Sometimes you don’t have to wait weeks to receive your first paycheck. Maybe rent is due, your car needs repairs, or you just need money to buy groceries before payday.
Fortunately, there are now several apps that connect you to one-time shifts, flexible jobs, and temporary jobs that can be paid the same day you work or shortly after, depending on the app and payment method you choose.
A small note: These are not remote jobs, and I know that’s what I usually write about here. I’m including them because I also hear from readers who simply need money NOW and you don’t mind leaving the house if it means getting paid quickly.
If that’s you, these apps are definitely worth knowing about.
Remember that availability depends on where you live. Big cities generally offer the most opportunities, but it might still be a good idea to download several of these apps so you have more job choices!
1. Happiness
Wonolo (short for “Work Now Locally”) connects businesses with workers who are looking for flexible, short-term jobs. Once your profile is approved, you can browse available teams nearby and claim the ones you want.
You can find jobs like:
- Warehouse work
- General work
- Event staff
- Merchandising
- Cleaning
- Food production
I like that you can see how much a change pays off before you accept it. Some jobs only last one day, while others might be able to turn into ongoing work if the employer likes you.
Pay: Many workers get paid within one to five business days, although some jobs offer faster payments.
Go here to discover Wonolo.
2. Instant work
If you have experience in restaurants, hospitality, retail, or warehouse work, Instawork is definitely one you should download.
The app lets you browse available shifts, choose the ones that fit your schedule, and see your expected salary before accepting.
Common jobs include:
- Servers
- Bartenders
- Dishwasher
- Warehouse Associates
- Retail Merchandising
- Event staff
I see that Instawork has a nice variety of jobs depending on your area, especially if you live near a big city.
Pay: Most workers are paid weekly, while eligible workers can access a daily wage using the Instawork debit card.
Go here to discover Instawork.
3. Very pleasant
Veryable primarily focuses on manufacturing, warehouse and distribution work. Instead of simply requesting shifts, you’ll often submit to available opportunities, and companies choose workers based on their experience and grades.
You can find jobs such as:
- Warehouse Jobs
- Manufacturing
- Shipping and receiving
- Forklift operation
- General work
If you are comfortable with physical work, this app could become a regular source of additional income.
Pay: Many workers receive their payment the next day through Veryable’s payment system.
Go here to discover Veryable.
4. Veho
Veho works a little differently because it focuses on package delivery rather than shift work.
Drivers request delivery routes rather than individual deliveries, and you will usually know your expected earnings before agreeing to a route.
You will generally need:
- A reliable vehicle
- A valid driving license
- Car insurance
- A smartphone
If you already drive for apps like PorteDashUber Eats or Amazon Flex, Veho may be another option to add to your rotation.
Pay: Payout time varies by market, but many drivers receive their earnings shortly after completing deliveries.
Go here to discover Veho.
5. Qwick
Qwick is designed primarily for hospitality workers and connects restaurants, hotels and event venues with people looking for flexible schedules.
You might see openings for:
- Servers
- Bartenders
- Line cooks
- Dishwasher
- Banquet staff
- Event workers
Even if you only want to work occasionally, this app can make it easy for you to pick up shifts when you need some extra money.
Pay: Many qualifying shifts offer same-day pay once work is completed.
Go here to discover Qwick.
6. Get Gigs
Get Gigs is a little different because it doesn’t offer its own jobs. Instead, it searches multiple working platforms and brings the listings together in one place.
This means you can spend less time opening several different apps every day just to see what’s available.
You can find:
- Delivery work
- Warehouse Jobs
- Retail Gigs
- Event staff
- General work
Go here to view Get Gigs.
Tips for Getting More Gigs
The more complete your profile, the better your chances of being accepted for changes on the applications above.
I also find that workers with higher scores generally qualify for more opportunities and higher-paying jobs over time.
- Sign up for multiple apps instead of relying on just one.
- Turn on notifications to quickly see new changes.
- Show up on time and do a good job.
- Keep in mind that opportunities vary depending on where you live.
- Don’t be discouraged if an application seems slow. Another might have plenty of work available.
In conclusion
If you need money fast, these apps are definitely worth looking into. Although they will probably not replace a full-time job For everyone, they can be a great way to earn extra money or help cover unexpected expenses.
If it were me, I’d probably download all six instead of choosing just one. Since each app works with different companies, you’ll have a much better chance of finding work when you need it most.
That said, the more flexible you are about the type of work you’re willing to do, the more opportunities you’ll likely see!
Good luck!
Anna Thurman is a work-from-home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 15 years. His findings are published weekly here on Real Ways to Earn.
