Get paid to scan QR codes and barcodes with your phone. We tested 8 scan-to-earn apps to find which ones actually pay real money and which are a waste of time.
Getting paid to scan QR codes sounds almost too simple to be real. You point your phone at a code, watch a short ad or complete a quick action, and rewards show up in your account. No special skills, no long applications, no waiting weeks for approval.
These apps work because your attention has real value. Brands pay to verify engagement, and QR scanning apps let you monetize moments that would otherwise be free for advertisers.
But here's the catch: many "scan to earn" apps are low quality. Some pay tiny amounts, crash often, or make it hard to reach cashout. We tested a set of QR and barcode reward apps over several weeks to identify options that are commonly reported as legit and worth trying.
This guide shows you which apps are worth considering, what you can realistically expect to earn, and how to maximize results without wasting time on obvious scams. For the complete picture of earning apps, see our guide to apps that pay real money.
Start Earning From QR Scans Today
VISU can reward users for scanning QR codes at partner locations. Reward size and timing depend on the campaign and region.
Quick video. Earn your first reward.
How QR Code and Barcode Reward Apps Work
QR code and barcode reward apps usually connect three parties: you (the scanner), businesses (who want attention), and advertisers (who pay for that attention). When you scan a code, you may be proving you visited a location, engaged with a product, or completed a verified action. That proof has value.
Advertisers or businesses fund campaigns. The app shares a portion of that value with users, based on the campaign rules. The best scan-to-earn apps in this category typically share these traits:
- Fast payouts (instant or same-day when available)
- Reasonable cashout rules (clear minimums and redemption options)
- Transparent earning structure (you understand what actions are rewarded)
- Real-world placements (codes show up at actual stores, venues, or products)
With VISU, you scan QR codes at local partners to earn instant rewards — no receipts needed.
8 Best Apps That Pay You to Scan QR Codes (2026)
We compared each option based on payout clarity, usability, and how the QR flow works. Availability and rewards can vary by country, city, and campaign timing, so always verify details inside each app before investing time.
1. VISU Network
What it is: VISU offers QR experiences at partner locations. Depending on the campaign, a scan can trigger a short ad or brand experience, and users may earn rewards for completing that engagement.
How much it can pay: Varies by campaign. Some scans may be a few cents, while higher-value campaigns (often tied to events or special activations) can be higher.
Payout method: In-app balance with redemption options that depend on the campaign and region.
Why we like it: VISU is built around QR engagement rather than only purchases or receipts. It is designed for location-based experiences and can be a good fit if you frequently visit participating places. Learn more about how VISU rewards work.
Best for: People who eat out, attend events, or shop at participating retailers regularly.
2. Ibotta
What it is: Primarily a cashback app. Some flows involve QR or in-store activation for offers, depending on the retailer and promotion.
How much it pays: Varies by offer and purchase.
Payout method: PayPal, Venmo, or gift cards (cashout minimums may apply).
Best for: Grocery shoppers who want to stack rewards. For more cashback options, see our best cashback apps guide.
3. Shopkick
What it is: Rewards users for store visits and actions like scanning product barcodes or completing in-store tasks. QR flows may appear during specific campaigns.
How much it pays: Points-based and varies by action.
Payout method: Gift cards (availability varies).
Best for: People who like "treasure hunt" style earning while shopping. For more store visit options, see our guide to store visit apps.
4. Fetch Rewards
What it is: Receipt scanning app with occasional promotional bonuses that can include QR-related activations. Also rewards for scanning product barcodes.
How much it pays: Points-based and varies by receipt and promo.
Payout method: Gift cards (minimums apply).
Best for: People who already scan receipts and want extra promos.
5. NielsenIQ Homescan
What it is: Market research panel that rewards users for logging purchases by scanning product barcodes and sometimes QR codes.
How much it pays: Points redeemable for rewards; earnings vary by participation and region.
Payout method: Rewards, gift cards, or merchandise depending on the program.
Best for: Households willing to log purchases consistently.
6. Receipt Hog
What it is: Receipt scanning app with occasional promotions that may include QR-related tasks.
How much it pays: Points-based, varies by receipt and bonuses.
Payout method: PayPal or gift cards (minimums apply).
Best for: Casual users who want a simple receipt app.
7. Checkout 51
What it is: Cashback app with rotating weekly offers. Some offers may include in-store activation steps depending on retailer workflows.
How much it pays: Varies by offer and purchase.
Payout method: Cashout rules vary by region.
Best for: Grocery shoppers who like rotating offers.
8. Scanbucks (Limited Availability)
What it is: A QR-focused rewards concept that may be available in select markets. Availability and reputation can change, so verify current status and reviews before relying on it.
How much it pays: Varies by campaign.
Payout method: Varies by region.
Best for: Users in supported areas who confirm it is active and paying.
Apps That Pay You to Scan Barcodes
Many apps that pay for QR scans also reward barcode scanning. Product barcodes are found on virtually every item you buy, making this an easy way to earn from everyday shopping.
The best apps for scanning barcodes to earn money include:
| App | Barcode Scanning Feature | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Shopkick | Scan product barcodes in-store | Earn points for scanning specific products on shelves |
| NielsenIQ Homescan | Scan all purchased items | Log every product barcode after shopping for market research |
| Fetch Rewards | Scan receipts + product barcodes | Bonus points for scanning specific product barcodes |
| Checkout 51 | Scan receipts with barcodes | Cashback on specific products shown in offers |
The key difference: QR code apps like VISU typically reward location visits and brand engagement, while barcode scanning apps reward product purchases and market research participation. For maximum earnings, use both types.
Scan and Earn Apps That Pay Instantly
Some scan-to-earn apps credit rewards immediately, while others make you wait days or weeks. If fast payouts matter to you, here's what to expect:
| App | Payout Speed | Minimum Cashout |
|---|---|---|
| VISU | Instant to balance | Varies by campaign |
| Fetch Rewards | Instant (points) | $3 in gift cards |
| Shopkick | Instant (points) | $2 in gift cards |
| Ibotta | 24-48 hours | $20 |
| Receipt Hog | 2-3 days | $5 |
| Checkout 51 | 1-2 weeks | $20 |
For the fastest scan and earn experience, prioritize VISU, Fetch, and Shopkick. They credit rewards immediately after you complete the required action.
Quick Comparison: QR and Barcode Scanning Apps
| App | Scan Type | Reward Type | Payout Method | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VISU | QR codes | Campaign-based | Cash or gift cards | Location-based QR experiences |
| Ibotta | Receipts + QR | Cashback | PayPal, Venmo, gift cards | Grocery cashback stacking |
| Shopkick | Barcodes + QR | Points | Gift cards | In-store barcode missions |
| Fetch | Receipts + barcodes | Points | Gift cards | Receipt and barcode scanning |
| NielsenIQ | Barcodes | Points | Rewards | Consistent product logging |
| Receipt Hog | Receipts | Points | PayPal or gift cards | Simple receipt app |
| Checkout 51 | Receipts | Cashback | Check or PayPal | Rotating grocery offers |
| Scanbucks | QR codes | Campaign-based | Varies | Supported markets only |
*VISU cashout options and timing depend on campaign rules and regional availability.
How to Maximize Your QR and Barcode Scanning Earnings
Scanning one code occasionally will not change your life. But stacking a few methods and being strategic about where you scan can turn this into meaningful side income over time.
Stack multiple apps
Use VISU for location-based QR experiences, Shopkick for barcode scanning, a cashback app for grocery rewards, and a receipt app for general purchases. One shopping trip can trigger multiple reward categories.
Enable notifications
Some apps alert you when higher-value campaigns are nearby. When a special promotion appears at a venue or event, it can be more valuable than routine scans.
Scan consistently
Regular activity can unlock streaks, bonuses, or better offers in certain apps. Consistency usually beats random bursts.
Focus on high-value locations
Events, new openings, and short-term activations often offer better rewards than routine scans. Use in-app maps and local promo pages when available.
Refer friends (carefully)
Referral programs can add income, but focus on helping people join apps they will genuinely use. Referral rules and payouts vary. For more on this, see our guide to referral apps that pay.
How to Spot QR Scanning Scams
Not every app that promises money for scans is legitimate. Watch for these red flags:
- Unrealistic promises — "$50 per scan" is not realistic. Legit apps typically pay small amounts per verified action.
- No clear model — If you cannot explain who funds the rewards and why, skip it.
- Excessive permissions — A scanning app should not need access to contacts or messages.
- Fake social proof — Look for detailed reviews, not just star ratings.
- Impossible cashout rules — Huge minimums paired with tiny earnings are a common trap.
When in doubt, start small, test cashout early, and avoid any app that is vague about how rewards are calculated.
Realistic Earnings: What to Actually Expect
QR and barcode reward apps are side income, not salary replacement. Results depend on your location, campaign availability, and how consistently you use the apps.
- Casual user (5 to 10 scans per week): often a few dollars per month
- Active user (daily scans, stacking apps): commonly $10-30 per month
- Power user (events, referrals, consistent stacking): $50+ in strong markets
The most reliable strategy is combining QR experiences with barcode scanning and other reward categories like cashback and receipts. If you walk a lot between locations, consider adding apps that pay you to walk to your stack. For more low-effort methods, see our guide to passive income apps.
Ready to Start Earning?
VISU can be a fast way to earn from QR experiences when campaigns are available near you. Rewards and cashout options depend on campaign rules.
Quick video. Earn your first reward.