Last Updated: May 2025
Want to earn some extra cash without leaving your room? The best sites to take surveys for money are a legit way for teens (13–18) to stack up gift cards, PayPal cash, or even a little flex money for that new Fortnite skin. Picture this: you’re chilling, scrolling TikTok, and a notification pops up—you just earned $5 for answering a quick survey about your favorite snacks. Sounds dope, right? I remember my first survey payout; I was shook when the money hit my PayPal! In this guide, we’re diving into the best survey sites that are teen-friendly, safe, and actually pay. From Swagbucks to Prolific, we’ve got the full scoop—plus tips to avoid scams and maximize your hustle. Ready? Let’s go!
Why Surveys Are Perfect for Teens
Surveys are a no-brainer for teens. No need for a car, a degree, or even a ton of free time. You can do them between classes, during a Netflix binge, or while vibing to Billie Eilish. The best sites to take surveys for money are designed to fit your schedule, and most don’t require you to be 18 (though some need parental consent—more on that later). According to a 2024 study by Forbes, online surveys are one of the top side hustles for Gen Z, with over 20% of teens trying them. But here’s the tea: not all sites are created equal. Some pay pennies, others are sketchy. Stick with us to find the real ones.
How Do Survey Sites Work?
Here’s the deal: companies want to know what teens like you think about their products—think sneakers, apps, or even fast food. They pay survey sites to collect your opinions, and those sites pass some of that cash to you. You sign up, fill out a profile (like your age or hobbies), and get matched with surveys. Each one takes 5–20 minutes and pays anywhere from $0.50 to $5. Some even toss in gift cards for Amazon or Starbucks. Cool, right?
Best Sites to Take Surveys for Money Reddit Loves
Reddit’s always buzzing about survey sites, and teens on subs like r/beermoney swear by a few standouts. The best sites to take surveys for money have solid rep, quick payouts, and don’t waste your time. Here are the top picks based on user reviews and my own experience (yep, I’ve tried these!):
- Swagbucks: The GOAT of survey sites. Earn points (SB) for surveys, redeemable for PayPal cash or gift cards. Teens 13+ can join with parental consent.
- Survey Junkie: Super straightforward. Pick surveys, earn points, cash out via PayPal or gift cards. Minimum age is 13 with parental approval.
- Prolific: Pays better for research-based surveys, often $1–$5 each. You need to be 16+, and it’s legit for academic studies.
Pro tip: Check out online survey jobs for teens for more platforms that welcome younger users.
Why Reddit’s Obsessed with These
Reddit users love these sites because they’re transparent about payouts and don’t spam you with endless emails. A teen on r/beermoney shared how they made $50 in a month with Swagbucks just by doing surveys during study breaks. That’s enough for a new hoodie or a Roblox gift card—bet you’re hyped now!
Swagbucks
Swagbucks is like the TikTok of survey sites—everyone’s on it, and it’s got something for everyone. You can earn by taking surveys, watching ads, or even playing games. The best sites to take surveys for money always include Swagbucks because it’s been around forever (since 2008) and has paid out over $500 million, per their site. Teens 13+ can join, but you’ll need a parent to sign off if you’re under 16.
- Sign Up: Create a free account with your email. Use a parent’s email if you’re under 16.
- Complete Your Profile: Answer questions about your age, interests, and location to get better survey matches.
- Start Surveying: Pick surveys from the dashboard. Most take 10–15 minutes and pay 50–200 SB ($0.50–$2).
- Cash Out: Redeem points for PayPal cash (100 SB = $1) or gift cards. Minimum payout is $3.
I tried Swagbucks last summer and made $20 in a week just by doing surveys while watching Stranger Things. It’s not a fortune, but it’s legit. Want more tips? Check surveys for money PayPal legit.
Survey junkie
Survey Junkie is some other heavy hitter. It’s all approximately simplicity—no flashy advertisements, just surveys that pay. You pick from a listing, answer questions (like “What’s your go-to soda?”), and earn points. Teens thirteen can join with parental consent. A 2024 record from Business Insider mentioned Survey Junkie as a top pick for its low payout threshold ($5).
How to Maximize Survey Junkie
Fill out your profile completely to unlock higher-paying surveys. I once got a $3 survey about gaming habits—took 10 minutes! Also, check the app daily for new surveys, as they fill up fast.
Branded Surveys
Branded Surveys is a gem for teenagers who want brief coins. It’s were given a smooth interface and can pay via PayPal or present cards. You want to be 16 , however it’s top notch reliable. Surveys variety from $0.50 to $five, and you could cash out at $10. A buddy of mine earned $15 in per week just by doing surveys about track traits—pretty sweet!
Prolific Surveys
Prolific is different—it’s tied to academic research, so surveys feel more meaningful (think studies on teen mental health or social media habits). The best sites to take surveys for money often include Prolific because it pays $1–$5 per survey, and you can join at 16. Payouts are via PayPal, and it’s scam-free. I did a survey about TikTok trends and got $2 in 10 minutes—felt like a win!
Surveys That Pay Cash Instantly
Want money ASAP? Some sites offer near-instant payouts. The best sites to take surveys for money with fast cash include:
- InboxDollars: Pays cash (not points) via PayPal or checks. Teens 13+ with parental consent.
- Pinecone Research: Pays $3 per survey, but you need to be 16+. Limited spots, so sign up fast.
Check surveys for PayPal cash for more instant-pay options.
Best Sites to Take Surveys for Money Free
No one wants to pay to earn money, right? The best sites to take surveys for money are 100% free to join. Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Branded Surveys don’t charge a dime. Beware of sites asking for upfront fees—those are usually scams. Always Google the site’s name + “reviews” before signing up.
Safety Tips for Teens Doing Surveys
Okay, let’s get real: not every site is legit. Some are straight-up scams trying to steal your info. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Check Legit Sites: Stick to well-known platforms like those listed here. Read reviews on Reddit or Trustpilot.
- Protect Your Info: Never share your Social Security number or bank details. Legit sites only ask for basic info.
- Get Parental Consent: If you’re under 16, most sites require a parent’s okay. Talk to them first!
- Avoid Too-Good-to-Be-True Offers: Surveys promising $350 for 10 minutes? Yeah, that’s a red flag.
I learned this the hard way when I almost signed up for a sketchy site promising $100 per survey. Always double-check! For more safety tips, see earn money online for teens.
How Much Can You Really Earn?
Let’s break it down with a table comparing the best sites to take surveys for money based on earnings, time, and teen-friendliness:
| Site | Age Requirement | Average Pay per Survey | Payout Method | Time per Survey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swagbucks | 13+ (with consent) | $0.50–$2 | PayPal, Gift Cards | 10–20 min |
| Survey Junkie | 13+ (with consent) | $0.50–$3 | PayPal, Gift Cards | 5–15 min |
| Prolific | 16+ | $1–$5 | PayPal | 10–30 min |
| Branded Surveys | 16+ | $0.50–$5 | PayPal, Gift Cards | 10–20 min |
Real talk: you won’t get rich, but $20–$50 a month is doable with 1–2 hours a week. A teen on TikTok (@MoneyHustleVibes) shared how they made $100 in two months with Survey Junkie—enough for AirPods!
Tips to Boost Your Survey Earnings
Want to level up your hustle? Try these:
- Sign Up for Multiple Sites: Join 2–3 platforms to get more survey options.
- Be Honest: Don’t lie on surveys to qualify—you’ll get banned.
- Check Daily: New surveys drop all the time. Set a reminder!
- Use the Apps: Most sites have mobile apps for surveys on the go.
These tricks helped me double my earnings in a month. What’s your game plan? Share in the comments!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t fall for these traps:
- Chasing High-Pay Promises: Surveys claiming $350 payouts are usually scams.
- Ignoring Terms: Read the fine print to avoid account bans.
- Overloading on Sites: Stick to 3–4 trusted platforms to save time.
Conclusion
The best sites to take surveys for money like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Prolific are legit ways for teens to earn extra cash. They’re safe, fit your schedule, and don’t require skills—just your opinions! Start small, stay consistent, and always prioritize safety. Got a favorite site or a cool survey story? Drop it in the comments or share on TikTok with #TeenHustle! For the latest updates on survey sites, check back at zana.website.
FAQ
1. What is the best survey site to earn money?
Swagbucks tops the list for teens. It’s easy to use, pays via PayPal or gift cards, and offers surveys for 13+ with parental consent. You can earn $0.50–$2 per survey, and it’s legit with millions of users. Try it during study breaks!
2. Can you make $1000 a month with surveys?
Earning $1000 a month is tough with surveys alone. Most teens make $20–$50 monthly with 1–2 hours weekly. High payouts ($1000+) often require hours daily and multiple sites, which isn’t realistic for most. Focus on consistent small wins!
3. Do surveys really pay $350?
Surveys claiming $350 payouts are usually scams. Legit sites like Prolific or Survey Junkie pay $0.50–$5 per survey. Always check reviews on Reddit or Trustpilot before signing up to avoid shady platforms promising big bucks.
4. Can you make $500 a month with surveys?
Making $500 a month is possible but tough. It requires 20–30 hours weekly across multiple sites like Swagbucks and Branded Surveys. Teens typically earn $50–$100 monthly with less time. Combine surveys with other hustles for better results.
5. Are instant cash survey sites legit?
Yes, sites like InboxDollars and Pinecone Research offer near-instant cash payouts via PayPal. They’re legit but require parental consent for teens under 16. Always verify the site’s reputation before sharing info. Stick to trusted platforms!
