The short answer is: "Join a number of reputable Online Survey Panels". The tricky bit is finding the legitimate, reputable Sites amongst the myriad of Paid Survey Sites on Search Engines.

Bypass weeks, even months, of trial and error (and disappointment) by trying the following Sites first:

www.globaltestmarket.com

GlobalTestMarket award "MarketPoints" for successfully completing surveys. The MarketPoints are redeemable for cash once 1,000 points have accumulated. A point is worth 5 cents, hence 1,000 points equates to $50.00.

The points awarded for a completed survey ranges from 30 ($1.50) for a short survey (about 10 minutes) to the occasional 300 ($15.00) for a lengthy or urgent one. The average is probably 60 ($3.00). A distinct positive aspect of this Panel is the consolation 5 points (25 cents) awarded for attempting, but failing to qualify for a survey (screened out).

Once 1,000 points have accrued, you can immediately redeem them. Payment is made by check to your mailing address. Allow 4-6 weeks in the USA and 6-8 weeks elsewhere in the World.

You must respond to their email invitations swiftly as quotas fill fast.

www.pureprofile.com

Pureprofile is an Australian Site which offers cash rewards for completing Surveys and "Click to View" ads. They have an extensive list of short profile surveys (called the "Profile Dashboard", of which there are 20 categories). However, it is worthwhile taking the time to complete them all as this will ensure a constant stream of offers.

You do have to login to their site regularly, as many offers fill before email invitations are sent. This is not surprising as their $$$/hour rate is generous in comparison to other Sites, and the cash redemption threshold of $25.00 is quickly achievable. Other positives of this Site are an extensive "Transaction History" page, and a prompt and helpful Customer Support centre.

www.lightspeedpanel.com

Lightspeed Panel award "Lightspeed Points" for completing surveys. Points accumulate in your "Lightspeed Points Account" and are redeemable at 550 points for a $5.00 Online Gift Voucher, or 575 points for $5.00 cash via PayPal. As points awarded range from 125 (short) to 320 (30+ minutes) per survey, the threshold is quickly reached. Alternatively, you have the option of allowing your points to further accrue for other reward choices at higher thresholds.

Unlike GlobalTestMarket and Pure profile, if you fail to qualify for a survey there is no consolation awarded.

www.valuedopinions.com

Valued Opinions offer a cash figure for successfully completed surveys. This reward, typically between $2.00 and $5.00 (depending on length and urgency), is credited to your Members Account until the balance reaches $20.00. Once achieved, Valued Opinions ask you to choose a $20.00 Gift Card provider- from a reasonably extensive list of popular Retail Stores.

Survey invitations are emailed regularly but, like Lightspeed Panel, there is nothing awarded if you fail the sometimes lengthy screening questions.

There are other top Sites restricted to USA and/or UK residents only - I will leave those to the locals to endorse. However, just a word of warning to others like me who live elsewhere in the world. I guess it depends on your demographics, but some Sites that purport to be international, and receive plaudits in other Helium aticles, have not delivered in Australia. They include:

American Consumer Panel

Brand Institute

Harris Poll Online

Opinion Square

Survey Savvy

Taking Online Surveys can be a rewarding experience, not only financially but also the knowledge that your answers are influencing businesses in the development of their products and/or services. Enjoy the feeling!

Learn more about this author, David Baylis.
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