Let’s be real: No one is quitting their job to take surveys. But if you’re looking for quick, low-effort cash for gas, groceries, or your latest late-night Etsy splurge, survey sites that pay via PayPal can help.
As someone who’s worked in the survey industry for nearly a decade (shoutout to my InboxDollars and Swagbucks days), I know which platforms pay reliably — and which ones waste your time.
So, if you want to earn real cash (not just points you’ll never use), here’s the rundown on 15 survey sites that actually pay you via PayPal and other gift card rewards.
Related: Top 10 Survey Myths Exposed. From data-stealing to how disqualifiactions really work, Stacy answers the common myths people have about survey sites. Get your fake surveys new straight. Read more.
How online surveys pay you in PayPal cash
Online surveys exist because companies need consumer opinions to shape their products, services, and ads. And they’re willing to pay for your thoughts.
Here’s how it works:
✅ You complete surveys (or sometimes watch ads, test products, or review websites).
✅ You earn points or cash for each survey you finish.
✅ You redeem earnings for PayPal cash or sometimes direct deposits or gift cards.
🚀 Want to get paid faster? Look for sites with:
– Low payout thresholds so you’re not waiting forever to cash out.
– Quick rewards redemptions; some sites pay out immediately, while others take several days.
– Multiple earning options for when you get bored with surveys and want to change things up.
15 Best survey sites that pay you in PayPal cash
1. Swagbucks
💵 Earnings: $0.25–$10 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $3
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards, prepaid credit cards
2. InboxDollars
💵 Earnings: $0.50–$5 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $5
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards, prepaid Mastercards
3. Branded Surveys (formerly MintVine)
💵 Earnings: $0.50 to $5 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: 500 points or $5
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, direct deposit, gift cards
4. Survey Junkie
💵 Earnings: $0.50–$3 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $5
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, e-gift cards
5. Pinecone Research
💵 Earnings: $3 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $3
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, prepaid Visa, gift cards
👉 Check out Pinecone Research
6. MyPoints
💵 Earnings: $0.15 – $4.00 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: ~ 800 points (roughly $5)
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, gift cards
7. Toluna Influencers
💵 Earnings: 15 to 50,000 points per survey ($0.01 to $33)
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: 30,000 points (~ $10)
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, gift cards, Toluna sweepstakes
8. Qmee
💵 Earnings: $0.10–$1 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: None
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, gift cards
9. PrizeRebel
💵 Earnings: $0.50–$5 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $5
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, gift cards, direct deposits
10. Opinion Outpost
💵 Earnings: $0.50–$5 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $10
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards
11. SurveySavvy
💵 Earnings: $1–$10 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $1
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, checks
12. YouGov
💵 Earnings: $1–$5 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $15
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, gift cards
13. LifePoints
💵 Earnings: $0.50–$3 per survey
💰 Minimum to Cash Out: $5
🎁 Rewards: PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards
How to maximize your PayPal survey earnings
Surveys aren’t a get-rich-quick scheme. But if you accept they aren’t a cure-all to your major financial woes, and you want to bring in a little cash, here are some smart strategies to up your earnings:
- Sign up for multiple survey sites. This increases your daily earning opportunities.
- Complete profile survey and daily polls — when available. This helps you qualify for higher-paying surveys.
- Look for high-value surveys. Some platforms pay $5–$10+ for special studies.
- But the low-paying, low-hanging fruit pays off! Go for those low-paying surveys, too; they’re often easier to get into because other survey takers chase the big ones.
- Refer friends. Claim bonuses and rewards for your referrals.
FAQs about taking surveys for PayPal cash
How fast can I cash out on PayPal?
Some sites (like Qmee & SurveySavvy) offer instant payouts. Others take 1–3 business days to process PayPal transfers.
Can I take surveys worldwide?
While many sites are U.S.-only, but Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and MyPoints accept users from multiple countries. Users age 13 or older can join Swagbucks, although a parent or guardian must accept the terms and conditions on their child’s behalf.
Are survey sites legit?
Yes, the ones featured in our article are legit. But there are some less-than-legit survey sites, too. Avoid sites that charge a fee to join. Legitimate survey platforms never ask you to pay.
When evaluating a survey app, look for member reviews that span several months or years (not a dump of fake reviews coming in over a couple of days). It’s also a good idea to look for social media profiles and app-store listings.
What’s the fastest way to reach the payout minimum?
Swagbucks, MyPoints, and InboxDollars have low minimums (around $3) and multiple earning methods.
The fastest way to reach your first $3 is by completing all the free, new-member activities, such as completing your member profile survey, watching any welcome videos, and completing special new-member tasks.
Final thoughts on piling up the PayPal cash for online surveys
💡 Surveys won’t make you rich, but surveys are worth it if you want a solid way to earn extra cash in your downtime.
If you want to make significant money doing surveys, several thousand dollars or more, it can be done if you put in time and effort.
For total beginners who are survey-skpetical, start with Swagbucks or Survey Junkie.
But if you want a faster way to build wealth, check out James’ top tips. As a self-made millionaire, multi-business owner, and all-around nice guy, he’s got some great “real person” insights on how to make real money. Read more.
