you’ve got the option to legitimately get free money if you know where to look.

The government is one big source, and various companies offer ways to find free money, too.

The money might even already be yours; you just need to claim it.

money hanging from a clothes pin.

Carmen Mandato/The Penny Hoarder

But be aware that lots of scammers are out there.

(See the end of this article for more on that.)

And who doesnt like cash back?

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  • Theres no impact on your credit score for signing up and no minimum balance requirements ever.

Tap your card for cash back.

Checking account deposits are FDIC-insured up to the maximum amount allowed by law.

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Does your bank do all that?

*SeeDeposit Account Agreementfor details on transaction eligibility, limitations, and terms.

Its too good to be true, right?

Unlike other sites, InboxDollars pays you in cash no points or gift cards.

Its already paid its users more than $56 million.

Signing up takes about one minute, and youll immediately receivea $5 bonusto get you started.

Heres how to search:

Comparing the Ways to Get Free Money

4.

You Might Be Eligible for Government Assistance

The federal government provides assistance for people in need.

This includes food stamps and help with housing, utilities, healthcare insurance, and more.

To see if you qualify, start atusa.gov.

This process usually starts by filling out theFAFSA, or Free system for Federal Student Aid.

The FAFSA also serves as a gateway for merit scholarships offered by colleges.

Of course, you’re free to lose money, too.

Check out our game ratings in22 Legit Games That Pay Real Money.

Yeah, youve probably heard of Robinhood.

Plus, its super easy to use.

We found a company willing to help.

AmOne wont make you stand in line or call a bank.

And if youre worried you wont qualify, its free tocheck online.

It takes just two minutes, and it could save you thousands of dollars.

Thats why a lot of people usethe Acorns app.

When these companies profit and issue dividends, you’re free to profit, too.

Take 5 Surveys and Get a Free $5 Amazon Gift Card

Listen.

MyPointsis a research company thatll pay you to answer questions about different products and services you use.

In return, itll give you free gift cards.

you’ve got the option to even do this from your phone.

To date, MyPoints has paid people more than $236 million in gift cards.

To get your $5 Amazon gift card,just sign upand complete your first five surveys.

Send This Company Your Junk Mail

How many ads do you receive in your mailbox each day?

What about in your inbox?

Sign up as a panelist, and start sending your qualifying junk mail in, via postage-paid envelopes.

you might also forward your emails.

Get Free Stuff on Your Birthday

Many businesses offer free products or services on your special day.

In fact, we maintain a giant list:108 Places That Will Give You Free Stuff on Your Birthday.

Happy Birthday to us!

Remember, transparency and regular updates can help build trust with your backers and potentially lead to more contributions.

Many companies and brands host these promotions as part of their marketing efforts.

Remember, legitimate contests wont ask for payment to enter or claim a prize.

Free money and friends usually dont go well together.

But hey, maybe your friends wont mind.

Here are a few red flags to watch out for: