Before I learned where to look and what to focus on online, I often felt frustrated by the low payouts of surveys and research studies. Many of you may relate to this experience. This article is here to change that by introducing you to six legitimate platforms where you can earn as much as $700 per hour through surveys and research studies. Whether you’re a professional or someone seeking a side income, these platforms offer real opportunities—but only if you’re ready to put in the effort. If you’re not, you might be better off sticking with low-paying surveys. But if you’re serious about making significant income, read on.
1. Respondent
Respondent is one of the top platforms for high-paying research studies. Here’s why:
- Earning Potential: Respondent offers jobs that pay between $50 and $700 per hour, depending on your profile and the study requirements. It also has a referral program where you earn $19 for every person who completes a study using your link.
- How to Start: Sign up on Respondent’s website.
- Tips for Success: To maximize your chances of landing high-paying studies, create a detailed profile that mirrors your professional resume. Using LinkedIn to sign up can streamline this process.
- Payment Method: Payments are made via PayPal.
- Legitimacy: Trusted by major companies and universities, Respondent’s reputation speaks for itself.
Be prepared to apply to multiple studies, as competition can be fierce. Think of it like a job application process—you’ll likely need to apply for 5–20 studies to secure a few.
2. User Interviews
User Interviews connects participants with studies paying $50 to $200 per hour.
- Getting Started: Visit userinterviews.com to fill out your profile and apply for relevant studies.
- Payment Options: Payments are made via PayPal or Amazon gift cards.
- Tips for Success: Regularly check for study openings and provide accurate demographic details to qualify for targeted research opportunities.
- Legitimacy: This platform is well-regarded and widely used by leading brands and researchers.
3. FocusGroup.com
FocusGroup.com offers up to $200 per study and is an excellent choice for both online and in-person research opportunities.
- How to Begin: Register on focusgroup.com, create a detailed profile, and apply for studies.
- Payment Methods: Payments are made via prepaid Visa cards or checks.
- Legitimacy: Operated by a reputable market research company, it’s known for its credibility and reliability.
- Note: Earnings may vary based on your location and the market the platform targets.
4. Prolific
Prolific specializes in academic surveys and offers an average earning potential of $14 per hour.
- Sign-Up Process: Go to prolific.com and complete demographic questionnaires to increase your chances of being matched with studies.
- Payment Method: Payments are processed through PayPal.
- Tips for Success: Regularly log in to catch studies early, as opportunities can be highly competitive.
- Legitimacy: Prolific is widely respected in academic research, making it a trustworthy platform.
5. DScout
DScout pays participants for completing missions, with some earning up to $100 per mission.
- Getting Started: Download the DScout app or visit dscout.com. Create a profile and apply for missions.
- Payment Method: Payments are made via PayPal.
- Tips for Success: Provide detailed and thoughtful responses in missions to increase your chances of qualifying for high-paying studies.
- Legitimacy: Known for qualitative research, DScout frequently collaborates with reputable brands.
6. UserTesting
UserTesting allows participants to earn about $10 for 20-minute tests, with live interviews offering even higher payouts.
- How to Start: Register at usertesting.com and complete a sample test to qualify for paid opportunities.
- Payment Method: Payments are made via PayPal.
- Tips for Success: Respond quickly to test invitations and ensure a quiet testing environment to maximize your earnings.
- Legitimacy: This platform is trusted by many for its consistent payment system and quality research opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Earning money through online surveys and research studies is possible if you’re strategic and persistent. Start by choosing the platform that best fits your profile and earning goals. Whether it’s Respondent, User Interviews, FocusGroup, Prolific, DScout, or UserTesting, these platforms provide legitimate ways to monetize your time and effort.
Take action today, and remember that every small effort can lead to significant rewards. Good luck!