15 Legit Apps That Send You Free Stuff (No Catch)
Free samples, gift cards, and credits are out there — without sketchy fees or gimmicks. The real trade-off with most “free stuff” apps is your time and (sometimes) your data, not your money. Below are 15 legitimate options that regularly deliver real value. None require an entry fee or shipping charge for the freebie itself, but always read the fine print as offers change and availability can be limited.
1) ZipSweep
What it is: A free, ad-funded daily sweepstakes built around U.S. ZIP codes — no tickets, no payments, no catch. Every day, a winning code is randomly generated from a ZIP code + a unique user ID. If the exact winner doesn’t claim by 9PM, ZipSweep may roll the prize over to the entire ZIP code — first come, first served.
- Why it’s legit: It’s a free sweepstakes, not a lottery or gambling. Prizes are funded by advertising. ZipSweep only uses your email to send reminders/updates and won’t share details without your permission.
- How to claim: Create an account, check the daily draw, and tap “Claim” if you match. If it rolls to your ZIP, be quick — it’s first come, first served.
- Cost to you: $0. No purchases or tickets required.
2) Fetch
What it is: A popular receipt-scanning app that turns everyday receipts into points you can redeem for gift cards.
- How it works: Scan paper receipts (or enable e-receipt scanning). Earn points on qualifying purchases; points stack even on small buys.
- Payout: Gift cards to major brands; low minimum redemption.
- Trade-off: You’re sharing shopping data so the app can award points and improve offers.
3) Ibotta
What it is: A cash-back app with frequent “100% back” promos that effectively make select items free after rebate.
- How it works: Activate offers in the app, buy the item, then submit a receipt or link a loyalty account.
- Payout: Cash to bank/PayPal or gift cards after reaching the withdrawal threshold.
- Pro tip: Watch for seasonal freebie bundles (e.g., back-to-school or holiday promos).
4) Checkout 51
What it is: A weekly offers app that occasionally features items free after rebate.
- How it works: Claim offers, upload your receipt, and get cash back.
- Payout: Cash-out when you hit the minimum.
- Good to know: Some offers can’t be combined with other rebates; always check terms.
5) Influenster
What it is: A product discovery and review platform that ships free “VoxBox” bundles to selected members.
- How it works: Complete your profile and surveys; if matched, you’ll receive full-size products or deluxe samples to review.
- Cost to you: $0, shipping included. You’re asked to provide honest feedback.
6) PINCHme
What it is: A sampling program offering free product samples (you choose from available picks on drop days).
- How it works: Complete your profile; on sample day, claim available items and later submit feedback.
- Cost to you: $0, shipping included. Inventory is limited and goes fast.
7) Freeosk
What it is: In-store kiosks (at select retailers) that dispense free samples when you scan the app.
- How it works: Use the app to locate kiosks and scan your code at the machine for the weekly sample.
- Cost to you: $0. Availability varies by store and week.
8) Social Nature
What it is: Natural and better-for-you brands offer free product coupons you redeem in-store in exchange for a review.
- How it works: Apply for trials that match your profile. If selected, you receive a coupon to try the product for free, then share feedback.
- Cost to you: $0 for the product; you put in time to review it.
9) T-Mobile Tuesdays
What it is: Weekly freebies and deals for eligible T-Mobile/Sprint customers via the T-Mobile Tuesdays app.
- Examples: Food and beverage freebies, streaming perks, discount codes, and occasional big seasonal offers.
- Limitations: Requires eligible phone service; claims are time-limited each Tuesday.
10) Google Opinion Rewards
What it is: Short surveys that pay small amounts you can stack toward digital purchases or cash (depending on platform).
- How it works: Answer quick surveys about places you visit or preferences.
- Payout: Android typically earns Google Play credit; iOS often pays to PayPal (availability can vary).
11) Shopkick
What it is: Earn “kicks” (points) for walking into stores, scanning items, watching videos, or shopping — many tasks require no purchase.
- Payout: Redeem kicks for gift cards to major retailers.
- Pro tip: Focus on walk-ins and scans for truly no-spend earnings.
12) Amazon Shopper Panel
What it is: Invite-only program that rewards you for sharing 10 receipts per month and answering occasional surveys.
- Payout: Typically $10 in Amazon credit per month for 10 accepted receipts, plus extra for select surveys (availability and amounts can change).
- Privacy: Participation is optional; you can opt out anytime. Data helps improve ad measurement and insights.
13) Mistplay
What it is: A mobile gaming rewards app that gives points for trying new games.
- How it works: Play featured titles to earn points, then redeem for gift cards.
- Platforms: Strong Android presence; iOS availability may be limited or region-dependent.
14) Swagbucks
What it is: A long-running rewards platform with an app for surveys, discovery offers, and more.
- Payout: Gift cards or PayPal once you hit the minimum (point values vary by activity).
- Pro tip: Stick to no-cost tasks (daily polls, surveys you qualify for) to keep it truly free.
15) MyPoints
What it is: Another established rewards app that pays in points for surveys, email click-throughs, and select offers.
- Payout: Gift cards and PayPal once you reach the threshold.
- Good to know: Like any survey app, qualification rates vary; check your email preferences to control messages.
Smart tips to keep it truly “no catch”
- Never pay for shipping on a “free sample.” Legit programs cover shipping or it’s an in-store pickup.
- Use official app stores and direct brand links. Avoid random “survey” sites that demand credit cards.
- Skim privacy policies. Most freebies are ad- or data-supported — understand what you’re sharing and adjust settings.
- Create a dedicated email for deals so you can manage notifications easily.
- Act fast on limited drops (PINCHme, Freeosk) and watch for seasonal 100% cash-back offers (Ibotta, Checkout 51).
Bottom line
You don’t need to spend to get value. Stick to reputable apps, watch the terms, and prioritize options that respect your time and privacy. Want a daily shot at something bigger with zero spend? Check ZipSweep — if the exact winner doesn’t claim by 9PM, the prize might roll to your ZIP, first come, first served.