In today’s digital age, your smartphone can be more than just a communication tool—it can be a source of income. If you’re someone who loves texting, there are numerous apps and platforms that pay you to send or receive messages. From answering surveys to providing customer support or even engaging in casual chats, getting paid to text is a legitimate side hustle that fits into your daily routine. Here we’ll explore the best apps to get paid for texting in 2025, their earning potential, requirements, and tips to maximize your income.
Why Get Paid to Text?
Texting is already a part of our daily lives, with billions of messages sent globally every day. Apps that pay for texting tap into this habit, offering opportunities to earn money with minimal effort. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a student, or someone looking for a flexible side gig, these apps provide:
Flexibility: Work from anywhere, anytime, using just your phone.
Low Barrier to Entry: Most apps require only a smartphone and internet connection.
Diverse Opportunities: From passive income to active chat roles, there’s something for everyone.
Scalable Income: Combine multiple platforms to boost your earnings.
However, not all apps are created equal. Some offer passive income for receiving texts, while others require active engagement. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best apps to get paid for texting, based on legitimacy, earning potential, and user reviews.
Can You Really Make Money Talking to Lonely People?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to make money by talking to lonely people. In 2025, the demand for companionship services has grown due to increased social isolation, remote lifestyles, and a desire for meaningful connections. Numerous platforms connect individuals seeking conversation with those willing to provide it, offering a legitimate side hustle or even a full-time income. These services range from casual chats to professional companionship, with no explicit content required in most cases. Depending on the platform and your effort, earnings can range from a few dollars per hour to thousands per month.
This opportunity is particularly appealing because it requires minimal startup costs—just a smartphone or computer, internet access, and good communication skills. However, success depends on choosing reputable platforms, setting realistic expectations, and understanding the emotional labor involved. Below, we’ll explore how to talk to lonely people to get paid, including practical steps, top platforms, and tips to maximize your earnings.
Related Post: How to Make Money by Chatting with Strangers
18 Best Apps to Get Paid for Texting
1. TextingFactory
TextingFactory hires chat operators to engage in flirty or friendly text-based conversations with clients. Operators remain anonymous, using a persona without revealing their real identity or showing their face. The platform offers flexible hours, allowing you to work from anywhere with an internet connection. You respond to messages on topics ranging from casual chats to adult-oriented discussions, depending on client preferences.
Earning Potential: Operators earn approximately $0.06-$0.12 per message. Sending 200+ messages weekly can yield $100-$300 per month. Referral bonuses are available for inviting new operators.
2. FlirtBucks
FlirtBucks employs women to engage in flirtatious text or video chats with men seeking companionship. As a chat hostess, you control the conversation’s direction in a safe, non-explicit environment. You work from a secure console, set your own hours, and don’t need to market yourself, as clients are provided by the platform.
Earning Potential: Text chats pay $0.10-$0.15 per minute, with rates increasing to $0.15 after six months. Chatting 120 minutes daily can yield $12-$18 per day, or $300-$500 monthly with consistent effort. Payments are made bi-weekly via PayPal or check.
3. Premium.Chat
Premium.Chat connects professionals, influencers, or coaches with clients for paid text, voice, or video chats. You set your own rates and availability, offering services like consultations, advice, or fan interactions. The platform is accessible via mobile browser or desktop, requiring no app installation, and supports text-based chats for various niches.
Earning Potential: Users can charge $1-$5.99 per minute or flat fees up to $50 per chat. With regular clients, hourly earnings can range from $60-$300, potentially yielding $1,000-$4,000 monthly. Payments are made monthly via PayPal or direct deposit, with the platform taking up to 40% commission.
4. Chat Recruit
Chat Recruit, a UK-based platform, hires chat hosts for text, phone, or webcam chats, including companionship or adult conversations. You choose text-only services, set your hours, and work from home. The platform connects you with clients seeking casual or flirtatious chats, with options for psychic readings or friendly conversations.
Earning Potential: Text chats pay around $0.25 per message or $2 per minute. Ded dedicating 1-2 hours daily can yield $50-$200 weekly, or $800-$3,000 monthly for active hosts. Payments are made weekly or monthly via bank transfer or PayPal, with a $10 sign-up bonus.
5. Lip Service
Lip Service is a staffing agency that outsources text chat operators to businesses for customer service, companionship, or flirtatious chats. Operators work from home, responding to client messages via a user-friendly interface. You set your schedule, and no prior experience is required, though strong typing skills are a plus.
Earning Potential: Operators earn around $18 per hour, with potential monthly earnings of $1,000-$2,500 for 25+ hours weekly. Payments are made via PayPal or direct deposit, with rates varying based on client satisfaction and conversation quality.
6. McMoney
McMoney is an Android-only app that pays you to receive test SMS messages from companies testing their messaging systems. You sign up, verify your phone number, and earn money passively without needing to read or respond to texts. It’s a simple, low-effort way to make extra cash.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.05 per text, with 1-2 texts weekly, yielding up to $24-$50 annually. Referral bonuses can increase earnings. Payments are made via PayPal once you reach the minimum threshold.
7. 1Q
1Q sends short market research questions via text or app, paying you to answer single-question surveys. You sign up with your phone number, receive texts, and respond directly. The platform is ideal for quick, low-effort tasks and works on both iOS and Android devices.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.25-$1 per response, with users averaging $5-$15 monthly depending on survey frequency. Referral bonuses add $0.25 per friend. Payments are instant via PayPal.
8. IMGR
IMGR is a messaging app that pays you to send and receive branded text messages to other IMGR users. You chat with friends or contacts, and ads embedded in the conversation earn you points. It’s like regular texting but with a monetized twist, available on iOS and Android.
Earning Potential: Earn 1 point per branded message (199 points = $1), with active users making $20-$40 monthly. Premium members can earn up to $40 monthly. Payments are made via PayPal or gift cards with a $3 minimum.
9. Drizzle SMS
Drizzle SMS, an Android app, pays you to engage with advertisements embedded in your text messages. You chat as usual with friends or family, and interacting with ad banners earns “drops” that convert to cash. The app offers customization features like themes for a better user experience.
Earning Potential: Earnings vary based on ad engagement, with users typically making $10-$20 monthly with regular texting. Payments are made via PayPal once you reach the payout threshold.
10. Phrendly
Phrendly is a flirting app where you earn money by texting, calling, or video chatting with clients who “buy virtual drinks” as payment. You create a profile, chat via the app, and maintain anonymity. Texting is the primary focus, with no explicit content required.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.35 per text interaction and 70% of phone/video chats. Active users can make $800-$4,000 monthly, with payments via PayPal or direct deposit. Virtual gifts add 90% of their value to your earnings.
11. Text121Chat
Text121Chat hires text chat operators for adult-oriented or wholesome conversations, including customer service or trivia chats. You work from home, commit to a minimum of 1,000 messages monthly, and engage with clients via text only, ensuring privacy and flexibility.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.07-$0.50 per message, with active operators making $100-$600 monthly. Payments are made via PayPal or bank transfer, depending on your location.
12. TexKings
TexKings recruits text chat operators to handle casual, emotional, or adult-themed conversations with clients. You work remotely, create a profile, and respond to messages on a fantasy-based texting network. Operators must be fluent in English and maintain a minimum message quota.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.06- $0.12 per message (~$0.06-$0.12), with monthly earnings of $100-$600 for 200-500 messages weekly. Bonuses of $25-$125 are available. Payments are made weekly or monthly via PayPal.
13. MyGirlFund
MyGirlFund allows women to earn by texting and flirting with men seeking companionship. You set your rates for private messaging, create a profile, and engage in text-based chats. The platform also supports photo sales and video chats, but texting is a primary earning method.
Earning Potential: Earn 1 credit per message (credits convert to cash), with rates for other services averaging $25-$100 per hour. Monthly earnings can range from $500-$2,000 with regular engagement. Payments are made via direct deposit, with a service fee deducted.
14. JustAnswer
JustAnswer connects experts (e.g., doctors, lawyers, mechanics) with users seeking answers via text or phone. You apply as an expert, verify your credentials, and respond to text-based questions in your field. The platform is ideal for professionals with specialized knowledge.
Earning Potential: Earn 20% of the user’s fee per question ($5-$90), with monthly earnings of $2,000-$7,000 for active experts. Payments are made via PayPal or direct deposit monthly.
15. Fiverr
Fiverr is a freelance marketplace where you can offer text-based services like SMS marketing, customer support, or chat moderation. You create a gig, set your rates, and work with clients globally. Texting gigs can include writing messages or managing campaigns.
Earning Potential: Rates start at $5 per gig, with experienced freelancers charging $50-$200 per project. Monthly earnings can range from $100-$2,000 based on gig volume. Payments are made via PayPal or bank transfer, with a 20% commission.
16. Fibler
Fibler connects experts with clients for text, voice, or video consultations. You set up a profile, offer text-based advice in your niche (e.g., tech, health), and chat with clients. The platform is ideal for professionals or those with niche expertise, with no app required.
Earning Potential: Earn $3 per text chat session, with potential hourly rates of $60-$300 for active experts. Monthly earnings can reach $1,000-$4,000. Payments are made via PayPal or direct deposit in select countries.
17. RentAFriend
RentAFriend allows you to earn as a virtual friend by texting or offering companionship services. You create a profile, list your interests, and connect with clients seeking casual chats. Texting is a key component, with no romantic or adult content required.
Earning Potential: Set rates from $10-$50 per hour, with monthly earnings of $500-$2,000 for regular chats. Payments are made via PayPal or cash, with the platform taking a subscription fee from clients.
18. Weegy
Weegy is an AI-backed platform where you answer user questions via text chat. You create a free profile, respond to queries in fields like tech or health, and earn for correct answers. It’s a simple way to make money texting with minimal commitment.
Earning Potential: Earn $0.20-$0.50 per answer, with monthly earnings of $50-$200 for casual users. Payments are made via PayPal, with a personal earnings page to track progress.
💡 Simple Tips to Make More Money from Texting Apps
Want to earn more from texting apps? Follow these easy tips to increase your chances of getting paid more and more often:
- Use More Than One App
Don’t rely on just one platform. Some apps pay for simple messages (like McMoney), while others pay you to chat, answer questions, or give advice (like Fiverr or JustAnswer). Using a mix of apps means more chances to earn money.
2. Make Your Profile Look Good
If you’re using apps like Fiverr or Premium.Chat, take time to write a great profile. Add:
- A friendly photo (if required)
- A clear description of what you offer
- Good prices for your services
- A nice profile makes you look more trustworthy and helps you get more clients.
- Be Safe Online
Always protect your privacy.
- Never share your real name, phone number, or address
- Use a nickname or alias if possible
- Read the app’s rules and privacy policy so you know what to expect
- Invite Friends and Earn More
Some apps, like McMoney or 1Q, let you earn extra money when you refer friends. Share your invite link with friends and family—you’ll get a bonus when they sign up and start using the app.
- Know How and When You Get Paid
Make sure you:
- Have a PayPal or bank account ready to receive payments
- Meet any minimum payout limits (some apps only pay out once you reach $10 or more)
- Understand how often payments are sent—some apps pay weekly, others monthly
- Stay Active
The more you text, the more you earn. Apps like Drizzle SMS or IMGR reward frequent users. So, check the app daily, reply quickly, and try to keep the conversation going. Being active helps you get noticed and stay at the top of the list.
Things to Consider Before Starting
Legitimacy: Always research platforms to ensure they’re reputable. Stick to well-reviewed apps like those listed above.
Earning Expectations: Most texting apps won’t replace a full-time job but can provide supplemental income.
Time Commitment: Passive apps require minimal effort, while active platforms like Fiverr or JustAnswer demand more time and skills.
Privacy: Be cautious about sharing personal details, especially on platforms involving direct client interaction
Final Word
Getting paid to text is a smart and easy way to turn your smartphone into a money-making tool. Whether you’re interested in earning passive income with apps like McMoney and Drizzle SMS, or prefer more active roles on platforms like Fiverr and JustAnswer, there’s something for every skill level and schedule. By picking the right apps, optimizing your profile, and staying consistent, you can earn anywhere from a few extra dollars to several hundred dollars per month all from the comfort of your phone.
FAQ’s - Best Apps to Get Paid for Texting
Ans: Yes, it’s a legitimate way to earn money. Platforms like RentAFriend, Phrendly, and Premium.Chat connect you with people seeking companionship through text, voice, or video chats. Earnings range from $10-$50 per hour or $0.10-$2 per minute, depending on the platform and your effort. Monthly incomes can vary from $100 to over $4,000 for active users.
Ans: You need strong communication skills, empathy, and patience. No formal qualifications are required for most platforms, though some, like JustAnswer, require professional credentials. Basic typing skills and a friendly demeanor are enough for platforms like FlirtBucks or TextingFactory.
Ans: No, most platforms allow anonymity. For example, TextingFactory and Phrendly let you use a persona without revealing your real identity. You can stick to text-based chats to avoid showing your face, and platforms like Premium.Chat don’t require personal details beyond payment setup.
Ans: Reputable platforms prioritize safety with secure messaging systems and anonymity options. Stick to well-reviewed platforms like those listed (e.g., Chat Recruit, Fiverr), never share personal information, and read terms of service. Avoid platforms with poor reviews or unclear payment policies.
Ans: Most platforms require:
- A smartphone or computer with a stable internet connection.
- A PayPal account or bank account for payments.
- Optional: A webcam or headset for platforms offering video/voice chats (e.g., Premium.Chat). Text-only platforms like TextingFactory need only a device and internet.
