Here’s the next part of our side hustle case study series, where real people share how they earn extra money in their spare time!
This week, we chat with Fiona from Savvy in Somerset about making money through paid surveys. Survey sites are a popular way for many to start earning online, but not all are created equal, so Fiona’s tips are really valuable.
Making Money with Paid Surveys with Fiona
Tell us a bit about yourself and your side hustle.
Hi! I’m Fiona – a mom who loves saving money and being frugal. I also enjoy making some extra cash whenever possible. Surveys might not be the highest-paying side hustle, but they come with a lot of perks. You can do them anytime, whether you’re up late feeding a baby or bored during your commute. They’re easy to do from a phone or tablet. While you need to pay attention to the questions, surveys aren’t too demanding – I often do a few while watching Netflix in the evenings.
How long have you been doing this side hustle, and how did you start?
I’ve been doing surveys for several years as an easy way to earn extra cash. When my husband and I decided to buy a house, we knew we needed to save a big deposit. Surveys helped me contribute a bit more to our savings. They’re a great way to save for something special, and that can keep you motivated, even if the rewards aren’t huge.
What does the work involve? What does a typical day look like for you?
Most surveys are straightforward and usually ask for your opinions on everyday topics like shopping habits or movies you’re interested in. They also ask about your household and income to ensure you’re a good fit for the survey. Some sites also have tasks like watching videos, browsing the web, or playing games – things you might already do on your phone.
You can log on anytime to see available surveys, which is great for those with irregular hours or who don’t want to commit to a set schedule. Sometimes there are lots of surveys, and sometimes there aren’t many, which can be frustrating if you have spare time but nothing to complete. Most people sign up for multiple survey sites, so there’s usually something to choose from. I tend to start with the highest-paying ones and work my way down.
How much can you make with this side hustle?
Earnings from surveys vary widely based on factors like your demographics and the time you invest. Each site has different pay rates, and some don’t even come close to minimum wage, so it’s important to consider if it’s worth your time. Others pay well, but it depends on survey availability and your eligibility. Earning around £20 a week is achievable without too much effort.
Are there any start-up costs or ongoing expenses?
As long as you have a phone, tablet, or laptop and an internet connection, you’re set. If you earn over £1000 a year from surveys (or any other taxable side hustles), you’ll need to register with HMRC and file a tax return.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Most people have a few favorite survey sites. It’s worth signing up for several to find which ones you like best – the more you use them, the quicker you’ll get. Many sites have apps, so you can complete surveys on the go. I’d also recommend following your favorite sites on social media for competitions and updates.
Any recommended websites or resources?
Prolific Academic is my favorite survey site because the surveys pay well (usually at least £5 an hour) and are interesting since they’re part of academic studies. Prolific doesn’t screen you out from surveys, so if you’re eligible, you can complete it.
Where can we find you?
I blog at www.savvyinsomerset.com
Thank you, Fiona!