Here’s what a day in the life of John looks like. He sits around in this home all day and manages to make good money through apps to earn gift cards. One time, I see him playing a game, and the other time, he is filling out an online survey.

By doing this, he earns gift cards, which can be redeemed online for a wallet he saw at TJ Maxx or a shirt at Target. 

Let’s discuss some apps that John uses to make money online and the problems associated with each along with a solution to earn a few more bucks – Passively

Top Apps to Earn Gift Cards

Who doesn’t like gift cards? It’s like free money every time you decide to take online surveys, play games (like Candy Crush), or even just watch ads. Interesting, right? 

Let’s explore the top 10 best apps to earn gift cards: 

1. Ibotta

Ibotta was founded in 2012 by Bryan Leach and is a well-known cashback app that offers users rebates for scanning their grocery receipts. 

The company partners with hundreds of major retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Amazon, to provide rebates on everyday items like food, clothing, and electronics. 

Ibotta is designed to reward users for their regular purchases, making it one of the most popular cashback apps in the US.

Where Is the App Available?

Ibotta is available for download on iOS and Android devices. Here’s what users think about Ibotta:

• iOS: 4.7/5 stars
• Play Store: 4.5/5 stars

Is the App Secure?

Ibotta uses bank-level encryption to secure users’ personal and financial data. The app doesn’t sell personal information to third parties, and users have control over how their data is used. 

How Much Can You Earn?

Users can typically expect to earn between $10 to $30 per month, depending on how frequently they use the app. 

Ibotta provides cash-back on a wide variety of items, including groceries, clothing, and online purchases. Individuals who use the app frequently may earn up to $200 a year or more.

2. Mistplay

Mistplay, founded in 2017, is a unique rewards app exclusively for gamers. Designed for Android users, Mistplay allows players to discover new games and earn rewards as they progress. 

With a primary focus on mobile gaming, it offers a rotating selection of games in genres like puzzle, strategy, and adventure. Mistplay also has a loyalty system where users level up and unlock achievements, making the experience more interactive.

Where is Mistplay Available?

Mistplay is available exclusively on Android, Mistplay provides a diverse selection of games. Unfortunately, there is no iOS version, so iPhone users miss out on this platform. Here’s what users think about the app: 

• Google Playstore: 4/5 stars (It’s also reported that the app has frequent glitches).

Is Mistplay Secure?

Mistplay is a safe app; it does not require users to enter sensitive information. It has clear privacy practices, collecting data mainly for tracking gaming activity to reward points fairly.

How Much Can You Earn From Mistplay

Dedicated players can earn between $5 to $20 monthly, depending on game time. While casual users may earn less, frequent players can accumulate enough points to redeem gift cards regularly.

3. Microsoft Rewards

Microsoft Rewards was launched in 2010 as an initiative by Microsoft to incentivize Bing search engine use. Through a simple system of earning points for web searches, completing quizzes, and other small tasks, users are rewarded for their browsing. 

Microsoft Rewards supports a wide range of gift card redemption options, from retailers to charitable donations. With continuous updates and additional ways to earn, Microsoft Rewards has become one of the few web-based rewards programs with guaranteed security standards.

Where is Microsoft Rewards Available?

Microsoft Rewards is accessible on all devices with a browser, including Android, iOS, and PC. Here’s why users think about Microsoft Awards: 

• iOS: 4.4/5 stars
• Android: 4.3/5 stars

Is Microsoft Rewards Secure?

Backed by Microsoft, the app is secure and follows robust data protection measures. User search data is encrypted, and privacy policies are aligned with Microsoft’s standards.

How much can you earn with Microsoft Rewards?

Frequent Bing users can earn around $5 to $10 monthly in gift cards, with committed users potentially making up to $20. It’s a low-effort option for regular web users.

4. AppNana

Note: This is a screenshot taken from a phone browser as the website is not accessible through desktop. 

AppNana offers users rewards for downloading and trying out various apps, taking surveys, and engaging in promotional offers. 

Originally launched as a mobile-focused rewards platform, AppNana now attracts users with low-effort tasks that can be completed in spare time. It is favored among younger audiences for its minimal time requirement and simple points system, known as Nanas. 

Where is AppNana Available?

AppNana is available on Android and iOS. Here’s what users think about AppNana: 

• iOS: 4.1/5 stars 
• Android: 3.9/4 stars

Is AppNana Secure?

AppNana is secure and doesn’t require sensitive personal information. Its data policy is transparent, and it partners with reputable advertisers.

How much can you earn with AppNana?

Users can expect to earn $1 to $5 per week, with more points available if they download multiple apps. Cash-out options start at $5, though frequent users can earn gift cards faster.

5. Google Opinion Rewards

Google Opinion Rewards allows users to earn credits for sharing opinions through brief surveys. The app is part of Google’s market research initiatives, aiming to gather consumer insights in exchange for small cash payments. 

By leveraging Google’s infrastructure, Google Opinion Rewards provides a secure and easy-to-use platform. Surveys are brief, and credits can be redeemed quickly, making it a favorite among users looking for quick rewards without lengthy tasks.

Where is Google Opinion Rewards Available?

Google Opinion Rewards is available on both Android and iOS, making it one of the most accessible survey-based apps. Here is what users think about the app: 

• iOS: 4/5 stars
• Android: 4/5 stars

Is Google Opinion Rewards Secure

As a Google app, it has strict data protection protocols. User data is securely managed, and surveys require only minimal information, focusing on anonymized feedback.

How Much Can You Earn With Google Opinion Rewards

Users can earn $0.10 to $1 per survey, depending on length. With new surveys weekly, regular participants can make around $5 to $10 monthly in Google Play or PayPal credits.

6. Ipsos iSay

Ipsos iSay is the survey platform of Ipsos, a well-known global market research firm founded in 1975. The app collects user feedback on consumer topics and channels it into valuable research for brands. 

Known for consistent survey offerings and regular payouts, Ipsos iSay has earned a reputation for reliability. The platform’s straightforward design allows users to engage without unnecessary steps, focusing entirely on surveys and feedback.

Where is Ipsos iSay Available?

The app is available on Android, iOS, and desktop, enabling users to participate in surveys across all devices. Here’s what users think about Ipsos iSay: 

• iOS: 4.2/5 stars
• Android: 4.1/5 stars

Is Ipsos iSay Secure?

As a reputable research organization, Ipsos uses high security for data management, ensuring that survey responses remain confidential.

How much can you earn with Ipsos iSay?

Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $1.50, and dedicated users can earn about $5 weekly. Points can be redeemed for gift cards or cash with a minimum threshold.

7. Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards, created by Fetch Rewards, Inc. in 2013, allows users to scan receipts and earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards. The app partners with various brands and retailers, making it easy for users to accumulate points for everyday purchases. 

Its straightforward interface and minimal requirements for earning make it a go-to app for many looking to cash in on their grocery shopping.

Where Is the App Available?

Fetch Rewards is available for both Android and iOS devices. Here’s what users think about Fetch Rewards: 

• iOS: 4.8/5 stars
• Play Store: 4.7/5 stars 

Is the Fetch Rewards Secure?

Fetch Rewards is considered secure, with the app using encryption to protect all user data. It also ensures that all shopping data collected is anonymized before being shared with brand partners for research purposes. 

How Much Can You Earn with Fetch Rewards?

On average, users can expect to earn between $10 to $50 per month, depending on how frequently they shop and scan receipts. 

The points system allows users to accumulate rewards faster if they purchase products from partner brands, making it easier to cash out.

8. MyPoints

MyPoints has been in the rewards industry for over 25 years, established in 1996, and offers users multiple earning methods, from surveys to cashback shopping. The platform is recognized for its extensive list of gift card options, covering over 50 popular brands and even PayPal cash. 

MyPoints has maintained high standards for user privacy and data protection. It offers a broad range of activities that are easy to complete, making it suitable for users of all ages. 

Where is MyPoints Available?

MyPoints is accessible on Android, iOS, and desktop. Here’s what users think about MyPoints: 

• iOS: 4.3/5 stars
• Android: 4/5 stars

Is MyPoints Secure?

MyPoints is a secure app with robust privacy practices that ensure that users can redeem gift cards without having to worry about their personal information being sold to third parties. 

How Much Can You Earn With MyPoints?

Earnings can range from $10 to $30 monthly, depending on the user’s level of activity and completion rate of tasks. MyPoints also rewards new members with a $10 welcome bonus, enhancing its appeal to new users interested in flexible earning.

9. InboxDollars

InboxDollars, founded in 2000 by Cotter Cunningham, offers users the chance to earn money by completing a variety of tasks, such as watching videos, taking surveys, shopping online, and reading emails. 

It’s one of the oldest money-earning apps, and its longevity adds a layer of credibility. The app is geared toward users who have time to spend completing smaller tasks in exchange for cash.

Where Is InboxDollars Available?

InboxDollars is available on Android and iOS devices. Here’s what users think about InboxDollars:

• iOS: 4.5/5 stars
• Play Store: 4.1/5 stars

Is the InboxDollars Secure?

InboxDollars is a secure app that uses encryption to protect personal information. It doesn’t require users to provide sensitive financial information, and payments are made securely through options like PayPal or gift cards.

How Much Can You Earn with InboxDollars?

Earnings on InboxDollars are modest, with most users making between $0.50 to $5.00 per task. Frequent users can expect to earn between $30 and $50 per month. 

High earners who are active on the platform could potentially make up to $300 annually, but the process can be slow, and many tasks pay less than $1.

Problems with Apps to Earn Gift Cards

All the above apps to earn gift cards have one problem or the other. These apps need constant interaction like you have to play games continuously to earn rewards. The rewards are just enough for a gift card and nothing more. 

There’s also the issue of some apps only working with specific retailers such as TJ Max or Walmart. What if you don’t want to shop from there? Well, you’ll have to as the scan and earn money apps aren’t flexible when it comes to redeeming your points. 

If these apps continue to run in the background it drains your battery by displaying unsolicited ads. This means that you would have to carry a power bank with you just to earn a few extra bucks per month. 

NOT WORTH IT!!

Which App Did I Recommend to John?

I recommended the Passive app to John. Through this app,  he can earn money without filling out surveys or playing boring games, just for a few points. The app would allow him to earn money by simply sharing your internet. 

John can earn cash, cryptocurrencies, or gift cards by sharing their extra internet bandwidth. Every day, Passive App pays its community and keeps its promise to help users earn real passive income.

Where Is Passive App Available?

Passive App is available to download on Android, iOS, and PC. 

Is the Passive App Secure?

Yes, Passive app is secure. It is trusted for safe use by the following:

• Avast
• Kaspersky
• McAfee
• Microsoft Defender

How Much Can You Earn with Passive App?

Once you start sharing your internet, you can get paid up to $50/month. This is way more than what you would potentially earn from scanning apps per year. 

Here are some factors that influence the way you can earn: 

• Location
• Amount of Residential IPs
• Internet Connection

Conclusion

As soon as John heard that he could be lazy and earn twice as much with PassiveApp. The next time I visited him, I saw the app downloaded on his phone. 

His internet is running in the background, while he’s watching a movie. Moreover, the app is secure and your data is safe and won’t be shared with third-party apps. 

Since I referred John to the app, I got 10% of all his earnings, which means I can go shopping for a new shirt now. All without lifting a finger, or putting in the work.