One of the best features of the internet age is the ability to get paid for doing the things you normally do. There are a million ways to do this, but the best involve no downloading, no tricks, and minimal effort.
Are you an online shopper? When you sign up for programs such as Ebates, Upromise, and Bizrate, you are entitled to great savings plus a little something back, all for using their site to access your target. Some pay cash directly into your Paypal account, while others send actual checks in the mail or give you an account to use for a specific purpose, such as a college fund. Shop around for the site that pays the most for the kind of shopping you do.
Not an online shopper? No problem! Some sites will donate to your favorite cause each time you use their site to search the web. Popular forms like this include iGive, which installs a toolbar that you can use to surf the internet. Be aware that not all sites such as this are legitimate. If you are uncomfortable downloading something, don’t do it. And always always run virus scan after you install anything new. It only takes a little while and it can save you from serious problems in the future.
Other options include participating in surveys and panels. There are tons of sites like this online, but many require you to agree to a few of their sponsored offers, often including traditional scams such as book and music clubs with automatic shipping programs. In general, if the program requires you to spend money, enter a credit card or checking account, or purchase a product, it is probably a scam. Don’t fall for it. There are many legitimate sites that are happy to reward you for your time and opinions. My favorite is ERewards, which allows you to trade virtual money for gift cards to familiar retail establishments. You can customize how often you receive survey invitations, and ignoring a series of them will not get you kicked out of the program. I usually complete an average of two surveys a week and I usually make around $100 a year. I convert mine into gift certificates for my favorite bookstores/coffee shop, but you can also turn them into frequent flyer miles.
Finally, testing and reviewing products can earn you additional funds. There are many sites available, but most of the trustworthy sites do not pay. Instead, you get free products to test. These sites should always encourage you to be completely honest. If you blog about products you receive through these arrangements, please announce that on your post, so readers do not feel cheated.
Do you have more tips for making money on the web?