How to Get Paid to Watch TV
Yes, you can get paid to watch TV!
Even though I’m not the most prolific TV watcher, I do like my occasional TV shows. I’ve figured out a way to get paid while watching TV—and you can, too!
Disclosure: There are some affiliate links below and I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post at no additional cost to you.
For the record, figure that you will not get rich with this side hustle.
Think of it as getting paid for doing something you already do.
Participating in focus groups and taking online surveys have been part of my multiple streams of income/side hustle strategy for years, so this offer was right in line with my goals.
I participated in focus groups with Schlesinger Group (now Sago.com) and was recruited to join the TVision viewership panel (their client).
The optional information meeting was on a Sunday afternoon for an hour and gave a bonus of $25.
Update: Now, when you log onto their website, it states that monthly incentives will be sent via email in the form of a digital gift card reward link. All you have to do is watch TV and check your inbox.
It was easy money, as I stopped in for the information session on my way to run some errands.
How does it work?
After the information session, I made an appointment for one of their contracted service persons to come out and install the TV devices that measure my viewing time.
The setup took less than an hour.
A small box device that transmits data back to the company was installed in my home, along with a Logitech webcam that detects my eye movement when watching TV.
The devices measured how I watched TV: what shows, programs, length of time, etc.
Each month, I received the following “Cha-ching” message that my monies are available.
My compensation was $40 a month, which could be requested via a Visa card ($3.00 charge) or many different gift cards.
When I was a part of the program, I only chose the Amazon gift card.
After selecting the card, I received a code that I use to add to my Amazon gift card balance….really easy!
Below is a copy of one of the emails I receive each month:
I know some of you may be thinking…” Only $40? “
It worked out wonderfully for me.
Each month, I transferred the amount (as explained above) to my Amazon account, along with some gift cards I’ve received as presents and a couple of other Amazon survey cards received.
After a few months, I was able to purchase an Olympus camera that I had my eye on for quite a while – for $109 out of pocket instead of the retail and tax price of $649.
If I had waited one more month, I would have been able to get the camera kit for $0, as I had another TV-watching payment coming and another $200 survey in two weeks.
However, I have a couple of projects coming up and wanted to use this camera’s video capability, so I chose to get it at the $109 price. Still, it’s not a bad deal at all!
I was also able to save on the camera because my browser has the Honey app, which automatically searches for a lower price.
In this instance, I saved about $59, including $0 for shipping, handling, and taxes.
If you’ve never used the Honey app, it’s free to install and will save you a lot of time looking for a discount code for orders you place.
How You Can Get Paid To Watch TV & Videos Too!
Various companies and platforms offer opportunities for individuals to earn money while watching TV. Whether you’re interested in participating in focus groups, writing captions, or reviewing content, there are multiple avenues to explore. Here’s how you can get started too:
1. Join a Focus Group
Television networks and production companies frequently seek audience feedback on their shows. By joining focus groups, you can provide valuable insights and get compensated for your opinions.
Websites like FocusGroup.org and Focus Groups USA connect participants with studies related to TV programming. Compensation varies but can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per session.
2. Write Captions or Subtitles
If you have strong language skills and attention to detail, consider working as a captioner or subtitler. Companies such as Rev and Scribie hire freelancers to transcribe audio from TV shows and movies, creating closed captions and subtitles. This role allows you to watch content while earning money, with pay rates depending on the project’s length and complexity.
3. Become a Netflix Tagger
Netflix employs individuals, known as taggers, to watch and categorize content by assigning relevant tags. These tags help improve content recommendations for viewers. Positions like “Editorial Insights Content Analyst” involve watching Netflix content and tagging it accordingly. While these roles are limited and competitive, they offer a unique way to earn by watching TV. Keep an eye on Netflix’s careers page for openings.
Watch their job board for a Tagger position or Editorial Analyst.
A Tagger watches NetFlix and categorizes films. You can also watch Netflix through Swagbucks to earn gift cards.
Swagbucks – Get rewarded with Swagbucks by not only responding to surveys but you can also get paid to watch entertaining videos and accumulate Swagbucks that you can trade in for gift cards or PayPal cash.
4. Participate in Reward Programs
Platforms like InboxDollars and Swagbucks offer rewards for watching videos, including TV clips and advertisements. By completing these tasks, you can earn points redeemable for cash or gift cards. While the earnings per video are modest, they can accumulate over time, especially if you engage with the platform regularly
Sago.com (Market Research Company): Sago (formerly Schlesinger Group) has companies and facilities in the US, Canada, Australia, France, Spain, the UK, and Germany.
I’ve participated in several of their focus groups, and they pay well.
5. Join the Nielsen Panel
Nielsen, a global measurement and data analytics company, collects data on viewing habits to determine television ratings. By becoming a Nielsen household, you contribute to this research and may receive compensation for your participation. To express interest, visit Nielsen’s Computer and Mobile Panel
6. Start a Review Blog or YouTube Channel
If you enjoy analyzing and discussing TV shows, consider creating a blog or YouTube channel dedicated to reviewing content. By building an audience, you can monetize your platform through advertising, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing. This approach requires time and effort to establish a following but can be a fulfilling way to earn money while watching and discussing television.
In conclusion, transforming your TV-watching habits into a profitable endeavor is achievable through various channels.
Whether by providing feedback, creating content, or participating in reward programs, these opportunities allow you to earn income while engaging with television content.
Explore the options that align with your interests and skills to make the most of your viewing time.
Now it’s your turn to share.
What ways have you found to make a little side change while watching TV?
Please share it with us in the comment box below.
