Have you heard about people making money by simply joining websites or programs? It might sound too good to be true, but it’s a genuine way to earn extra cash. With companies constantly looking for user feedback, referrals, or engagement, many are willing to pay individuals just like you to get involved. Whether it’s completing quick surveys, testing new apps, or getting cashback for shopping, there are plenty of opportunities to boost your income in the UK.
This guide will walk you through the top ways you can “get paid to” join platforms, along with tips for maximizing your earnings, all from the comfort of your home.
Why Do Companies Pay You to Join?
Before jumping in, it’s important to understand why these opportunities exist. Businesses use these strategies to attract new users, boost brand awareness, or gather valuable data. Essentially, your time, opinion, or purchases have value to them, and they’re willing to reward you for it.
For instance, market research companies pay users to take surveys because brands need insights about customer preferences. Cashback programs reward you for shopping via their platform because they earn commissions from partnering retailers. Once you understand how it works, you can confidently explore this growing space to earn extra cash.
Best Ways to Get Paid to Join
There’s no shortage of options to make money by signing up for platforms or services. Below are some of the most reliable and rewarding methods to help you get started.
1. Take Online Surveys and Share Your Opinion
One of the easiest ways to “get paid to” join platforms is by completing online surveys. Companies are always eager to collect feedback directly from consumers, making survey sites a great option to earn extra money.
Popular Survey Sites in the UK
- Swagbucks – Earn points (called SB) for completing surveys, watching videos, and browsing the web. Points can be redeemed for PayPal cash or gift cards.
- Prolific – Focused on academic research, this platform typically pays higher than most survey sites and offers straightforward tasks.
- Toluna – Offers surveys on topics like lifestyle, technology, and shopping habits, with a points system to track your earnings.
- YouGov – A highly reputable platform that pays for surveys about politics, brands, and current trends.
Potential Earnings
While survey sites won’t replace a full-time income, you can earn anywhere from £1 to £5 per survey depending on its length. Dedicating 30 minutes a day can add up to £50-£100 a month.
Tips for Success
- Sign up for multiple survey websites to increase your available opportunities.
- Provide honest and consistent answers; some platforms screen unreliable participants.
- Use dedicated survey apps to complete surveys on the go.
2. Earn Cashback With Shopping Rewards
If you shop online, why not turn your spending into earning? Cashback websites and apps reward you when you purchase through their links, making this one of the most popular “get paid to” strategies.
Top Cashback Platforms in the UK
- TopCashback – Offers cashback for purchases at thousands of retailers, including clothing stores, travel sites, and supermarkets.
- Quidco – Similar to TopCashback, this platform lets you earn money back on your online and in-store purchases.
- Honey – Tracks and applies discount codes while shopping online and offers cashback via PayPal.
How It Works
- Sign up for a cashback platform and start shopping through their website or app.
- Earn a percentage back on your purchases, often between 1% and 10%, depending on the retailer.
- Withdraw your cashback as PayPal cash, bank transfer, or vouchers.
Benefits
This method is particularly rewarding if you’re already spending money online. It’s essentially free cash for shopping the way you normally would.
3. Referral Programs
Referral programs allow you to “get paid to” invite family, friends, or even social media followers to join a platform or service. Many apps reward both the referrer and the new user, so everyone wins.
Examples of Referral Programs
- Monzo Bank – Receive a cash bonus when someone joins Monzo using your unique referral link.
- Revolut – Similar to Monzo, Revolut rewards users for referring others to their banking app.
- Ride-Sharing Apps – Platforms like Uber and Bolt often offer free credit or cash bonuses for referrals.
- Freelancing Sites – Websites like Upwork and Fiverr have referral programs where you earn a share of new users’ fees.
Tips to Maximise Referral Earnings
- Share your referral links on social media, blogs, or with friends directly.
- Explain the benefits to others so they’re more likely to sign up.
- Use creativity in promoting your referrals—offers paired with personal recommendations usually perform better.
4. Test Apps and Websites
Did you know businesses pay users to try out their apps and websites before launching or updating? Platforms like these offer yet another excellent way to make money online.
Where to Start
- UserTesting – Earn money by testing websites and apps while sharing your thoughts through recorded feedback.
- WhatUsersDo – Similar to UserTesting, it typically pays £5-£10 for each 20-minute usability test.
- TestingTime – A platform for participating in online interviews or usability tests for new digital products.
Potential Earnings
Testing jobs often pay between £5 and £20 per session, depending on the length and complexity of the task. It’s a quick and straightforward way to earn money part-time.
Why It’s Rewarding
This opportunity is ideal for tech-savvy individuals who enjoy exploring new websites or apps. Plus, you can complete tasks at your convenience.
5. Freelancing and Microtasks
Freelancing platforms frequently reward you for joining and completing small jobs or microtasks. Whether you’re skilled in writing, design, or social media, there’s a consistent demand for freelance talent online.
Popular Platforms to Join
- Fiverr – Start by offering services as low as £5 and expand your pricing as you gain credibility.
- Upwork – Provides opportunities across various categories, from admin tasks to complex design projects.
- TaskRabbit – Focused on physical tasks like furniture assembly or cleaning, ideal for those willing to work locally.
Why Freelancing Works
Freelancing offers flexibility, allowing you to balance part-time work with other commitments. It’s also an opportunity to grow your skills and establish a steady stream of income over time.
6. Other Fun Ways to ‘Get Paid to’ Join
Beyond traditional options, there are some unique ways to earn money in the UK by joining specific activities or programs.
- Mystery Shopping – Companies like Market Force will pay you to visit stores and report on your shopping experience.
- Focus Groups – Sign up with firms like Focus4People to earn money by sharing opinions on products or advertisements.
- Competitions – Platforms such as FreePostcodeLottery or Lucky Wheel pay you when you win daily draws or spins.
Key Benefits of Getting Paid to Join
- Low Initial Effort – Most opportunities only require signing up and completing simple tasks.
- Flexible Schedule – Work when it’s convenient for you, making it ideal for students, parents, or full-time employees.
- No Expertise Needed – Many platforms are beginner-friendly and don’t require specific skills.
Final Tips for Success
- Stay Organised – Keep track of the platforms you’ve joined and your earnings using a simple spreadsheet.
- Read the Terms – Understand payment structures, withdrawal rules, and required commitments for each opportunity.
- Be Consistent – Dedicate regular time to these activities. For example, spend 15–30 minutes daily to see results.
- Avoid Scams – Stick to reputable platforms. If a site asks for upfront payments or looks suspicious, do thorough research before joining.
Is It Worth It?
While these “get paid to” opportunities won’t make you rich overnight, they can provide steady side income over time. Whether you’re saving for a holiday, paying off small debts, or just looking for productive ways to spend your free time, the above methods are a reliable starting point.
With minimal effort and no special skills required, anyone can begin earning extra cash today. Why not give it a shot and see how much you can make?