I was always told that there’s no such thing as free money. But in fact, there are plenty of mobile apps and websites where you can earn cash (or vouchers) with very little effort. Check out how UK residents can make over £500 with these free money offers. It’s a long list, but there are lots of opportunities, so it’s certainly worth going through.
Some of the best free money UK methods below:
- Sprive – £5 for mortgage holders
- Monzo – £5 for opening an account
- Kroo – £10 for new customers
- Snoop – £5 Amazon voucher
- Wealthify – £50 for investing
- Stake – free share worth up to $180
- MobileXpression – earn £10 in 2 weeks by installing this app onto your phone
- Octopus Energy – switch your energy supply to Octopus for £50 worth of credit
- Gener8 Ads – installed onto your computer, earn money when you see ads
- TopCashback – £10 back when new customers spend £10
How to make money online
If you’re a social media user, you’ve probably seen lots of promises of making a fortune or ways to find free cash. And all you have to do is send a complete stranger some money just to get you started. Well, avoid! There are plenty of schemes out there set up just to rip you off.
All of the offers below are from major companies that are trying to attract your custom. Some of them just require you to open a free account and there’s no need for you to open your wallet or purse.
The rest of the offers will require you to spend a small amount, usually between £1 and £10, but the money you get back will certainly outweigh the cost and can come with bigger rewards.
And don’t forget, with many of the great offers below, you’ll receive your own referral link. That means you can share with friends and family and earn extra cash.
Why not take a look at my post for ways to make free PayPal money?
I need £10 now!
If you’re in a rush, take a look at two survey sites – Branded Surveys and Qmee. After an hour or two, you should easily reach your target and withdraw £10 straight into your PayPal account. You’ll also get a bonus for joining both of these sites.
How to make free money in the UK
So, let’s get started with the best genuine ways to make free cash in the UK.
Sprive – £5
This clever app uses AI to help mortgage holders calculate how much extra they can pay off their mortgage each month. It also offers some great cashback deals at certain stores. Best of all, it’s free to use.
Use the code INRWFKGS when you join and you’ll get a £5 bonus towards your mortgage.
Want to make some extra money?
Take a look at the best refer-a-friend schemes in the UK.
Monzo – £5
For years, high street banks seem to have taken advantage of loyal customers and offered us little back in return. But new digital banks are here and offering us far more. Monzo will give you great rates when you spend abroad, has some great features for managing your money and will even allow you to get paid a day early.
Plus, you’ll get a £5 bonus if you open an account and spend using your card within 30 days.
Kroo – £10
This is another digital bank that has taken the market by storm. Not only will Kroo give you a competitive rate when spending abroad, but they’re also one of the most generous for paying interest on your current account balance (over 4%).
And, they will give you £10 once you open an account and spend on your card.
Snoop – £5 (amazon voucher)
Ok, so this isn’t cash, but it’s an easy voucher. Snoop is a budgeting app that gives you insights into your spending. It’s completely free to use.
For your free £5 Amazon voucher, click on the button below, create a Snoop account and link a bank account and you’ll receive your bonus within 28 days.
Picodi – £4
This is a new cashback site in the UK and works in a similar way to most of its competitors – simply click on a link before you shop and earn some money back. And because it’s new, they’re offering a £4 bonus when you join.
Wealthify – £50
An investment company with a generous joining bonus. Open an account with Wealthify, invest at least £250 and keep that invested for three months. At the end of that period, you’ll receive a £50 bonus. Simple. Full terms and conditions.
Also worth reading
Find out other ways to get your hands on some free Amazon vouchers.
Stake – possible $180
How would you like to own a share in a large company like Nike? Well, there are companies out there giving away free stocks to attract new customers.
All you have to do to get your free share (worth a possible $180) is to open an account with Stake and fund it with £50 (with a $2 fee). You’ll be given your free share in either Nike, GoPro or Dropbox.
And the best thing is, you don’t even need to invest your £50. And once you have your share, you’ll earn dividend payments from it. Your own passive income!
£50 from Octopus Energy
Many of us pay far too much for energy, mainly due to the fact that we don’t shop around. But switching your gas and electricity supplier is very simple and takes no more than 15 minutes. Switching to Octopus Energy saved me almost £200 per year in energy costs, plus I got an extra £50 credit to my account.
If you join Octopus using my link, you too will get a £50 credit, plus, you can earn £50 extra for every friend that you refer.
Software for your computer and phone
How would you like to earn a bit of free money just by letting a programme run in the background of your phone or computer? It shouldn’t interfere with your device usage and is easy money.
MobileXpression – £10 and more
Monitoring people’s internet use gives companies invaluable insights and gives a good indicator of what users enjoy, dislike or just hate. MobileXpression is an app you can download to your phone (iPhone or Android) that will do just that. The information collected is then sold on to marketing companies.
You may be slightly concerned about your privacy, but MobileXpression claims that it never has access to your personal files (such as videos, photos, messages and emails) and that the information they pass on is not personally identifiable.
In the first 2 weeks, you can earn £10 for having the app installed. Occasionally, new users can earn £20, but this depends if there are any offers available. After that, you’ll earn £5 per month, which isn’t quite so impressive. You’re free to leave at any time though.
Sweatcoin – ongoing
Did you know that you can get paid to walk? Download this app to your phone and you’ll be paid Sweatcoins every time you take a step. And when you have earned enough steps, you can trade them for discounts or enter auctions to win prizes and gift cards.
Honeygain – ongoing
We are now at the point where the vast majority of us have broadband or fibre running in our homes. And many people don’t use it to its full advantage which means a lot of bandwidth goes unused. But what if there was a way you could share this and get paid for your troubles too?
This is where Honeygain steps in. Just download it onto one of your devices, either Windows, Android or macOS and the software goes to work. Each day you will earn credits, which can then be converted into $. You can also earn $5 just for signing up.
Honeygain hasn’t been a big earner for me, although this may be partly due to the fact that my internet connection is fairly slow and constantly in use by my family.
Gener8 Ads – ongoing
Like them or not, ads are everywhere. Often, they’re a necessary evil and I have even installed them onto my site so I can pay for hosting and security.
But what if I told you that you could be the one that earns from seeing ads? Gener8 works by taking your details and interests and then showing you ads from companies they think you may be interested in. Then, the company pays Gener8, who then passes on the rewards to you.
You will need to install the Gener8 Ads software onto your computer. Then, for every ad that you see, you will earn tokens. These tokens can then be exchanged for all kinds of rewards, including gift cards, electronics and clothing.
In total, I earn £5 – £10 per month. However, heavy internet users/browsers can earn more. The only real issue I have with Gener8 Ads is that their rewards are only available in limited numbers. They become available at set times and are given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Free stocks and shares
Trading in stocks and shares has become big business over the last few years. And to tempt new customers, many of the stock apps will offer you a free share to join. And this can be as much as £200. You can take a look at my review of the best free stocks and shares apps and how to claim here.
What I like most about stocks and shares is the fact they can earn you a passive income. Most companies will give shareholders a share of their profits every year, so the more shares you hold, the more money you make.
All of the below are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Please remember that when you invest, your capital is at risk.
Wealthyhood – possible £200
This is an investment app ideal for beginners and allows you to build your own portfolio. Once you’ve opened an account, deposited and invested £50, within ten days, you’ll be credited with an ETF worth up to £200.
Up to $175 from Robinhood
Another investment app that offers a generous sign-up bonus to new users. To get a free share worth up to $175, click on the button below and create an account. Verify your ID (should take a couple of minutes) and deposit £1. You’ll then be given a free share which will be worth between $7 and $175.
You can sell your investment immediately, however, you cannot withdraw the cash to your bank for 30 days.
Survey sites… free money in seconds
One of the best ways if you live in the UK to make free money is by completing online surveys. If you search for my income reports, you can see that I regularly make £500+ per month from these alone. The issue is, finding the best-paying sites, whilst avoiding scams. Fortunately, I’ve listed some of my trusted sites. And in some cases, sites like Qmee and AttaPoll give you a bonus as soon as you join. That’s free money in seconds!
Opinion Bureau – £5 sign up bonus
Opinion Bureau is a survey site with one of the most generous joining bonuses around. And not only do you get £5 when you sign up, but you’ll also get another £1 for completing your profile. And with only a minimum cashout of £10, you’re almost there.
Branded Surveys – $1 for joining
Branded Surveys is another survey site great for newcomers. This site has far more surveys compared to Panelbase and has a great loyalty scheme to help you earn more. Plus, you compete with other survey takers to win cash rewards.
Although the site rewards you in dollars, money is paid straight into your PayPal account and can be withdrawn in gift cards too.
Qmee – 50 pence
A great survey site that you can use from your phone or your computer. You can earn money when you search the internet and get paid to complete a quick quiz daily. Use the link below and you’ll get 50 pence for joining.
VYPR – 2,000 points
Another way to make some money with very little effort. VYPR wants to know your opinion and feelings on certain products… just choose the one you prefer. For each choice you make, you are given points. Once you hit 10,000, you can withdraw £5 straight into your PayPal account. Very easy to do and available for both Android and Apple devices. You get 2,000 points just for joining.
Cashback.co.uk – £5
This is a slightly different way to make money compared to the above. With cashback.co.uk, you complete various tasks that pay you varying amounts, and when you reach 15, you can withdraw your earnings. Tasks include:
- Taking out free trials
- Signing up for paid subscriptions
- Joining bingo/gambling/lottery sites
You don’t have to spend money with this site, but you will get through it much quicker if you do. How much you earn depends on the offers, but you should be able to pick up £40-£50 quite quickly.
Use the button below to get a £5 bonus when you join.
OhMyDosh – £1
OhMyDosh works in a very similar way to 20 Cogs (they are actually owned by the same company). The main difference is that you don’t have to complete so many offers before you withdraw your money.
BeMyEye – £1
Again, not really a survey app – although you will need to answer questions. This is a mystery shopping app that requires you to complete small tasks in shops. For giving your opinion, you’re rewarded with cash.
Use the code wvq9p3 when you join up for a £1 reward.
Skedadle – £1.50
This app encourages sustainable living. Open Skedadle and play games whilst you travel by public transport, car-sharing or walking and you’ll earn money. Plus, new users get £1.50 just for joining.
Free money apps – scanning your receipts
Another great free money-maker for UK residents. Similar to the interest with regards to your internet habits, companies are also keen to know what you spend your money on. And there’s no better way to track your purchases than through photos of your receipts.
There are plenty of apps available, and below are some of the best for you to consider. And remember, you can submit the same receipt to different apps.
Storewards – ongoing
Storewards was introduced in 2020 after Receipt Hog was withdrawn in the UK. Simple to use, just download it to your Apple or Android device. Then, when you have a receipt, take a photo and you’ll earn coins. You can then exchange these coins for Amazon vouchers or cash through PayPal.
You can also earn extra points by referring friends, logging in each day and moving up levels as you snap more receipts.
Use the code 2ia03 when you join for a points bonus.
Shoppix – ongoing
This receipt app works in a similar way to Storewards. However, an added benefit is that you can earn points from sending your e-receipts from retailers such as Amazon. You will also receive points for completing short surveys which will earn you scratchcards. Scratchcards can earn you a potential bonus of up to 50 points… and sometimes, nothing.
When you have enough points, they can be exchanged for Amazon, iTunes or Love2Shop vouchers or PayPal.
Use the promo code 7IRN5UVK when you join for bonus points.
SnapMyEats – ongoing
This receipt app works slightly differently, as SnapMyEats is only interested in food. Each time you purchase a meal or any kind of food, just take a photo through the SnapMyEats app. When you take 5 photos, you’ll earn £1 with a maximum of £5 per month.
Rewards can be exchanged for vouchers at Amazon, Caffè Nero, Great British Pub, Harvester, iTunes UK, M&S and Pizza Express.
There is one issue with this app though. You can only take and submit one photo, which means it’s no good for double-sided or long receipts.
Shopmium – ongoing
This is slightly different from the apps above. Shopmium provides you with a range of discounts for specific products at the main supermarkets in the UK. Once you’ve installed the app, just select your supermarket of choice and see what offers are available. Sometimes, this can be just 20 pence off, other times, you can get free products!
Once you’ve made your purchase, you need to photograph your receipt and scan the barcode. Within a couple of days, your cashback should be confirmed and will be paid straight into your bank account.
There is also a referral scheme on offer, which will earn you £3 when a friend joins. Plus, they will get a free product.
If you fancy joining, then use the promo code AMUAFFUR for a free gift (currently a pack of Pringles).
Cashback
I hope that, by now, you’re fully aware of the benefits of cashback sites. It’s a very simple process and can earn you £100’s each year just by clicking on a link before you shop.
JamDoughnut – £2 and ongoing
JamDoughnut gives you money off at over 140 stores. All you need to do is purchase a gift card for your chosen retailer and cashback is paid into your JamDoughnut account. You can then withdraw your earnings straight into your bank.
If you want to try it out, follow the link below and use the code O8ZG. You’ll get 200 (£2) after you make your first purchase.
TopCashback – £10 and ongoing
Probably my favourite of all the cashback sites, generally because it pays the most. The only issue is, remembering to use it. And if you find that you’re a little forgetful, you can even install an extension to your browser to remind you when cashback is available. Refer your friends to TopCashback and you can earn yourself an extra bonus.
You can withdraw your earnings straight into your bank account or in vouchers which will earn you a bonus. In total, I have earned over £3,200 from this site alone.
Click on the button below and new customers will get a £10 bonus when they spend £10 or more.
Quidco – £1 and ongoing
Quidco works in exactly the same way as TopCashback. Although I find rates can be a little lower, you will sometimes find special offers making it a better option compared to TopCashback. That’s why I recommend that people join both sites and check the cashback rates on offer before making a purchase. Quidco also has a referral programme, allowing you to earn more.
Click on the button below and you’ll earn a bonus £1 when you earn £5 or more in cashback.
Airtime Rewards – ongoing
This is probably the easiest of the cashback options because once you’ve set it up, you can forget about it. Download the Airtime Rewards app to your phone and link your credit and/or debit cards. When you make a purchase through one of the listed retailers, cashback is automatically added to your account.
The money takes around six weeks to clear and then you can withdraw. The only drawback? Your earnings can only be used towards your mobile phone bill. And although nearly all the major phone companies are listed, a couple is missing. Typically, I am with Sky Mobile and I can’t use Airtime Rewards with them. Instead, I have to pay off my wife’s phone bill. Disappointing.
The stores that you can earn from change, but some that are usually included:
- Argos
- Boots
- Clarks
- Groupon
- Halfords
- Primark
- Wilko
After you become a member, you can also share your referral code with friends and earn extra. You get 50 pence for every person you recommend and an extra £1 if they spend within the first seven days.
Use the code 8YXY4BLK when you join for an extra 50 pence.
Which is the best way to get free money in the UK?
The good news is, that there are plenty of easy ways to make free cash.
My favourite has to be Octopus. As long as the tariff you switch to is cheaper, you’ll earn £50 in a matter of minutes. I also like Curve and Monzo as they help manage your money and give you £5 for joining.
For the longer term, look towards receipt scanning and surveys. You won’t earn life-changing amounts but should easily earn enough to pay for Christmas each year.
If you’re looking for something more long-term, why not take a look at the best side hustles or ways to make money online?
When you should be careful of free money
As I said at the top of this post, you always have to keep an eye out for scams when it comes to the promise of free money. A few things to look out for:
- People holding lots of cash in a photo
- People standing next to flash cars
- Somebody stood in a luxury hotel or villa
- A promise that you can make £1000’s from home each week with little effort
These kinds of things are there to grab your attention and draw you in. If life really was that easy, we would all be doing it. The only reason somebody is telling you that is because they hope to make money from you.