7 Best Money Making Apps in South Africa: No Surveys, No Hassle

7 Best Money Making Apps in South Africa: No Surveys, No Hassle

Looking for a reliable way to earn extra cash in South Africa? You’re not alone.

Most “money making apps” promise easy earnings but leave you with pennies from endless surveys and microtasks. 

But some apps actually work, offering real income through freelancing, gig work, and selling products or services.

The best part? You don’t need special skills or experience to get started. Whether you have a car, a valuable skill, or even just some old clothes to sell, there’s an app that can help you make money fast.

These apps keep things simple — just sign up, follow a few steps, and start earning. 

Why These Apps Stand Out

Many money making apps focus on surveys, ad watching, and microtasks that barely pay anything. 

The apps in this list are different.

They let you earn real money through tangible work, whether it’s driving, freelancing, or selling items. 

Instead of wasting time on cents-per-click tasks, these platforms allow you to take control of your earnings.

Most of these apps also offer flexibility. 

You decide when to work, making them perfect for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking for extra income without a fixed schedule.

Another major advantage is that some apps pay in dollars, which can significantly boost your earnings when converted to South African rands.

Best Money Making Apps in South Africa

1) Uber: Drive and Deliver

Uber is one of the most popular ways to earn extra cash in South Africa. It offers a flexible way to make money by providing transport services or delivering food through Uber Eats.

If you own a car, you can sign up as a driver and start taking passengers to their destinations. But even if you don’t, you can still earn by delivering food with a bike or scooter. 

The app matches you with riders or food orders, and you get paid per trip.

The more hours you work, the more you can earn. Weekends and evenings tend to have higher demand, which means better payouts. 

The app also provides earnings insights, helping you track your daily and weekly income.

Uber is a great option for anyone who wants to be their own boss and work at their own pace. It does require an upfront investment in vehicle maintenance and fuel, but if you plan your schedule strategically, you can make a decent profit.

How It Works

• Download the Uber Driver app and sign up.
• Complete a background check and upload vehicle details.
• Get approved and start driving or delivering food.

Earning Potential

• Drivers can make R100 to R500 per day after fuel costs.
• High-demand hours, such as weekends, can significantly boost earnings.

The Catch

• Expenses like fuel and vehicle maintenance reduce profits.
• It requires active work—your income depends on how many trips you complete.

2) Fiverr: Sell Your Skills

Fiverr is an online marketplace that connects freelancers with clients who need services like writing, graphic design, video editing, and programming. 

If you have a skill that businesses or individuals need, Fiverr can be a great way to monetize it.

Unlike traditional jobs, Fiverr allows you to work on your own terms. 

You set up a profile, list services (called “gigs”), and clients hire you based on your expertise. Services start at $5, but many skilled freelancers charge significantly more, sometimes earning hundreds of dollars per project.

One of the biggest benefits of Fiverr is that it pays in US dollars. Given the exchange rate, even small jobs can translate into significant earnings in South African rands. 

The more gigs you complete, the better your profile ranks, making it easier to attract higher-paying clients.

The main challenge with Fiverr is competition. 

New users may struggle to land their first few gigs, but persistence and good reviews help build a strong reputation over time.

How It Works

• Sign up and create a profile.
• List services you can offer, such as writing, design, or coding.
• Wait for clients to place orders and deliver the work.

Earning Potential

• Entry-level gigs start at $5, but skilled freelancers can earn $50-$500 per project.
• Top-rated freelancers can charge even more for specialized work.

The Catch

• It can take time to get your first order and build a reputation.
• You need a skill that clients are willing to pay for.

3) Letgo (or Yaga): Sell Your Stuff

If you have unused items lying around, Letgo and Yaga make it easy to sell them for cash.

Letgo is a general second-hand marketplace where you can sell anything from electronics to furniture. Yaga, on the other hand, specializes in fashion items like clothes, shoes, and accessories. Both apps let you post listings, set your price, and negotiate with buyers.

Selling on these platforms is an excellent way to declutter while making money. High-quality photos and good descriptions increase your chances of selling quickly. Meeting buyers locally can make the process even faster.

The downside is that once you’ve sold everything, you won’t have a steady source of income. However, if you enjoy flipping items, you can continue selling by sourcing second-hand products from thrift stores.

How It Works

• Download the Letgo or Yaga app.
• List items with clear photos and descriptions.
• Chat with buyers and arrange for delivery or pickup.

Earning Potential

• Sales range from R50 to R1,000+ per item, depending on what you sell.
• High-demand items like electronics and branded clothing sell faster.

The Catch

• Once you run out of items, your earnings stop.
• You may need to negotiate prices with buyers.

4) Upwork: Freelance Like a Pro

Upwork is another great platform for freelancers, especially those with specialized skills like writing, coding, or digital marketing.

Unlike Fiverr, which focuses on smaller, quick projects, Upwork caters to longer-term freelance contracts. You create a profile, apply for jobs, and negotiate rates with clients. Some projects last a few days, while others can turn into ongoing contracts.

Since Upwork also pays in US dollars, South African freelancers can benefit from a stronger exchange rate. Some freelancers even make a full-time income from the platform.

The challenge is competition. Since clients receive multiple applications, standing out requires a strong portfolio and a well-written proposal.

How It Works

• Sign up and create a professional profile.
• Browse available jobs and submit applications.
• Once hired, complete the work and get paid.

Earning Potential

• Freelancers charge between $10 and $50 per hour.
• Experienced professionals can earn significantly more.

The Catch

• Landing your first job can take time due to competition.
• Upwork takes a percentage of your earnings.

5) Mr D Food: Deliver Meals

Mr D Food is one of South Africa’s leading food delivery services, alongside Bolt Food. It provides an excellent way to make extra cash by delivering meals to customers. If you have a motorbike, bicycle, or car, you can sign up as a delivery driver and start earning per order.

Unlike Uber, where you need to transport passengers, Mr D Food strictly involves food deliveries. This makes it a great alternative if you prefer a job that doesn’t require interacting with people as much. You receive delivery requests via the app, pick up the order from a restaurant, and drop it off at the customer’s location.

The earnings depend on how many deliveries you complete and the tips you receive. Peak meal times, such as lunch and dinner, are the most profitable hours. Many drivers make good money by working during these busy periods.

How It Works

• Download the Mr D Food app and apply as a driver.
• Provide your details, including vehicle type.
• Once approved, accept orders and start delivering.

Earning Potential

• Drivers can earn R50 to R200 per shift.
• Busy hours and customer tips increase earnings.

The Catch

• You need a bike, scooter, or car to qualify.
• Some areas have fewer orders, reducing earning potential.

6) Takealot Seller: Run a Mini-Shop

Takealot is South Africa’s largest online store, and it allows individuals to sell their own products through the Takealot Seller Program. If you have products to sell—whether they are new, used, or handmade—Takealot provides a platform to reach thousands of potential buyers.

This option is perfect if you want to start an online business without building your own website. Takealot handles logistics, including warehousing and delivery, making it easier for sellers to focus on their products.

However, success on the platform depends on choosing the right products. Sellers who offer high-demand items like electronics, home essentials, or fashion accessories tend to do well. It’s important to price competitively while considering Takealot’s commission fees.

How It Works

• Register as a seller on the Takealot Seller Portal.
• List your products with images and descriptions.
• Takealot manages orders, and you receive payments after sales.

Earning Potential

• Sellers can earn R100s to R1,000s per month, depending on sales volume.
• Handmade or niche products often attract higher profits.

The Catch

• Takealot charges commission on each sale.
• You need initial stock to start selling.

“Selling handmade bracelets on Takealot got me R800 in a month. Small start, big potential.”

Read more articles:

• How to sell on Takealot
• Dropshipping on Takealot
• Is it worth selling on Takealot
• Is Takealot a dropshipping company?

7) Turo: Rent Out Your Car

Turo is a peer-to-peer car rental service that allows you to rent out your vehicle when you’re not using it. 

Think of it as Airbnb for cars — instead of letting your car sit idle, you can make money by lending it to others.

This is an excellent way to generate passive income if you own a second car or don’t use your vehicle often. 

Depending on your car’s make and model, you can set your own daily rental price. The platform handles bookings, payments, and insurance, making the process secure and hassle-free.

One downside is that Turo is not yet available in all parts of South Africa. 

However, similar local services may offer the same opportunity. Also, wear and tear on your vehicle is something to consider.

How It Works

• Download the Turo app and create a listing for your car.
• Set a daily rental price and availability schedule.
• Renters book your vehicle, and you earn per day.

Earning Potential

• Owners can make R200 to R1,000+ per day, depending on the car model.
• Popular or luxury cars can fetch higher rates.

The Catch

• Not available in all parts of South Africa.
• Increased vehicle wear and tear.

Which App Fits You Best?

Each of these apps offers a different way to make money, depending on what you have available. Here’s a quick comparison:

Final Thoughts

These money making apps provide real earning opportunities without wasting time on low-paying surveys or ad-watching schemes.

The best app for you depends on your skills, resources, and availability:

• Own a car? Try Uber or Turo for quick cash.
• Have a skill? Fiverr and Upwork are great for freelancing.
• Selling unwanted items? Letgo or Yaga help you turn them into cash.
• Want a small business? Takealot Seller lets you sell products online.
• Need fast cash on the go? Mr D Food is a solid delivery gig.

Start with one app and see how it works for you. Even small earnings can grow into a steady income if you stay consistent.Looking for a reliable way to earn extra cash in South Africa? You’re not alone.

Most “money making apps” promise easy earnings but leave you with pennies from endless surveys and microtasks. 

But some apps actually work, offering real income through freelancing, gig work, and selling products or services.

The best part? You don’t need special skills or experience to get started. Whether you have a car, a valuable skill, or even just some old clothes to sell, there’s an app that can help you make money fast.

These apps keep things simple—just sign up, follow a few steps, and start earning. 

Why These Apps Stand Out

Many money making apps focus on surveys, ad watching, and microtasks that barely pay anything. 

The apps in this list are different.

They let you earn real money through tangible work, whether it’s driving, freelancing, or selling items. 

Instead of wasting time on cents-per-click tasks, these platforms allow you to take control of your earnings.

Most of these apps also offer flexibility. 

You decide when to work, making them perfect for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking for extra income without a fixed schedule.

Another major advantage is that some apps pay in dollars, which can significantly boost your earnings when converted to South African rands.

Best Money Making Apps in South Africa

1) Uber: Drive and Deliver

Uber is one of the most popular ways to earn extra cash in South Africa. It offers a flexible way to make money by providing transport services or delivering food through Uber Eats.

If you own a car, you can sign up as a driver and start taking passengers to their destinations. But even if you don’t, you can still earn by delivering food with a bike or scooter. 

The app matches you with riders or food orders, and you get paid per trip.

The more hours you work, the more you can earn. Weekends and evenings tend to have higher demand, which means better payouts. 

The app also provides earnings insights, helping you track your daily and weekly income.

Uber is a great option for anyone who wants to be their own boss and work at their own pace. It does require an upfront investment in vehicle maintenance and fuel, but if you plan your schedule strategically, you can make a decent profit.

How It Works

• Download the Uber Driver app and sign up.
• Complete a background check and upload vehicle details.
• Get approved and start driving or delivering food.

Earning Potential

• Drivers can make R100 to R500 per day after fuel costs.
• High-demand hours, such as weekends, can significantly boost earnings.

The Catch

• Expenses like fuel and vehicle maintenance reduce profits.
• It requires active work—your income depends on how many trips you complete.

2) Fiverr: Sell Your Skills

Fiverr is an online marketplace that connects freelancers with clients who need services like writing, graphic design, video editing, and programming. 

If you have a skill that businesses or individuals need, Fiverr can be a great way to monetize it.

Unlike traditional jobs, Fiverr allows you to work on your own terms. 

You set up a profile, list services (called “gigs”), and clients hire you based on your expertise. Services start at $5, but many skilled freelancers charge significantly more, sometimes earning hundreds of dollars per project.

One of the biggest benefits of Fiverr is that it pays in US dollars. Given the exchange rate, even small jobs can translate into significant earnings in South African rands. 

The more gigs you complete, the better your profile ranks, making it easier to attract higher-paying clients.

The main challenge with Fiverr is competition. 

New users may struggle to land their first few gigs, but persistence and good reviews help build a strong reputation over time.

How It Works

• Sign up and create a profile.
• List services you can offer, such as writing, design, or coding.
• Wait for clients to place orders and deliver the work.

Earning Potential

• Entry-level gigs start at $5, but skilled freelancers can earn $50-$500 per project.
• Top-rated freelancers can charge even more for specialized work.

The Catch

• It can take time to get your first order and build a reputation.
• You need a skill that clients are willing to pay for.

3) Letgo (or Yaga): Sell Your Stuff

If you have unused items lying around, Letgo and Yaga make it easy to sell them for cash.

Letgo is a general second-hand marketplace where you can sell anything from electronics to furniture. Yaga, on the other hand, specializes in fashion items like clothes, shoes, and accessories. Both apps let you post listings, set your price, and negotiate with buyers.

Selling on these platforms is an excellent way to declutter while making money. High-quality photos and good descriptions increase your chances of selling quickly. Meeting buyers locally can make the process even faster.

The downside is that once you’ve sold everything, you won’t have a steady source of income. However, if you enjoy flipping items, you can continue selling by sourcing second-hand products from thrift stores.

How It Works

• Download the Letgo or Yaga app.
• List items with clear photos and descriptions.
• Chat with buyers and arrange for delivery or pickup.

Earning Potential

• Sales range from R50 to R1,000+ per item, depending on what you sell.
• High-demand items like electronics and branded clothing sell faster.

The Catch

• Once you run out of items, your earnings stop.
• You may need to negotiate prices with buyers.

4) Upwork: Freelance Like a Pro

Upwork is another great platform for freelancers, especially those with specialized skills like writing, coding, or digital marketing.

Unlike Fiverr, which focuses on smaller, quick projects, Upwork caters to longer-term freelance contracts. You create a profile, apply for jobs, and negotiate rates with clients. Some projects last a few days, while others can turn into ongoing contracts.

Since Upwork also pays in US dollars, South African freelancers can benefit from a stronger exchange rate. Some freelancers even make a full-time income from the platform.

The challenge is competition. Since clients receive multiple applications, standing out requires a strong portfolio and a well-written proposal.

How It Works

• Sign up and create a professional profile.
• Browse available jobs and submit applications.
• Once hired, complete the work and get paid.

Earning Potential

• Freelancers charge between $10 and $50 per hour.
• Experienced professionals can earn significantly more.

The Catch

• Landing your first job can take time due to competition.
• Upwork takes a percentage of your earnings.

5) Mr D Food: Deliver Meals

Mr D Food is one of South Africa’s leading food delivery services, alongside Bolt Food. It provides an excellent way to make extra cash by delivering meals to customers. If you have a motorbike, bicycle, or car, you can sign up as a delivery driver and start earning per order.

Unlike Uber, where you need to transport passengers, Mr D Food strictly involves food deliveries. This makes it a great alternative if you prefer a job that doesn’t require interacting with people as much. You receive delivery requests via the app, pick up the order from a restaurant, and drop it off at the customer’s location.

The earnings depend on how many deliveries you complete and the tips you receive. Peak meal times, such as lunch and dinner, are the most profitable hours. Many drivers make good money by working during these busy periods.

How It Works

• Download the Mr D Food app and apply as a driver.
• Provide your details, including vehicle type.
• Once approved, accept orders and start delivering.

Earning Potential

• Drivers can earn R50 to R200 per shift.
• Busy hours and customer tips increase earnings.

The Catch

• You need a bike, scooter, or car to qualify.
• Some areas have fewer orders, reducing earning potential.

6) Takealot Seller: Run a Mini-Shop

Takealot is South Africa’s largest online store, and it allows individuals to sell their own products through the Takealot Seller Program. If you have products to sell—whether they are new, used, or handmade—Takealot provides a platform to reach thousands of potential buyers.

This option is perfect if you want to start an online business without building your own website. Takealot handles logistics, including warehousing and delivery, making it easier for sellers to focus on their products.

However, success on the platform depends on choosing the right products. Sellers who offer high-demand items like electronics, home essentials, or fashion accessories tend to do well. It’s important to price competitively while considering Takealot’s commission fees.

How It Works

• Register as a seller on the Takealot Seller Portal.
• List your products with images and descriptions.
• Takealot manages orders, and you receive payments after sales.

Earning Potential

• Sellers can earn R100s to R1,000s per month, depending on sales volume.
• Handmade or niche products often attract higher profits.

The Catch

• Takealot charges commission on each sale.
• You need initial stock to start selling.

“Selling handmade bracelets on Takealot got me R800 in a month. Small start, big potential.”

Read more articles:

• How to sell on Takealot
• Dropshipping on Takealot
• Is it worth selling on Takealot
• Is Takealot a dropshipping company?

7) Turo: Rent Out Your Car

Turo is a peer-to-peer car rental service that allows you to rent out your vehicle when you’re not using it. 

Think of it as Airbnb for cars — instead of letting your car sit idle, you can make money by lending it to others.

This is an excellent way to generate passive income if you own a second car or don’t use your vehicle often. 

Depending on your car’s make and model, you can set your own daily rental price. The platform handles bookings, payments, and insurance, making the process secure and hassle-free.

One downside is that Turo is not yet available in all parts of South Africa. 

However, similar local services may offer the same opportunity. Also, wear and tear on your vehicle is something to consider.

How It Works

• Download the Turo app and create a listing for your car.
• Set a daily rental price and availability schedule.
• Renters book your vehicle, and you earn per day.

Earning Potential

• Owners can make R200 to R1,000+ per day, depending on the car model.
• Popular or luxury cars can fetch higher rates.

The Catch

• Not available in all parts of South Africa.
• Increased vehicle wear and tear.

Which App Fits You Best?

Each of these apps offers a different way to make money, depending on what you have available. Here’s a quick comparison:

Final Thoughts

These money making apps provide real earning opportunities without wasting time on low-paying surveys or ad-watching schemes.

The best app for you depends on your skills, resources, and availability:

• Own a car? Try Uber or Turo for quick cash.
• Have a skill? Fiverr and Upwork are great for freelancing.
• Selling unwanted items? Letgo or Yaga help you turn them into cash.
• Want a small business? Takealot Seller lets you sell products online.
• Need fast cash on the go? Mr D Food is a solid delivery gig.

Start with one app and see how it works for you. Even small earnings can grow into a steady income if you stay consistent.