User Interviews Review (2026): How Much Can You Earn From Paid Studies?

User Interviews in One Minute

User Interviews connects researchers with participants for paid interviews, tests, surveys, focus groups and diary studies. Reviews report the average study pays over $65, with ranges from about $20 to $300+ for many sessions and some studies over $1,000. More than 2,000 studies launch monthly, as reported. Payment comes as gift cards from the platform or directly from the researcher.

Typical Pay by Study Type

Average study$65

Upper typical$300

How Payment Works

When User Interviews pays you, you redeem a gift card once your session is marked paid. When the researcher pays, it may be PayPal, direct deposit, a Visa card, check or even a product, usually within about 10 business days, as reported.

Who Uses User Interviews?

Product teams, UX researchers and marketers at companies of all sizes use the platform to recruit participants. That's why studies often ask about specific software, devices or jobs.

Session Tips

• Use a quiet room and stable internet.
• Have any required device or app ready.
• Think aloud and be candid; that's what researchers want.

Qualifying

You apply by answering screeners, and many studies want specific jobs, products you use or demographics. Detailed, honest profiles help. You aren't paid for applications that aren't selected.

Typical Monthly Earnings

Many active participants land a study or two a month. At around $65 average, that's roughly $65 to $150, with big variation. Applying to many studies and keeping your profile current improves the odds. Some months you may not be selected at all.

User Interviews vs Respondent

Both pay per study and pay well. Respondent leans more toward professional studies and charges a 5% fee; User Interviews reportedly charges participants no fee. Joining both increases your chances. Read our Respondent review.

Avoiding Fake Studies

Real studies never ask you to pay or share bank logins. Apply only through the platform itself.

Taxes

Research incentives are generally taxable income in the US; see the IRS gig economy tax center.

Tips to Get Selected

1. Complete your profile fully.
2. Apply quickly to new studies.
3. Be specific and honest in screeners.
4. Test your camera and microphone before sessions.
5. Show up on time to build a good record.

Alternatives to Consider

Survey and research sites pay small, irregular amounts. If you want something that can grow, many people start a simple online business alongside, using free tools like Systeme.io.

Is User Interviews Legit?

Yes. It's a well-known research recruiting platform used by many companies. Earnings depend on qualifying. Never pay to join; see the FTC job scams guide.

Pros and Cons

Who It Suits

People comfortable on video calls who want occasional well-paid studies.

Our #1 Recommendation for Making Money Online in 2026

If User Interviews isn't the right fit for you, here's what we suggest instead.

After comparing hundreds of programs over the years, we know what works and what doesn't. In fact, most of the business opportunities are either instant cash grab schemes or scams or they require experience. However, this beginner-friendly system stood out and is our #1 recommendation for 2026.

Other Reviews Readers Compare

• Respondent review.
• Prolific review.
• Userlytics review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Verdict on User Interviews

A strong research site to pair with Respondent and Prolific.