Referral apps can be one of the fastest ways to earn extra money online — especially if you already share links, post in groups, or talk to friends and family about apps you use.
Below are legit referral apps that pay real bonuses when someone signs up using your link. These aren’t gimmicks — they’re platforms people already use, with referral programs that actually pay.
1. Robinhood
Robinhood lets users earn free stock just for opening an account and linking a bank. When you refer others, you earn the same bonus they receive, making it one of the strongest referral apps available.
- Signup bonus: $5–$200 in free stock
- Referral bonus: Same bonus per referral
- Annual referral limit: Up to $1,500
Open a Robinhood account & earn free stock
2. SoFi
SoFi is an online financial platform that combines banking, investing, and credit tools in one place. What makes SoFi stand out is that it offers multiple bonuses and referral opportunities, depending on which product someone signs up for.
SoFi Banking
- Signup bonus: $25 when you open an account and fund it with $50
- Referral bonus: $50–$75 per referral (promo dependent)
- What it is: Online checking and savings with no monthly fees
Open a SoFi bank account & earn a bonus
SoFi Investing
- Signup bonus: $25 when you fund an investing account
- Referral bonus: $50–$75 per referral
- What it is: Commission-free investing for beginners
Start investing with SoFi & earn rewards
SoFi Credit Check
- Bonus: $10 just for checking your credit
- Funding required: None
- What it is: Free credit monitoring through SoFi
Check your credit with SoFi & earn $10
3. MoneyLion
MoneyLion allows users to earn bonuses for opening an account and referring others. There’s no limit on referrals, which makes it attractive for people who share links regularly.
- Signup bonus: $5–$10 (promo dependent)
- Referral bonus: Unlimited
- Account type: Free
Open a free MoneyLion account & earn a bonus
4. Chime
Chime is an online banking app that offers checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees. It’s best known for its high referral bonuses and beginner-friendly features.
- Referral bonus: $100
- Requirement: A qualifying direct deposit of at least $200
- Extra feature: SpotMe, which allows eligible users to access a small fee-free cash advance
Chime works well for people who receive direct deposits and want to earn referral bonuses while using a simple online bank.
Open a Chime account & earn referral bonuses
5. Varo
Varo is an online banking app that offers checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees. Varo frequently runs tiered signup bonuses, giving users multiple ways to qualify.
- Signup bonus option 1: $25 when you spend $20 using your Varo debit card within 30 days
- Signup bonus option 2: $100 when you make $500 in qualifying direct deposits within 45 days
- Referral bonus: Varies by promotion
Varo is a good option for users who want flexibility in how they qualify for a bonus.
Try Varo & earn referral bonuses
Want More Money-Making Apps?
Referral apps are just one way to earn. If you’re looking for fast payouts, PayPal apps, or low-effort options, check out the full list below.
View all money-making apps here
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links in this post may be affiliate links. Hustle Plugged may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Only apps and platforms that are researched or widely used are shared.