If you’ve been looking for ways to make money online but don’t have a lot of time or specific skills, then micro-tasking might be the perfect option for you. Micro-task websites let you earn money by completing small, simple tasks that can take just a few minutes of your time. These tasks might involve things like data entry, categorizing images, completing surveys, or even transcribing short audio clips.
The best part? You can do these tasks anytime, anywhere all you need is an internet connection and a little bit of patience. In this post, I’ll introduce you to 10 micro-task websites that will pay you real cash for your efforts. Ready to earn some side income without breaking a sweat? Let’s dive in!
Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk)
Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (or MTurk) is one of the most well-known platforms for micro-tasks. It connects businesses with workers to complete simple tasks that require human intelligence. These tasks, called HITs (Human Intelligence Tasks), include everything from data validation to basic research.
How It Works
You can pick from a wide variety of tasks, each paying a small amount of money. Some tasks take seconds, others may take a few minutes. Once completed, your work is reviewed, and then you’re paid.
Payout: MTurk offers payment either through Amazon gift cards or direct deposit.
Pro Tip: Look for tasks with good pay-to-time ratios. Some tasks pay more for less effort, so it’s all about finding the right ones to maximize your earnings.
Clickworker
Clickworker is another excellent platform that lets you earn money from micro-tasks. It offers tasks like categorizing images, writing small articles, answering surveys, and transcribing audio.
How It Works
Once you sign up and fill out your profile, Clickworker will offer you tasks that match your skills and interests. You can complete tasks at your own pace and choose from a wide variety.
Payout: Payment is made via PayPal or direct bank transfer, usually on a weekly basis.
Pro Tip: Complete the qualification tests to access higher-paying tasks. The more tasks you successfully complete, the better your task offers will become over time.
Swagbucks
While Swagbucks is mainly known for rewarding users with points for completing surveys, shopping online, and watching videos, it also offers micro-tasks that pay in cash.
How It Works
Complete tasks like answering surveys, testing websites, or watching sponsored content. Swagbucks rewards you with SB points, which can be converted into PayPal cash or gift cards.
Payout: Cash out as soon as you earn $5 worth of SB points (around 500 SBs).
Pro Tip: Take advantage of the daily task list and bonuses to increase your earnings. The more tasks you complete daily, the faster you’ll earn.
Microworkers
Microworkers is a platform similar to MTurk, but with a more diverse range of tasks. Tasks range from signing up for websites, liking social media posts, categorizing data, or filling out surveys.
How It Works
After signing up, browse through a wide variety of tasks, each with a different payout. The tasks are straightforward and usually take just a few minutes to complete.
Payout: Payment is processed via PayPal, Skrill, or Dwolla after you reach the $9 minimum payout.
Pro Tip: Be selective about the tasks you pick, as some may take longer than others for the same pay. Also, make sure to maintain a high success rate to keep receiving more tasks.
RapidWorkers
RapidWorkers is perfect if you’re looking for very simple tasks with fast payouts. Tasks range from writing short reviews, completing surveys, and testing websites to sharing content on social media.
How It Works
Choose from a list of available tasks, complete them, and submit proof of completion. Once the task is reviewed, you’ll be paid.
Payout: Payment is made via PayPal, and the minimum payout threshold is $8.
Pro Tip: Always provide accurate and timely work because employers rate you based on your performance. A higher rating means more tasks and better pay.
Appen
Appen is one of the top micro-tasking platforms, particularly for tasks related to AI training. You can earn money by labeling data, categorizing information, or even transcribing audio.
How It Works
Sign up, complete your profile, and apply for available projects. Appen offers both short-term tasks and long-term projects that can be done from home.
Payout: Payment is usually made monthly via PayPal or direct deposit.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for longer-term projects that require more commitment but offer better pay. These can add up to a more significant side income.
TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is unique in that it offers both online and in-person tasks. It connects people with local jobs like assembling furniture, helping with moving, or even cleaning. For digital tasks, you’ll find gigs like virtual assistance, data entry, or research.
How It Works
After signing up, you’ll be able to browse both online and offline tasks. Choose the ones that suit your skills, set your rate, and complete the job for payment.
Payout: TaskRabbit payments are made directly to your bank account once the task is completed.
Pro Tip: If you’re comfortable doing physical tasks in your local area, consider those for higher pay. But if you prefer sticking to digital tasks, you can still make decent money.
Lionbridge AI
Lionbridge specializes in micro-tasks related to AI training. Tasks can range from annotating data to testing AI algorithms. This platform offers more technical micro-tasks compared to others, but the pay is often higher.
How It Works
After completing a skills assessment, you’ll gain access to tasks that match your expertise. Most tasks are AI training jobs, which can be done remotely.
Payout: Payment is usually processed via PayPal, depending on the project.
Pro Tip: If you have a knack for tech and enjoy working on tasks related to AI and data, Lionbridge can offer more consistent and higher-paying opportunities than other micro-task platforms.
TimeBucks
TimeBucks is a site that offers various ways to earn money, including micro-tasks, watching videos, posting on social media, and even using its own search engine.
How It Works
After signing up, you’ll have access to a wide range of tasks, from simple data entry to more involved tasks like referral programs. You get paid in cash, not points.
Payout: The minimum payout is $10, and payments are made through PayPal, Skrill, or Payeer.
Pro Tip: TimeBucks offers daily bonuses for active users, so make sure to log in regularly and complete tasks to boost your earnings.
Conclusion
There you have it—10 legit micro-task websites that pay you for simple online tasks. Whether you have a few minutes between classes, during your lunch break, or just want to earn some extra cash on weekends, these platforms offer a flexible and easy way to make money. While none of these sites will make you rich overnight, they can certainly help pad your wallet over time. The best part is that most of these tasks require little to no skill, making them accessible to almost anyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a couple of sites from this list, sign up, and start earning extra income by completing simple tasks today!
