Introduction.
Earning a little extra cash on the side has become pretty popular in Canada. Many of us are looking for flexible ways to make money without taking on a second job or even leaving the comfort of home. That’s where online survey sites come in.
These platforms allow Canadians to share opinions on brands, products, and services and get paid for it. It’s straightforward, low-commitment, and can be done anywhere with an internet connection.
Online surveys aren’t going to make you rich, but they can provide a steady stream of side income. You won’t need any special skills or qualifications—just a few spare minutes here and there to answer questions.
The trick is knowing which survey sites are worth your time. With hundreds of options out there, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. That’s what I’ll walk you through in this guide.
I’ll cover some of the most reliable survey sites available to Canadians, explore their pros and cons, and give a sense of how much you can realistically earn.
For each site, I’ll dive into what makes it unique, how the payment system works, and any red flags to watch for.
Finally, I’ll answer some common questions about survey sites in a quick FAQ section to help you understand the basics. Let’s get into it and find out how you can start making money online today.
Top Survey Sites for Canadians to Make Money
Below are some of the best-rated and most widely used survey sites that allow Canadians to earn money online.
1. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is one of the most popular survey sites out there, and for good reason. It offers plenty of ways to earn beyond surveys, including watching videos, browsing the web, shopping online, and playing games.
You can cash out via PayPal or opt for gift cards from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks.
Pros:
- Multiple ways to earn points
- Low minimum payout threshold
- Available through an app, so it’s easy to use on-the-go
Cons:
- Points can vary widely in value, so not all tasks are worth the time
- Sometimes requires significant time to reach payout threshold
2. Pinecone Research
Pinecone Research is known for offering higher payouts per survey, though it doesn’t have the same volume of surveys as some of the other sites. Pinecone pays $3 per survey, which is deposited directly to your PayPal account.
Pros:
- High-paying surveys
- Easy, predictable payment system
- Quality surveys that are usually short and easy to complete
Cons:
- Limited survey availability
- Application process can be selective
3. Survey Junkie
Survey Junkie is a well-known survey platform that allows Canadians to take surveys and earn points, which can be cashed out via PayPal or gift cards. One of its key strengths is the transparency of the points system.
Pros:
- Transparent point system
- Regularly updated survey availability
- Low payout threshold (about $10)
Cons:
- Points expire after 12 months
- Limited earning potential if you only use surveys
4. Opinion Outpost
Opinion Outpost lets you take surveys on a range of topics, and it has a reputation for being reliable when it comes to paying out.
You earn points that can be converted to PayPal cash or gift cards, with surveys usually taking around 10-20 minutes.
Pros:
- Cash-out options through PayPal or gift cards
- Points for each survey completed
- Good survey volume
Cons:
- Some users report technical glitches with surveys
- Can screen out users midway through a survey, which means wasted time
5. Ipsos i-Say
Ipsos i-Say is part of a global research company and offers Canadians the chance to share their opinions through surveys. One of the nice perks is that Ipsos i-Say offers loyalty rewards as well as the typical cash rewards.
Pros:
- Loyalty rewards program for consistent users
- Cash-out via PayPal or various gift cards
- High number of surveys available
Cons:
- Lower earnings per survey than other sites
- Takes a bit longer to reach payout threshold
Pros and Cons of Taking Online Surveys in Canada
Before diving into surveys, it’s important to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pros:
- Low Commitment: Most surveys take 5-20 minutes and can be done on your own schedule.
- Flexible Work: You can log in any time, making it ideal for students, stay-at-home parents, and part-time workers.
- No Special Skills Required: If you can use a computer or smartphone, you can take surveys.
Cons:
- Not a Substitute for Full-Time Income: Survey sites pay modestly, so they’re more for supplemental income than substantial earnings.
- Screenouts: Many sites will screen you out of a survey midway if you don’t fit the demographic, which can be frustrating.
- Time-Consuming: While surveys are short, the time spent filling them out adds up.
How Much Can You Earn with Survey Sites?
For most users, survey sites provide a way to make a bit of extra cash—often around $1-$5 per survey.
Realistically, if you spend about an hour a day on surveys, you might earn anywhere from $50 to $100 per month, depending on the site and the types of surveys available.
FAQs
Q: Are survey sites legit?
A: Yes, many survey sites are legitimate and pay real money. Stick to reputable sites with positive reviews like the ones listed here to avoid scams.
Q: How do I cash out my earnings?
A: Most sites offer PayPal transfers or gift cards as payout options. Some, like Swagbucks, offer other options like shopping rewards.
Q: Can I do surveys on my phone?
A: Yes! Most popular survey sites, such as Swagbucks and Ipsos i-Say, have mobile-friendly websites or apps.
Q: Do I have to pay to join survey sites?
A: No, you should never have to pay to join a survey site. Legitimate survey sites are always free to use.
Q: Can I really make money just by taking surveys?
A: Yes, but keep in mind it’s more about earning extra cash than making a full-time income.
Q: Why do survey sites screen me out?
A: Survey sites sometimes screen out users because they’re looking for specific demographics for their research. Screening is a normal part of the process.
Final Thoughts
Taking online surveys won’t make you rich, but it’s a simple, flexible way to earn extra income. For Canadians looking to make money online, survey sites offer a reliable option with low barriers to entry. Remember to choose reputable sites and be mindful of your time to make the most out of these platforms.
What are your thoughts? Would you give survey sites a try for a bit of extra cash?
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