Is OfferUp Worth It? 2026 Driver Review & Pay Breakdown
By GrindBoss Team • Last updated: January 24, 2026
OfferUp Review Quick Verdict
The Bottom Line: OfferUp is a solid app for selling items you no longer need to local buyers. It's a flexible way to earn extra cash, but it's not a reliable source of steady income.
Why We Love It
- Easy to list items
- Connects with local buyers
- Free to use
- Direct communication in-app
The Catch
- ✕Earnings vary greatly
- ✕Meeting strangers locally
- ✕Potential for low offers
- ✕No-shows are common
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What is OfferUp & How Does It Work?
OfferUp is a mobile marketplace where you can buy and sell items locally. It helps people turn unused goods into cash by connecting them with local buyers.
Unlike a traditional garage sale, OfferUp uses a mobile app to reach a large local audience. It makes selling unwanted items simpler and more accessible.
At A Glance
- TypeGig Apps
- PlatformMobile App & Web
- CostFree
- Est. YearN/A
How It Works
List Your Item
Take a picture of what you want to sell, add a few details, and set your price. It's quick and easy to create a listing.
Connect with Buyers
Local buyers will see your item and can message you with questions or offers directly in the app. You can negotiate prices.
Arrange Exchange & Get Paid
Meet the buyer locally for the exchange. For local sales, payments are often instant. For shipped items, payment processes after delivery.
Is OfferUp Legit? (Company Background)
When you're looking to earn money by selling items, knowing if the platform is trustworthy is important. Let's check OfferUp's background.
- Large User Base: OfferUp connects over 150 million local buyers and sellers across the U.S. This large number of users means there are many potential buyers for your items.
- Established Operations: OfferUp has been around for some time, with millions of annual transactions. It operates as a known company, not a hidden service.
- Trust & Safety Features: The platform offers tools like user profiles, ratings, and in-app messaging to help you connect securely. They also have a 'Trust & Safety' commitment to guide users.
- Local Focus: OfferUp focuses on local commerce, allowing you to meet buyers in person. This can help with faster transactions and less worry about shipping.
Verdict: Legit
OfferUp is a legitimate platform for buying and selling items. It's a real company with many users and features designed to help facilitate local exchanges. However, always exercise caution when meeting strangers.
How Much Do OfferUp Drivers Actually Make?
OfferUp can be a good way to earn extra cash, but your earnings depend on what you sell and how often.
- Variable Earnings: How much you earn is entirely up to the items you list and the prices you set. Some items sell quickly for good money, while others might sit for a while.
- No Hourly Rate: This is not a job with an hourly wage. You make money per item sold. Your earnings are a direct result of your sales, not time spent.
- Selling Unused Items: OfferUp is best for turning things you no longer need into cash. It's a way to declutter your home and earn money at the same time.
- Promoted Listings: You have the option to pay to 'promote' your listings. This can help your items get seen by more buyers, potentially leading to faster sales, but it costs money.
Bottom Line: OfferUp is a flexible way to earn money from your unwanted items. It's great for occasional income but shouldn't be relied upon for a steady paycheck.
How & When Does OfferUp Pay?
Getting paid on OfferUp is straightforward, especially for local sales. Here's what to expect.
- Payment Method: You can get paid directly into your bank account via direct deposit or hold your earnings in your in-app balance. Buyers typically pay cash for local pickups.
- Minimum Cashout: There is no minimum cashout amount listed. Once an item sells and the transaction is complete, your funds are available.
- Cashout Speed: For local sales, payment is often instant cash at the time of exchange. For items that are shipped, payments are processed about 5 days after the item is delivered to the buyer.
- Approval Process: For shipped items, the buyer needs to confirm receipt. After delivery and buyer confirmation, your funds are released. Local sales are usually immediate.
- Tax Considerations: Any money you earn from selling items on OfferUp is considered taxable income. You are responsible for keeping track of your sales and reporting them as required.
Bottom Line: OfferUp offers clear payment options, with local sales being the quickest way to get cash. Be aware of the waiting period for shipped items.
Pros and Cons of Driving for OfferUp
The Good
- Easy Listing Process. It's simple to take a picture and list an item for sale in minutes.
- Local Buyer Reach. You can easily connect with people in your area who are looking to buy.
- Free to Use. Listing items and selling locally is generally free, though optional promotions cost money.
- Direct Communication. The in-app messaging allows you to talk to buyers without sharing personal contact info.
- Turn Clutter into Cash. It's a great way to get rid of things you don't need and make some money from them.
The Bad
- Inconsistent Income. Earnings are not steady and depend entirely on what you sell and buyer demand.
- Safety Concerns. Meeting strangers in person always carries some risk, so caution is needed.
- Lowball Offers. Buyers often try to negotiate for lower prices, which can be frustrating.
- No-Shows. Buyers sometimes don't show up for arranged meetings, wasting your time.
OfferUp Driver FAQ
Is OfferUp legit or a scam?
OfferUp is a legitimate platform for buying and selling items. It's a real company with a large user base and established operations across the U.S. Always follow safety tips when meeting buyers.
Are there background check requirements for sellers on OfferUp?
No, OfferUp does not require sellers of general items to undergo background checks. Sellers create profiles and are rated by buyers, which helps build trust within the community.
Do I need a special vehicle to sell on OfferUp?
No, you do not need a special vehicle to sell on OfferUp. For local sales, you arrange pickup with the buyer. For larger items, you might need to coordinate transport, but it's not a platform requirement.
How much money can I make on OfferUp?
The amount of money you can make on OfferUp varies greatly. It depends on the items you sell, their condition, pricing, and local demand. It's best for earning extra cash from unused items, not a regular income.
How do payments work for sellers on OfferUp?
For local sales, buyers often pay cash directly. For shipped items, the payment goes into your OfferUp balance and can then be transferred to your bank account via direct deposit after delivery is confirmed.
Can I cash out instantly on OfferUp?
For local cash sales, payment is instant. For shipped items, funds become available for cashout about 5 days after the item is delivered and confirmed by the buyer, so it's not always instant.
What are the busiest times to sell items on OfferUp?
While OfferUp doesn't specify 'busiest times,' many users find that evenings and weekends are popular for local exchanges. Listing items when people are off work and browsing can increase visibility.
