Options traders buy calls when they believe prices will increase and purchase puts when they think prices will drop. But is there a way to profit if traders believe either that the price will remain stable, or the price will be unstable but the direction of movement is unclear?
Enter the butterfly spread strategy.
Butterfly spreads, depending on how they’re constructed, allow you to profit from either price stability or instability. In addition, they have the advantage of allowing traders to know their maximum gains and losses over the life of the trade.
Before engaging with a butterfly options trade, it’s best to learn how the myriad parts of a butterfly trading strategy works — and how to make that strategy work for you.
Butterfly Spread Defined
The butterfly spread — so named because of its “two wings on a butterfly” structure to the payoff graphs — is a go-to strategy for seasoned options investors looking for leverage while limiting downside risk.
Butterfly spreads are an advanced trading strategy, but if you’re a beginner there are other options strategies for you to explore.
Recommended: 10 Options Trading Strategies for Beginners
A butterfly options spread is an investment strategy that aims to profit from changes in volatility, take advantage of time decay, or both.
The object is to garner big trading returns on an asset whose price remains close to the strike price (when trading volatility is low) by the time the options contract expires. Butterfly options trades can be complicated in nature, but unlike many derivative trading strategies, butterfly trading strategies offer limited (i.e., known) gains and losses.
That “limit factor” derives from bull and bear spreads that in combination provide a price neutral strategy that keeps costs low, limits losses, and hopefully generates outsized returns.
Even so, butterfly options spreads do come with investment risk. Such trades should not be deployed by an investor unless the price of the underlying asset (such as a stock, bond, mutual fund, or exchange traded fund) remains fairly stable over the option contract’s entire time period.
💡 Quick Tip: If you’re an experienced investor and bullish about a stock, buying options online (rather than the stock itself) can allow you to take the same position, with less cash outlay. It is possible to lose money trading options, if the price moves against you.
How Does a Butterfly Spread Work?
Like any options trade, a butterfly spread trade is based upon the option’s underlying asset. The option contract itself spells out how the trade is structured.
Typically, when a trader looks at calls and puts in options they are concerned about the following key elements:
• Whether the trader is interested in call or put options.
• Will the trader be buying or selling/writing options.
• The strike price
• The options premium
• The expiration date (i.e., when the options contract ends).
With a butterfly spread, the contract owner typically forges a bullish and bearish price spread. The contract represents a neutral trading strategy with a quartet of options contracts that hold the same expiration date, but have three different strike prices (one option at a low strike price, two at-the-money options, and a fourth option at a higher strike price).
Recommended: What Are Stock Spreads?
The options at the higher and lower strike prices are equidistant from the at-the-money contract price — this represents the proper balance of the two wings attached to the butterfly’s body (i.e., the neutral options contract).
For example, if the asset is trading at $50, the higher and lower strike prices should be equally distant from the $50 strike price — at $40 and $60, for instance — each “wing” of the butterfly trading strategy would be $10 away from the current $50 asset price.
Finally, user-friendly options trading is here.*
Trade options with SoFi Invest on an easy-to-use, intuitively designed online platform.
Butterfly Spread Example
Here’s an example of a long call butterfly spread, one of the most common forms of butterfly spread trading.
An investor decides to invest in XYZ stock where prices are stable and five-year pricing fluctuations are minimal.
XYZ is currently trading at $55 and the investor expects shares to remain stable, but doesn’t want to take on too much risk.
Here’s the butterfly spread options trade that takes full advantage of the situation but limits any downside losses.
The investor:
• Buys an out-of-the money XYZ call expiring in two months with a strike price of $45
• Sells two at-the-money XYZ calls with strike prices of $55 and the same expiration as above
• Buys an out-of-the money XYZ call with a strike price of $65 also with the same expiration
Recommended: Guided to the Moneyness of Options
Note the equal balance between the three trades – each strike price is $10 from the $55 strike price on the two sold calls.
In total, the investor has purchased a pair of XYZ calls and has sold a pair of XYZ calls for the following amounts:
• Purchase of one out-of-the-money XYZ call at $45 for $700.
• Purchase one out-of-the-money XYZ call at $65 for $100.
• Sell two at-the-money XYZ calls at $55, gaining $600 on the sale.
At the end of the transaction, the investor spends a net total of $200 ($700 plus $100 minus $600 equals $200).
If XYZ prices remain stable and close at $55 on the expiration date, the investor will achieve the maximum profit on the trade of $800.
Maximum Profit = Price of $45 call – Price of $55 calls + Price of $65 calls – Initial investment
Calls that are out of the money expire worthless, therefore:
Maximum Profit = ($10 – $0 + $0) * 100 shares per option – $200 = $800
If the price of XYZ moves significantly (for example, it rises above $65 or falls below $45, the butterfly spread yields the maximum loss of the $200 spent to initiate the trade.
Maximum Loss = Net Premium Paid = $200
Finally the butterfly spread has two break even points:
Lower Break Even point = Strike of Lower Strike Long Call + Net Premium Paid Higher Break Even point = Strike of Higher Strike Long Call – Net Premium Paid Lower Break Even point = $45 + $2 = $47 Higher Break Even point = $65 – $2 = $63
Should XYZ settle between $47 and $63 per share at expiration, the trade will be profitable. How profitable is summarized in the graph below.
Note: The calculations and graph above disregard transaction costs, but due to the complexity of the butterfly spread these can add up. The smart trader considers these costs when initiating and exiting trades.
Types of Butterfly Spreads
Investors looking to engage with butterfly spread trading have several types of spreads to consider.
Long Call Butterfly Spread
This type of butterfly spread has a trader purchase three positions; an out-of-the-money call option at a low strike price, the sale of two at-the-money call options, and another purchase of an out-of-the-money call option with a higher strike price as in the example above.
An investor may earn the maximum profit if the underlying asset’s price remains stable and is the same as the written calls on the expiration date.
The maximum loss is represented by the trade entry cost, with trading fees added into the final amount.
Short Call Butterfly Spread
A short call butterfly spread is the inverse of a long call butterfly spread and is initiated when an investor sells a single out-of-the money call option with a low strike price, purchases two at-the-money call options, and sells an out-of-the money call option that has a higher strike price.
The maximum profit is the same as the initial premium collected minus the cost of trading fees but can be achieved two ways. If the stock moves substantially higher or if the price moves substantially lower. In this case, the trader expects the stock to move significantly but doesn’t know in which direction. One market scenario might be before an earnings call where the market’s expectations of results are unclear.
The maximum loss on the trade is equal to the difference between the lowest strike price and the center strike prices less the credit received on trade initiation. This will occur if the price remains stable.
Iron Butterfly Spread
An iron butterfly spread is a four-position transaction constructed when an investor buys an out-of-the-money put option that has a lower strike price, sells a single at-of-the money put option, sells a single at-of-the money call option, and buys an out-of-the money call option that has a higher strike price.
Maximum profit is achieved when the underlying asset is equal to the middle option strike price, along with the premiums provided via the iron butterfly spread trading strategy. The maximum loss is represented by the strike differential of the middle strike price minus the lower strike price less any premiums earned.
Pros and Cons of Using a Butterfly Spread
All options trades have advantages and disadvantages and butterfly spreads are no exception.
Pros of Butterfly Spreads
While profit is always the primary hoped for benefit of engaging in a trade, butterfly spreads do offer more.
Flexibility. Butterfly spread options allow the trader to construct trades to take advantage of varying scenarios.
Risk is limited. With a butterfly options trade, the maximum risk is limited and cannot exceed the parameters laid out upon initiation of the trade. Many options strategies can expose traders to unlimited losses.
Few surprises. With a butterfly options trade, a trader goes in knowing the maximum profit and loss linked to the trade.
Cons of Butterfly Spreads
Like any securities trade (especially with options trading), risks are a reality with butterfly spread trading. These potential downsides should be considered before engaging in any butterfly spread trades.
Complexity. There are scenarios where butterfly spreads are built with three or four different positions. This complexity comes with added transaction costs which can eat into potential profits. Butterfly spread options trading is complicated and not recommended for new investors.
Limited Reward. Butterfly options partner limited risk with limited reward. Hitting a home run with an option that allows an unlimited payoff is not in the cards here.
Assignment Risk. Options can be assigned at any time prior to expiration if an option is in the money. With so many moving parts the risk of assignment is real, with the other disadvantage that the butterfly spread collapses if any leg is assigned. This is manageable, but is a real risk.
Butterfly Spread Pros
Butterfly Spread Cons
Butterfly spreads are very flexible ways to profit from volatility or the lack thereof
Complexity comes with higher transaction costs
Limited Risk
Limited Reward
Few surprises
Assignment Risk
Use Your Options Trading Knowledge Today!
Investors looking to leverage butterfly spread options should know the trading strategy is complex and not without risk.
That said, a butterfly spread options strategy can yield significant profits if the expected scenario develops — and if the investor commits to the narrow options trading strategy that butterfly options trading demands.
Qualified investors who are ready to try their hand at options trading, despite the risks involved, might consider checking out SoFi’s options trading platform. The platform’s user-friendly design allows investors to trade through the mobile app or web platform, and get important metrics like breakeven percentage, maximum profit/loss, and more with the click of a button.
Plus, SoFi offers educational resources — including a step-by-step in-app guide — to help you learn more about options trading. Trading options involves high-risk strategies, and should be undertaken by experienced investors.
With SoFi, user-friendly options trading is finally here.
Photo credit: iStock/Kateryna Medetbayeva
SoFi Invest® The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment decisions should be based on an individual’s specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile. SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance. Advisory services offered through SoFi Wealth, LLC. SoFi Securities, LLC, member FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Invest refers to the three investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below. 1) Automated Investing—The Automated Investing platform is owned by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor (“Sofi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC, an affiliated SEC registered broker dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, (“Sofi Securities).
2) Active Investing—The Active Investing platform is owned by SoFi Securities LLC. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
3) Cryptocurrency is offered by SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, a FinCEN registered Money Service Business.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of Sofi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit www.sofi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or prequalification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.
Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Before an investor begins trading options they should familiarize themselves with the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options . Tax considerations with options transactions are unique, investors should consult with their tax advisor to understand the impact to their taxes. SOIN1021448
Independent mortgage banks (IMB) reported an average net loss of $534 on each loan originated from April to June, down from $1,972 per loan in the first quarter of 2023, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association(MBA). The average pre-tax production loss was 18 basis points in Q2.
Including both the production and servicing business lines, 58% of retail mortgage companies were profitable in Q2, up from 32% in the first quarter of 2023.
“There were signs of improvement in the second quarter of 2023. Production losses were less severe than the previous two quarters and net servicing financial income was strong,” Marina Walsh, the MBA’s vice president of industry analysis, said in a statement. “Additionally, the majority of mortgage companies in our survey managed to squeeze out an overall profit during one of the toughest times for the mortgage industry.”
The average production volume was $502 million per IMB in the second quarter, up from $398 million per company in the first quarter of 2023. The volume by count per IMB averaged 1,553 loans in Q2, an increase from 1,264 loans in Q1.
However, production revenue was 328 bps in the second quarter, down from 358 bps in the previous quarter. It includes fee income, net secondary marketing income and warehouse spread.
Meanwhile, according to Walsh, after 11 consecutive quarters of increases, origination costs declined by over $2,000 per loan during the second quarter of 2023.
“Volume picked up during the spring homebuying season and additional personnel were shed. However, the substantial cost savings per loan was not enough to put the average net production income in the black,” Walsh said.
Loan production expenses averaged $11,044 per loan in the second quarter of 2023, down from a study-high of $13,171 per loan in Q1. The average number of production employees per company also declined to 366 between April and June from 372 in the previous quarter.
Servicing operating income — which excludes MSR amortization, gains or loss in the valuation of servicing rights net of hedging gains or losses, and gains or losses on the bulk sale of MSRs — was $105 per loan in the second quarter, up from the previous quarter’s $102.
The sale of MSRs does not directly impact earnings as a revenue stream, but the conversion of MSRs into cash via sales deals bolsters a lender’s cash flow and overall liquidity.
The MBA expects mortgage origination volume for one- to four-family homes to post $468 billion in Q3, a rise from $463 billion in Q2 2023, according to its latest forecast.
The MBA also projected the 30-year fixed mortgage rate to trend up to an average of 6.6% in the second quarter, ultimately declining to 5.9% by the fourth quarter of 2023.
As any long-term investor in the market can attest, stocks rise and fall — influenced by a mix of economic trends and supply and demand.
Given the inherent volatility of stock values, there are periods when the market is down, and times when it’s gaining steam. So, how low can a stock go? Well, in some cases, stock prices can fall all the way to zero.
What happens when a stock goes to zero? Watching a stock in free fall can induce fear and panic in investors, causing some to sell their holdings. While most every investor aims to buy low and sell high, timing the stock market is very challenging and doesn’t guarantee that investors will see gains.
Sometimes when a stock goes down in value it can present an investment opportunity, but in other cases the stock could fall to zero and never recover. In the latter case, it may benefit investors to sell before the stock price falls all the way down to zero.
What Causes a Stock to Fall to Zero?
When a stock falls to zero, it doesn’t mean that the company is worth nothing. Some companies with very low stock values are still earning money or possess assets. And, some investors buy penny stocks that have extremely low prices.
What happens to a company when stock prices fall to zero? If a company continuously spends more money than it earns, and investors sell off the stock, ultimately, that can lead to the company going bankrupt. Most companies file for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 11 bankruptcy before their stock reaches $0.00.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
With a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing, the company must sell off its assets until it can repay lenders and creditors. The order that stakeholders get paid is: creditors, bondholders, preferred stockholders, common stockholders.
This means that if the asset sale doesn’t bring in enough money to pay everyone, it’s likely that common shareholders won’t receive a dime. In this case, stockholders lose all the money they had invested in that stock.
Under Chapter 7, stock trading and all business activities must be put on hold.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Under a Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the company negotiates loan terms with its creditors in order to avoid selling off assets. With Chapter 11, companies can still conduct business and their stock can be traded.
Once a company files for Chapter 11, it is likely that the stock will continue to fall, since many investors won’t have much faith in the business. Sometimes shares are canceled with a Chapter 11 filing. In that case, investors lose all the money they had put into the stock.
Even if a company files for bankruptcy before its stock falls to zero, their attempts to salvage the business may ultimately fail and the stock could become worthless. However, it can take a strong team and business model to go public and get listed on stock exchanges in the first place, so some bankrupt companies may have the potential to make a comeback.
Some companies with very low stock prices get acquired by larger companies before their stock falls to zero. Even a company with a low stock might have a promising product or service that a larger company is able to sell successfully. One example of this is when Alphabet acquired FitBit in 2021. 💡 Quick Tip: All investments come with some degree of risk — and some are riskier than others. Before investing online, decide on your investment goals and how much risk you want to take.
What Happens to a Company When Stock Prices Fall to Zero?
Some stock exchanges delist stocks if they fall below a certain level. For example, the New York Stock Exchange will remove a stock if its share price falls below $1 for 30 days in a row.
And, as mentioned above, if a company files for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, its stock will be delisted temporarily.
Can a stock go negative? Fortunately, it is not possible for a stock’s price to go into the negative territory — under zero dollars in value, that is.
Still, if an investor short sells or uses margin trading, they may lose more than they invested. For this reason, margin trading and short selling are risky investment strategies.
Short selling is when an investor predicts that a stock is going to decrease in value. So, rather than buying the stock, they ‘bet’ that it will go down. If the stock does in fact go down, they make money.
But, if the stock ends up increasing in value, they lose money. Potentially, an investor in this scenario could lose more money than they put into the initial short sell.
Margin trading is when an investor borrows money from the brokerage firm to trade stocks. If the investor makes a trade that doesn’t go in their favor, they can end up owing the brokerage firm money.
How Low Can a Stock Go?
Stock prices can fall all the way down to zero. That means the stock loses all of its value and a shareholder’s earnings are typically worthless. In this case, the investor loses what they invested in the stock.
Reasons for a Stock Losing Value Down to Zero
What makes a stock fall to zero? The are a number of reasons that may come into play, including:
• Losses in the company’s revenue or earnings, especially if the losses are persistent
• A perception in the market that the stock is overvalued
• Management issues, shake-ups in the company’s leadership positions, scandal, fraud — in short, anything that can make investor sentiment turn negative
For investors, these are all signs a stock is underperforming and red flags to watch out for.
Types of Stocks Likely to Fall to Zero
What is a stock that falls to zero? Every stock comes with risks, but some are more risky than others. Besides companies on the brink of bankruptcy, there are certain types of businesses that have a higher chance of becoming worthless.
Knowing what to look for and researching and evaluating stocks before buying is key to building a resilient portfolio. Some of these higher risk stocks might include:
Companies With Weak Business Models
Even if a stock is currently performing well, it may fall in the future if the business model is fundamentally flawed. For this reason, many investors prefer to research a company’s practices, team composition, and business model before investing in its stock.
Penny Stocks
Stocks that trade below $5 are known as penny stocks. These low price stocks tend to be very volatile, as the companies that issue them have low or no profit.
Sometimes penny stocks can even turn out to be scams.
Buying the Dip
Rather than selling stocks when the market declines, some investors believe it can be a good idea to buy while the market is low. By buying the dip, as it’s known, investors pay less for stocks.
And, since these stocks still have the potential to go up in value as the market recovers after the decline, they can be preferred by long-term investors who may have more time to let their portfolio go back up in value.
However, if a company is going bankrupt or otherwise likely to fall to zero, it’s unlikely to offer a strong return on investment.
It’s also very difficult to time the market, so a trader might buy in when they think the market has hit bottom, only to watch it continue to go down.
Generally, building a diversified portfolio can offer higher returns on average over time than trying to time the market based on shorter-term trends or dips.
Examples of Stocks That Fell to Zero
There are two particularly infamous examples of stocks that fell to zero:
Enron
In the 1990s, Enron, an energy company, hid massive losses by using accounting tricks. At one point, its stock price was over $90. In 2001, analysts and investors became suspicious and began asking questions. That same year, the company reported huge losses, and its stock plummeted to $0.26 right before it declared bankruptcy.
World Com
This telecom company falsely inflated its cash flow and net income by listing expenses as investments to hide losses. Its stock price fell from more than $60 a share to less than $1 before the company declared bankruptcy in 2002. 💡 Quick Tip: When you’re actively investing in stocks, it’s important to ask what types of fees you might have to pay. For example, brokers may charge a flat fee for trading stocks, or require some commission for every trade. Taking the time to manage investment costs can be beneficial over the long term.
How to Prevent Holding a Stock that’s Falling Lower
While it’s true that the market is impossible to predict, there are some measures that investors can take to protect themselves from losses — especially in the case of a stock spiraling towards zero. Below are some common preventative investment measures.
Stop Losses
Knowing when to sell a stock is important. Investors can set up a trade to automatically sell shares if a stock reaches a specific price. This type of trade is called a stop loss. It’s a strategy that could help prevent losses in the case of an individual stock or overall market drop.
There are multiple types of stop losses, including trailing stops and hard stops. Trailing stops move the stop level up as the stock rises in value, but stay in place if the stock falls. Hard stops are fixed at a specific price and will execute if the stock falls to that price.
Limit Orders
Limit orders allow investors to set the price at which they want to buy a stock. An investor selects the price and the number of shares they wish to buy. In practice, the order only executes if the stock then hits that price.
This is one way for traders to step away without worrying that they’ll be buying in at a price they didn’t want.
Put Options
A put option is a type of order that gives traders the option to sell or short-sell a specific amount of stock at a specific price, within a certain time frame. If a stock decreases in value in this case, the trader can still sell it at a higher price than it previously held.
Diversifying Asset Holdings
In an effort to prevent losses, investors may want to diversify their portfolios into a mix of non-correlated assets — dividing their holdings between assets at a higher and lower risk of fluctuating in value.
In a diversified portfolio, if one asset class decreases in value, the other types may not. Over time, the ups and downs of each asset could possibly balance the losses in each.
Setting Up a Stock Portfolio
By researching companies and setting up a portfolio according to one’s personal risk tolerance, and then keeping tabs on the assets in that portfolio to monitor their performance, it may be possible to help hedge against a stock sinking down to zero.
FAQ
At what point does a stock become worthless?
A stock becomes worthless when it falls to zero and has no value. In this case, an investor loses the money they invested in the stock.
How low can a stock go before being removed?
Some stock exchanges delist stocks if they fall below a certain level. The New York Stock Exchange will remove a stock if its share price falls below $1 for 30 days in a row, for instance.
Do you owe money if a stock goes negative?
No. A stock price can’t go negative, or, that is, fall below zero. So an investor does not owe anyone money. They will, however, lose whatever money they invested in the stock if the stock falls to zero.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
SoFi Invest® The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment decisions should be based on an individual’s specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile. SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance. Advisory services offered through SoFi Wealth, LLC. SoFi Securities, LLC, member FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Invest refers to the three investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below. 1) Automated Investing—The Automated Investing platform is owned by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor (“Sofi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC, an affiliated SEC registered broker dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, (“Sofi Securities).
2) Active Investing—The Active Investing platform is owned by SoFi Securities LLC. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
3) Cryptocurrency is offered by SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, a FinCEN registered Money Service Business.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of Sofi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit www.sofi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or prequalification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.
Inside: Dreaming of ways to make money fast as a woman? Stop dreaming and take action. These are genius ways of making money online and at home.
Making money fast is crucial for maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, especially in the face of rising living costs. It can be the key to financial stability, providing additional funds to support and enjoy your lifestyle.
As a woman, you need to know how to make money fast.
This isn’t just about getting rich quickly. It’s about women gaining the freedom to live independently without financial constraints.
The feeling of financial security lessens stress; not having to worry over unexpected expenses plays a big role in your overall well-being.
This is what you want to do – make money fast!
Good news! You are in the right spot and I’ll show you my favorite ways to make money online.
Get into the right mindset, ladies! Making money fast isn’t just possible, but also liberating.
How can I make easy money ASAP?
Making easy money quickly can be achieved in various ways that utilize your skills and knowledge.
First and foremost, consider your own skills and expertise, and determine whether they could apply to jobs like cake baking, childcare, bookkeeping, house cleaning, or freelance writing.
This will tell you the easiest way for you to make money quickly. For me, I prefer to trade options in the stock market. Whereas someone else may choose babysitting or dog walking.
You need to find how to make money fast and we will help you with that decision.
Why Making Money Fast is Important
1. Makes it possible to live comfortably 2. Enables you to afford the best quality of life 3. Gives you the freedom to pursue your dreams 4. Gives you the freedom to live without financial constraints 5. Provides you with security and safety 6. Freedom to give back to your community 7. Freedom to choose how you spend your time 8. Opportunity to take risks and start a business 9. Provides you with a sense of power and control 10. Live without financial worry
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Are you passionate about words and reading?
If so, proofreading could be a perfect fit for you, just like it’s been for countless of readers! Learn how you can create a freelance business as a proofreader.
Check out this free workshop!
Bookkeeping is the most stable, reliable & simple business to own. This is how to make a realistic income -either part-time or full-time.
Find out TODAY if this is THE business you’ve been looking for.
How can I make a lot of money in hours?
Making income in a matter of hours for a woman is entirely feasible with a blend of freelancing, leveraging gig economy platforms, and capitalizing on your skills or assets. Here’s a quick guide for you:
Consider freelancing: Establish your writing, graphic design, or programming services on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
Dive into the gig economy: Sign up for TaskRabbit, Airbnb, or Turo to start earning.
Try online tutoring or content selling: Proficient in any subject or have strong graphic design skills? Go for tutoring or sell your content.
Indulge in buying & selling: If you’re good at purchasing low and selling high, then swap clothes or furniture, or even stocks.
Take online surveys or join market research groups on sites like Swagbucks for a rapid source of income.
Remember, time management is crucial for balancing multiple streams at once. Don’t forget to schedule wisely!
How to Make Money Fast as a Woman
No matter who you are, making money can be tough. But if you’re a woman, it can feel impossible.
From getting paid less than men for the same job to having a harder time getting promoted, the deck is often stacked against us.
Just so you know that making quick money in one day won’t happen overnight.
So, I’m going to tell you the best ways to make money fast as a woman.
1. Sell Services
Selling your skills or expertise is a fast, viable way to earn money. It’s all about utilizing what you already know to provide value to others.
Identify your marketable skills, such as cake baking, freelance writing, bookkeeping or even organizing spaces.
Brainstorm which of these services people could pay for.
Remember, you can tap into both physical tasks, like house cleaning or pet-sitting, and digital ones, like creating digital printables or offering consulting in your field of expertise.
Expert Tip: Launch your service with a few testimonials, helping to build trust with potential customers from the get-go.
2. Freelance
Freelancing is a savvy way for women to stack up earnings fast, offering flexibility and complete control over the workload. It’s a ticket to dodge conventional office politics and punch above your earning potential.
Start by identifying your freelance niche. You can be a writer, graphic designer, or anything you’re skilled at. Many people use their transferable 9-5 skills to side hustle.
Then, create your profile on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork or Guru – be sure to showcase your accolades.
Set your rates, then start connecting with clients looking for your talent.
Remember, success in freelancing is driven by quality and consistency. So, sharpen your skills and always exceed your client’s expectations.
Freelancing may start as a side gig, but with dedication, it can grow into a full-time job.
3. Become a Product Reviewer
Being a product reviewer is an intriguing job opportunity for those who enjoy sharing candid feedback about their experiences with various products.
As a product reviewer, you are required to assess products often sent to you from diverse companies.
Your role involves providing a comprehensive review that could range from making an unboxing video to writing a detailed article about the product’s features and performance.
This kind of job requires an unbiased perspective and the capacity to articulate your thoughts and experience in a detailed, user-friendly manner.
Companies value this form of direct feedback as it provides them with significant data about their product’s strengths and weaknesses as perceived by an end-user.
4. Virtual Assistants
As a woman, becoming a virtual assistant could be your fast lane to earning a substantial income.
This is especially a great option if you’re excellent in organization and time management along with the need for flexibility.
For many becoming a virtual assistant with no experience is possible. And very lucrative.
Finally, for your best shot at success in this field, taking a course to improve your learning curve is extremely helpful.
Potential to earn up to $43,000 per year.
5. Sell Your Crafts
Ladies, have you thought of turning your love for crafts into a profitable venture?
Find out what crafts are in demand. The higher the demand, the more profitable it would be to make and sell these crafts.
Remember, profitability hinges on what you sell and how much you sell. Happy crafting!
While you are limited on what you can earn by what you can make, it is possible to make money doing something you absolutely enjoy.
6. Stock Trading
Stock trading may seem daunting but it can be a quick route to financial independence, especially for women.
With the right tools, information, and mindset, you can swiftly navigate the market and amplify your earnings. In fact, this is something Teri Ijeoma did herself.
Educate yourself on the basics before you invest. This is exactly what I did and my investment has paid off.
Always be aware of the risks involved in stock trading and proceed cautiously. However, building up an investing education is a wise decision.
Learn how fast can you make money in stocks.
7. Babysit
Babysitting is a versatile side hustle offering flexible hours and good earning potential.
It’s an ideal opportunity if you’re seeking quick, extra income and enjoy children.
Obtain optional certifications like CPR and first aid to enhance your appeal. Visit platforms like Care.com, Sittercity, or Urbansitter to create your profile and connect with clients.
8. Transcriber
One field that remains highly overlooked is transcription.
A transcriptionist listens to audio files and converts them into written documents.
Gain a thorough understanding of the industry. Check out this free webinar to get the basics right.
Consider specializing in legal or medical transcription. These niches often fetch higher wages.
You could easily make $3000-$4000 monthly, working on your own schedule.
Remember, practice and precision can help you achieve a lucrative transcription rate.
9. House Cleaning
Cleaning can be a rewarding gig, especially if you like tidying spaces.
Despite recognizing the need for a clean home, many people often struggle to find the time or energy to routinely clean their homes. This is where the prospect of a housecleaning business arises.
Busy homeowners, parents juggling work and childcare, elderly individuals needing assistance, and even businesses needing regular cleaning services are all potential clients for a housecleaning business. This demand provides a consistent income flow for those offering cleaning services.
In fact, individuals transitioning into this field of work can negotiate their wages with clients, potentially earning more than $15 an hour based on the complexity and demands of the job.
10. Sell Printables on Etsy
Selling printables is an effective and lucrative method to generate passive income.
Once printables such as planners, calendars, and journals are designed, created, and listed for sale on platforms like Shopify or Etsy, they can consistently produce income without requiring continual input or maintenance.
According to several experts, one of the keys to making substantial profits from printables is to differentiate your products.
Building upon this idea of making money from printables, the free Printables Workshop by Gold City Ventures offers comprehensive insights into the process of creating and selling aesthetically pleasing printable products online. This accessible course can be an excellent starting point for beginners looking to navigate the printables market.
Selling printables on Etsy might be the perfect venture for you!
11. Dog Walking
Looking for a fun-filled way to make some quick bucks?
Dog walking could be the right side hustle for you, especially if you’re an animal lover.
Easy to find jobs for dog walking.
Suitable for people with flexible schedules.
Offers an active way to earn money.
Option to select your rates with platforms like Rover.
High demand especially due to increasing pet adoptions and busy pet owners.
You can work when you need to and not take clients when you don’t want too.
12. Make Money Blogging
Blogging is a popular and prevalent way to earn money. Many blog owners are women who want the flexibility to earn significant money at their own pace and schedule.
Earning money through blogging allows you to focus on something you’re passionate about. Any topic that can provide value to an audience can be blogged about. Targeting a niche that has been overlooked by existing blogs can increase your blog’s potential earnings.
Starting a blog doesn’t require formal training, but it does require a willingness and ability to write effectively for an audience.
By employing monetizing avenues, like affiliate marketing and advertising, a blogger can boost their earning significantly.
Despite the vast number of existing blogs, the industry is very accommodating toward new voices, especially female voices. Thus, knowing how to monetize a blog can offer women many opportunities.
Remember, blogging is not just about earning fast bucks, it also needs consistent efforts. It’s rewarding but can start slow.
13. Ride-Sharing
Ridesharing is an excellent opportunity for women looking to make fast money. With apps like Uber and Lyft, you can earn an income simply by offering transportation services.
Here are a few tips to increase your earnings:
Consider driving during peak hours, weekends, or during special events to cash in on higher demand.
Choose busy locations such as city centers and nightlife spots to increase your chances of getting rides.
Maintain good customer service and ensure safe driving to uphold your rating and receive more ride requests.
14. Office Cleaning
Considering the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, office cleaning can be an untapped treasure trove for women seeking quick cash. Given the high demand and flexible hours, it’s an ideal source of extra income.
You must identify office premises needing cleaning services. Reach out to the owners or management, and propose your services.
Think about offering your services to offices in your local area. It’s a fast way to make extra money while managing your other commitments.
15. eBay Arbitrage
Looking to earn some quick money? eBay Arbitrage could be the game-changer you need.
Aimed mostly at women who love shopping, it’s about buying products cheaply and selling them on eBay for a profit.
First, hunt for bargains in thrift stores, sales, or online markets.
Go with high-demand items; electronics, collectibles, or brand sneakers are a good start.
Then, create your eBay store and list your finds at a competitive but profitable price.
Track each item’s demand through keyword research and buyers’ reviews.
Remember to calculate potential profits inclusive of shipping costs and eBay fees.
Armed with the right strategies, you can start earning with eBay in no time!
16. Freelance Writing
Did you know your writing passion can become a quick buck-making engine? That’s right, freelance writing is a gold mine you ought to tap.
First, identify a writing niche you love. It’s easier to excel when you’re passionate about your work.
Continually hone your writing skills. The more you practice, the better you become and the more valuable your skills. Finally, don’t be shy to market your skills. Reach out to small businesses and startups—they often need freelance writers.
Remember, quality over quantity will earn you a solid reputation in the long run. Now, go turn those wordy wonders into wealth!
17. Online Surveys
Curious about making a quick buck? Engaging in online surveys can be a fast money-making method just for you!
You don’t earn a huge amount per survey but when taking multiple surveys, it will add up fast.
Here are the top legit survey platforms:
Use your free time wisely. Take surveys during work breaks or leisure hours.
Redeem points for PayPal cash or gift cards.
18. YouTube Channel Building
Building a YouTube channel can be an interesting and rewarding venture.
It provides an incredible platform to share your content, express your creativity, and engage with a global audience. Whether you want to showcase your talents, teach something unique or simply entertain, having a YouTube channel opens up many opportunities.
Effective engagement with your audience is vital.
Last but not least, patience is something you will need in abundance. Building a successful YouTube channel takes time, so don’t lose hope if you’re not seeing immediate results.
Remember, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with your YouTube channel. It all comes down to how creatively you can use this platform to engage with your audience and grow your presence.
19. Bookkeeper
In our increasingly digital age, online bookkeepers are in high demand, with more businesses choosing to move their financial operations to the online platform. This shift in business operations has created a robust opportunity for those trained in bookkeeping to tap into the market and earn income while working from the comfort of their homes.
To be successful as web-based bookkeeper, you need to be well-organized and have previous experience dealing with numbers. However, even without a formal accounting education, individuals can take advantage of online learning platforms like Bookkeepers.com to learn and sharpen their bookkeeping skills for free.
Becoming a virtual bookkeeper is not just a fantastic full-time job opportunity; it’s also an excellent side hustle for women and mothers proficient with numbers. It provides flexible hours and allows the freedom to work from anywhere, making it ideal for those juggling multiple responsibilities.
The financial compensation for an online virtual bookkeeper is quite significant. On average, bookkeepers can earn at least $50000 a year helping business owners manage their finance and bookkeeping online.
20. Start a Dropshipping Store
Dropshipping is a viable option with low startup costs that lets you run an online store without handling any physical products.
There is still plenty of time to get into the dropshipping business.
Start by deciding what products to sell. Find a niche you’re passionate about for a higher chance of success.
Remember, a successful dropshipping venture involves effective marketing as well. So invest time and effort into perfecting your advertising tactics.
21. Do Clerical Work
Clerical work offers flexible, remote opportunities for women to make quick money.
With adequate admin experience and internet access, you can explore roles like Virtual Assistant, Online Data Entry Professional, or Court Transcriptionist.
This is one of the best non phone work from home jobs.
Experts tip: Perfection and punctuality are key. Attention to detail and meeting deadlines can make you stand out.
22. Resell Clothes
Reselling clothes online is a savvy way to turn your clutter into cash, especially if you love digging for hidden gems.
It’s a popular method for fast cash flow, with Poshmark and Facebook Marketplace being perfect platforms. One of my friends is very successful with this!
Begin with your own closet, and sell kids clothes they have outgrown too.
Reinvest your earnings, by buying second-hand clothing to resell can boost your profits.
Don’t forget quality. Run a quick check for authenticity and brand labels.
Visuals sell. Stage items and capture high-res photographs.
Providing a great customer experience is key, ensuring prompt shipping and maintaining politeness.
Play your cards right, you could earn anywhere between $100 to $1,000 a month or even reach a six-figure yearly income.
23. Do Home-Based Child Care
Home-based child care is a viable option to earn money, leveraging the natural maternal instincts and caregiving skills of many women. It can be a lucrative side hustle and a means to financial independence.
This is especially a great avenue to pursue when you are already at home raising your own children.
Make sure to follow any state regulations about running a daycare out of your home.
Begin by determining the number of children you can handle at a time, taking care not to overbook.
24. Podcasting
Podcasting is a wonderful opportunity for delivering narratives. It enables you to weave compelling stories while inspiring, instructing, or simply entertaining your listeners.
The unique format of podcasting lets you connect with your audience on a personal level. They listen to your voice, engage with your thoughts, and feel a stronger connection to you.
By starting a podcast, you are joining an increasingly popular trend, with the global number of podcast listeners has grown to 464.7 million listeners in 2022 (source).
Podcasting also opens up doors for networking and collaboration. You can invite experts, artists, or like-minded individuals as guests on your show, thus expanding your network.
There’s a potential to earn from podcasting. With affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and advertising, the commercial possibilities of podcasting are extensive.
25. Merch by Amazon
“Merch by Amazon” is a print-on-demand service that allows you to design and sell your merchandise.
It’s a great money-making alternative as it offers massive exposure and doesn’t require any upfront costs.
One of the significant advantages of using Merch by Amazon for passive income is that you are not required to maintain inventory or deal with shipping. Amazon handles these aspects, allowing you to focus on the creation process and customer satisfaction.
Amazon’s royalty system ensures that you get paid instantly whenever your merchandise is purchased. This allows you to earn money passively with every sale.
When your designs meet the current market trends and the preferences of your customers, they are more likely to be popular, leading to an increase in sales, hence, higher passive income.
26. Become an Influencer
Becoming an influencer is a smart, quick way for women to make money. While most people just stumble upon becoming an influencer, you can decide to pursue this avenue.
With earning potential that is unlimited, this opportunity is flourishing, requiring no specific degree or job experience.
Remember, platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube reward new, engaging creators.
Dedication and consistency could lead you to major earnings where you make thousands for each post.
27. Work as a Translator
Having mastery in more than one language opens up a world of opportunities, particularly in the realm of translation services. The ability to translate language effectively and accurately is a skill that’s in high demand in the current globalized world.
A top benefit of being a freelance online translator is the flexible work environment. You have the freedom to choose when, where, and how much you want to work. This flexibility for work-life balance is more appealing now than ever, especially in the unsteady job market.
Freelance translators also have access to a wider client base. Unlike full-time translators who work for specific organizations or agencies, freelance translators can work with various clients from all over the world, widening their potential income streams.
The need for translators is projected to grow substantially. In the United States alone, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for interpreters and translators will increase by 20% from 2021 through 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Among other freelance professions, translation can often provide a more stable income.
As most sectors including education, legal, business, medical, and technological firms continue to globalize, they regularly need translators to bridge the language gap, making freelance translation services a steady income source.
31. Become a Flipper
Becoming a flipper is a high-return, low-investment way to make money fast. It involves buying low and selling high, perfect for those wanting a profitable side hustle.
Here are actionable steps to kickstart your flipping journey:
Identify items to flip: Popular options include toys, clothes, electronics, books, and furniture. Pro-tip: Sell things you have around your house to start risk free.
Choose a selling platform: Sell locally via Facebook groups or Craigslist, use reselling apps like Decluttr, or open an online store on eBay.
Price it right: Pricing items competitively garners buyer interest and maximizes profit.
Learn more: Free webinars, like Flipper University and the Flea Market Flipper, offer insights for a successful flipping business.
Remember, flipping can be more than just a side hustle; it’s a potential full-time career.
32. Micro-Tasking
Micro-tasking offers a quick way for you to earn money by completing short and simple tasks.
As its popularity grows, so does the list of platforms where you can find micro-jobs. Here are the popular platforms.
This allows your the flexibility to work whenever you want. Plus no special skills or degrees are needed.
Just note… This is not a stable income source
Tips for Finding the Best Way for You to Make Money
As you can see, there are many different ways to make money fast as a woman.
You can find the best way for you by considering your skills, interests, and the amount of time you have available.
Here are some helpful tips to make sure you are earning money quickly.
1. Identify Your Skills and Offerings
You’re already gifted, let’s transform those skills into fast cash.
Make a list of your skills, passions, and expertise; you can tap into anything from programming to knitting.
That is where you want to start.
From personal experience, I can tell you it is way easier to work on a side hustle or business when you are passionate about the topic.
Remember, the digital world is your playground, so play, innovate and cash-in.
2. Research the Best Ways to Make Money
Now, that you know the skills and experience, look at the list above and determine which ones match up.
You will need to spend time watching a free webinar to learn more.
Compare different money-making ideas. From part-time jobs to freelancing, there’s a plethora of options. You need to pick what works best for you.
Remember, generating a consistent income requires effective strategies and the right mindset. So choose wisely!
3. Try Different Ways to Make Money – Not Just 9-5 Jobs
It’s vital to explore different money-making strategies as a woman for financial stability and independence.
Just because one avenue didn’t work out doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel.
Remember, the key to success is perseverance, so pick something you’re passionate about and stick to it. Try not to jump from one idea to another out of impatience; success takes time.
Also, as your revenue increases, start building a lifestyle business for passive income.
4. Focus on the Things You Are Good at
Unlock your financial potential by recognizing and utilizing things you’re excellent at.
To cash in fast:
Identify your standout skills. These could range from writing, fine arts, math, e-commerce to digital marketing or even passions such as sports and hobbies.
Assess the viability of earning via your skills. Research shows that the digital economy is filled with opportunities.
Exploit platforms that cater to your expertise. For freelance gigs, you can try platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Guru.
There are so many ways to make money online as a beginner. So, indulge in the digital playground, embrace exploration and innovation, and let your skills earn for you.
5. Find Opportunities That Allow You to Work Flexibly
You can choose when to work and when not to, rather than being constrained by a 9 to 5 workday. The flexibility to create your schedule means you can operate at your most productive times, whether that’s early in the morning or late at night.
Working from home or any location across the globe enables a better work-life balance, reducing stress and improving productivity. This is particularly beneficial for those who have families or are committed to other obligations.
When working for yourself, you may have the potential to earn more than traditional salaried roles.
Lastly, making a living from your passion is huge!
You are being paid to do what you love anywhere, anytime which is rare and precious.
6. Consider Specializing in a Niche Subject
Specializing in a niche subject can elevate your earning potential quickly, owing to smaller competition and a personalized audience.
Being a subject matter expert in a specific area can provide you with an edge over your competitors.
Specializing in a niche can help you stand out and garner a dedicated audience, ultimately leading to faster earnings.
Remember, the key to making money faster in your specialized area is persistence and patience. It may take time to build a strong following, but once you do, the financial rewards can be substantial.
Stick to your chosen area, continuously learn and improve, and consistently deliver high-quality content to make your mark in your chosen niche.
7. Take Advantage of Trending Opportunities
Jumping on trending opportunities can be a gold mine, especially for women who want to make money fast from home. These ever-evolving trends tap into various skill sets, interests, and experiences, potentially translating into a lucrative gig.
For many, it may have been TikTok when the company first started.
Remember, the digital world holds limitless potential. Just needing to innovate and execute your ideas!
8. Invest in the Right Tools and Equipment
The key to making money, either online or offline, is making an informed investment of your time into the right tools, equipment, and learning resources.
While this can initially seem like an expenditure rather than a money-making step, it is, in fact, a cornerstone of your financial growth strategy.
Investing time in learning and increasing your knowledge base is vital. This could mean spending your time reading about new insights in your area of work, attending webinars, or enrolling in online courses. The ROI of this proactive learning is immense.
Consider this an opportunity or a catalyst that speeds up your journey toward substantial income generation and financial freedom.
9. Commit to Consistent Efforts
Commitment to consistent efforts is the cornerstone of any successful endeavor, more so when running your own side hustle.
One of the fundamental principles for making money is the dedication to keep improving your craft, always learning, and always evolving.
This continual effort involves a long-term commitment to staying updated with the latest writing trends, styles, and industry standards.
With persistence and patience, the fruition of your investments will lead you toward the fulfillment of your financial dreams.
10. Utilize Social Media Platforms to Promote Your Business
Social media platforms are powerful tools for business promotion, and when used strategically, they can lead to fast monetary gains.
Understanding how to effectively utilize these platforms can drastically enhance your chances of making quick bucks.
Start by creating a robust online presence for your business on various social media platforms. Remember, consistency is key to building your brand.
Engage with your audience frequently and respond to their comments. This boosts engagement on your posts.
Post content that is engaging, relevant, and aligns with your business values.
Always monitor your performance using social media analytics to understand what works best for your audience.
Which side hustles for women have you tried?
Personally, here are the side hustles I have done or currently do:
Stock Trading as a swing trader
Online Content Creation
Social Media Influencer
Online Consulting
Pet Sitting or House Sitting
Teaching Dance Lessons
Personal Organizer
However, I know many people that have tried the ones listed above.
So ladies, which of these enticing hustles appeals to your skills and schedule the most?
FAQ
Stay-at-home moms have numerous opportunities to earn money from the comfort of their homes. Plus being able to bump up your household income while juggling parenthood is the perfect combination.
Find the best jobs for moms specifically!
Any of these opportunities requires dedication and consistent effort, but with time they can all yield substantial returns.
Thankfully, there are many ways for women to make money online.
Above we covered all of the interesting ways and many are online.
Remember, opt for an avenue that suits your skills, interests, and time availability.
Well. the answer to this will depend on who you speak with.
Personally, I find ways to build passive income with your side hustle as the best option. Then you aren’t trading your time for money.
As a woman, many opportunities are right at your fingertips. The most popular and profitable include:
Start a blog: With consistent readership, you can make thousands from ad revenue and sponsored content.
Virtual assistant: Services can fetch around $10-30/hour.
Social Media Management: Businesses are willing to pay up to $1000-2000 per month for proficient managers.
Bookkeeping: On average, freelance bookkeepers earn around $34/hour.
Selling products online: Sites like Etsy, Amazon FBA, or your own platform can earn you a substantial income with a successful shop.
Trading Stocks or Options: by improving your investing knowledge, you can quickly increase your net worth.
Remember – it all starts with a step. Your side hustle could turn into a full-time passion!
This is How to Make Money from Home as a Woman
In conclusion, as a woman, there are plenty of genius and fast ways for you to make money.
The article underlines the significance of grabbing the reins of your financial future.
Through the strategies shared – including investing in stocks, working from home, or using budgeting hacks, you can boost your income significantly.
One of the concepts, I’m big on is making sure you know how to make your money work for you.
With wise decisions and being open to possibilities, your financial independence is within reach.
Remember – the ball is in your court, so make sure to take that shot and score your financial goals. It’s high time to cash in on your potential!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
“If these expenses were to be excluded due to their nonrecurring nature, this would result in a 4% quarter-over-quarter reduction in our core operating expenses,” Martell noted during Tuesday’s earnings call. “Profitable growth, together with our laser focus on productivity and operating leverage, accounted for a $42 million, or 46%, sequential reduction in our Q2 … [Read more…]
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These reviewers are industry leaders and professional writers who regularly contribute to reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.
Passive income refers to earnings derived from an enterprise in which a person is not actively involved on a daily basis.
Unlike active income, where earnings are directly linked to the amount of work performed, passive income flows whether you are working, sleeping, or vacationing.
As Robert Kiyosaki (2017) explains in his best-selling book “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” passive income can be a way to achieve greater financial independence.
Unlike the typical income that requires constant work, passive income typically flows with less hands-on involvement. However, this doesn’t mean no work is involved; it’s often the initial setup that demands considerable time, effort, or capital.
If you’re looking for more passive income ideas, click below:
Purpose and Importance
The purpose of passive income is broad, spanning from financial cushioning to the possibility of early retirement. By generating continuous revenue without daily effort, it offers a means to enhance one’s lifestyle, build financial security, or pursue other interests and hobbies.
The significance of passive income goes beyond mere monetary gain, as it also provides a pathway to greater control over one’s time, a diversified income stream, and potential long-term growth.
EXPERT TIP:
Consider starting small and gradually building your passive income portfolio.
By investing in a diverse array of income-generating opportunities tailored to your risk tolerance and financial goals, you can create a resilient and sustainable revenue stream.
As emphasized by many financial experts, including those mentioned in “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham (2003), careful planning and consistent monitoring of your passive income sources can lead to greater financial freedom and control over your time.
This step-by-step approach allows you to learn and adapt, maximizing the potential benefits of passive income without overextending your resources.
How Passive Income Works
Table of Contents
Sources of Passive Income
Passive income can stem from various sources, such as rental properties, investments in stocks or bonds, a wide of array of apps, and royalties from intellectual properties like books or patents. Each source has its unique characteristics, risks, rewards, and requirements.
While some sources, like savings accounts interest, are readily accessible, others may need significant financial investment or specialized knowledge, like creating a successful blog that earns ad revenue.
Source of Passive Income
Characteristics
Risks
Requirements
Rental Properties
Steady Income, Property Growth
Market Fluctuations
Initial Investment, Maintenance
Dividend Stocks
Potential Growth, Regular Dividends
Market Volatility
Investment Capital
Peer-to-Peer Lending
Interest Earnings
Default Risk
Platform Registration
Royalties
Income From Intellectual Property
Contractual Risks
Creative Skills, Legal Agreements
Automation and Minimal Active Involvement
Passive income often involves an automated process where money is earned with minimal active involvement. This includes setting up businesses that run themselves or investing in dividend-paying stocks that provide regular income.
Though these may require substantial initial setup, the ongoing maintenance is often minimal. But it’s worth noting that these ventures must be monitored and sometimes adjusted to ensure continued success.
Tax Considerations
Tax implications for passive income differ from those of active income. Passive income may qualify for different tax rates or deductions, depending on jurisdiction and the type of income. For instance, rental income may be subject to specific property tax rules.
Understanding these rules or consulting a tax professional is vital to maximizing after-tax returns and compliance with tax laws. You can read more about here about how passive income is taxed.
Active vs Passive Income
Understanding the difference between active and passive income is essential for anyone looking to diversify their income streams and work towards financial stability or even independence.
What is Active Income?
Active income refers to earnings that require consistent and direct effort. This includes wages from a job, salaries, hourly payments, commissions, and tips. Essentially, active income requires trading time for money.
This type of income is what most people rely on to pay bills, purchase necessities, and maintain their current lifestyle. The major limitation of active income is its direct correlation to time; you can only work a certain number of hours in a day, thus capping your earning potential.
Passive Income Contrasted to Active Income
Contrastingly, passive income is earned with little to no daily effort to maintain, after the initial setup or investment. It includes revenue from rental properties, dividends, royalties, or even a business that doesn’t require daily involvement.
Passive income provides a means to break free from the time-for-money trade and opens doors to greater financial growth and freedom.
Comparison and Significance
The main distinction between active and passive income lies in the involvement and time required to generate revenue. While active income necessitates ongoing work, passive income aims to create sustainable income streams that flow regardless of daily activities.
Active income offers stability but often lacks scalability. Passive income, though requiring initial effort and possibly capital, offers the potential for long-term growth and diversification.
By combining both active and passive income streams, individuals can create a more resilient and flexible financial portfolio, allowing for the pursuit of broader life goals and interests, such as early retirement, travel, or investment in hobbies and personal development. The insights from Kiyosaki (2017) in “Rich Dad Poor Dad” emphasize this balanced approach to building wealth and achieving financial freedom.
The inclusion of both active and passive income in one’s financial strategy offers a multifaceted approach to wealth building. It’s an essential concept for anyone aiming to enhance financial security, diversify income, or explore new financial opportunities.
Feature
Active Income
Passive Income
Effort Required
Daily, consistent effort needed
Little to no daily effort after initial setup
Time Dependency
Directly tied to hours worked
Not tied to hours; can earn 24/7
Income Type
Wages, salaries, commissions, tips
Rental properties, dividends, royalties
Scalability
Limited by time and energy
Potential for growth without proportional time input
Financial Growth Potential
Often stable but limited in growth
Potential for long-term growth and diversification
Risks & Challenges
Job loss, income stability
Market risk, initial investment required
Benefits/Advantages/Pros of Passive Income
Financial Independence
Financial independence means having enough income to cover living expenses without needing to actively work. Passive income is often vital in this quest, allowing people to live comfortably without a regular paycheck. It offers an escape from the traditional work routine, opening doors to new opportunities, hobbies, or even early retirement.
“If you don’t find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die.”
Warren Buffett
Flexibility and Freedom
The freedom granted by passive income extends to various life aspects. Whether it’s spending more time with family, traveling, or engaging in hobbies, the financial flexibility offered by passive income can significantly enhance life quality. It also provides an opportunity for strategic investments, exploring new ventures without the financial strain that might come without this income cushion.
Diversification of Income Streams
Having multiple income streams reduces the risk of financial hardship if one source diminishes or fails. By diversifying across various passive income avenues, financial stability is often enhanced.
Whether it’s investment in different market sectors, rental properties across various locations, or a mix of bonds and stocks, diversification is a fundamental risk management strategy in financial planning.
Potential Long-Term Growth
Some passive income sources offer potential for substantial long-term growth. Investments like stocks may appreciate over time, generating not only regular income but also an increase in underlying asset value. This growth potential can substantially contribute to financial goals, whether saving for children’s education, building retirement funds, or other long-term planning.
Benefit
Description or Example
Financial Independence
Reduced Dependence on Active Employment; Flexibility in Lifestyle Choices
Income Diversification
Spreading Income Sources; Reducing Financial Risk
Potential Long-Term Growth
Opportunity for Compounding Returns Over Time
Drawbacks/Disadvantages/Challenges/Limitations/Cons of Passive Income
Potential Risk and Volatility
The potential risks and volatility in passive income sources must not be overlooked. Market fluctuations can significantly impact investment returns, while real estate investments can be influenced by economic conditions and property market dynamics. Careful risk assessment and strategic planning are vital to mitigate these risks and ensure consistent income streams.
High Initial Investments or Skills Required
Some passive income streams necessitate significant initial investments or specific skills. Purchasing real estate, developing software, or creating a successful YouTube channel, for example, may require substantial money, time, and expertise.
These barriers must be considered and planned for, as they can deter or delay the successful implementation of a passive income strategy.
Regulatory and Compliance Challenges
Different passive income streams come with varying regulatory and legal considerations. Landlords must adhere to housing regulations, while stock investments may involve understanding complex financial laws. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to legal troubles or financial losses. Professional guidance may often be required to navigate these complexities.
Maintenance Requirements
While often touted as ‘set and forget,’ passive income streams usually require ongoing attention. Whether it’s maintaining a rental property, adjusting an investment portfolio, or updating a mobile app, these tasks, though generally minor, are essential.
This continuous oversight ensures that passive income sources remain lucrative and aligned with financial goals.
Drawback
Description or Example
Potential Risk and Volatility
Subject to Market or Economic Changes
High Initial Investments
May Require Significant Capital or Effort to Start
Regulatory Challenges
Must Comply With Various Laws and Regulations
Maintenance Requirements
Ongoing Management or Oversight May Be Necessary
Building a Passive Income Portfolio
Choosing the Right Passive Income Streams
Identifying the right mix of passive income sources is a tailored process that considers individual risk tolerance, financial goals, and personal preferences. Whether it’s the stability of government bonds or the potential high returns of startup investments, these choices should reflect the individual’s unique circumstances. Proper research, planning, and professional advice can ensure a balanced portfolio that serves both current needs and future aspirations.
In Vanguard’s Four principles for successful investing they stress:
The best way to work toward an investment goal is to start by defining it clearly, take a level-headed look at the means of getting there, and then create a detailed, specific plan. Being realistic is essential to this process: Investors need to recognize their constraints and understand the level of risk they are able to accept.
Vanguard
Strategies and Planning
Creating a successful passive income portfolio isn’t just about choosing the right investments; it requires a well-thought-out strategy and continuous planning. Factors to consider include risk diversification, liquidity needs, time horizons, and long-term goals. Regularly reassessing and adjusting this strategy ensures that it stays aligned with evolving needs and market conditions, safeguarding the financial future.
Monitoring and Adjustments
Regular monitoring and necessary adjustments are key to maintaining a robust passive income portfolio. The landscape can change due to market conditions, new laws, or personal circumstances. Regular assessments and prompt adjustments ensure that the strategy remains relevant, meeting its objectives while maximizing potential returns.
The exploration of passive income is not a simple undertaking but rather a multifaceted approach to building a sustainable financial future. The understanding of various sources, the recognition of benefits, and the consideration of potential drawbacks are essential components in the effective management of passive income streams.
From aspiring to retire early to simply wanting a more flexible lifestyle, passive income provides opportunities and challenges worthy of thoughtful exploration and careful planning.
The Bottom Line – Passive Income Explained
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Passive income might seem like a complex idea, but it’s really about making your money work for you instead of the other way around. From investments to side businesses, there are ways to create a steady stream of cash that doesn’t tie you down to a 9-to-5 grind. Mixing active income from your regular job with passive income can lead to a more relaxed and secure financial life.
It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but with some thought, effort, and patience, passive income can be a valuable part of your financial picture. Whether you’re aiming for early retirement or just some extra spending money, understanding passive income is a good first step.
FAQs – What is Passive Income?
What is Passive Income, and How Does It Differ from Active Income?
Passive income is earnings derived from investments, properties, or business ventures where a person is not actively involved daily. Unlike active income, where constant work is required, passive income generally flows with minimal ongoing effort, often after an initial setup phase.
Can Anyone Create a Source of Passive Income, or Does It Require Special Skills?
While some sources of passive income might require substantial initial investments or specialized skills, there are various opportunities available for different skill levels and financial capabilities. Proper research, planning, and sometimes professional guidance can help in successfully establishing a passive income source.
What Are Some Common Sources of Passive Income?
Common sources of passive income include rental properties, dividend-paying stocks, bonds, royalties from intellectual properties, and interest from savings accounts. The choice of sources often depends on individual risk tolerance, financial goals, and personal preferences.
Is Passive Income Taxed Differently Than Other Types of Income?
Yes, passive income may be subject to different tax rules depending on jurisdiction and the specific type of income. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand the applicable tax laws and ensure compliance.
About the Author
Jeff Rose, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner™, founder of Good Financial Cents, and author of the personal finance book Soldier of Finance. He was a financial planner for 16+ years having founded, Alliance Wealth Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm, before selling it to focus on his passion – educating the masses on the importance of financial freedom through this blog, his podcast, and YouTube channel.
Jeff holds a Bachelors in Science in Finance and minor in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. In addition to his CFP® designation, he also earned the marks of AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist – and CRPC® – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.
While a practicing financial advisor, Jeff was named to Investopedia’s distinguished list of Top 100 advisors (as high as #6) multiple times and CNBC’s Digital Advisory Council.
Jeff is an Iraqi combat veteran and served 9 years in the Army National Guard. His work is regularly featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Inc.com and Entrepreneur.
A number of investors trade stocks and bonds through an investment broker. What is a broker? A broker — or brokerage firm — is the middleman between the buyer and seller and can help make a transaction go smoothly.
But an investment broker is not strictly necessary. Some companies offer a direct stock plan, allowing investors to purchase shares straight from the company without a broker.
In order to decide if you need an investment broker, it’s essential to know how a broker works, what exactly they do, and how to shop around for one that fits your needs.
What Is an Investment Broker?
Investment brokers enable individuals to buy and sell financial securities, like stocks or bonds, on an exchange market.
What does a broker do? Reputable brokers act as a boon to both buyers and sellers: They ensure that each party actually has the money to buy assets or the assets to sell.
Brokers settle trades by delivering securities and payments to each party, while also taking care of all the bookkeeping and tax-related documentation required. In many cases, going through a brokerage firm is the easiest and most accessible way for individuals to get started with investing. 💡 Quick Tip: Did you know that opening a brokerage account typically doesn’t come with any setup costs? Often, the only requirement to open a brokerage account — aside from providing personal details — is making an initial deposit.
Pros and Cons of Using an Investment Broker
As with any financial service, there are both benefits and drawbacks to using a brokerage firm to facilitate your trades.
Pros of Using a Broker
Accessibility
Thanks to the internet, you can open a brokerage account in minutes and start trading stocks as soon as your account is funded. That means employing a financial broker is one of the easiest ways to start an investment journey as quickly as possible.
Simplicity
When you buy and sell through a broker, a lot of the tedious footwork — like keeping tabs on your interest earnings for tax purposes — is taken care of for you. Depending on the type of brokerage firm you go with, you may also have access to professional financial advice and other advisory services that could help you make the most of your portfolio.
Cons of Using a Broker
Fees and Commissions
Although they’ll vary based on the specifics you choose and the type of account you open, some brokers charge maintenance fees and trade fees — also known as commissions — which can eat away at your nest egg. In fact, the average stock broker commission charged by brokerage firms is usually 1% to 2% of the value of the total transaction.
That said, you can minimize your investment fees, or even eliminate them, by shopping around for brokers with the lowest costs. For example, many online brokers offer no commission trading.
Required Portfolio Minimums
Although it’s not true of every brokerage firm, some require you to keep a minimum amount of money in your account to use their services. These minimums might be $1,000 or more, which can be a barrier to entry for some beginner investors.
Recommended: What Is Broker Call Rate?
Two Types of Brokerage Accounts
If you’re still asking yourself, what does a broker do?, it’s important to understand that not all brokers are created equal. There are many kinds of brokerage accounts to choose from. For instance, you may want to choose between a brokerage account vs. a cash management account, both of which are offered by brokerages.
The best product for you will depend on your individual financial goals and your budget. Here’s what you need to know to help make an informed decision.
1. Full-service Brokerage Accounts
Along with the ability to buy and sell assets, a full-service brokerage account might also include advice from human financial planners and portfolio management to help you make the best investment decisions possible.
However, these perks don’t come cheap. Full-service brokerage accounts and wealth-management companies usually calculate their charges as a percentage of your total portfolio, and may have account minimums as high as $250,000. They may also collect trade commissions and annual management fees.
2. Discount Brokerages
Discount brokers offer less consultation and guidance, allowing you to DIY your investment portfolio cheaply. Many have $0 account minimums and may charge less than $10 per trade — or even offer commission-free assets trading.
Both full-service and discount brokerages typically offer both cash and margin accounts. In a cash account, you’ll need the actual cash to buy your assets. In contrast, in a margin account, the broker will lend you some capital to make purchases, using the securities you already own as collateral. 💡 Quick Tip: If you’re opening a brokerage account for the first time, consider starting with an amount of money you’re prepared to lose. Investing always includes the risk of loss, and until you’ve gained some experience, it’s probably wise to start small.
Regulations for Investment Brokers
Investment brokers are regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Brokers must register with FINRA, and they are required to follow a standard of conduct known as the suitability rule. Under this rule, brokers need to have suitable grounds for recommending particular investments to clients.
The rule also encompasses something called “know your customer,” which spells out the various steps brokers need to use to identify clients and their goals for savings, including making a reasonable effort to ascertain a client’s financial and tax situation when recommending investments.
Different Types of Investment Accounts
Aside from deciding what type of brokerage you’d like to do business with (and how much you’re willing to pay for financial services), you’ll also need to decide what type of investment account works best for your goals.
Maybe you’re investing for a shorter-term objective, like purchasing a house — or perhaps you’re trying to ensure you’ll have a comfortable retirement. Either way, specific investment account types, or “vehicles,” are designed to help you get there.
Recommended: Understanding a Taxable Brokerage Account vs an IRA
Taxable Brokerage Account
Think of this as a default investment vehicle. It may be a good choice if you’re looking to grow wealth and want to be able to add or withdraw funds on your own terms without waiting to reach a certain age or life circumstance. However, you pay taxes on earnings, so there are no tax advantages to this type of account. If you don’t make any specific investment vehicle choices when you open your brokerage account, this is most likely the one you’re getting.
Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
An individual retirement account, or IRA, is a type of investment account designed specifically for retirement goals and is available to self-employed people and those working for a company. IRAs carry specific tax incentives; for example, contributions to traditional IRAs are deductible, while Roth IRAs allow for tax-free distributions. However, you can’t access the funds without paying a penalty until you reach age 59 ½ or meet certain circumstantial requirements, such as purchasing your first home.
A broker may offer other savings or investment vehicles, such as a 529 college savings plan, a tax-incentivized plan to help people save for educational costs. For full details on the type of accounts available, it makes sense to check with your broker directly.
Alternatives to Investing With a Broker
Although using a broker to invest in the stock market might be a smart money move for some, there are other ways to get started with investing, including the following options.
Recommended: Buying Stocks Without a Broker
Automated Investing
Automated investment products, or robo-advisors, are platforms that utilize a combination of computer algorithms and human financial planners to create and manage diversified portfolios at low costs to users.
Your funds will be invested in a diversified portfolio, and the platform typically offers goal-planning tools and rebalancing services to help keep your funds moving in the right direction.
If you don’t want to pay the high prices for a full-service broker, but self-managing your portfolio makes you more than a little nervous, a robo-advisor may be right for you.
Buying Stocks and Fractional Shares Directly
Depending on whose stocks you’re interested in purchasing, you may be able to buy them directly from the issuer without needing to go through a brokerage firm.
It pays to read the fine print, however: Buying stocks directly may save you money on trade commissions, but you may also be subject to proprietary fees from the company or minimum purchase amounts. And if you’re buying fractional shares (fractions of shares of stock), you need to have an investment account, such as one with an online broker or robo-adviser.
Diversifying your assets can still be helpful for investors who buy stocks directly. If all of your investments are tied up in a single company, you may not be in a great position if that company begins to falter. In contrast, if you’ve invested in several different firms and other asset classes, you will likely have a wider margin for error.
Choosing Alternative Investments
Although the stock market is one of the most popular and generally low-effort ways to invest, there are plenty of other ways to try turning your money into more money.
You might consider exploring alternative investments. For example, you could invest in real estate and sell the property at a profit or turn a condo into a passive income source by putting it up for rent. Or you might invest in art; the value of paintings is not necessarily correlated with the behavior of the stock market, giving it the potential to rise even during a stock market crash.
That said, many alternative investments require significantly more time, work, and know-how than crafting a diversified portfolio of stock market assets. And as always, every investment involves risk. There’s no such thing as a sure thing.
Controlling Your Investments With SoFi
If you’ve decided stock market investments are the right move for you and your money, going through a broker can be a relatively simple and low-cost way to gain access to the market. However, if you’d rather avoid potential downsides, like fees or required account minimums, you may want to consider the option to invest directly. The choice is yours.
Ready to invest in your goals? It’s easy to get started when you open an investment account with SoFi Invest. You can invest in stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and more. SoFi doesn’t charge commissions, but other fees apply (full fee disclosure here).
Invest with as little as $5 with a SoFi Active Investing account.
FAQ
What is the role of a stock broker?
A stock broker is a financial professional who buys and sells stocks on behalf of clients. A broker generally earns a fee or commission for their services.
How do brokers make money?
Brokers typically work on commission. The average stock broker commission is usually 1% to 2% of the value of the total transaction.
Why do people use brokers?
People use brokers to help them buy and sell stocks and bonds. Brokers also handle the necessary bookkeeping and tax-related documentation. For many individuals, using a broker is the easiest way to start investing.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
SoFi Invest® The information provided is not meant to provide investment or financial advice. Also, past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment decisions should be based on an individual’s specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile. SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance. Advisory services offered through SoFi Wealth, LLC. SoFi Securities, LLC, member FINRA / SIPC . SoFi Invest refers to the three investment and trading platforms operated by Social Finance, Inc. and its affiliates (described below). Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of the platforms below. 1) Automated Investing—The Automated Investing platform is owned by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor (“Sofi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC, an affiliated SEC registered broker dealer and member FINRA/SIPC, (“Sofi Securities).
2) Active Investing—The Active Investing platform is owned by SoFi Securities LLC. Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.
3) Cryptocurrency is offered by SoFi Digital Assets, LLC, a FinCEN registered Money Service Business.
For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above, including state licensure of Sofi Digital Assets, LLC, please visit www.sofi.com/legal.
Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform. Information related to lending products contained herein should not be construed as an offer or prequalification for any loan product offered by SoFi Bank, N.A.
Second quarter results are in for proptech’s public companies.
Our last summary of results was Q2 2021. As part of launching our Crystal tier, we’re bringing the earnings radar back. This time, better than ever as an ongoing Biz Intel Series. We’re re-starting with the ten companies we deem as the most important players in the broader category:
Airbnb
Blend Labs
Compass
CoStar
eXp World Holdings
NewsCorp
Opendoor
Redfin
WeWork
Zillow
However, it’s likely we’ll add companies to the list in future editions—if there’s one you’d like to see covered, let us know.
Let’s get to the numbers…
Here’s what you can expect in the report, with our coverage of Blend Labs & Airbnb…
Airbnb saw 115 million nights and experiences booked, up 11% YoY, on top of more than 7 million active listings. That led to more than half a billion in net income, making it the most profitable company of those included—by a mile. Also, it’s worth calling out that 18% of all gross nights booked were long-term stays (28 days or more)—down from 25% a couple of years ago in Q1 2021, signaling digital nomadism being an important movement but not the end-all-be-all trend some predicted.
Market cap: 85.7B
Notable Takeaways:
$2.5 billion in revenue, up 18% YoY.
Net income of $650 million, a big uptick of 72% from a year ago. Net income margin came in at 26%, up 18% YoY.
Free cash flow was $900 million, which helped enable $2.5 billion in stock repurchases over the trailing twelve months.
Blend Labs exceeded company guidance on both topline and bottomline numbers. Revenue came in at $42.8M in Q2 2023, down 35% compared to $65.5M in Q2 2022. Net Loss was $41.2M.
Market cap: 349M
Notable Takeaways
Gross profit margin was approximately 55%, up from 39% in Q2 2022 primarily due to expansion in its Blend Platform.
Year-over-year Mortgage Suite revenue per transaction increased from $77 to $93.
Consumer Banking Suite revenue totaled $5.8M in Q2 2023, a YoY increase of 27%.
Professional services revenue increased 10% year-over-year to $2.2M.
Within the Platform segment, Mortgage Banking Suite revenue declined by 17% year-over-year, to $22.3M in Q2 2023.
Operating expenses decreased by $391.8M from Q2 2022 due to the impairment of intangible assets and goodwill caused by the acquisition of Title 365 from Mr. Cooper Group. Excluding that transaction, operating expenses decreased 16.7% from Q2 2022 to Q2 2023.
Learn more: Press Release
Want to see the other eight company summaries? You can read it in its entirety, free of charge, by subscribing to GEM Crystal today at our special introductory pricing of $9.99 per month or $99 per year (good for the first 250 subscribers). Plus, there is a 21 day free trial. So, there is absolutely no risk…
Read Full Company Summaries
The ten companies covered represent a combined $152.46 billion in market capitalization. It was a mixed bag of wins and losses in Q2: six lost money on a quarterly basis, and only two generated Net Income of more than $100 million.
Read Company Earnings & Market Cap Table
Most notably though, WeWork is in dire straits. Despite a small YoY revenue bump, the firm said it would need to cut its own rent costs, further boost revenue, reduce expenses, and attract more capital to continue.
With the CoStar/Realtor.com acquisition falling through in Q1, both companies reported small YoY losses. What was meant to be a shot in the arm to take on Zillow as residential category king, now means both companies are forced back to the drawing board to determine how to reach buyers, sellers, and renters.
Airbnb came out Q2’s big winner, furthering its stronghold as proptech’s unquestioned leader.
We’ll check back in Q3 to see if WeWork can pull a rabbit from its hat.
Earning money in your spare time by playing games, watching videos, or taking surveys was relatively unknown just a few years ago. While it may sound like a dream or, worse, a scam, it is possible to put a little extra in your pocket in your downtime with minimal effort.
Now many apps on the market allow you to earn money from your phone that you can cash out instantly. Read on to learn about the apps that pay instantly to Cash App and how you can start putting more money in your digital pocket.
What is Cash App?
Cash App is a mobile peer-to-peer money transfer service that allows users to transfer money to one another using their phone number, email, or $cashtag. Users can now send and receive stocks and bitcoin within the app in the US and the UK. Additionally, users can buy and sell bitcoin and stocks using the app.
Cash App is free to download and offers free funds transfer to a bank account. Users can also transfer funds instantly with a 1.5% fee. Cash App primarily generates revenue from these instant transfer fees.
Which Apps Pay Instantly to Cash App?
It’s important to clarify something upfront before getting to our app list. Unfortunately, no apps currently pay money directly to Cash App. So while the apps we will discuss are legitimate and pay real money, they do not currently have Cash App as an option to receive payouts directly.
This means that you’ll need to first transfer your funds to another institution before transferring to Cash App. Typically, these apps will allow payouts to either PayPal or, in some cases, directly into your bank account.
Luckily, there is an easy workaround for those who want your money to go to your Cash App. However, note that fees may be associated with your transactions depending on how quickly you want the money to transfer.
For Apps that Pay to PayPal
Receive your payout via PayPal
Transfer funds from PayPal to your bank account
Transfer funds from your bank account to Cash App
For Apps that Pay to a Bank Account
Transfer funds from your bank account to your Cash App account
Hopefully, Cash App will become a direct payout method soon. Until then, online transfers make it easy to move money from one platform to another, and you can use the workarounds above to get money into your Cash App relatively quickly.
29 Apps That Pay Instantly to Cash App
Below are 29 apps that pay instantly to Cash App when you utilize the workarounds described above. Remember, some apps pay instantly, while others have a minimum payout level you must reach before you can cash out. You’ll find anything from online shopping to games to freelancing opportunities to earn some extra cash on this list.
1. InboxDollars
InboxDollars is primarily a survey app, but users can also earn money through online shopping, playing games, watching ads, reading emails, and more. While you won’t get rich from using InboxDollars, it’s a great way to quickly make money in your downtime via the app or your computer. New users can also create a free account and get a $5 sign-up bonus!
One nice thing about InboxDollars is that you earn in dollars and cents rather than points, which makes it easier to see how much you’ve earned. You can redeem your earnings for gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or PayPal cash.
2. QuickRewards
QuickRewards is an incentive-based marketing app that rewards members for completing activities and connects users with advertisers. Members earn by signing up for offers, taking surveys, shopping online, and more. Membership is free, and you can cancel at any time.
QuickRewards has a slightly different earning scale, as members earn QuickPoints valued at one-hundredth of a cent. Thus, 1,000 qp is equivalent to $0.10. There is no minimum payout if cashing out to PayPal, but those redeeming gift cards must accrue at least $5. Users can also redeem tokens for movie tickets.
3. Swagbucks
Swagbucks is similar to many other apps discussed in this article in that users can earn money by performing simple tasks. Users can earn by taking surveys, shopping online, playing games, watching videos, searching the internet, and redeeming offers.
Swagbucks points (SB) are the currency, and the ratio between dollars and points is around $1 for every 100 points. Users can redeem gift cards from major retailers like Walmart and Amazon, cash out to PayPal, or donate their earnings to charities like Unicef. Create a free account and get a $10 bonus just for signing up!
4. Swagbucks Live
Watching videos and taking surveys not your thing? How about stretching your brain with trivia? With Swagbucks Live, users can win money daily by playing live trivia. Simply answer a series of multiple-choice questions correctly, and you’ll be in the running for the grand prize. Even those not in the running will still earn digital currency for the questions they correctly answer. In addition, winners earn SB, which they can redeem in the regular Swagbucks app for cash and gift cards.
5. MyPoints
MyPoints works in much the same way as other apps on this list but is exclusively for gamers. Users earn points based on gameplay length and for completing in-game milestones. Making in-game purchases and playing sponsored games will also help users earn more. Users can redeem points for PayPal cash and gift cards starting at just $5. Unfortunately, one major drawback of Mistplay is that it is only available to Android users.
6. BrainBattle
BrainBattle is another app perfect for those looking to engage their mind. Users earn rewards by playing games structured as multiple-choice math problems, where each correct answer earns tickets used to enter cash drawings. Additionally, users can earn tokens redeemable for cash rewards of roughly $0.10 per 10,000 tokens.
7. CashOut
CashOut is another app that pays users to play games and complete other tasks. While most tasks pay around $0.50, some pay as much as $20. Users collect in-app coins that can be redeemed to PayPal or as gift cards. You can also earn coins just for checking-in daily, even if you don’t complete any tasks. One drawback to CashOut is that it’s only available for Android users.
8. CashPirate Buzz
CashPirate Buzz (or sometimes just called CashPirate) is similar to the other get-paid-to apps on this list, except it is only available to mobile users on Android and does not have an online partner site (iOS users can download the partner app, GiftPanda, instead). Users primarily earn by completing offers like surveys, playing games, or watching videos. You also earn through referrals. Users earn coins redeemable for rewards like PayPal cash, recharging their prepaid mobile device, Amazon gift cards, or Visa gift cards.
9. FeaturePoints
FeaturePoints is yet another survey site where users get paid to give their opinion, but you can also earn by downloading games and apps. Additionally, users can pad their points through instant contests. One thing that sets FeaturePoints apart from the other apps is that users can choose to redeem their points for bitcoin and gift cards to major retailers.
10. Blackout Bingo
Blackout Bingo is a fun option for bingo lovers but works differently than some of the other apps on this list. While users can play unlimited practice rounds, you’ll only win money if you enter cash tournaments and matches, which require an entry fee. Although some tournaments waive the fee, meaning you can win money for free, most of the earnings will come from paid plays. Aside from winning money, users can also earn Skillz tickets and use them to purchase game credits or merchandise. Redeem your winnings for gift cards, prepaid debit cards, or PayPal.
11. Bingo Clash
Bingo Clash works in much the same way as Blackout Bingo, although the user interface and in-game options are slightly different. In addition to debit cards and PayPal, you can withdraw your earnings with a check after reaching a minimum of $10.
12. AppStation
AppStations is a free mobile gaming app only available to Android users, but unlike other gaming apps on this list, AppStation pays users based on the length of time played. Users can also earn based on the level achieved or for reaching in-game milestones. A point system determines payouts, but AppStation claims you can reach your first payout within the first 10 minutes.
13. Pool Payday
Pool Payday is another Skillz platform app where users can win money playing pool games. There are two ways to earn: 8-ball pool, where the player must sink either stripes or solids, and then the 8-ball, or trick shot pool. While users can play practice rounds for free, it is with pay-to-play rounds that can yield cash and Skillz ticket prizes. One difference with Pool Payday is that users can withdraw their earnings to a linked bank account in addition to the standard options.
14. 21 Blitz
Another Skillz pay-to-play and win game app, 21 Blitz combines Solitaire and Blackjack. Players must hit 21 or stack five cards in sequential order to earn bonus points and win head-to-head tournaments for cash. Winners can withdraw their earnings directly to their bank account, PayPal, or a debit card.
15. Dominoes Gold
Dominoes Gold offers free and cash matches, real-world prizes, and progression rewards. Players win by following classic dominoes rules, playing against themselves, and then comparing their scores to competitors. This app does allow you to send your winnings directly to Cash App if you use it to pay your entry fees.
16. Spades Cash
Yet another Skillz game, this game follows classic spades rules. Users play each round by themselves and then compare their score to others, with the highest score winning. Each competitor has the same board, cards, and time limits. Bank transfers, PayPal, and payment cards are all options for redeeming prizes.
17. Solitaire Cash
Solitaire Cash is another pay-to-play option but requires more strategy than games of chance like bingo. This app follows the Klondike rules of Solitaire, with 4-7 players competing to win tournaments. The top three players win cash prizes, which users can withdraw to a linked bank account, debit or credit cards, or to PayPal.
18. Solitaire Cube
Solitaire Cube is another Skillz game and very similar to Solitaire Cash in that it also follows the Klondike rules. Users can play in head-to-head and large tournaments and withdraw funds to their bank, a payment card, or PayPal.
19. Freecash
Freecash is a unique get-paid-to app that sends earnings directly to a bank account. Users earn by taking surveys, playing games, and signing up for paid offers. Unfortunately, a 5% fee applies to bank transfers and PayPal cash deposits, but users can also opt to earn bitcoin and Ethereum.
20. Big Buck Hunter: Marksman
Those looking for a change of scenery from the typical card and casino games should check out Big Buck Hunter. This app gives you a virtual hunting experience where users compete with friends and strangers to bag the most deer and the largest buck. Part of the Skillz network, users earn Skillz tickets and cash prizes in the fee rounds.
21. Jackpocket
Jackpocket is very different from the other apps on this list because users can win money playing the real lottery rather than skill or chance games. Users can purchase Powerball, Mega Millions, and state-lottery games and enter drawings for cash prizes. There are no fees to use the app, and you keep 100% of your earnings. Just beware of the risks that come with playing the lottery.
22. Drop
Drop is primarily a cash rebate app, but users can also earn by playing games, taking surveys, and earning boosts. Users can upgrade to Drop Premium by linking a debit or credit card, which makes them eligible for 1,000 bonus points a month and exclusive offers. Start redeeming at $25 (25,000 points) with gift cards, crypto, collectibles, or donations.
23. Fiverr
Fiverr is a freelance services marketplace that connects freelancers with those looking for their services. While offering your services on Fiverr requires more effort than most of the apps on this list, the earning potential is far higher. Freelancers keep 80% of each transaction and withdraw earnings directly to a bank account. If you are skilled at designing, writing, building websites, or several other virtual tasks, try building your freelancing business with Fiverr.
24. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is another app that connects freelancers with people in need, except this app focuses on labor tasks rather than virtual ones. Those handy or willing to get their hands dirty can get paid to assemble furniture, complete home repairs, help with moving, provide yard maintenance, and much more. Taskers pay a $25 registration fee but keep 100% of their earnings plus tips.
25. Pawns.app
Pawns.app is a lesser-known get-paid-to app that lets users earn for completing surveys and sharing their internet connection. Users make their first $1 just by signing up, and payouts come via PayPal, gift cards, and bitcoin.
26. Coin Pop
Coin Pop is another app that lets users earn money by playing games. Download a sponsored game to earn coins and cash out with as little as $0.50 with PayPal or gift cards. Unfortunately, coin Pop is only available on Android devices at this time.
27. Cash’em All
Cash’em All is a gaming platform, and like AppStation, users are paid based on the length of time they spend playing rather than just when they win. Users can redeem earnings for gift cards, stream codes, Google Play credit, or PayPal on Android only.
28. Kashkick
Kashkick is yet another get-paid-to app that offers cash for playing games, trying new apps, taking surveys, and watching videos. There is no limit to the number of tasks you can complete, and you can withdraw earnings directly to your PayPal account.
29. Givling
Givling is different from any other app on this list because it is a crowdfunding trivia platform and community. Users can win by playing trivia, earning instant rewards, shopping, and taking advantage of discounts. Users have a chance to win up to $50,000 by moving up the queue and the opportunity to help others.
Apps That Pay Instantly to Cash App: Final Thoughts
In today’s world of apps and tech, there are many ways to earn quick cash from your phone. While some of these apps have a pay-to-play structure that requires upfront spending and none currently allow Cash App as a direct payout method, you have plenty of options and opportunities to make a little extra money.
The U.S. has become a nation of side hustlers and freelancers. With an uncertain economy, nearly 50% of Americans engage in side hustles for extra money, and as of this year, 73.3 million freelancers are working in the U.S.
The gig economy, which allows individuals and companies to hire independent workers for short-term projects, is one area of the economy that is still consistently growing.
With gig work on the rise, platforms that seek to connect gig workers and those looking for their services have sprung up. One such platform is the Steady App, which strives to put all gig and flexible work opportunities in one place.
Read on to learn about the Steady App and how to increase your cash flow through Steady gig opportunities.
What is the Steady App?
More than ever, people are looking for flexible ways to make money outside their nine-to-fives, and Steady has sought to fill that demand with its free mobile app.
Launched in 2018 as a fintech startup backed by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, the Steady App consolidates gigs and side hustle opportunities in one easy-to-use app. Users can filter their job search by type depending on availability and flexibility and begin browsing opportunities.
In addition to the free app, Steady members can join the optional Steady premium plan for just $1.99 monthly and access additional benefits. These benefits include income comparisons, access to the highest-paying job listings, financial data recording, and more.
Even though the premium plan costs $1.99 a month, the additional features should help you easily earn more in the long run and thus is likely worth it for serious gig workers and side hustlers.
Ways to Earn Through the Steady App
There are three main ways users can earn money through the Steady App, with the primary mode being through completing jobs.
Jobs
Steady App users can filter their search according to five different job types:
Recently Added
Work from Home
Anytime
Part-Time
Full-Time
As the name suggests, the Recently Added category is for brand-new gigs and opportunities to the app. Also self-explanatory is the Work from Home category, which includes remote customer service, writing, tutoring, and other similar jobs.
The Anytime category is for those looking for flexible jobs you can work whenever you’re available. When searching this category, you’ll take a quick survey to help narrow down options with questions about your desired hours, location, licenses, certifications, etc.
There are also many full- and part-time options for those looking for steadier work opportunities. Examples include local opportunities in caregiving, hospitality, retail, and much more.
Another neat feature of the app is that it will curate jobs it thinks you may be interested in based on the information you’ve fed the app. Simply click on “Jobs for You” to see your personalized recommendations.
Most hourly jobs listed are in the $15 to $25 per hour range.
Grants
For those experiencing financial hardship, the Steady App offers grant opportunities that you can apply for directly in the app. Of course, filling out an application doesn’t guarantee a grant, but Steady reports on its site that it’s paid out $4 million in emergency cash grants to members thus far.
Income Boosters
Finally, there is an Income Boosters section of the Steady App with recommendations for Steady partners offering sign-up bonuses and other cash incentives for trying products or signing up for services. These include bank accounts, loan products, and various services like DoorDash.
How to Get Started with the Steady App
The Steady App is free for iOS and Android users, and it’s easy to get signed up and search for gigs.
Once you’ve downloaded the app, you’ll need to set up your free account using your name, email, and phone number. Then, choose a password, link your bank account, and you’re all set.
Next, you’ll need to complete your profile by answering several questions. These questions help to curate opportunities to your specifications. Questions include:
Type of work you want
Where you want to work
Your highest level of education
Your job experience
Your availability
Your modes of transportation
Once your profile is complete, you can search for thousands of opportunities within the abovementioned categories. In addition to searching within job categories, users can also filter by location, posted date, industry, and pay.
How to Apply for Gigs on the Steady App
Similar to getting started, applying for jobs on the Steady App is also straightforward. Simply hit apply and follow the link to apply or register with the third party offering the job. Once you’ve applied, communication will come from the third party advertising the job listing, not the Steady App.
How Much Can You Make with the Steady App?
How much you earn with the Steady App will depend on which jobs you qualify for and how much you choose to work. However, the average Steady user makes around $5,500 a year in extra income.
Just note that Steady charges a 10% commission on money made through the app.
Who Should Use Steady?
The Steady App is ideal for anyone looking to earn extra money on the side. The app is an excellent option for students, freelancers, teachers, independent contractors, and similar individuals looking for flexible work.
The app is also great for those looking for regular part or full-time income opportunities.
Steady App Reviews
A common question about apps like Steady is whether or not they are legit. Not only is Steady a legitimate platform, but the app also has very positive reviews.
Steady Pros and Cons
As with any product or platform, there are benefits and drawbacks.
Pros
It’s free to sign up and use the app
Quick and easy signup
Easy to filter and find job opportunities that work for you and your situation
Curated job opportunities all in one place
Access to multiple earning opportunities through jobs, income boosts, and grants
You can easily link your bank account for direct deposit of earnings
Easy to manage your income using the income tracker tool
Cons
You will need to continually apply for gigs
You must pay $1.99 a month to access premium features
Pay isn’t always listed
Search filters tend to favor the same types of jobs
No budgeting features to help users manage expenses and overall budget
Other Options
Steady seeks to put all the best gigs and freelance opportunities in one place, along with opportunities for part and full-time jobs. However, Steady isn’t the only place freelancers and gig workers can find these types of jobs.
Here are a few other apps like Steady and a brief overview of each.
TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is another platform that connects gig workers with opportunities. Called Taskers, the app connects users looking to earn money with individuals who need help completing various tasks.
These tasks could be as simple as running errands or more complicated, like assembling furniture and home repairs. Other common tasks include driving, moving help, and painting.
Taskers set their rates and get paid when they complete the task.
FlexJobs
If you’re looking for remote, flexible job opportunities, then FlexJobs is a great place to look. In business since 2007, FlexJobs is a low-cost subscription service for those looking for high-quality remote work. The jobs advertised include part-time hours, freelance work, and remote or home opportunities. In addition, they verify and screen all job opportunities to ensure they are legitimate.
Aside from finding viable, high-quality jobs, members of FlexJobs also have access to Q&A sessions, webinars, job fairs, skills tests, mock interviews, and resource articles. In addition, subscribers can also access discounted career coaching and resume reviews to enhance their ability to land quality jobs.
FlexJobs offers the choice of a weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly subscription, so there is an option that works for almost any job-seeking situation.
Fiverr and Upwork
Fiverr and Upwork are both online marketplaces for freelancers looking for remote gigs. If you have writing, editing, and graphic design skills or can work as a virtual assistant, these sites are a great place to find freelance work. However, these sites operate differently because clients respond to your advertisements rather than you applying for job postings.
Sign up for free, create a profile, list your services, and set your price so potential clients can begin searching and hire you for their jobs.
DoorDash
DoorDash is yet another option for gig workers looking for a flexible schedule. While DoorDash differs in that it doesn’t have as wide a range of job types, there is quite a bit of flexibility.
DoorDash connects food delivery jobs to those willing to deliver the (Dashers). Now available in 5,500 cities, Dashers can deliver their goods by car, on a bike or scooter, or even by walking if close enough. Signing up is simple, and once approved, Dashers can work when they want and can choose to accept or decline jobs that come through the app.
Instacart
Instacart is similar to DoorDash, except, in this case, you’re shopping for and possibly delivering groceries.
There are two types of Instacart shoppers: full-service and in-store shoppers. Full-service shoppers compile the order in the store and deliver the groceries to the customer’s home. In-store shoppers select the items in the store but do not deliver them to the customer. Thus, anyone can be an in-store shopper.
If you love shopping and want a flexible schedule or a side gig, Instacart may be an excellent option.
Rover
Not into shopping or delivery services? There are still some great options for flexible side gigs, including Rover. Rover is a platform that connects pet sitters or walkers to those who need those services. You can sign up to walk dogs, pet sit for owners out of town, or both. So if you love animals and are looking for a side hustle you can fit into your schedule, Rover is a great option.
Steady App: Final Thoughts
The gig economy has been steadily growing, and the pandemic has only fueled the desire and demand for flexible work.
With free membership and the most extensive collection of freelance and gig jobs, the Steady App is an excellent platform for anyone looking for flexible work. While you’ll see full-time job options on Steady, the platform is ideal for those looking for side hustles and flexibility.
The average member earns an extra $5,500 annually, so sign up today, boost your earning potential, and start putting more money in your pocket.