Best Survey Sites for Teens & Students: Safe and Legit Options

Paid Surveys

Looking for a simple way to earn extra cash from home or during your free time? Paid survey sites can be a great starting point, especially for teens and students. But with so many options online, its important to choose safe, legit sites that actually pay and respect your privacy. In this guide, youll learn how survey sites work, what to expect, and which platforms are best for beginners. Lets dive in!

Table of Contents

How Survey Sites Work for Teens & Students

Survey sites connect companies with people willing to share their opinions about products, ads, or services. As a participant, you answer questions online and get rewarded with cash, gift cards, or other perks. Most surveys take 5“20 minutes and can be completed from your phone or computer.

For teens and students, these platforms offer a flexible, low-pressure way to earn a little extra money. Theres no need for a resume, work experience, or a long-term commitment. You simply sign up, fill out your profile, and start receiving survey invites.

Earning Expectations and Time Commitment

Its important to be realistic: paid surveys wont make you rich. Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $3 each, depending on length and topic. Some special surveys or product tests may pay more, but those are less common.

On average, expect to earn $10“$50 per month if youre active and qualify for several surveys each week. The more sites you join, the more opportunities youll have. However, you may not qualify for every survey, as companies look for specific ages, backgrounds, or interests.

Many teens and students find that surveys are best used as a side hustle—something to do while watching TV, commuting, or during study breaks.

Requirements and Startup Costs

  • Age: Most legit survey sites accept users aged 13 or 16 and up. Always check the minimum age before signing up.
  • Device: A smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet access.
  • Email: Youll need a valid email address to register and receive survey invites.
  • Payment Account: Some sites pay via PayPal, gift cards, or direct deposit. Teens may need parental help to set up a PayPal account.
  • Cost: Legit survey sites are free to join. Never pay to sign up or access surveys—this is a red flag for scams.

Best Survey Sites for Teens & Students

Here are some of the most trusted and beginner-friendly survey sites for teens and students. Each has a strong reputation, clear privacy policies, and low payout thresholds.

1. Swagbucks

  • Minimum Age: 13+
  • Payout Options: PayPal, gift cards (Amazon, Starbucks, etc.)
  • Payout Threshold: $1“$5
  • Real-World Example: Sarah, a high school student, spends 10 minutes a day on Swagbucks and earns enough for a $25 Amazon gift card each month.

Swagbucks is one of the most popular and versatile rewards sites. Besides surveys, you can earn by watching videos, playing games, or shopping online. The site is easy to use and offers frequent surveys for teens.

2. Survey Junkie

  • Minimum Age: 16+
  • Payout Options: PayPal, gift cards, bank transfer
  • Payout Threshold: $5
  • Real-World Example: Alex, a college freshman, uses Survey Junkie to earn $15“$20 a month, which helps cover coffee and snacks on campus.

Survey Junkie is straightforward and focused purely on surveys. The interface is clean, and you can see your points add up in real time. Surveys are matched to your profile, so be honest when filling out your details.

3. Toluna Influencers

  • Minimum Age: 16+
  • Payout Options: PayPal, gift cards
  • Payout Threshold: $10
  • Real-World Example: Emma, a high school junior, enjoys sharing her opinions on Toluna and cashes out for a $10 PayPal payment every few weeks.

Toluna offers a social community feel, with polls, discussions, and a variety of survey topics. Teens can also participate in sweepstakes and product testing for extra rewards.

4. LifePoints

  • Minimum Age: 14+
  • Payout Options: PayPal, gift cards
  • Payout Threshold: $5
  • Real-World Example: Jake, 15, takes 2“3 LifePoints surveys a week and uses his earnings for iTunes gift cards.

LifePoints is known for its quick surveys and low payout minimum. The site is mobile-friendly and offers frequent survey invites for younger users.

5. InboxDollars (Ages 18+)

  • Minimum Age: 18+
  • Payout Options: PayPal, prepaid Visa, gift cards
  • Payout Threshold: $15
  • Real-World Example: Mia, a college student, uses InboxDollars for surveys and earns $30 in her first two months.

InboxDollars pays cash for surveys, watching videos, and more. While the payout threshold is higher, the site offers a $5 sign-up bonus to get you started.

Pros and Cons of Paid Surveys

  • Pros:
    • Flexible—work whenever you want, from anywhere
    • No experience or special skills needed
    • Free to join
    • Low payout thresholds on most sites
  • Cons:
    • Low earning potential (not a full-time income)
    • May not qualify for every survey
    • Some surveys can be repetitive or boring
    • Must be cautious of scams—never pay to join

Beginner Tips for Success

  • Sign up for multiple sites: This increases your chances of getting more survey invites.
  • Complete your profile honestly: Accurate information helps match you with the right surveys.
  • Check your email regularly: Some surveys fill up fast, so respond quickly to invites.
  • Set realistic goals: Treat survey earnings as extra spending money, not a main income source.
  • Watch out for scams: Only use reputable sites. Never pay to join or give out sensitive information like your Social Security number.

Step-by-Step: Getting Started with Paid Surveys

  • Pick 2“3 legit survey sites from the list above.
  • Register with your real information and verify your email.
  • Fill out your profile completely and honestly.
  • Log in daily or check your email for new survey invites.
  • Complete surveys carefully—dont rush or give inconsistent answers.
  • Track your earnings and cash out once you reach the minimum threshold.

FAQ: Paid Surveys for Teens & Students

  • Are paid survey sites safe for teens?

    Yes, as long as you stick to reputable sites with clear privacy policies. Always check the minimum age and never share sensitive personal information.

  • How do I get paid?

    Most sites offer PayPal, gift cards, or direct bank transfer. Teens may need parental help to set up a PayPal account.

  • Can I do surveys on my phone?

    Absolutely! Most survey sites are mobile-friendly or have their own apps.

  • How do I avoid scams?

    Never pay to join a survey site. Avoid sites that ask for your Social Security number or banking info upfront. Stick to the platforms listed here or those with strong online reviews.

  • How much can I realistically earn?

    Most teens and students earn $10“$50 per month if theyre active. Treat it as a way to earn extra spending money, not a main job.

Summary & Next Steps

Paid surveys are a simple, flexible way for teens and students to earn a bit of extra cash or gift cards in their spare time. While the earnings are modest, the work is easy and can fit around your busy schedule. Always use legit, safe sites and set realistic expectations.

Ready to start earning? Explore more guides and recommendations here on Survey Soda to find the perfect side hustle for you. Your next opportunity could be just a click away!