Nataasha Torzsa first got into paid online surveys when she wanted to pay off some debt faster.
The 34-year old from Meanjin/Brisbane, who shares her financial journey on Instagram, has continued to complete surveys for the past seven years as a way to supplement income.
“My total so far for survey income in 2024 is $711, which might not seem like a lot given that’s several months’ worth, but my philosophy is that every little bit counts,” Ms Torzsa says.
Lacey Filipich, a financial educator based in Boorloo/Perth, says paid online surveys can be an easy way to boost your income, as you only need “a device and time”.
But she warns there are a few things to consider before using surveys to make money.
How paid online surveys work and why they’re attractive
Ms Filipich says survey companies are engaged by businesses wanting to improve their marketing.
Users are required to enter their demographic data. She says they will then be offered surveys that match their demographics in return for payment, usually cash via PayPal or bank transfer, or vouchers.
“Surveys can be attractive due to not requiring any special skills. You just have to answer the questions honestly and consistently.
“If you’re short on cash and not able to get enough paid work, it could be an interesting option.”
Nataasha Torzsa completes surveys while travelling to work and when watching TV. (Supplied)
Ms Torzsa often completes surveys while watching TV, on her lunch break at work, or while travelling on the train “instead of doomscrolling”.
“As a solo parent I like surveys because they can be done from anywhere and at any time. I don’t have to leave the house.
“My [payment] preference is gift cards that I can then use to ease the cost of groceries.”
How much can you make and what effort is required?
Ms Torzsa says the most she has made in a single month completing online surveys is about $235.
That was from surveys as well as referrals, she explains.
“If you have any sort of online following, you can share your unique link to your followers and earn when they join the site [to complete surveys].”
Ms Torzsa says payments for completing a survey start at $1, and the most she has made from a single survey was $50.
“[It] was for a private study on children’s screen usage.
“I’ve also been paid $40 on several occasions to keep a drinks diary through an app for one week.”
Now that Ms Torzsa works full time, she completes surveys a few days a week for up to an hour.
Any longer than an hour, Ms Torzsa says, and they can become “a bit boring”.
Ms Filipich says earning potential is estimated to be anywhere from $5 to $20 per hour.
“That’s below the minimum wage, and so I’d be cautious about spending time this way instead of up-skilling for better paid work, applying for better paid jobs, or choosing another side hustle/business idea that can be more financially rewarding.”
Be mindful of security and time
Like with most things that involve entering personal details online, Ms Filipich says people should be wary of potential scam sites masquerading as survey companies.
“[They] might use data you give them to compromise your online accounts or gain access to your banking.
“Or they may promise you payment but not deliver.”
She says to research reputable sites only, and make sure you’re clear on the terms and conditions, including payment terms, before signing up.
“Some sites might require you to reach a minimum payout threshold before you can get any cash or pay in a gift card that’s not useful to you.”
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says scam surveys can be emailed or texted to you, or appear on social media. It’s always best to check the retailers’ website or call the business to check if they’re legitimate before taking part.
Ms Filipich also recommends setting boundaries around how much time to dedicate.
“Make sure you’re not losing sleep — like anything on your phone, it can become a bit addictive.
“There are possibly some hidden costs health wise.
“But if someone is instead spending that time playing Candy Crush or doomscrolling, [surveys] are probably better.”
Ms Torzsa says online surveys have been a worthwhile source of extra income for her, “but definitely can’t replace a job”.
“It’s worthwhile as a side income boost if you need something you can do from home, but not as a full-time thing.”
This article contains general information only. You should consider obtaining independent professional advice in relation to your particular circumstances.