Best Short Survey Apps for Extra Spending Money (2026 Guide)

If you’re looking for an easy way to earn a little extra spending money in your spare time, short survey apps can be a convenient option. These apps are designed for people who don’t have time for long surveys but still want to share their opinions when it fits into their day.

In this guide, I’m breaking down five of the best short survey apps how they work, and what you can realistically expect to earn. These won’t replace a full-time income, but they can be a flexible way to earn small rewards during downtime.

What Are Short Survey Apps?

Short survey apps are mobile or web platforms that reward users for answering brief surveys, typically ranging from 1 to 10 questions. Most surveys take just a few minutes and are matched to users based on their profile, location, and interests.

Rewards vary by platform and may include:

• PayPal cash

• Gift cards

• App-specific credits

While these apps won’t make you rich, they can be a simple way to potentially earn extra spending money during breaks, commutes, or while waiting in line. Earnings are not guaranteed, and results vary for each person.

1. Google Opinion Rewards

What It Is

Google Opinion Rewards is Google’s official survey app and one of the most well-known short survey apps available. It sends quick surveys directly to your phone.

How It Works

• Surveys arrive via push notification

• Most surveys take under one minute

• Users typically have up to 24 hours to respond

• Some users may unlock receipt upload opportunities for additional rewards

Earnings

• Surveys usually pay between $0.10 and $0.48, depending on length and topic

• Android users earn Google Play credits

• iOS users receive PayPal cash after reaching a $2 minimum payout

• I've personally made around $80 from this app so far.

2. 1Q

What It Is

1Q is a survey app built around short, quick questions. While it’s known for one-question surveys, some surveys may include more than one question.

How It Works

• Surveys are sent via app notifications or text messages

• Users answer short surveys when they’re available

• Completed surveys are paid out to PayPal shortly after completion

• Enabling location services may increase survey availability

• You occassionally may get 3rd party survey opportunities too.

Earnings

• Surveys commonly pay between $0.25 and $1.25

• Some longer surveys may pay more

• No minimum payout threshold

• I've made $53 on this app so far.

Important: Surveys can expire quickly, sometimes within minutes, so notifications are key.

3. OnePulse

What It Is

OnePulse offers short “pulse” surveys that brands use to gather quick consumer feedback.

How It Works

• Surveys are typically 3–4 questions long

• There are both paid and unpaid surveys

• Users earn XP for completing surveys

• Higher XP levels can unlock higher-paying surveys over time

  
  

Earnings

• Users start at a lower payout per survey for example I started out at .07 per survey but can work my way up to $.40 per survey.

• Earnings can increase with consistent activity

• Cash-out is available once users reach $20

• PayPal withdrawals are available every 30 days

• Use my code MFN8PV to sign up for OnePulse

  
  

4. SurveyMonkey Rewards

What It Is

SurveyMonkey Rewards is the consumer-facing rewards app from SurveyMonkey, a well-established survey platform.

How It Works

• Users create a profile for better survey matching

• Surveys are typically 3–5 minutes long

• Survey availability depends on profile fit

Earnings

• Surveys usually pay between $0.25 and $0.75

• Cash-out is available after reaching $5

• Rewards include gift cards or charitable donations (PayPal is not offered)

5. Eureka Surveys

What It Is

Eureka Surveys is available on both mobile and web and offers more than just traditional surveys.

How It Works

• Users complete a profile to improve matching

• Earning opportunities may include:

  • Short surveys

  • Daily check-ins and polls

  • Watching videos

  • Redeeming offers

  • Playing games

    
    

Earnings

• Minimum cash-out is typically $5

• New users may receive a welcome bonus

• Cash-out options include PayPal, bank transfer, and gift cards

• Use my code A3363D on Eureka Surveys and unlock a short $1 survey just for signing up!

💡 Tips to Get the Most Out of Short Survey Apps

To maximize your time on short survey apps, keep these tips in mind:

• Complete your profile fully for better survey matches

• Turn on notifications so you don’t miss time-sensitive surveys

• Enable location services if you’re comfortable doing so

• Answer honestly to avoid reduced survey opportunities

• Use multiple apps to increase survey availability

Final Thoughts on Short Survey Apps

Short survey apps won’t replace a full-time income, but they can be a flexible and low-effort way to earn extra spending money in your free time. If you already spend time on your phone throughout the day, these apps can be an easy way to make use of that downtime.

As always, earnings vary and are not guaranteed, so it’s best to view these apps as a small supplement- not a primary source of income.

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⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only. While I strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, I cannot guarantee that all information is current, complete, or correct. Always do your own research before engaging in any side hustles. Additionally links above may contain affiliate commissions.