20 Top Freelance & Gig Work Companies

What to check before joining a gig or earning platform

This category mixes freelance marketplaces, local task apps, paid survey panels, cashback and reward apps, and sites that list side-income ideas. What you earn depends on your location, the work available and each platform's rules.

• Payout threshold and method. Many reward and survey sites pay only after you reach a minimum balance. Check the threshold, payment options and how long payouts take.
• Fees. Freelance and task platforms usually take a service fee. Read how it is calculated.
• Account rules. Accounts can be suspended for breaking rules, and balances may be lost. Read the terms on closures.
• Upfront payments. Be cautious of any platform that asks for a fee to unlock work.
• Apps and data. Reward apps may ask you to install games or share data. Check what you are agreeing to.
• Taxes. Gig income may be taxable where you live.

Payout problems and how to avoid them

Withheld payouts, survey disqualifications partway through, offers that never credited and sudden account closures are the most common complaints. Take screenshots of completed offers and balances. Cash out regularly rather than building up a large balance. CandorRated company pages show who appears to run each website, how long the domain has existed, the contact details found and reviews from other users. Filter by country, since many platforms work only in certain regions.

Frequently asked questions

Why didn't my offer credit?

Offers have conditions. Contact support with your screenshots.

Can I earn a full income from surveys?

Survey and reward apps usually pay small amounts per task.