), while others pay weekly or after you reach a minimum amount (like $10 on Survey Junkie). - Do I need special skills?
Many gig apps require no special skills. For freelance gigs, basic writing, organization, or handyman skills can help you earn more. - Can I do gig apps part-time?
Absolutely! Most people use gig apps as a side hustle or to supplement their income. You control your schedule. - Are there any risks?
Risks include scams, inconsistent work, or wear and tear on your vehicle (for delivery/rideshare). Always use reputable apps and protect your personal information. - Whats the best gig app for beginners?
It depends on your situation. Survey and microtask apps are best for total beginners. Delivery apps pay more if you have a vehicle. Try a few to see what fits you best.
Summary & Next Steps
Gig apps are a fantastic way for beginners to earn fast cash with little to no experience. Whether you want to take surveys, deliver food, complete microtasks, or sell unused items, theres an option for everyone. Start small, stay safe, and build your confidence as you go.
Ready to discover more ways to earn? Explore our other guides and reviews on Survey Soda to find the perfect side hustle for your lifestyle. Your next opportunity is just a click away!