What if your nightly Netflix binge or YouTube rabbit hole could actually earn you money? In 2025, it’s more than just a fantasy—there are real, legitimate ways to get paid to watch videos and TV right from the comfort of your home. From reward-based apps and paid focus groups to captioning jobs and review platforms, Americans are turning their screen time into side income using several platforms.
As the gig economy continues to grow and content consumption hits all-time highs, more companies are willing to pay viewers for their attention, feedback, and engagement. Whether you’re looking for a flexible side hustle or simply want to make a few extra dollars during your downtime, the following guide will walk you through 8 proven and legal ways to earn money by watching videos and TV in the U.S. in 2025.
Earn While You Watch
Let’s dive in and discover how your screen time can help you get paid to watch videos online and boost your bottom line—without ever leaving the couch.
1. Paid “Reward” Platforms: Swagbucks, InboxDollars & MyPoints
Overview
These popular reward platforms let you earn points (redeemable for cash or gift cards) by watching short videos—ads, trailers, and more.
Platforms at a glance
Swagbucks: A staple in the “get paid online” space. Although the dedicated “Watch” tab no longer exists, users can still earn SB points by watching videos via app searches and ads—up to roughly ~$5/day by focusing on video content.
InboxDollars/MyPoints: Both offer cash or gift cards for watching ads, trailers, and short clips. MyPoints, in particular, allows users to earn up to 500 points daily, equivalent to ~$10.
Earnings Potential
These platforms are best suited for side income—think $20–$50 a month—requiring minimal weekly effort.
2. Microtask Apps: JumpTask, Freecash & WeAre8
Quick payments, easy tasks
JumpTask: A microtask platform where users earn “JMPT” crypto or cash by watching YouTube videos, ads, and social media reels.
Freecash: Lets you watch videos on Netflix and TikTok, complete surveys, and earn up to $225 per offer. Instant PayPal withdrawals make it user-friendly.
WeAre8: Offers micropayments (e.g., 8p per ad watched) with the option to donate to charity—great for socially minded earners
Tips
Always focus on tasks with the best time-to-reward ratio.
Combine video tasks with day-to-day platforms like surveys for maximum earnings.
3. Netflix “Taggers” & Reviewers
Image credit: Freestocks.org (Pexels)
What they do
Pay & Qualifications
Taggers: Taggers, on an average, earn around $94K/year.
Reviewers: Bloggers/YouTubers earn around $62K–$68K/year, often via affiliate or ad revenue
What to know
True Netflix tagging roles are rare and competitive. Instead, consider creating quality content—blogs, video essays, reviews—as a realistic alternative.
4. Dedicated Focus Groups & Viewer Panels
How it works
Companies and networks often pay people to watch new shows or ads and provide structured feedback.
Real-life example
In the UK, The Sun tabloid newspaper reported a viewer earning between £15–£26/hour watching and reviewing shows, though payments included a small fee deduction. While US rates may vary, the model is comparable: receive content, view attentively, answer surveys, and occasionally participate in focus group discussions.
Earning potential
$10–$30/hour depending on the project—significantly higher than microtasks. Ideal for those who enjoy critical viewing and structured feedback.
5. Content Creation: Blogging & YouTube
Image credit: Mizuno K (Pexels)
Start your side business
Launch a movie/TV review blog or YouTube channel and monetize with ads, affiliate links, sponsorships.
Why it works
There are several examples all across the internet of bloggers earning $100+/day by reviewing movie trailers on Swagbucks—and monetizing through affiliate content. Netflix reviewers can similarly turn their opinions into steady revenue streams.
How to begin
6. Write Captions or Subtitles for TV Shows
Overview
Closed captioning requires active engagement—you’re not just watching passively. Your task involves transcribing spoken dialogue, sound effects, or even translating into another language, syncing it precisely with video timecodes.
Where to find jobs
Pay & Format
Payment is usually per audio/video minute, translating to $15–$25 per hour, depending on experience and speed.
Requires accurate transcription, timestamp formatting, and clear timing alignment.
Why it works
Ideal for bilingual individuals: translating subtitles can boost earnings.
Supports flexible, remote schedules—great for side hustles.
Active listening and attention to detail help you deliver high-quality captions.
7. Watch Videos on Earnably
Image credit: RDNE Stock Project (Pexels)
Overview
Earnably is a popular “get-paid-to” (GPT) platform offering small earnings—primarily through watching videos, completing surveys, and simple tasks.
How it works
Earn points (10,000 points = $1 USD) for watching short videos—typically ads, demos, or trailers.
Other tasks include surveys, app trials, and referrals
Rewards & Payout
Video tasks earn between 50–750 points per clip (~$0.005–$0.075).
Cash out via PayPal (starting at $1) or choose gift cards for Amazon, AirBnB, Whole Foods, and more.
First payouts take 3–5 days; subsequent withdrawals are often instant
Pros
- Low payout threshold and fast processing
Legit platform with wide global reach
Cons
- Earnings remain modest—better for side income than primary earnings
Some tasks are region-locked; mobile experience is web-based only
Insider tip:
Turn on “auto-redeem” to trigger instant payouts once you hit thresholds—though there may be small fees.
Refer friends for a 10% lifetime points bonus.
8. Review Videos & Media on SliceThePie
Overview
SliceThePie lets you earn by reviewing pre-release media: songs, commercials, fashion items, or video clips. You’re paid based on the insight and quality of your feedback.
What you do
Listen/watch a clip and provide detailed feedback—tone, content relevancy, emotional resonance, etc.
Your “star rating” (1–5 stars) and review depth affect earnings
Pay structure
Earn about $0.03–$0.22 per review. During bonus periods (holidays, promotions), payouts may increase .
Reviewers report earning around $40/month working casually.
Why it's worthwhile
Not truly passive, but rewarding—perfect for enthusiasts in music, video, or fashion.
You actively influence upcoming releases, acting as a mock Artists and Repertoire (A&R) scout.
Flexible and creatively stimulating—ideal for a creative side hustle.
Caution
Payout thresholds and internal quality checks mean reviews can be rejected or accounts paused.
Food for thought: It’s a steady, engaging hobby with real earnings, not a large-scale income source.
Popular Apps & Platforms That Pay You to Watch Videos
- Swagbucks
Task Type: Watch ads/trailers
Reward Method: SB points → PayPal/gift card
Notes: Earn up to ~$5/day; also includes surveys & shopping offers
- InboxDollars/MyPoints
Task Type: Watch ads, complete tasks
Reward Method: Cash/gift cards
Notes: Pays per activity; works best with multitasking
- JumpTask
Task Type: Watch videos/ads
Reward Method: Crypto or cash
Notes: Offers microtasks and fast payouts; browser-based
- Freecash
Task Type: Watch videos, complete offers
Reward Method: PayPal, crypto, gift cards
Notes: High-paying offers (up to $225); survey-friendly
- WeAre8
Task Type: Watch short social ads
Reward Method: Micropayments, optional donation
Notes: Focused on socially responsible ads; app-based
- Earnably
Task Type: Watch videos (via Hideout.TV), surveys
Reward Method: Instant cash or gift cards
Notes: Redeem rewards for Amazon, Airbnb, Whole Foods, and more; ideal for passive earning
- Rev/Scribie
Task Type: Captioning/subtitling TV shows & videos
Reward Method: $15–$25/hour (per audio/video minute)
Notes: Requires active listening, formatting, and attention to detail; ideal for bilingual users
- SliceThePie
Task Type: Review videos, music, and products
Reward Method: ~$0.03–$0.22 per review
Notes: Paid for high-quality reviews; earnings depend on detail and feedback score
Maximize Your Earnings: Best Practices
Diversify apps – Use 2–3 platforms to maintain consistent earning.
Track your time – Only pursue tasks that earn at least $5/hour.
Look for high‑pay focused projects – Survey panels and focus groups pay significantly more.
Leverage earnings – Combine video tasks with short surveys and app tests.
Mind the taxes – In the US, earnings like this are taxable income—report anywhere above $600 from a single platform annually (via 1099‑K or 1099‑NEC).
Watch out for scams – Legitimate platforms don’t ask for hefty upfront fees or personal data beyond standard info. Avoid promises of unrealistic pay (e.g. $100/hr for passive viewing).
Is It Worth It?
Casual Earners: Video reward apps can yield $20–$100/month with little effort.
Serious Builders: Combining focus groups, tagging gigs, and content creation can add up to hundreds or thousands monthly.
Full‑Time Potential: Taggers or dedicated bloggers/reviewers may convert this into a full-time income stream with sufficient audience and consistency.
Final Takeaways for Moneywise Maven Readers
Earning money by watching videos and TV may sound too good to be true, but in 2025, it’s a realistic way to supplement your income—especially if you choose the right platforms. Whether you prefer passive earning through video reward apps like Swagbucks or Earnably, or want to actively participate in closed captioning jobs with companies like Rev and Scribie, there are a variety of options tailored to your skills and availability. If you have a creative flair, reviewing content on SliceThePie or launching a YouTube review channel can unlock long-term income potential through ad revenue and sponsorships. Meanwhile, microtask platforms and paid focus groups offer flexible ways to turn spare time into meaningful side cash.
While none of these options are likely to replace a full-time income on their own, combining several strategies can easily generate a few hundred dollars per month. Just remember—your time is valuable. Focus on high-return tasks, avoid scams that promise unrealistic payouts, and track your earnings for tax purposes if you’re in the U.S. The key is to be intentional: treat your video-watching habits like a side hustle, not just entertainment. With consistency and the right platforms, your screen time can help support your financial goals in a fun and flexible way. So go ahead—turn on that video, and let your downtime start paying dividends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you really get paid to watch videos in 2025?
Yes, in 2025, you can genuinely get paid to watch videos through several legitimate platforms. Apps like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, Freecash, and SliceThePie offer rewards for watching ads, trailers, or review clips, while companies like Rev and Scribie pay users to caption or subtitle video content. While most opportunities won’t replace a full-time income, combining multiple platforms can provide a reliable stream of side cash or passive earnings, especially for those who enjoy screen time during their downtime.
What are the best apps that pay you to watch videos in 2025?
The top apps that pay you to watch videos in 2025 include Swagbucks, InboxDollars, Earnably, JumpTask, Freecash, WeAre8, and SliceThePie. Swagbucks and InboxDollars reward you with points or cash for viewing promotional clips, while Earnably allows users to redeem points for gift cards or PayPal cash. JumpTask and Freecash offer crypto or direct payouts for engaging with video-based microtasks, and SliceThePie lets users earn by providing detailed feedback on video content. These apps are all free to join and offer flexible earning potential for users in the U.S.
How much can you earn by watching videos on platforms like Swagbucks or InboxDollars?
Earnings on platforms like Swagbucks or InboxDollars typically range from $20 to $50 per month, depending on how consistently you use them and how many video-based tasks you complete. While some users report earning up to $5 per day through video viewing and related activities, most earnings come from combining video tasks with surveys, offers, and other bonus promotions. These platforms are best suited for casual earners looking to monetize spare time, rather than those seeking a primary income.
Are Netflix tagger jobs real, and how much do they pay?
Yes, Netflix tagger jobs are real, but they are extremely competitive and rarely available to the general public. Taggers are responsible for categorizing content based on mood, theme, and genre to improve Netflix’s recommendation algorithm. These roles reportedly pay around $94,000 per year on average, but require strong media literacy and often a background in entertainment or data tagging. For those unable to secure a tagger position, starting a Netflix-focused blog or YouTube review channel is a more accessible way to earn income while watching Netflix.
Is writing captions or subtitles for videos a good way to make money?
Writing captions or subtitles for videos can be a profitable and flexible side hustle, especially in 2025 when demand for accessible content remains high. Companies like Rev and Scribie hire freelancers to transcribe audio and sync it with video timelines. Captioners earn an average of $15 to $25 per hour depending on accuracy and speed, with top performers making over $1,500 per month. This type of work is well-suited for detail-oriented individuals and bilingual professionals who can offer translations for a higher rate.
What is SliceThePie and how does it pay you to watch videos?
SliceThePie is a U.S.-accessible review platform that pays users to watch and evaluate pre-release media, including music videos, ads, and product clips. You earn money by submitting written reviews based on your impressions, and your earnings increase with the quality and depth of your feedback. Typical payouts range from $0.03 to $0.22 per review, with some reviewers earning up to $40 per month during promotional bonus periods. It’s a low-effort, creative way to make money if you enjoy sharing opinions on video content.
Are paid focus groups for watching TV shows legitimate?
Yes, paid focus groups that involve watching TV shows or advertisements are legitimate and often offer higher payouts than video reward apps. Participants are typically asked to view content and provide structured feedback via surveys or interviews. In the U.S., you can earn between $10 and $30 per hour depending on the project. These opportunities are often organized by market research companies and require pre-screening or demographic qualification. They’re ideal for viewers who enjoy analyzing content and providing thoughtful opinions.
Is watching videos for money worth your time in 2025?
Watching videos for money can be worth your time in 2025 if you approach it strategically. While most apps offer modest payouts, using multiple platforms like Swagbucks, Freecash, and Rev can help you earn a few hundred dollars monthly. Passive video watching is best for casual earners, while more active roles—such as captioning, reviewing, or focus groups—offer higher compensation. Ultimately, combining these methods and focusing on high-paying, time-efficient tasks is the key to maximizing your income potential.
Do you need special skills or qualifications to get paid for watching videos?
Most platforms that pay you to watch videos require little to no experience, making them accessible to nearly anyone with an internet connection. Basic tasks like watching ads or trailers on Swagbucks or Earnably only require registration. However, more advanced roles—such as captioning, translating subtitles, or reviewing professionally—demand strong writing, listening, or language skills. For the highest-paying opportunities, being detail-oriented and responsive to feedback can significantly boost your success and income.
Are these video-watching platforms safe and legitimate in the U.S.?
Yes, most well-known platforms like Swagbucks, Rev, Earnably, and Freecash are considered safe and legitimate in the U.S. in 2025. These companies have payment histories and positive user reviews, and they never require large upfront fees. However, it’s important to watch out for scams—any platform promising unrealistic earnings, requesting sensitive personal data, or asking for payment to join is likely fraudulent. Always research before signing up and stick to trusted platforms with a clear reputation and transparent terms.
Featured image credit: Anna Tarazevich (Pexels)
