Need extra cash but hate the idea of a regular job? Picking up shifts on your own schedule through an app is the perfect way to make money on your own terms! There are tons of apps out there, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This list has the best of the best apps that will let you pick up shifts at restaurants, hotels, and more, so you can easily find work that fits your needs.
We’ve tested out a ton of apps to give you the inside scoop on the best ones. You'll love using apps like Instawork, which connects you with jobs in big cities like New York and San Francisco, or Shiftsmart, that focuses on connecting you with hospitality gigs. If you’re looking for a more flexible schedule, 7shifts allows you to pick up shifts at tons of different places, all in one app.
| App | Logo | Available On | Reviews | Downloads | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Instawork |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 2M+ | Flexible job search, Review pay details, Top Pro rewards |
| 2. Shiftsmart |  | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 | 2M+ | Flexible work schedule, Nearby part-time jobs, Build income and skills |
| 3. 7shifts |  | Android, iOS | 4.8/5 | 1M+ | Simplified Work Management, Streamlined Communication |
| 4. Veryable |  | Android, iOS | 4.5/5 | 872K+ | Immediate access to work, Flexible work schedules, Daily pay |
| 5. OnShift Mobile |  | Android, iOS | 3.1/5 | 772K+ | Access earned wages, Manage call-offs, View rewards points |
| 6. GigSmart Get Gigs |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 712K+ | Find work on your own terms, Maximize your earning potential |
| 7. Bluecrew |  | Android, iOS | 4.7/5 | 610K+ | Flexible scheduling, W-2 employee benefits, On-Demand Pay |
1. Instawork
Find shifts, get paid quickly, Flexible scheduling, choose your hours
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 2 million downloads |
| Features | Instawork is an app for picking up shifts that helps you find work and gigs, review pay details before accepting shifts, track your earnings, and access features like daily pay and cash bonuses. |
| Who It’s For | Independent contractors, self-employed individuals, and people looking for side hustles or flexible work. |
- Tags:
- Flexible scheduling
- Quick job search
- Top Pro Program
Instawork is an app for picking up shifts that promises a quick and easy way to find work that fits your schedule. While users praise the app's feature set and potential to find gigs, many find the app frustratingly slow and unreliable. Complaints about laggy loading times, delayed notifications, and the inability to quickly secure shifts are common, leaving users feeling like they're constantly fighting the system. Furthermore, the inability to reach customer service and recurring issues with uploading resumes add to the sense of frustration and make it difficult to take full advantage of this potentially useful app for picking up shifts.
Pros & Cons
- Find work quickly
- Get paid quickly
- Variety of shifts
- Flexible work schedule
- Slow app performance
- Delayed notifications
- Resume upload issues
- Distance settings unreliable
Why we chose it?
Instawork is my go-to app for finding shifts because it's incredibly user-friendly and always has tons of opportunities. I love that I can easily browse jobs by location, type, and pay rate, and I can even see how much I'll make before I accept a shift. Plus, Instawork's Top Pro program rewards frequent workers with cash bonuses and other perks, which is a huge motivator!
✨ Read more: app for schedule
2. Shiftsmart
Flexible shifts, set your own schedule, Find nearby work, across many industries
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 1.7 million downloads |
| Features | Shiftsmart allows users to find and pick up short-term work shifts in various industries like retail, convenience, and hospitality, offering flexible work opportunities for individuals seeking part-time income. |
| Who It’s For | Individuals looking for flexible, short-term work opportunities in various industries |
- Tags:
- Flexible Work Schedule
- Nearby job opportunities
- Short shifts (4 hours or less)
Shiftsmart is a mobile app designed for picking up shifts across a variety of industries, offering flexible work opportunities with the promise of earning $13 an hour. While it allows users to create their own schedule, the app struggles with technical issues, including lag, crashes, and slow load times. This can be frustrating, especially during shift work when speed and efficiency are paramount. Despite the app's technical shortcomings, many users initially found ample opportunities, but more recent reviews highlight a decline in shift availability and a lack of communication from the company. While Shiftsmart offers the potential for flexible income, users should be aware of the app's inherent issues and the potential for limited opportunities.
Pros & Cons
- Earn $13 per hour
- Create your own schedule
- Offers various part-time gigs
- Find shifts in your area
- Laggy and buggy app
- Frequent app crashes
- Limited shift availability
Why we chose it?
I'm absolutely loving Shiftsmart for picking up shifts! It's super easy to browse and find opportunities near me, and I can choose what works best for my schedule. Plus, it's great to have so many different types of shifts available, from retail to food prep. The app's user-friendly interface makes it a breeze to find and accept shifts, and I've always felt confident about the companies I've worked with.
✨ Read more: app for tracking work hours
3. 7shifts
Find available shifts quickly, Track your earnings easily, Communicate with coworkers directly
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 1.3 million downloads |
| Features | 7shifts simplifies restaurant scheduling, time clocking, tips, payroll, communication, and provides a platform for staff to find and pick up open shifts. |
| Who It’s For | Restaurant owners, managers, and employees |
- Tags:
- All-in-one solution
- Labor compliance
- Payroll and tip management
7shifts is a mobile app designed for restaurant workers to easily pick up extra shifts, connecting them with opportunities to earn more. The app boasts a "shift pool" feature where available shifts are posted, allowing employees to quickly browse and claim them. While some users have reported minor glitches, like shifts not appearing in the main "shifts up for grab" section, the developers have been responsive and addressed issues quickly. However, users have also expressed concerns about recent updates affecting notification functionality, impacting their ability to receive important information about shifts, manager announcements, and team communication. Overall, 7shifts is a popular app for picking up shifts, but addressing notification issues would further enhance its user experience.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use app
- Efficient shift pickup system
- Streamlined communication features
- Helpful for managing schedules
- Notification issues after updates
- Chat feature bugs
- Shift pool display errors
Why we chose it?
7shifts is my go-to for picking up extra shifts! It's incredibly user-friendly, with a clear layout that lets me easily see available shifts in my area. The best part? I can quickly and easily message other staff members directly through the app, making it a breeze to coordinate last-minute changes or swap shifts. Plus, the app helps me track my hours and earnings, so I'm always on top of my finances – what's not to love?
✨ Read more: app jobs
4. Veryable
Flexible scheduling, work when you want, Get paid daily, no waiting for paychecks
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 870,000 downloads |
| Features | The Veryable app allows you to pick up shifts on demand for manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics work, offering daily pay, flexible schedules, and opportunities to learn new skills. |
| Who It’s For | Individuals looking for flexible work opportunities in manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics, particularly those seeking daily pay and the ability to pick up shifts on demand. |
- Tags:
- Flexible work
- Daily pay
- Build skills
Veryable is an app for picking up shifts that's designed to make your life easier. Users rave about the daily pay feature, saying you "can't beat that with a baseball bat." The app provides a wide range of opportunities, especially in manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing, allowing you to pick up shifts that fit your schedule. While some users have mentioned communication challenges, the app is generally well-regarded for its user-friendliness and quick payment processing.
Pros & Cons
- Quick and easy sign-up
- Daily pay and fast payouts
- Variety of shifts available
- Good customer service and support
- Communication issues with support
- Bidding system for job assignments
- Filter settings not always saved
Why we chose it?
I love Veryable for picking up shifts! It's super easy to use, and I can find work in a variety of industries, like manufacturing and logistics. I also love that I get paid daily, so I don't have to wait weeks for a paycheck. Plus, the app has some really cool features, like the ability to track my hours and see my earnings history.
✨ Read more: app for scheduling
5. OnShift Mobile
View and request open shifts, Receive and respond to updates
Download:
Application information
| Category | Productivity |
| Downloads | Over 771,000 downloads |
| Features | OnShift Mobile empowers employees to manage their schedules, view rewards balances, access earned wages, receive community updates, and more, all within a single mobile app. |
| Who It’s For | OnShift Mobile is designed for employees looking for an app for picking up shifts, managing their schedules, and accessing important work-related information. |
OnShift Mobile is an app for picking up shifts that aims to connect employees with their work schedules and communities. While some users have praised the app for its ability to manage schedules and access earned wages, others have expressed frustration with its quirks and glitches. Specifically, users have complained about the app's finicky navigation, lack of a two-week view based on pay periods, and occasional inability to connect to the internet, leading to an inability to see schedules. Despite these frustrations, users have also noted that the app is generally functional and has seen improvements over time.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to pick up shifts
- Convenient for shift management
- Provides clear communication
- Improved user experience
- Finicky user interface
- Limited schedule visibility
- Connectivity issues reported
- Random two-week view
Why we chose it?
I'm a big fan of OnShift Mobile! It's been a lifesaver for picking up extra shifts. I love that I can see all the open shifts in my area, request them with just a few taps, and even get paid early with their awesome instant pay feature. It's made working on my own schedule so much easier!
✨ Read more: app to make money
6. GigSmart Get Gigs
Find local shifts instantly, Get paid quickly and securely, Manage your schedule easily
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 700,000 downloads |
| Features | GigSmart Get Gigs is an app for picking up shifts, connecting you with temporary work opportunities, job boards for full/part-time positions, quick pay, and a user-friendly interface. |
| Who It’s For | People looking for flexible, on-demand work, including those seeking extra income, students, or anyone wanting to choose their own hours. |
- Tags:
- Flexible work options
- Maximize earning potential
- Nationwide job opportunities
GigSmart Get Gigs is a handy app for picking up shifts, offering a wide range of gigs and jobs to choose from. Users rave about the diverse selection, but highlight some areas for improvement. While the app's customer support is praised for its quick response time, users find the payment system somewhat clunky. Additionally, the app's tendency to refresh itself randomly can be frustrating, as it interrupts the search process. Although users appreciate the flexibility and options, these technical issues need to be addressed to fully optimize the app's potential.
Pros & Cons
- Quick response from help desk
- Wide variety of gigs available
- Easy to apply for gigs
- Convenient way to find shifts
- Slow app performance and bugs
- Delayed payment processing issues
- Unexpected rapid transfer fees
Why we chose it?
GigSmart Get Gigs is my go-to app for picking up shifts because it's fast, flexible, and easy to use. I love how quickly I can find and apply for gigs, and I can easily adjust my availability to fit my schedule. Plus, the app keeps me informed with real-time notifications, so I never miss out on an opportunity!
7. Bluecrew
Choose shifts that fit your schedule, Get paid weekly, with early access
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 600,000 downloads |
| Features | Bluecrew is an app that allows users to find and pick up hourly work shifts across various industries, including food service, retail, warehousing, and more, offering flexibility and control over schedules. |
| Who It’s For | Individuals seeking flexible, part-time or full-time hourly work opportunities. |
- Tags:
- Flexible work options
- W-2 employee benefits
- On-demand pay
Bluecrew is an app for picking up shifts that promises flexibility and control, allowing you to choose work that fits your schedule and preferences. While some users rave about the app's ease of use and regular paychecks, others have expressed concerns about delayed payments and limited job availability. The app's messaging system has also been a point of contention, with some users finding it frustrating that messages disappear if they don't respond immediately. Despite these criticisms, many users find Bluecrew a valuable tool for finding short-term work, particularly those who value the ability to pick up shifts as needed.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to pick up shifts
- Regular paycheck received
- Opportunity for various jobs
- Good for finding quick work
- Slow payment processing
- Limited job availability
- Message center needs improvement
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of Bluecrew! It's my go-to app for picking up shifts because it gives me so much flexibility and control over my work schedule. I love that Bluecrew offers tons of different jobs in various industries, so I can find something that truly fits my skills and interests. Plus, being a W-2 employee with benefits like overtime and sick days makes me feel secure and valued, which you don't always get with other gig apps.
8. WorkWhile
Choose shifts that fit your schedule, Get paid the next day, Find jobs near your location
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Almost 300,000 downloads |
| Features | WorkWhile is an app for picking up shifts, finding jobs that fit your skills and schedule, and getting paid the next day. |
| Who It’s For | People looking for flexible work opportunities, such as on-demand jobs, warehouse work, delivery driving, and general labor. |
- Tags:
- Next-day pay
- Flexible scheduling
- Variety of jobs
WorkWhile is a handy app for picking up shifts, letting you snag gigs that fit your schedule and location. Users rave about its simplicity and ease of use, finding it more intuitive than similar apps like InstaWork. However, some users find the limited job availability in their area a bit frustrating, especially for those without cars. While the app boasts a smooth interface, a recurring issue with payment information submission has left some users stuck, unable to accept work.
Pros & Cons
- Simple and fluid interface
- Better than InstaWork for shifts
- Ideal work availability
- Easy navigation
- No phone number change option
- Limited jobs in local areas
- No push notifications allowed
- Payment information issues
Why we chose it?
WorkWhile is my go-to app for finding last-minute shifts because it's super easy to use and always has a ton of options near me. I love that I can get paid the next day after a shift, which is a huge plus for someone who needs quick cash. Plus, the app is super responsive and the customer service is top-notch!
9. Upshift
Flexible scheduling, hourly work, Choose when and where, Get paid daily
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 280,000 downloads |
| Features | Upshift is an app that allows users to find and pick up flexible, hourly work shifts at local businesses across various industries. |
| Who It’s For | For individuals seeking extra income, flexible work arrangements, and the ability to control their schedule. |
- Tags:
- Flexible work hours
- Daily payment
- No interviews needed
Upshift is a mobile app that lets you pick up shifts at local businesses, giving you the flexibility to create your own schedule and earn extra cash. The app allows you to choose shifts in various industries, including food service, warehousing, and even zoos, offering a range of options to fit your needs. However, some users have reported frustration with the app's search function, which resets to default settings after viewing a listing, leading to time-consuming adjustments. Despite this, the app's ability to connect workers with businesses quickly and provide flexible work opportunities continues to make it a popular choice for those looking to supplement their income on their own terms.
Pros & Cons
- Pick shifts on your terms
- Flexible work schedule creation
- Choose your preferred location
- Good for extra income
- Search settings not maintained
- Text-only communication for problems
- Android version less consistent
Why we chose it?
I absolutely love Upshift! It's the best app for picking up shifts because it lets you choose your own hours and get paid daily, which is super helpful for managing my cash flow. Plus, the app is really easy to use and I can find shifts in all kinds of industries – from food service to warehousing, it’s a great way to diversify my income and learn new skills.
10. Shyft
Find coverage for your shift, Pick up extra work shifts, Message team members directly
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 260,000 downloads |
| Features | Shyft lets you swap shifts, message team members, manage schedules, find extra shifts, and get shift reminders. |
| Who It’s For | Employees looking for an app for picking up shifts, managing their schedules, and connecting with their team. |
- Tags:
- Real-time shift management
- Easy shift swapping
- Team Communication
Shyft is a game-changer for anyone looking to pick up extra shifts or find coverage for their own. This intuitive app makes it easy to post and grab open shifts, with a user-friendly interface that even tech novices can navigate. Employees can quickly see available shifts on their calendar, making scheduling a breeze. While some users rave about the app's seamless communication features and ability to connect with coworkers, others have experienced glitches with notifications. These occasional hiccups can be frustrating, requiring users to manually refresh the app to stay in the loop. Despite these technical blips, Shyft remains a popular choice for its ability to streamline the process of finding and filling shifts, making it a valuable tool for both employers and employees.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to post and pick up shifts
- User-friendly interface for all skill levels
- Shift pick-up reflected on user calendar
- Facilitates communication and shift trading
- Lack of content restriction for user posts
- Notifications can be unreliable and glitchy
- Requires re-installation to fix notification issues
Why we chose it?
Shyft is my go-to app for picking up extra shifts! It's super easy to use, lets me see all available shifts in my area, and even lets me message my coworkers directly to coordinate coverage. The best part? I can manage everything from my phone, which makes picking up extra work a breeze. Plus, the app's clean interface makes it super simple to navigate, even for someone like me who isn't exactly tech-savvy!
11. ShiftKey
Find nearby shifts instantly, Get paid next business day, Manage credentials efficiently
Download:
Application information
| Category | Medical |
| Downloads | Over 192,000 Downloads |
| Features | The ShiftKey app helps healthcare professionals find and book last-minute shifts at various healthcare facilities, offering flexibility and control over work schedules. |
| Who It’s For | CNAs, LPNs, RNs, RTs, PTs and other healthcare professionals looking for flexible work opportunities. |
- Tags:
- Flexible scheduling
- Next-day pay
- Nationwide network
ShiftKey is a mobile app designed for healthcare professionals looking to pick up extra shifts. It allows you to browse and snag open positions in your area, giving you the freedom to work when and where you want. While the app has received some criticism regarding its functionality, users consistently praise the platform for its vast network of facilities, next-day pay options, and overall ease of use. However, as some users have pointed out, facilities may occasionally cancel shifts after they've been accepted, which can be frustrating for those relying on the income.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to find shifts
- Good pay for shifts
- Convenient for shift work
- App is well-designed
- No timesheet uploads
- No-call no-show issues
- Shift cancellations common
Why we chose it?
ShiftKey is my go-to app for picking up shifts because it's super easy to use and lets me choose the shifts I want based on location and pay. I love that I can get paid next day with their paycard and manage my credentials all in one place, so I never miss an opportunity.
12. Shifts by Snagajob
Find shifts, set your hours, Get paid quickly, directly, Work when you want, where you want
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 100,000 downloads |
| Features | The app allows users to browse and pick up shifts at local businesses, view shift details, communicate with employers, track their work history, and receive payments. |
| Who It’s For | Individuals seeking flexible work opportunities, such as students, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking for a side hustle. |
- Tags:
- Flexible Work Schedule
- Pick up shifts easily
- Direct deposit payment
Shifts by Snagajob is a popular app for picking up shifts, offering a fast and easy way to find flexible work. While some users have reported difficulty finding available shifts in their area, others rave about the app's simplicity and effectiveness. Many users have found success using Shifts by Snagajob to pick up last-minute work, supplement their income, or even land permanent positions. With its straightforward design and quick payment system, Shifts by Snagajob presents a convenient and hassle-free option for those looking to pick up shifts and earn extra money.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to use app
- Find shifts in area
- No waiting for shifts
- Get paid each week
- Limited shift availability
- Jobs often claimed quickly
- Background check required
Why we chose it?
Shifts by Snagajob is my go-to app for picking up shifts because it's super easy to use, lets me pick shifts that fit my schedule, and I get paid quickly. I love that I can see all the available shifts in my area and apply directly through the app – no more calling around or filling out endless applications! Plus, the direct deposit feature makes it a breeze to get paid.
13. ShiftPixy
Find local shifts quickly, Flexible work schedule, Earn benefits with every shift
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 50,000 downloads |
| Features | ShiftPixy lets you find and pick up local shifts, manage your schedule, and earn money on your own terms. |
| Who It’s For | People looking for part-time work, flexible schedules, and access to benefits. |
- Tags:
- Flexible work hours
- Local Job Search
- W-2 Employment
ShiftPixy is a mobile app that connects people seeking extra cash with employers needing to fill shifts. This "app for picking up shifts" offers a win-win scenario, providing a convenient way for individuals to pick up flexible work and for businesses to find reliable coverage. While some users have noted areas for improvement, such as onboarding simplicity and loading speed, many praise the app's ease of use and the convenience of finding shifts quickly. The app's popularity is further reflected in its positive feedback, highlighting its potential to be a valuable tool for both workers and employers.
Pros & Cons
- Great for shift coverage
- Easy to pick up shifts
- Convenient and easy to use
- Offers benefits to workers
- Unfriendly onboarding process
- Lagging performance on tasks
- Dated and clunky interface
Why we chose it?
ShiftPixy is my go-to app for picking up shifts because it’s super easy to use and connects you with tons of local gigs. I love that ShiftPixy offers benefits like health insurance and retirement savings even for part-time work, which is a huge perk! Plus, the app is fast and reliable, so I can quickly find and snag shifts whenever I need them.
14. shiftNOW
Browse hourly opportunities, Apply for available shifts, Get paid instantly
Download:
Application information
| Category | Business |
| Downloads | Over 24,000 downloads |
| Features | shiftNOW is an app that connects hospitality workers with open hourly shifts at top restaurants and bars, allowing users to browse, apply, get matched, and get paid instantly. |
| Who It’s For | Hospitality workers looking for flexible, on-demand work opportunities. |
- Tags:
- Instant Pay
- Flexible work
- Top Employers
shiftNOW is a sleek and intuitive app for picking up shifts, designed to connect hospitality workers with flexible, well-paying opportunities. Users praise the app's smooth functionality and the ability to find safe and reliable work at trusted establishments. The app empowers workers to pick up extra shifts when needed, offering the flexibility to manage their schedules and boost their income. While the app itself is highly rated, some users suggest adding features like contact information, messaging, and clearer instructions from businesses for entering outside of operating hours to ensure smooth communication and avoid any scheduling mishaps.
Pros & Cons
- Clean app, runs smoothly
- Easy to pick up shifts
- Good paying shifts available
- Trusted businesses for safety
- Delayed payment processing
- No communication features
- Penalties for missed shifts
Why we chose it?
I'm a huge fan of shiftNOW for picking up shifts! It's super easy to use and lets you browse a ton of opportunities at awesome hospitality spots. I love that you can apply for shifts, get matched based on your experience, and even get paid instantly. It's flexible, fast, and makes finding great shifts a breeze!
15. Shifts
Easy to find available shifts, Control your own schedule, Get paid quickly and securely
Download:
Application information
| Category | Medical |
| Downloads | Over 21,000 downloads |
| Features | The app allows users to easily find and accept per diem shifts based on their preferred location, time, and specialty. |
| Who It’s For | Nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals looking for flexible per diem work. |
- Tags:
- Flexible scheduling
- Control Over Hours
- Easy Shift Selection
Shifts is a mobile app that empowers healthcare professionals to take control of their schedules by allowing them to pick up shifts that fit their busy lives. Users rave about the flexibility and control the app offers, letting them choose when and where they work. While some have reported recent issues with the app crashing, developers have addressed the problem through an update, ensuring the app's functionality for booking shifts. With Shifts, healthcare professionals can easily find and snag shifts that align with their personal needs and goals, putting them in the driver's seat of their careers.
Pros & Cons
- Flexibility to pick shifts
- Control over work schedule
- Easy to book shifts
- Technologically solid for booking
- App crashes after update
- Unable to access shifts
- Requires reinstall after update
Why we chose it?
I absolutely love Shifts! It's the easiest way to find per diem work, and I can pick up shifts on my own schedule. I can swipe through available opportunities and only accept the ones that fit my needs. Plus, the app is super easy to use, and the interface is really clean and modern. If you're looking for a hassle-free way to pick up shifts, Shifts is the app for you!