Feeling the pinch of inflation? Exploring avenues for extra income might be on your mind. If you’ve got the time and motivation, leveraging your skills and interests through a side hustle could be the answer.
NerdWallet has curated a list of 25 legitimate ways to earn money from the comfort of your home, through online ventures, or even by venturing out. Each opportunity comes with insights on prerequisites, age specifications, and the turnaround time for payments. While the allure of quick cash is tempting, don’t overlook the potential of slower-paced gigs, as they might yield greater returns in the long haul.
- Methods to Earn Online
- Ways to Generate Income from Home
- Options for Offline Earnings
Making Money Online:
1. Explore Freelance Opportunities
Venture into the realm of online freelance work using platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com. These websites offer a plethora of freelance gigs spanning writing, programming, design, marketing, data entry, and virtual assistance. Proficient in a second language? Consider platforms such as Gengo or Blend Express, or establish your own online presence to attract clients. Whatever your freelancing niche, stay updated on prevailing rates for your services to ensure fair compensation. Familiarize yourself with getting started on Upwork.
According to a recent report by Freelancer.com, creative writing roles experienced the most rapid growth in listings during the second quarter of 2023, surging by 58%. Despite the increasing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in content creation, human writers remain indispensable. Companies seek writers adept at editing AI-generated content and possessing basic search engine optimization (SEO) skills — enhancing or acquiring SEO expertise could prove lucrative. Some freelancers command rates of $100 per hour or higher for their writing services.
2. Earning through Website and App Testing:
Another avenue for earning money from the comfort of home is through platforms like UserTesting.com. Here, you’re compensated for providing feedback on the functionality of various websites and apps. Upon acceptance, you’ll undergo a brief evaluation before commencing paid assignments, the compensation varying based on the test type.
- Approval Duration: Approval timelines may differ.
- Setup Time: Less than an hour.
- Ease of Initiation: Simple, provided you possess the necessary tech equipment and complete a sample test.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and above.
- Payment Speed: Within 14 days.
3. Harnessing AI Tools for Profit:
The utilization of generative artificial intelligence is witnessing a surge. A recent study by PwC projects a staggering $3.7 trillion impact on the North American economy by 2030, courtesy of the AI market.
There’s no better moment than now to delve into the realm of earning through AI tools. Some AI-centric side hustles encompass:
Incorporating AI tools into freelance endeavors, facilitating the creation of digital products or the refinement of AI-generated content for clients.
Enhancing advertising, marketing strategies, and small business management through AI integration.
Educating others on the utilization of AI tools.
Total Time Investment: Subject to demand fluctuations.
- Setup Duration: Approximately 24-48 hours, especially when utilizing platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.com.
- Ease of Initiation: Familiarity with AI tools expedites the starting process.
- Age Requirement: 16+ for Freelancer.com and 18 for Upwork.
- Payment Swiftness: Varies based on client engagements, product sales, and chosen platform.
4. Earning Through Online Surveys:
An option for earning money from the comfort of home involves participating in online surveys, albeit the potential earnings may not be substantial. Survey platforms typically offer modest rewards, with many geared towards gift card incentives rather than direct cash payouts. Popular survey sites such as Swagbucks and Survey Junkie are among the options available. For personalized recommendations, explore our survey site analysis to identify the most suitable platform for you.
- Total Time Commitment: Expect a significant time investment.
- Setup Time: Just a matter of minutes.
- Ease of Initiation: Very straightforward. Simply register and commence.
- Age Requirement: Typically ranges from 13 to 18+ depending on the platform.
- Payment Speed: Payment processing times vary depending on the site.
5. Generating Income from Blogging Through Affiliate Links:
For bloggers with substantial traffic, leveraging affiliate networks presents an opportunity to earn money. As an affiliate, you receive compensation when visitors click through from your blog to the partner site and make purchases. Some bloggers achieve significant earnings through this method, especially those dedicated to full-time affiliate marketing. Utilizing social media platforms or tools like Pinterest can drive traffic to your blog, enhancing your affiliate revenue potential. Explore further insights on affiliate marketing and additional revenue streams available to bloggers.
- Total Time Investment: Building an audience may require considerable time.
- Setup Process: Simplified with blog templates, facilitating site creation.
- Ease of Initiation: While the initial setup is straightforward, maintaining a consistent content schedule may pose challenges.
- Age Requirement: None.
- Payment Speed: Typically, payments are received within a month or two, on average.
6. Sell Handcrafted Items on Etsy:
Do you have a knack for woodworking, jewelry-making, embroidery, or pottery? Etsy, the leading platform for artisans selling home goods, art, and unique items, could be your marketplace. With 95 million active buyers reported by Etsy and over $13 billion in merchandise sales in 2022, it’s an enticing platform to showcase your craft. Explore how to capitalize on selling your creations on Etsy for additional insights.
- Total Time Investment: Patience may be required as customers discover your products.
- Setup Process: The setup process can be intricate.
- Ease of Initiation: Leaning towards “challenging” on the difficulty scale.
- Age Requirement: 13 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Typically, payments are processed within one to seven days after a sale.
7. Self-Publish eBooks:
Crafting a compelling book is no small feat, but the internet has simplified the process of bringing it to market. If you’re a proficient writer, platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) enable you to self-publish your works on the Kindle store. Publishing your book is free, and you can earn up to 70% of each sale in royalties. Begin by writing your book, providing a clear description and relevant details, and upload your manuscript. Set the price and monitor its performance.
- Total Time Investment: Writing a book can be time-consuming; however, the setup on KDP is swift and straightforward once your manuscript is ready.
- Ease of Initiation: Simply start writing.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Monthly payments are disbursed once you meet the $100 threshold.
8. Monetize Your Blog or YouTube Channel through Advertising Revenue:
Transform your engaging blog posts or YouTube videos into revenue streams. If your content garners a significant audience, you can monetize it through advertising. YouTube sets a benchmark of 1,000 subscribers for eligibility in the YouTube Partner Program, allowing you to place ads on your channel. Alternatively, Google’s AdSense offers ad placement on your blog or website, opening avenues for earning potential. Explore detailed insights on how to monetize your content on YouTube and Google AdSense.
- Total Time Investment: Expect several weeks for setup.
- Setup Process: Fairly straightforward.
- Ease of Initiation: Depends on your ability to produce captivating content.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Initial payouts may take time to accumulate, followed by monthly disbursements.
9. Venture into Instagram Influencer Marketing:
Companies leverage Instagram influencers—individuals with sizable, dedicated followings—to endorse their products. You can participate in this trend by applying for opportunities via marketing platforms like Open Influence or Aspire, or by reaching out to brands directly. Delve deeper into the intricacies of monetizing your presence on Instagram. (Similar opportunities exist on TikTok as well.)
- Total Time Investment: Persistence is key.
- Setup Process: Swift and straightforward.
- Ease of Initiation: Not effortless; building a substantial following is crucial for influence.
- Age Requirement: 13 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Payment timelines vary based on partnership agreements.
10. Earn from Your Twitch Channel:
For avid gamers with a dedicated following on Twitch, the leading platform for gamers, gaming can translate into earnings. Streamers can receive donations from viewers and earn a share of subscription and ad revenue upon reaching Affiliate or Partner status. Explore further insights on how to monetize your presence on Twitch.
- Total Time Investment: Success on Twitch often requires a long-term commitment.
- Setup Process: Quick and straightforward.
- Ease of Initiation: Easy to begin; building a loyal following takes time.
- Age Requirement: 13 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Monthly payments are typical.
11. Sell Your Photography:
Transform your passion for photography into a lucrative venture by leveraging platforms like Fine Art America, which allow you to sell your images as prints, apparel, and more. Other marketplaces such as SmugMug, 500px, and PhotoShelter also offer opportunities for photographers to showcase and sell their work. While some platforms may necessitate a subscription, they often provide additional features such as cloud storage and customizable websites.
- Total Time Investment: Success depends on attracting buyers who appreciate your work.
- Setup Process: Relatively quick and straightforward.
- Ease of Initiation: If you have an extensive library of quality photos, you’re well-positioned to begin.
- Age Requirement: Varies by platform.
- Payment Speed: Determined by your chosen sales platform.
Embark on Home-Based Side Hustles:
Some side hustles don’t require you to step out of your home. If they do, it might simply involve a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood with a furry companion. Working from home demands creativity and perseverance. Here are some promising ideas for home-based side gigs:
12. Dog Walking with Rover or Wag:
Are you passionate about dogs? Embark on a journey as a dog walker, offering your services through apps like Rover or Wag. These platforms provide on-demand dog walking opportunities, allowing you to pick up walks according to your schedule. Additionally, if you have space and the necessary permissions, consider offering overnight dog boarding services. Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of these services before signing up.
- Total Time Investment: Building a client base may take time.
- Setup Process: Approval may take a few weeks.
- Ease of Initiation: Love pets? You’re all set to go.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Typically within two days to a week.
13. Convert Unused Gift Cards into Cash:
Unlock additional funds by selling unused or partially used gift cards through platforms like CardCash or GiftCash. CardCash offers up to 92% of the card’s value, or you can opt to exchange your card for one you’ll utilize. Explore further insights on managing unwanted gift cards for optimal returns.
- Total Time Investment: Minimal, especially for popular store gift cards.
- Setup Process: Straightforward.
- Ease of Initiation: The more gift cards you have to sell, the better.
- Age Requirement: Old enough to possess a credit card.
- Payment Speed: Typically within a few days to two weeks.
14. Host Your Spare Room on Airbnb:
Maximize your earnings by renting out your home or spare room on vacation rental platforms like Airbnb. Expect expenses for property maintenance, replenishing household items, and service fees. Before commencing, review your rental agreement, HOA regulations, and local zoning restrictions.
- Total Time Investment: Success hinges on location-specific demand.
- Setup Process: Listings can be created and published within hours.
- Ease of Initiation: Straightforward if you have space available for rent.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Typically within a day or more after check-in.
Offline Methods to Earn Extra Money:
While online and at-home ventures offer lucrative opportunities, offline methods can also yield substantial returns. Though they may entail more effort, the rewards can be significant. Some offline strategies incorporate online components:
15. Sell Gently Used Clothing:
Transform unused garments into cash swiftly by leveraging local consignment shops or online platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark. Ensure your online listings feature clear, well-lit photos and competitive pricing based on market research.
- Total Time Investment: Varies by sales channel.
- Setup Process: Quick and straightforward, whether utilizing consignment shops or online platforms.
- Ease of Initiation: Simple; decluttering your closet is the primary task.
- Age Requirement: 13 for Poshmark, 18 for ThredUp.
- Payment Speed: Varies based on the sales channel.
16. Trade in Old Electronics for Cash:
Monetize your idle electronics, such as phones, tablets, laptops, or gaming consoles, through platforms like Swappa, Gazelle, or Facebook Marketplace. Explore Amazon’s trade-in program for Amazon gift card rewards, or opt for instant cash through ecoATM kiosks.
- Total Time Investment: Varied based on chosen platform.
- Setup Process: Effortless.
- Ease of Initiation: Simple, particularly for devices in good condition.
- Age Requirement: Typically 18; review terms of service for specifics.
17. Offer Babysitting Services:
Opportunities abound for individuals of all ages to earn by providing childcare services. Leverage word-of-mouth referrals and online platforms like Care.com or Sittercity to expand your clientele base. Highlight specialized skills, such as CPR certifications, to enhance marketability.
- Total Time Investment: Online setup is swift, while securing neighborhood referrals may take time.
- Setup Process: Minimal effort required.
- Ease of Initiation: Getting the word out is essential.
- Age Requirement: Young if relying on referrals; 18+ for online platforms.
- Payment Speed: Upon completion of babysitting duties.
18. Utilize Car Rental Services:
Generate additional income by renting out your vehicle through services like Getaround or Turo. These platforms enable hourly or daily rentals, with you retaining the majority of earnings while the platform manages car protection during rentals.
- Total Time Investment: Dependent on local demand for car rentals.
- Setup Process: Account setup takes approximately half an hour.
- Ease of Initiation: Effortless with a suitable vehicle.
- Age Requirement: 21+ with a valid driver’s license for Turo; no specified age requirement for Getaround.
- Payment Speed: Varies by platform.
19. Offer Your Services on TaskRabbit:
Capitalizing on your skills, TaskRabbit connects you with individuals in need of various services, including moving, cleaning, delivery, and handyman tasks. Additionally, virtual tasks like research projects or data entry are available. Familiarize yourself with the platform and its diverse offerings to get started.
- Total Time Investment: Varied based on local demand and task complexity.
- Setup Process: Account setup takes a couple of hours, followed by an approval process.
- Ease of Initiation: Simple, though research is necessary for understanding task requirements.
- Age Requirement: 18 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Typically within a few days after completing a task.
20. Become a Private Tutor:
Leverage your expertise in subjects like math, science, foreign languages, or test preparation to embark on a profitable tutoring venture. Whether tutoring online or in-person, your rates can vary based on experience and demand. Explore online platforms like Tutor.com or Care.com, in addition to local advertising avenues.
- Total Time Investment: Varies by subject matter and platform requirements.
- Setup Process: May require significant effort, particularly for online tutoring platforms.
- Ease of Initiation: Dependent on student outreach efforts.
- Age Requirement: None.
- Payment Speed: Determined by platform terms; review specific payment policies.
21. Drive for Uber or Lyft:
Embark on a rewarding journey by driving passengers for Uber or Lyft, or even both simultaneously. However, remember to account for gas and maintenance expenses. To get started, ensure your car meets eligibility criteria and undergoes a background check along with a driving history review. Explore the steps to become an Uber driver or learn about earning opportunities with Lyft.
- Total Time Investment: Dependent on market demand.
- Setup Process: Typically takes a few weeks.
- Ease of Initiation: Not overly difficult, but having the right vehicle is essential.
- Age Requirement: Varies depending on the service. For Uber, you must hold a valid local driver’s license with at least one year of licensed driving experience (or three years if under age 25). Lyft’s age requirement ranges from 21 to 25, varying by region.
- Payment Speed: Very fast, often instant or within days.
22. Make Deliveries for Amazon, Uber Eats:
Seize the burgeoning delivery trend by joining services like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex. In most cases, you’ll earn per delivery and may receive tips. While a car is typically required, some services allow delivery via bike or scooter, such as Postmates and occasionally DoorDash. Expect a background check as part of the application process. Discover more about starting with Amazon Flex, Uber Eats, and Instacart.
- Total Time Investment: Dependent on market demand.
- Setup Process: Approximately a week.
- Ease of Initiation: Easy with reliable transportation.
- Age Requirement: Varies by service, typically 18 or older.
- Payment Speed: Varies by vendor.
23. Secure Work as a Housesitter:
Consider housesitting as a viable option, offering services like pet care, plant watering, and garbage disposal. Utilize personal connections for referrals or explore platforms like HouseSitter.com, connecting homeowners with housesitters.
- Total Time Investment: Dependent on market demand.
- Setup Process: Takes minutes or longer if securing referrals.
- Ease of Initiation: Dependent on demand in your area.
- Age Requirement: Varies by site.
- Payment Speed: Typically at the conclusion of each assignment; arrange payment terms with clients.
24. Sign Up as a Mystery Shopper:
Businesses often seek insights from customers’ perspectives. Become their eyes and ears by signing up as a mystery shopper through platforms like IntelliShop, BestMark, or Sinclair Customer Metrics. Exercise caution to avoid scams and conduct thorough research before committing.
- Total Time Investment: Varies by platform.
- Setup Process: Applying is quick, but approval may take time.
- Ease of Initiation: Relatively straightforward with necessary transportation and technology.
- Age Requirement: May vary by site.
- Payment Speed: Varies by company.
25. Utilize Your Drone:
Leverage your drone for profit, particularly in industries like real estate, where aerial photos and videos enhance property listings. With drones priced affordably, you can capitalize on aerial photography gigs. Ensure you pass required tests to become a certified drone pilot and register your drone with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Explore opportunities to monetize your drone skills.
- Total Time Investment: Dependent on demand.
- Setup Process: Allocate time for test preparation and client acquisition.
- Ease of Initiation: If you own a drone, you’re likely qualified.
- Age Requirement: 16 years and older.
- Payment Speed: Varies by company.
Frequently Asked Question
What are some ways to make money online?
Freelancing, blogging, selling products, online tutoring, and dropshipping are popular methods.
How about offline methods?
Offline methods include dog walking, tutoring, event planning, handyman services, and personal training.
Can I make money from home?
Yes, options like virtual assisting, remote customer service, transcription, online surveys, and affiliate marketing allow you to earn from home.
Are there passive income streams?
Yes, consider investing in stocks or real estate, creating digital products, peer-to-peer lending, earning royalties, and affiliate marketing.
Any unconventional ways to earn?
Yes, try mystery shopping, renting out belongings, selling crafts, participating in focus groups, or renting out space through platforms like Airbnb.
Conclusion
There are numerous avenues to explore when it comes to making money, whether online, offline, or from the comfort of your own home. From freelancing and blogging to offline services like tutoring and event planning, the possibilities are vast. Additionally, passive income streams such as investing and creating digital products offer opportunities for long-term financial growth. Don’t forget to consider unconventional methods like mystery shopping or renting out your belongings for additional income streams. With a bit of creativity and determination, you can find the right path to supplement your income or even build a thriving business.