Getting paid to read emails might sound like a dream, but it’s a real way to make extra income. While it won’t replace a full-time job, it can be a simple way to earn some extra cash. Here’s a look at the best sites that pay you to read emails, alternatives to try, and why companies are willing to pay you for simply opening emails.
10+ Sites That Pay You to Read Emails
1. InboxDollars
One of the most popular platforms that pays users for various tasks including reading emails.
• Payment Methods: PayPal, check, or gift cards.
• Minimum Payout: $30.
• Pros: Offers a $5 sign-up bonus and multiple ways to earn.
• Cons: High cash-out threshold.
2. Swagbucks
Known for surveys and shopping rewards, Swagbucks also offers opportunities to earn points for engaging with emails.
• Payment Methods: PayPal or gift cards.
• Minimum Payout: $3 for gift cards.
• Pros: Low cash-out threshold and a wide range of earning methods.
• Cons: Emails generally don’t pay as much as other activities.
3. MyPoints
Earn points for reading emails, completing surveys, and shopping online.
• Payment Methods: PayPal, gift cards, or travel miles.
• Minimum Payout: Varies.
• Pros: Flexible redemption options.
• Cons: Can take time to earn enough points for cash-out.
4. InboxPounds (UK Only)
The UK version of InboxDollars, allowing users to earn by reading emails and completing other tasks.
• Payment Methods: Bank transfer or gift cards.
• Minimum Payout: £20.
• Pros: Several earning options.
• Cons: Higher cash-out threshold.
5. FusionCash
Offers cash for reading emails, taking surveys, and completing tasks.
• Payment Methods: PayPal, check, or direct deposit.
• Minimum Payout: $25.
• Pros: Multiple income streams.
• Cons: Requires consistent effort to reach the threshold.
6. Unique Rewards
Pays for reading emails and offers other tasks like surveys and shopping.
• Payment Methods: PayPal or check.
• Minimum Payout: $20.
• Pros: Several ways to earn.
• Cons: Relatively low earnings per email.
7. Vindale Research
Primarily a survey platform but also offers paid emails.
• Payment Methods: PayPal.
• Minimum Payout: $50.
• Pros: Legitimate payment method.
• Cons: High minimum payout and fewer email offers.
8. Paid to Read Email
Simple platform that focuses on paying users for reading emails.
• Payment Methods: PayPal.
• Minimum Payout: $15.
• Pros: Easy-to-use platform.
• Cons: Limited earning potential.
9. Point2Shop
Earn points for reading emails, taking surveys, and shopping.
• Payment Methods: PayPal or gift cards.
• Minimum Payout: $1 for gift cards.
• Pros: Low cash-out threshold for gift cards.
• Cons: Points system can be less straightforward.
10. InboxPays
Offers various ways to earn money, including reading emails.
• Payment Methods: PayPal.
• Minimum Payout: $50.
• Pros: Reliable payout system.
• Cons: High payout threshold.
11. Cash4Offers
Earn cash for reading emails, completing offers, and surveys.
• Payment Methods: PayPal or check.
• Minimum Payout: $35.
• Pros: Multiple earning options.
• Cons: Payout threshold is relatively high.
Why Do Companies Pay You to Read Emails?
Companies use email marketing to reach potential customers and promote their products or services. To ensure their promotional content is seen, some companies partner with platforms that offer incentives to users who engage with their emails. This interaction allows them to:
• Boost Visibility: By paying users to read emails, advertisers increase the chances of their content being opened and viewed.
• Generate Leads: Some paid emails may include calls to action that lead to product purchases or sign-ups.
• Market Research: Companies can gather insights on what types of emails and content are engaging to users.
• Increase Brand Recognition: More exposure helps brands become more familiar to potential customers.
Alternatives to Get Paid to Read Emails
While reading emails can be a straightforward way to make money, diversifying your online income streams is beneficial. Here are some alternatives:
1. Online Surveys
• Platforms: Survey Junkie, Pinecone Research, Toluna.
• Why Try It?: Survey sites typically pay more than email reading and provide varied topics.
2. Cashback Apps
• Apps: Rakuten, Honey, Ibotta.
• Why Try It?: Earn money back on your usual shopping activities.
3. Microtask Platforms
• Sites: Amazon Mechanical Turk, Clickworker.
• Why Try It?: Complete small online tasks like data entry for pay.
4. Website and App Testing
• Platforms: UserTesting, TryMyUI.
• Why Try It?: Get paid to provide feedback on websites and apps, often with higher pay per task than email reading.
5. Freelancing
• Sites: Upwork, Fiverr.
• Why Try It?: Offer services such as writing, graphic design, or social media management.
6. Affiliate Marketing
• How It Works: Promote products through your own blog or social media and earn commissions for referrals.
• Why Try It?: It offers potentially passive income if you build an audience.
Final Thoughts
While getting paid to read emails isn’t a high-paying gig, it’s a simple way to earn extra money with minimal effort. Combining email-reading opportunities with other online earning methods can help maximize your income. Look for reputable sites and consider alternative options like surveys, cashback apps, and microtasks to boost your earnings.
