- Dropbox is a cloud storage service that enables users to save, share, and collaborate on data. It offers many storage-space-variable plans, beginning with 2 GB for the free Dropbox Basic account.
- Payoneer is an online-only service for receiving and transferring funds. So, it is similar to PayPal, but without the red tape. It is also the preferred payment method for many affiliate marketers.
- Users of Hostinger are eligible for the referral program accessible via CPanel. In this referral program, you can earn a 20% commission on your referral’s first purchase if they sign up for a 12-month web hosting plan.
Referral programs are a fantastic way to earn extra money or rewards by recommending products or services to others.
When someone signs up or makes a purchase through your referral link, you get a bonus.
It’s like telling your friends about your favorite restaurant and getting a discount the next time you visit because they went there on your recommendation.
These programs are offered by many companies to increase their customer base while rewarding existing customers. They can be a great source of income or perks, depending on the program’s benefits.
What Is A Referral Program?
A referral program is a way for businesses to reward you for recommending their products or services to others.
The reward can be anything from the added value to your account, free hours of using an app, gift certificates, or even prepaid debit cards. In essence, you get compensated for referring a friend as a potential new customer to a company.
Currently, the most popular incentive for large brands conducting referral marketing programs is prepaid debit cards. However, none of the programs listed below offer “shop credit.”
Instead, you will receive either cash for your referrals or a gift card from Amazon or a large offline retailer such as Walmart. So, let’s take a look at some examples of referral programs.
17 Best Referral Programs To Make Profit 2024
Here is the list of best referral programs:
1. ShareASale
ShareASale is a network of affiliates. They attract new merchants through a referral program that pays affiliates to bring them new merchants.
If you know of a company that wants to launch its own affiliate network, you can earn $150 by introducing them to ShareASale. Only an introduction is required from you.
This could be a great opportunity for both sides. Keep in mind that most people who want to benefit from affiliate programs don’t think about affiliate networks.
So, this puts you in a strategic position that you should capitalize on. To promote this offer, you need a ShareASale account. But don’t worry – creating an account is free and easy.
URL: ShareASale referral program
The Referral Fee: $150
2. Dropbox
Dropbox is a cloud storage service that enables users to save, share, and collaborate on data. It offers many storage-space-variable plans, beginning with 2 GB for the free Dropbox Basic account.
Dropbox’s referral program pays users with more storage space. After signing up for a Dropbox account and plan, existing customers can invite their friends by emailing them an invitation link.
Dropbox offers a referral program that rewards users for inviting their friends to join. Once the referred person accepts the invitation and verifies their email address, both the referrer and the referred person can get additional storage space.
For every referral who subscribes to a Dropbox Basic account, the referrer can receive 500 MB of extra storage space, up to a maximum of 16 GB.
If the referred person subscribes to a Dropbox Plus account, the referrer can receive 1 GB of extra storage space per referral, up to a maximum of 32 GB.
The referral award ranges from 500 MB to 32 GB of extra space, depending on the plan of the referred account.
The Referral Fee is 500 MB of free storage per referral, up to 16 GB
3. Payoneer
Payoneer is an online-only service for receiving and transferring funds. So, it is similar to PayPal, but without the red tape. It is also the preferred payment method for many affiliate marketers.
Particularly those who live as digital nomads or who work from abroad accounts.
In addition, Payoneer runs a referral scheme that allows you to earn a monetary benefit by referring a friend.
As the financial services sector is highly competitive, Payoneer welcomes referrals from new customers and is willing to pay up to $25 for each referral you send their way.
However, to be eligible for this bonus, your referred friend must deposit at least $1,000 into their account.
URL: Payoneer referral program
The Referral Fee is $25
4. Swagbucks
What if I told you that you could earn cash and gift cards just by doing the things you already do on the internet, like watching movies or shopping?
Swagbucks gives you the chance to earn money for completing simple tasks, such as taking surveys.
They have a lot of people interested in their offer as they give away 7,000 gift cards every day. Although the value of these cards is not the same as hard currency, it is still a good deal.
Additionally, using these cards is totally anonymous, and you can even use them to invest in cryptocurrencies. Would you recommend this opportunity to your friends?
If you do, you will earn 10% of your referral’s earnings and an extra 100 Swagbucks in your account. The more people you refer, the more benefits you’ll receive in terms of gift cards.
URL: Swagbucks referral program
The Referral fee is 10% of what your referral earns
5. Hostinger
Users of Hostinger are eligible for the referral program accessible via CPanel. In this referral program, you can earn a 20% commission on your referral’s first purchase if they sign up for a 12-month web hosting plan.
In addition, your referrals will receive a 20% discount at checkout when they use your referral link. If the referred friends do not request a refund within the first 45 days, the client who introduced them will earn a reward.
URL: Hostinger affiliate program
The Referral Fee: is a 20% commission from each successful referral
6. Coinbase
Coinbase is a popular cryptocurrency exchange that has been serving its clients since 2012, which was long before the Bitcoin mania began.
They offer an easy-to-use platform for trading cryptocurrencies, enabling users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies without any hassle.
In addition, they have introduced a referral program for cryptocurrencies that provides their clients with a unique opportunity to earn rewards by referring their friends and family to the platform.
This is possible with FIAT currency, such as a credit or debit card, which makes it a great option for those who are new to cryptocurrency, like me.
In any case, the Coinbase referral program is quite simple. First, you create a user account with them. Then, using your “refer a friend” link, you can promote it to your friends.
If your referral purchases or sells $100 worth of cryptocurrency within 180 days, you and your friend will each receive a $10 bonus in your account.
This bonus can be used to purchase additional cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Bitcoin, Stellar, Tether, Lumens, and more.
URL: Coinbase referral program
The Referral fee is US$10
7. SoFi
SoFi, a loan provider, was initially established to provide better financial options for students.
With the success of its services, the company has expanded into other financial sectors, such as student loans, personal loans, and mortgages. SoFi’s aim is not to penalize individuals who take out loans with them.
I can help you to get out of debt while teaching you better money management skills. Additionally, there is a referral scheme that you can take advantage of.
By referring someone to sign up and fund any of the following accounts – SoFi Money account, student loan refinancing, investment account, or personal loans – they will receive a cash reward.
For instance, if your referral registers a SoFi money account and deposits $500, you will receive a bonus of $50.
However, they limit the potential referral profits to $10,000 per year, indicating that they already have “advocates” earning at least that much through their referral scheme. But, there is no cap on lifetime earnings.
The Referral fee is more than $50
8. Fiverr
Fiverr is an online freelancing marketplace where freelancers sell programming and digital marketing skills, among others. Joining Fiverr is free, and you can begin referring immediately after registering.
By introducing a friend, you will receive 10% off your first purchase, up to a maximum of $100 per purchase, in Fiverr Credits. In contrast, the referred customer will receive a 10% discount (up to $100) on their first purchase.
Fiverr offers a rewards program that allows you to earn up to $500 in Fiverr Credits for eligible purchases.
To qualify, your purchase must be a successfully completed and delivered service that was paid for using an external payment method. Note that Fiverr Business accounts are not eligible to participate in the referral program.
The Referral fee: 10% of the referral’s first order (up to $100)
9. Rakuten
Rakuten is an enormous Japanese e-commerce website.
And with a history stretching back to 1996 of assisting buyers in discovering the finest online offers. Your visitors simply begin at the Rakuten store and select a vendor from their list.
When customers make a purchase, they will then receive a cash refund by PayPal or check.
You can earn a referral bonus by referring friends to Rakuten. Your friends need to spend at least $25 on Rakuten partner offerings within 90 days of registering.
If this requirement is not met, you will not receive a referral bonus for introducing friends. However, there is no limit to the number of referrals you can make, so this could be a good way to earn some extra cash.
Furthermore, with money-back guarantees, Rakuten is a great platform to shop on.
The Referral Fee is $20
10. Do$H
There is a cash-back app called “Dosh” that offers rewards for shopping, dining, and drinking. Unlike other websites, it is not affiliated with specific stores. You can receive up to 40 percent cash back for food shopping through the app.
Before you can receive cashback, you may purchase a pizza, a box of delicious donuts, or even your next vacation.
They have apparently entered into multiple private agreements with the 10,000 brands they collaborate with.
Dosh benefits more when they can convince more customers to download their app. And what better way to do that than by offering cash incentives?
They will give you $10 for each new referral who links a valid debit or credit card and earns their first reward.
The Referral Fee is $10
11. Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club is a member of the Walmart business family. Thus, you receive the same core offer on brand-name products at reduced pricing.
Sam’s Club operates under the “Big Box” warehouse model, which allows members to purchase goods in bulk at wholesale prices.
This means you can buy 12 boxes of Kleenex or a brand-new refrigerator and sofa at a reduced cost. As a member, you can also earn 2 percent cash back on all transactions, in addition to the savings you receive from buying in bulk.
Furthermore, if you refer a friend to join Sam’s Club, you will receive a $10 gift card for each successful referral. The friend you refer will also receive a $20 eGift card upon joining.
To redeem your gift card, all you need is a valid Sam’s Club account.
URL: Sam’s Club referral program
The Referral Fee is a $10 gift card
12. T-Mobile
T-Mobile offers Internet connections, mobile phones, tablets, and business phone systems for sale. With 98.3 million users, they are one of the “Big Three” communications carriers in North America.
There is a high likelihood that you are an existing customer of theirs.
If you’re a T-Mobile customer, you may not know about their referral scheme. I only found out by doing some research for this compilation.
However, one of the many benefits of doing more thorough research than your competitors is discovering these hidden perks. So, how much can you earn for referring your friends as an existing T-Mobile customer?
You can receive up to $50 for each friend you refer, up to a maximum of 10 referrals. That’s a total of $500. The referral bonus is paid through a Prepaid MasterCard, which is as good as cash.
URL: T-Mobile referral program
The Referral fee is US$50
13. Direct Energy
As the world’s population continues to grow, our planet’s energy resources are limited. This means that energy costs will increase.
To help keep your energy bills low, you can use Direct Energy’s service to find the best deals on electricity and natural gas. Switching to a lower rate can save you hundreds of dollars every year.
Additionally, Direct Energy offers a referral program that lets you earn up to $50 per referral signup. You’ll receive a prepaid Visa card that can be used for both online and offline transactions.
However, please note that you can only earn up to $500 per year in referral bonuses. To participate in the referral program, you’ll need to have a Direct Energy account.
URL: Direct Energy affiliate program
The Referral fee: US$50
14. Xfinity
Does Comcast seem like an Internet/movie streaming service?
Xfinity is a brand name used by Comcast, which provides a range of digital communication services, such as internet, telephone, and home security services.
Although home telephone usage has reduced over the years, Xfinity still offers it as part of their service. The residential broadband market is highly competitive, and as a result, Xfinity has a referral program in place that rewards customers with up to $175 per recommendation.
This includes $50 for each referral who signs up for one service and $150 for those who sign up for two or more services.
In addition, customers who refer someone who subscribes to Xfinity’s mobile service along with two or more services will receive an extra $25.
This referral program is one of the most lucrative ones available, but customers are limited to earning a maximum of $500 per year from these recommendations.
The Referral fee: Up to $175
15. Tesla
Tesla is dedicated to promoting sustainable energy by providing affordable electric cars, renewable energy sources, and storage solutions. The company prioritizes safety, performance, and reliability standards.
Tesla offers a referral program that rewards customers who refer others to buy their cars or solar products. If you use a referral link to purchase a new Tesla car, both you and the person who referred you will receive 1,000 miles of free Supercharging.
Use a referral link to activate a new solar energy system or Solar Roof. You’ll receive a $100 award while reducing your reliance on the grid and producing clean solar energy.
Additionally, the person who referred you will earn $400 for each solar referral. If you refer 10 solar customers, you’ll receive a Powerwall as a reward (limited to one award).
The Referral fee: Various Rewards
16. SPANX
SPANX offers a wide range of slimming intimates, body shapers, hosiery, apparel, and the latest innovations in shapewear for both women and men.
Their products are available all around the world, in more than 50 countries, from the United States to Singapore.
If you refer a friend, they can enjoy a discount of 15% on their purchase. And if your friend makes a purchase, you can avail $20 off on your own purchase.
The Referral fee: $20 off your purchase
17. Purple
Purple is a company that prioritizes customer comfort and specializes in selling mattresses, pillows, seat cushions, bedding, pet beds, and more.
They offer their products for sale both online and in various retail stores across the United States.
Purple has a refer-a-friend program that allows you to give your friends an additional 5% off their first purchase at Purple. After your friend completes their purchase, you’ll receive a gift of a $25 Amazon gift card.
The more friends you invite, the more you can earn.
The Referral fee: $25 gift card per referral
How To Promote Referral Programs?
Promoting referral programs effectively can help you maximize your earnings or rewards. Here’s how to do it:
- Use Social Media: Share your referral links on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Tailor your message to fit each platform’s audience and make it personal. Show how the product or service has benefited you.
- Leverage Personal Networks: Don’t overlook the power of word-of-mouth. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about your experiences with the product or service. Personal recommendations can be very persuasive.
- Create Content: If you have a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast, use these platforms to promote your referral links. Create reviews, tutorials, or how-to guides that highlight the value of the product or service you’re referring.
- Email Marketing: Send out an email to your contacts explaining why you recommend the product or service. Make sure to personalize the email to increase its effectiveness.
- Online Forums and Communities: Participate in relevant forums and online communities where people might be interested in the product or service. Share your referral link in a helpful and non-spammy way.
- Offer Incentives: If possible, offer your own incentives to people who use your referral link. This could be a small discount, a freebie, or helpful resources related to the product or service.
- Utilize Paid Ads: For those willing to invest a little, paid ads on social media or search engines can target specific audiences who might be interested in the referral offers.
- Track and Optimize: Monitor which promotion strategies are most effective and adjust your approach accordingly. Many referral programs provide tracking options to see which methods are bringing in the most referrals.
By combining these strategies and being creative in your approach, you can significantly increase your referral success. Remember, the key is to share value genuinely and helpfully rather than pushing for a sale.
FAQs
🌟 What is a referral program?
A referral program is a marketing strategy where businesses encourage their customers to recommend their products or services to others. In return, the referrer receives rewards like discounts, cash, or other perks when their referrals make a purchase or sign up.
💡 How do referral programs work?
Referral programs work by providing existing customers with a unique referral link or code. When someone else signs up or makes a purchase using that link or code, the referrer receives a reward. This incentivizes customers to spread the word about products or services they enjoy.
💰 Can I make money from referral programs?
Yes, many referral programs offer cash rewards, gift cards, or account credits as incentives. The amount you can earn varies by program and how many people you successfully refer.
🎁 What kind of rewards can I get?
Rewards can range from cash, discounts on future purchases, gift cards, free products, or services, to points that can be redeemed for various items. The type of reward depends on the specific program.
🔗 How do I share my referral link?
You can share your referral link through social media, emails, personal blogs, or direct messages. It's important to share your link with people who might genuinely be interested in the offer to maintain trust and credibility.
📊 How can I track my referrals?
Most referral programs have a dashboard or account page where you can track your referrals, rewards, and pending payouts. This helps you see how effective your referral efforts are.
🛠 How can I maximize my referrals?
To maximize your referrals, share your link with a personal recommendation, utilize multiple platforms for sharing, and target the right audience. Providing honest feedback about why you recommend the service or product can also help convince others.
Quick Links:
- Best Referral Program Softwares For Referral Marketing
- Best Referral Programs That Pay Real Cash Via PayPal or Payoneer
- How Social Media Marketing Is Important For Getting Referrals
- Best Referral Programs To Make Profit
- Best Real Estate Affiliate Programs
Conclusion: Best Referral Programs 2024
Referral programs are a win-win for both companies and customers. They allow businesses to grow their customer base through word-of-mouth while customers get rewarded for sharing products or services they love.
The best referral programs offer attractive rewards, are easy to share, and track your referrals accurately. Whether you’re looking to earn cash, discounts, or other perks, participating in these programs can be a lucrative side hustle.
Just remember to choose programs that align with your interests and values and share your referral links thoughtfully to maximize your benefits.
Leave a comment below if you would like to share additional effective referral program examples or your experience with referral marketing.
