Is PanelBase Legit? 2026 Review, Safety Score & Payouts
By GrindBoss Team • Last updated: January 8, 2026
PanelBase Review Quick Verdict
The Bottom Line: PanelBase, now part of Norstat, is a legit survey site for UK residents to earn extra cash. It offers reliable payouts through bank transfer and vouchers.
Why We Love It
- Reliable payment methods
- Low cashout threshold
- Part of large research group
The Catch
- ✕Only for UK residents
- ✕No clear hourly pay rate
- ✕Survey availability varies
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What is PanelBase & How Does It Work?
PanelBase is an online research panel where you earn money by taking surveys. It was founded in the UK and is now part of the larger Norstat group.
Unlike many basic survey sites, PanelBase focuses on providing high-quality research opportunities to its members.
At A Glance
- TypeSurvey
- PlatformWeb
- CostFree
- Est. Year2004 (22 Years)
How It Works
Join the Panel
Sign up for free and create your profile. This helps PanelBase match you with relevant surveys.
Take Surveys
Receive invitations to take surveys. These surveys help companies understand public opinion.
Earn Rewards
Complete surveys and earn money. Once you reach the minimum, you can cash out your earnings.
Is PanelBase Legit or a Scam? (Safety Check)
When looking for online earning opportunities, knowing if a platform is trustworthy is key. Here's a look at PanelBase's background.
- Established History: PanelBase was founded in 2004, showing a long track record in the market research industry. This long history suggests stability and reliability.
- Acquired by Norstat: In July 2023, Norstat, a major European data collection company, acquired PanelBase. This acquisition strengthens its position and resources.
- Unified Under Norstat: From January 2024, PanelBase and other acquired brands started operating under the Norstat name. This rebrand shows a clear and unified corporate structure.
- Part of a Larger Network: Norstat has proprietary panels in 19 countries across Europe. Being part of such a large group adds to its credibility and resources.
Verdict: Legit
PanelBase is not a scam. It is a well-established company with a long history. It is now part of Norstat, a reputable European market research group, which adds to its trustworthiness.
How Much Money Can You Make? (Earning Potential)
While PanelBase can provide extra income, it's important to have realistic expectations about how much you can earn.
- Varying Pay: The amount you earn per survey will vary depending on its length and complexity. There is no set hourly rate, as with most survey sites.
- Referral Bonus: You can earn a small bonus for referring others. You get £0.20 for each survey they complete, which can add up over time.
- Survey Frequency: The number of surveys you receive can change. Some weeks you might get many invitations, while other weeks might be slower.
- UK Focus: Most opportunities are for UK residents, as PanelBase has historically been a UK-focused panel. This means more relevant surveys if you live in the UK.
Bottom Line: PanelBase is best for earning some extra spending money, not as a replacement for a full-time income. Earnings depend on survey availability and your demographics.
PanelBase Payment Methods & Cashout Speed
Getting paid easily and reliably is a big concern for gig workers. PanelBase offers straightforward payment options.
- Payment Method: You can choose to get paid via bank transfer or by selecting from various vouchers. This offers flexibility for how you receive your earnings.
- Minimum Cashout: The minimum amount you need to earn before you can withdraw is £10. This is a reasonable threshold for survey sites.
- Cashout Speed: Once you request a payout, it typically takes about 1 week to process. This is a standard timeframe for many online earning platforms.
- Approval Process: After you complete a survey, your responses need to be approved by the researchers. This ensures the quality of the data before your earnings are finalized.
- Tax Considerations: Any money you earn through PanelBase is considered taxable income. You are responsible for reporting these earnings according to your local tax laws.
Bottom Line: PanelBase offers simple and reliable ways to cash out your earnings, primarily through bank transfers and vouchers, with a low minimum payout.
Pros and Cons of Using PanelBase
The Good
- Established Company. PanelBase has been around since 2004 and is now part of the reputable Norstat group.
- Reliable Payouts. They offer bank transfer and vouchers, and payments are typically processed within a week.
- Low Minimum Withdrawal. You only need to earn £10 to cash out your money.
- UK-Focused Opportunities. If you live in the UK, you will likely find more relevant surveys available.
- User-Friendly. The platform is designed for easy participation in surveys.
The Bad
- Region-Locked. Opportunities are mainly available for residents in the UK.
- Inconsistent Earnings. The amount of money you earn can vary widely depending on survey availability.
- No Guaranteed Hourly Rate. You are paid per survey, not by the hour, which means earnings can fluctuate.
- Rebranding Changes. The recent acquisition and rebrand to Norstat could lead to changes in user experience over time.
PanelBase Frequently Asked Questions
Is PanelBase legit or a scam?
PanelBase is a legitimate survey panel. It was founded in 2004 and has a long history of paying its members. It is now owned by Norstat, a large and reputable European market research company.
How much money can I earn on PanelBase?
Earnings on PanelBase vary by survey. There is no fixed hourly rate, but you can expect to earn extra cash for your time. Most users earn a modest amount each month, depending on how many surveys they complete.
How long does it take to get paid by PanelBase?
Once you request a payout, PanelBase typically processes payments within 1 week. This means you should receive your money or vouchers within a few business days after approval.
What payment methods does PanelBase offer?
PanelBase offers two main payment methods: direct bank transfer and various vouchers. You can choose the option that best suits your needs when you cash out your earnings.
Who can join PanelBase?
PanelBase primarily focuses on residents of the UK. Most of the survey opportunities are targeted at individuals living in the United Kingdom.
How can I get more surveys on PanelBase?
To receive more survey invitations, make sure your profile is fully completed and kept up to date. Researchers use this information to match you with relevant studies.
What is Norstat's role with PanelBase?
Norstat acquired PanelBase in 2023 and has unified it under the Norstat brand. This means PanelBase is now part of a larger European market research group, bringing more resources and potentially more survey opportunities.
