How to Get Free Money

Many people wonder if "free money" is a real thing. While there is no such thing as a free lunch, there are some smart ways to earn money with minimal effort if you know where to look.

In fact, I've compiled a list of my top picks and can offer you over $3,700 in cash right now. Some methods simply require filling out a form or downloading a free app, while others may take a bit more work. However, with a weekend's worth of effort, you can earn free money online.

Scholarships, fellowships and grants

It's common knowledge that students have access to various forms of free money, such as scholarships, grants, and supplements, which do not require repayment unlike student loans. However, the number of eligible students for such funds may come as a surprise.

Many students assume that these funds are only available to those with top grades, extraordinary athletic or musical skills, or those from underprivileged backgrounds. While these students are eligible for financial support, many other students can also qualify for free money.

As our guide to the most unusual scholarships explains, scholarships can be granted for various reasons. Whether you're a vegetarian, possess a talent for FIFA, or have a unique surname, there's a chance for you to receive free money for almost anything. Therefore, it's worth exploring these opportunities and finding free money for yourself.

Refinance student loans

Getting a student loan is often easier than refinancing it. However, have you thought about the benefits of refinancing?

Refinancing involves paying off your current loan and creating a new one that typically comes with a lower interest rate. This option can be highly advantageous for borrowers as it consolidates multiple monthly loan payments and saves money on interest payments.

Furthermore, the good news is that many refinancing companies offer financial incentives to refinance with them. So, not only can you potentially save money on interest payments, but you may also receive a cash bonus from the refinancing company.

Scan receipts to find the cash

Scanning receipts is another effective way to earn free money. There are several receipt-scanning apps that allow you to upload a copy of your receipt from any retail transaction. Each receipt you upload can earn you coins or tokens, which can accumulate over time.

Although the tokens are not paid in cash, they can be redeemed for gift cards or other rewards. So, if you frequently shop at retail stores, it's worth considering using a receipt scanner app to earn some extra money.

Subscription offer

When creating an account to sell your company, it's important to ensure that you have a subscription offer in place for new customers. Offering initial discounts is one way to attract customers, but offering the subscription fee for free can be even more enticing.

Some companies offer the subscription fee for free after making an eligible purchase, which essentially means that you're getting free cash if you're going to make that purchase anyway. Additionally, rewards may come in the form of Amazon vouchers, which are just as good as cash since you can purchase almost anything on Amazon. By using Amazon shopping hacks, you can even buy items at a cheaper price.

There are many sign-up bonuses available, but some of our favorites include a £5 sign-up bonus at OnePoll and a £10 sign-up bonus at Monese or Curve. Our guide can even help you determine which Curve card you have.

Lower your mortgage

The current historically low interest rates have caused a boom in refinancing. Refinancing your mortgage can result in lower interest rates, freeing up cash flow in your budget and allowing you to potentially take equity out of your home and put it into your bank account.

Even if you don't own a home, refinancing at a lower interest rate can still be a smart financial move. It's an easy way to potentially save hundreds of dollars a month in interest costs, which can translate into free money in your pocket.

Watch videos online

If you're looking for a way to earn money from home in your spare time, watching videos on YouTube can be a great option. Platforms like iRazoo and MyPoints make it easy to earn money by simply signing up and watching videos, short clips, and ads.

By watching these videos and accumulating bonus points, you can earn a decent amount of money each month. With a robust platform, it's possible to earn anywhere from $100 to $200 per month just by watching videos. So if you have some extra time on your hands and want to make some extra cash, give it a try!

If you introduce a friend, you get free money

Referral codes can be a great way to earn free money with minimal effort. By inviting your friends and family to join certain companies, you can earn rewards or cash for both yourself and the person you refer.

Some of the best referral codes are offered by banks, energy companies, and broadband providers. These companies often have promotions for new customers, but by referring someone, you can both benefit from the rewards.

While the biggest and most lucrative offers may come from banks and utility providers, many other companies have referral programs as well. Some offer credit, while others pay cash for successful referrals. So next time you're signing up for a service, check if they have a referral program and start earning some free money!

Earn money by shopping

There are several ways to make some extra cash while shopping. One option is to enroll in rewards programs provided by cashback apps like Rakuten and Swagbucks, where you can earn points per dollar spent and then exchange them for discounts or cashback.

Another alternative for those who want to earn money while shopping is to try out mystery shopping. This entails visiting a store or eatery and giving feedback on your shopping experience.

Additionally, you can sell unwanted items on online marketplaces like eBay, which provides two benefits: extra money and a clutter-free space.

You get interest from your savings and checking accounts

As a student, you're probably aware that money can be tight. However, if you can save some cash, it's highly recommended that you deposit it into an ISA or term deposit account.

Although interest rates have decreased in recent years due to the 2008 financial crisis, Brexit, austerity measures, and even the pandemic, there are still some decent offers available.

However, due to inflation, the purchasing power of £100 today will not be worth the same amount in a year. Therefore, it's crucial to keep any extra money in the account with the highest interest rate possible. Even if you're not seeking free cash to earn interest, you'll want your money to maintain its value.