Navigating personal finance can be tough for young adults, especially with limited education on the topic in school. Sound financial advice is crucial for making smart decisions about budgeting, credit, and investments. Learning these skills early helps avoid debt, poor money management, and financial mistakes. Here are the top 10 best financial advice tips for young adults to set you on the right path.
1. Create a Budget
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Creating a budget is key for managing your money. It helps you track your spending and ensure you’re not living beyond your means. A simple step to managing your money properly.
To learn more: How to Budget Money
2. Manage Your Debt
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Managing debt is crucial. Keeping debt low and paying it off quickly helps maintain a healthy credit score and financial stability. As a young adult, it best to stay away from the temptation to spend on credit.
To learn more: How to Get Out of Debt in 5 Easy Steps
3. Invest Your Money
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Investing is vital for a secure future. Start early and let your money grow over time. It’s all about patience and consistency. Start by investing a minimum of 10% of each paycheck.
To learn more: The Simplicity of Investing
4. Start Saving Now
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Start saving early. Even small amounts can grow over time. An emergency fund can provide a safety net for unexpected expenses. Use a money saving challenge to make saving more fun!
To learn more: Top 20 Epic Money Saving Challenges Unveiled to Save Money
5. Limit Your Expenses
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Limiting expenses helps save more money. Track all your spending, even small purchases, to understand where your money goes. This will help you to invest the rest!
To learn more: How to Budget Money on Low Income: 20+ Tips to Cut Spending
6. Build Passive Income Streams
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Building passive income streams can boost your financial stability. Find ways to earn extra money through hobbies or skills.
To learn more: Find a Side Hustle that Works for You
7. Create a Cash Reserve
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Having a cash reserve prepares you for unexpected expenses. Save three to six months’ worth of income for emergencies.
To learn more: Breaking Down the Purpose of a Rainy Day Fund
8. Learn About Taxes
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Understanding taxes is important. Know the difference between your gross and net pay to manage your finances better.
Learn More: Difference Between Earned Income, Passive Income and Investment Income
9. Consider a Term Life Insurance Policy
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A term life insurance policy is affordable for young adults and provides financial protection for your future family.
10. Take Action
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Taking action is essential. Set clear financial goals, break them into steps, and stay persistent to manage your finances effectively. Don’t delay starting your financial stability!
Learn More: 10 Smart Financial Goals That You Need
Find More Ideas for Young Adults
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These tips for young adults will help you manage money well and not make the mistakes many others were guilty of. You can build a strong foundation with money. Make your finances a priority and you can quickly reach financial independence.
To learn more: Financial Advice for Young Adults: 10 Easy to Follow Money Management Tips
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Are you looking for the best summer side hustles? There are plenty of ways to make extra money that can fit into your schedule and match your interests. Whether you prefer working outdoors or want to sell handmade crafts, there’s a summer side hustle for everyone. Picking the right one can help you enjoy the…
Are you looking for the best summer side hustles?
There are plenty of ways to make extra money that can fit into your schedule and match your interests.
Whether you prefer working outdoors or want to sell handmade crafts, there’s a summer side hustle for everyone. Picking the right one can help you enjoy the warm summer months and even develop new skills.
Summer side jobs are great because you can work when you want and make extra money while enjoying the summer. They can help you save more money, reach your money goals faster, and even let you try new things you’re interested in.
For me, I have always liked side hustling in the summer. The days are longer, so it feels like I have more time to work on projects!
Best Summer Side Hustles
Below are the best summer side hustles.
1. Blogging
Blogging is a great way to make extra money during the summer. It’s perfect if you enjoy writing and sharing your thoughts.
I actually started this blog as a summer side hustle. I was looking for a way to write in my free time, and it eventually turned into a way for me to make extra income. And, now it’s my full-time job!
You can make money from blogging in several ways. Affiliate marketing is popular. This means promoting products and earning a commission for any sales made through your links. Display ads are another way. These are ads that appear on your blog, and you earn money when visitors click on them.
Though it’s hard work in the beginning, blogging can become a source of semi-passive income. Once you have enough content and visitors, you might earn money even when you’re not actively working on your blog. This means you could enjoy your summer and still see your income grow.
I have free training that you can take – How To Start A Blog FREE Course. Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog? In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
2. Online surveys
Taking online surveys is one of the easiest summer side hustles online. Many companies want to know what their customers think about their products and are willing to pay for your opinions.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for include:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Prime Opinion
Swagbucks
Branded Surveys
Five Surveys
PrizeRebel
InboxDollars
I’ve done lots of surveys over the years, and what I like about them is that you can do them whenever you want – in the morning, at lunchtime, or before bed. You don’t need to follow a strict schedule, and they’re really simple to complete. This makes them great for a summer side hustle too!
3. Dog walking and pet sitting
Dog walking and pet sitting can be a great way to earn some extra money during the summer. If you love animals and enjoy being outside, this is perfect for you.
Rover is one of the most popular platforms for dog walkers and pet sitters. It’s user-friendly and has a lot of pet owners looking for help. You can set your own rates and schedule, which allows you to work whenever it fits your lifestyle.
Dog walkers typically earn between $15 and $30 an hour. How much you make depends on the number of pets and the length of time. The demand is usually high, especially during summer when pet owners go on vacation.
4. Freelance writing
Freelance writing is a flexible and rewarding summer side hustle. As a freelance writer, you can work for magazines, blogs, websites, and companies. You get to choose who you work with and what you write about, so this is a side hustle that you can easily just do in the summer if that’s the schedule that you are looking for.
One great thing about freelance writing is that you can do it from anywhere. You can work from home, a coffee shop, or even while traveling. All you need is a computer and an internet connection, and this is another reason that makes it easy to fit writing into your summer plans.
The pay for freelance writing can vary a lot. Some writers earn around $50 for a short article, while others can make $1,000 or more for longer pieces. As you gain experience and improve your skills, you can start charging higher rates.
I have been a freelance writer for around 10 years and I think it’s a great side hustle to get into.
5. Virtual assistant
A virtual assistant (VA) is someone who helps business owners with tasks through the internet. This job is great if you want a flexible schedule and the ability to work from home. You can choose who you work for and even set your own hours.
Virtual assistants handle different tasks like managing social media, organizing emails, scheduling appointments, and data entry. The best part is that you don’t need to be in the same location as your clients.
You can start as a virtual assistant on websites like Upwork or Fiverr. These platforms have many job listings for beginners. Rates for VAs usually start at $15 to $20 per hour but can go higher with experience.
Plus, many people look for extra VA help specifically in the summer so that they can focus on other things, such as going on vacation or spending more time with their kids who may be out of school for the season.
6. Tutoring
Tutoring is a great side hustle for summer. With kids out of school, many parents look for tutors to help keep their children learning. You can teach subjects like math, science, English, or even a musical instrument.
Tutoring can be done both in person and online. Online tutoring is very flexible and allows you to work from home. You can choose your hours and offer lessons at times that fit your schedule.
You can use websites like Tutor.com and Wyzant to find tutoring jobs.
7. Handmade crafts selling
Selling handmade crafts can be a fun and profitable summer side hustle.
Platforms like Etsy help you reach buyers from all over the world. Summer craft fairs and festivals are also great places to sell your handmade goods.
Some things you can sell include:
Selling handmade crafts allows you to be creative and make some extra money. Whether online or at local events, there’s always a market for unique, handmade items.
8. Photography
You can get paid to take pictures, even if you just have a smartphone. There are many ways to turn your love of photography into extra income.
One way to make money is by selling your photos on stock photo websites. These sites, like Shutterstock, iStock, and Adobe Stock, let you upload your images and earn money each time someone downloads them.
Another option is taking event photos. Weddings, BBQs, and family reunions are always in need of photographers, and there are typically many events like these during the summer months.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways To Get Paid To Take Pictures
9. Rideshare driving
Rideshare driving can be a great way to make extra money during the summer. Many people use services like Uber and Lyft to get around their town or when they are on vacation.
You get to choose when you work so this means you can fit driving around your schedule. If you have free time in the evenings or weekends, you can make the most of it.
You don’t need any special skills to start. As long as you have a car and a phone, you are almost ready to go. The application process is usually quick too.
Driving in busy areas or during peak times can also help you earn more. Events, weekends, and holidays can be especially busy, meaning more rides and more money for you.
10. House sitting
House sitting is a great way to make extra money over the summer. People tend to go on vacation in the summer and need someone to watch their homes.
You might need to water plants, collect mail, and keep an eye on the house. Sometimes, taking care of pets is also part of the job. Look for house sitting gigs in your local community (you can start by posting in a local Facebook group advertising your service) or try online platforms.
Websites like Rover and TrustedHousesitters can also help you find house sitting jobs. These sites connect homeowners with reliable sitters.
11. Pet grooming
Pet grooming is a great way to earn extra money during the summer. Many pet owners look for convenient and affordable ways to keep their pets looking neat, especially in the summer when it can be so hot.
Mobile pet grooming is especially popular. You can visit pet owners at their homes, and this saves them a trip to the groomer’s and makes your service more attractive.
You can offer services like haircuts, baths, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. Many people are willing to pay well for these services. They love their pets and want them to look their best.
12. Coach
Coaching can be a great way to make extra money during the summer. Do you have a skill or talent that others want to learn?
Summer camps and local community centers sometimes look for temporary coaches. This could be a fun way to spend your summer, and you can make a good amount of money while doing it.
Sometimes, private coaching can be even more profitable. People are willing to pay more for one-on-one lessons. For example, you might charge $30 to $50 per hour.
You can also offer online coaching. This is great if you want to work from home. Websites like Zoom make it easy to connect with students anywhere.
13. Babysitting
Babysitting is a great way to earn some extra cash over the summer. With school out, many parents need help watching their kids. Babysitting is flexible, allowing you to choose your own hours.
To get started, you can talk to families in your neighborhood. Let them know you’re available and you can also post on local Facebook groups or use websites like UrbanSitter.
I do recommend taking a babysitting course, such as one that teaches important skills like first aid and CPR. Knowing these skills can help you feel more confident and assure parents that their kids are in good hands.
14. Deliver groceries
Delivering groceries is one of the best summer side hustles. With services like Instacart, you can shop for and deliver groceries to customers, and it’s easy to start.
You just need a phone and a reliable car. You pick up orders through the app, shop for items, and then deliver them to the customer’s door.
You can choose your own hours. This means you can work whenever you have free time, such as in the summer. It’s perfect if you have a busy schedule or if you want flexible work.
On average, you can make between $11 and $20 per hour. Your earnings depend on factors like order size and tips. The more orders you complete efficiently, the more you can earn.
15. Mow lawns
Mowing lawns is a great way to make money during the summer. Many people need help keeping their yards neat. This means there are plenty of opportunities for you.
You can start by telling your neighbors and friends about the yard work services that you provide. And, of course, you will need equipment like a reliable lawn mower and other necessary tools.
Mowing lawns is great because it can be flexible. You can set your own hours. This makes it easy to fit into your summer schedule.
During the hot months, many people will need regular lawn care. This means you might have steady work all summer long. It’s also a job that doesn’t require a lot of experience.
16. Rent your house
Renting your house can be a great way to earn extra money during the summer. If you have extra space or a vacation home, you can try listing it on rental platforms because many people look for short-term rentals for their vacations.
You can use popular sites like Airbnb or Vrbo to reach a wide audience.
Consider your availability and set clear rules for your guests. You might want to rent your whole house or just a room. Either way, hosting guests can be flexible around your schedule.
I know someone who rents out their house during the summer so that they can travel those months and have money to put toward their trips. Their place always sells out fast, even up to a year in advance! And then for the rest of the year, they live in their house. So, this is definitely something that can be done just in the summer months to make extra money.
17. Clean houses
Cleaning houses is a great summer side hustle. Many people want their homes to be spotless during this time of year. You can provide services like dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and kitchen cleaning.
You don’t need special training to start. Just basic cleaning supplies like brooms, mops, and cleaning products. You can also advertise your services in local community boards or online classifieds.
Sometimes, families prefer a deep clean during summer. This could include windows, carpets, and upholstery. You can charge by the hour or set a flat rate for the whole job.
Working as a house cleaner can be flexible. You set your own hours and can choose how many clients to take on. If you do a good job, you might get regular clients who hire you every summer.
18. Lifeguard
Being a lifeguard is one of the best summer side hustles. If you love being by the water, this job is perfect for you. You get to work at pools, beaches, or water parks.
To become a lifeguard, you need to get certified. This usually involves taking a class where you learn swimming skills and rescue techniques.
Lifeguards have important responsibilities and they have to watch over swimmers and make sure everyone is safe. They also need to be ready to help in case of an emergency.
19. Rent your car
Renting out your car can be a great way to make extra money during the summer if you have a car just sitting around.
There are platforms where you can list your car for rent, such as Turo. This can be especially useful if you’re going on vacation or don’t need your car for a little bit.
Some travelers prefer renting from private owners because it’s often cheaper and more convenient than traditional rental companies. For me, I enjoy renting cars on Turo because I can get the exact car I want, and usually the car is closer to where I need to pick it up, so I waste less time.
20. Have a garage sale
Having a garage sale is a great way to make extra money during the summer. You can sell items you no longer need, like clothes, toys, and old electronics.
Start by going through your home and gathering things you want to sell and cleaning them up if needed (this will help you to get more money).
Next, advertise your garage sale. You can do this by putting up signs around your neighborhood and posting on social media sites like Facebook.
One thing I have noticed more and more people doing is having a community yard sale as well – this is where you may have your friends, family, or neighbors join in on one big yard sale. So, if you don’t have a ton of things to sell, this may be one way to still have a garage sale, declutter, and make some money.
21. Sell stuff
Similar to having a garage sale, you can also try selling stuff online, which is a great way to make some extra money in the summer. Look around your house for items you don’t use anymore. This could be clothes, toys, or old gadgets.
One of the easiest ways to sell your things is through online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
For years, I had a business where I flipped items for resale. It was an easy way to make extra money!
22. Sports referee
Being a sports referee is a great side hustle for summer. Most games happen in the evenings and on weekends, so it fits well around a regular job.
Youth sports leagues are always looking for referees. You can earn around $25 to $50 per game. Higher levels, like high school or college, pay even more. Some college games can pay up to $150 per game.
To become a referee, check with your local sports departments. You might need some basic training, but it usually isn’t too hard. It’s a fun way to earn extra money and enjoy sports at the same time.
If you know the rules well and enjoy being on the field, this could be the perfect summer side hustle for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Summer is a great time to explore side hustles that can fit into your schedule. Here, we’ll answer some common questions people have about summer side hustles.
What’s a good summer side hustle?
A good summer side hustle can be anything from freelance writing, dog walking, or being a virtual assistant. Think about what you enjoy doing and what skills you have. Can you write well? Do you love pets? There’s likely a hustle that matches your interests.
How can I make money fast in summer?
There are many ways to make money fast in the summer, such as walking dogs, answering online surveys, selling handmade crafts, hosting a garage sale, babysitting, and renting out your house.
What are the best summer side hustles from home?
The best summer side hustle from home depends on you and what you want to do. For me, my best summer side hustle is definitely blogging, and some other ideas include proofreading, bookkeeping, answering online surveys, and online tutoring.
What are easy summer side hustles for teenagers?
Teenagers can try babysitting, pet sitting, or tutoring for summer side hustles. Babysitting is usually in demand during summer when parents need a break (because kids are out of school!). Pet sitting is a fun way to spend time with animals. Tutoring younger students who need a little extra help over the summer can also be rewarding and well-paid.
What are the best summer side hustles for teachers?
Teachers have skills that can be used in side hustles like tutoring, freelance writing, or creating and selling lesson plans online. You can see a full list at 33 Best Summer Jobs for Teachers To Make Extra Money.
What are the best summer side hustles for college students?
The summer months are typically when a lot of college students try to find ways to make extra money. It makes sense; you may not have classes during the summer, or at least a smaller course load. If this is you and you want to make extra money in the summer, some good ways to make extra cash include freelance writing, working as a virtual assistant, joining a focus group, tutoring, selling handmade crafts, rideshare driving, house sitting, delivering groceries, babysitting, and mowing lawns.
Best Ways To Make Money in the Summer
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best summer side hustles to make extra money.
There are many reasons for why you may be looking for a summer side hustle. Maybe you want to put money toward your summer vacations, perhaps you have some free time in your own schedule, maybe you’re looking for a part-time job just for the summer, or something else.
There are many ways to make extra money in the summer, from in-person side hustles like mowing lawns and having a garage sale, to online side hustles like blogging and proofreading.
What do you think are the best ways to make money in the summer?
Hello! Today, I have a great article to share about how to become an Amazon Vine Reviewer from a reader, Nicole Nicolet. She is a member of the Amazon Vine program and she has received over 100 free products from Amazon and has saved over $4,500 in the last 6 months. If you want to…
Hello! Today, I have a great article to share about how to become an Amazon Vine Reviewerfrom a reader, Nicole Nicolet. She is a member of the Amazon Vine program and she has received over 100 free products from Amazon and has saved over $4,500 in the last 6 months. If you want to learn how to get free products from Amazon, this is a very helpful read!
Did you know that you can get hundreds of free products, worth thousands of dollars every year from the Amazon Vine Program?
It’s surprisingly easy to join, and once you are a member you have access to thousands of everyday items that you can use, gift to friends and family, and even make money from.
Though there are certain rules that you will need to follow to maintain good standing with the program, it is worth all the effort.
So, if you’re looking to save, and maybe even make a little bit of money, the Amazon Vine Program may be a good fit for you.
How To Become An Amazon Vine Reviewer
Below is what you need to know if you want to become an Amazon Vine Reviewer.
Recommended reading: 7 Ways To Get Paid For Amazon Reviews
Here’s a screenshot from Amazon showing how much free stuff I’ve received so far.
How I’ve saved thousands with Amazon Vine
I have been a member of the Amazon Vine Program since November 2023. During this time I have received over 100 products from clothing to home decor, to health and beauty products, and even some electronics.
Just the other day I got a pretty awesome projector that looks and works amazingly! And, I also got a pretty sick electric guitar too!
Because the Vine program allows you to request 3-8 items per day, I have been able to find gifts for friends and family, start new hobbies (like making sourdough bread!), and even find nearly all of the decor I need for my wedding.
Over the past 6 months, the total value of all the items I have requested comes out to a little over $4500.
So, as you can see how easy it is to save money as a Vine Voice.
What is Amazon Vine?
Amazon Vine is a program that Amazon offers to its stores and businesses to help them get product reviews for their products sooner than they would have otherwise.
This helps businesses make more sales since most customers read reviews before they decide to buy.
When a business or store decides to put some of its products into the Vine program, Vine Voices (like myself) will test out the product and leave an honest review.
As a Vine Voice, you get these products for free. However, there are some legal requirements that may affect your taxes, depending on your tax situation. More on this in a moment.
So, who does Amazon choose to become Vine reviewers?
The Amazon Vine program is an exclusive program where they will hand-select people to join the program. These people will need to have written consistent ‘helpful’ and insightful reviews from their previous Amazon purchases.
You may be eligible to be an Amazon Vine Voice Reviewer if:
You have written consistent reviews of your previous Amazon purchases
Your reviews are considered ‘helpful’ to other customers
Your reviews are honest and trustworthy
https://www.amazon.com/vine/about
How do you join Amazon Vine?
If you are eligible to join the program and Amazon has decided they want you to become a Vine Voice, you will receive an exclusive invitation by email.
Once you join the Amazon Vine program, you will have access to the Vine Voice dashboard where you will find thousands of products from houseware to beauty products and more.
All Vine reviewers start in the Silver member status and have the ability to upgrade to Gold member status (that’s where I’m at now!)
Tips to increase the likelihood of receiving a Vine Voice invitation:
Go back into your previous purchases and write a thorough review
Include pictures or videos in reviews of your previous purchases
Provide helpful insight into your reviews (include both pros and cons)
Include tips on how you use the product in your reviews
When Amazon has decided they would like you to join their Vine review program, they will send you an invite through your email. So, keep an eye out for whichever email account you have connected to Amazon.
Check your spam folder if you think you missed the invitation.
Here’s a screenshot of some of my reviews.
How to become a Vine Voice (how to become an Amazon Vine Reviewer)
You can become a Vine Voice once Amazon has decided you provide trustworthy reviews. This is important because they only want members who provide honest, relevant, and insightful feedback.
Anyone is eligible to join the program as long as they have left enough reviews that other customers have rated as ‘helpful’.
So, unfortunately, there is no exact or magic number that I can give you as this varies by the quality and quantity of your reviews, as well as the number of visits those products may get.
However, when I was invited, I had just caught up on about a half dozen reviews and received the invite in my inbox about 2-3 weeks later.
Does it cost anything to be a Vine Voice?
No, there is no membership fee, or one-time fee to join the program. However… it is important that you know that taxes are involved in the process.
While you are never charged for the products themselves, Amazon is required by law to account for the value of products as ‘self-employed’ income. If you have requested products for a total amount over $600, Amazon is required to send you a 1099 form.
You can check in your Vine account dashboard to keep track of your total running amount.
How much are you taxed for the products?
Each product will have an ‘estimated tax value’ that Amazon has to report. This value is totaled up on your 1099 tax form.
However, as for what percentage you are taxed all depends on your specific financial situation. The percentage you are taxed will vary by state and your tax income bracket.
One tip though, to avoid higher taxes, is to request more health-related items that have no estimated tax value. Or, otherwise try to keep your total value down so that you pay less in taxes.
Unfortunately, this can be difficult when you become a Gold Member as the items can be any priced value and are usually better quality. Plus, some products are hard to turn down. Like that projector screen I mentioned earlier.
Here are some of the items I’ve received for free through Amazon Vine.
What are some of the best products you’ve received from Amazon Vine?
Well, for one, a projector that works great for indoor and outdoor entertainment.
But, here’s a list of some other really neat products I’ve gotten from Vine.
3 shade lamp ($90 value)
Shoe rack bench with a cushion ($60 value)
That cool projector I keep talking about ($160 value)
Gorgeous blue electric guitar ($140 value)
Camping gear ($100 +)
Wedding decor and gear ($500 +)
Leather car seat covers ($173 value)
Wing shaped book ends ($40 value) (P.S. these look super cool!)
Brand new silverware
21-piece knifeset ($199 value)
Stationary ($100 +)
Gifts for friends and family ($400 +)
Clothing ($100 +)
Automated pet feeder ($60) (My cat’s an absolute unit, so he eats through his food quickly)
Rainfall showerhead ($55 value)
Christmas projector lights ($60 value)
I could keep going with this list, and I will keep adding to this list as long as I am still a member of Vine. But, needless to say, there are some great finds on here that will save you money on many household items, gifts, and more.
And, if you’re a parent, I will mention that I have seen tons of baby items and things for kids. So, if you’re looking to save money on your kids, becoming a Vine member can be a great way to save some money.
When I searched for “baby”, almost 2,000 items popped up.
How to get free products from Amazon Vine
Requesting free products through the Vine program is both fun and easy. You can select from a list of thousands of products in just about any category.
After becoming a member, you can follow these steps to request products.
Log in to your Vine account, navigate to your dashboard and locate the “Recommended for You”, “Available for all”, and “Additional Items” tabs.
The ‘recommended for you’ items are based on your previous Vine searches. And, if I’m not mistaken, may also be partially based on your regular Amazon purchases and searches.
There was one time that I looked for, and eventually purchased a specific lamp on Amazon. And, not one week later that same exact product showed up on Vine. You win some you lose some, right?
You can also search for a specific product using the search bar. But, if you don’t find what you’re looking for, try broadening your search or using a different but related keyword.
Sometimes a product is ranked under different keywords than you might expect.
Once you have found the item you want, you can look into further detail by clicking through to that link, or by reading the details when selecting the “see details” button. Then, once the product pops up, hit the “request product” button.
Now you just wait for the product to ship to you!
You will find the shipping information in your item orders on your Amazon account or Amazon App. There is no special place for just for shipping information of Vine products. It’s all on your regular Amazon account.
Do you get paid with Amazon Vine?
You do not get paid in cash as a Vine Voice. You do, however, receive free products that you can later sell if you choose.
There are some restrictions as to when you can get rid of the products you have requested.
Amazon requires you to keep the products you request for at least 6 months before you get rid of the product you’ve requested. This means you are not supposed to gift, give away, sell or otherwise toss the product for 6 months.
How Amazon can track this, I don’t know. How strictly do they monitor this, I don’t know.
But, what I do know is that you definitely shouldn’t sell any of your Vine products online within the minimum time frame if you want to remain in good standing as a member of the program.
What countries have this program?
The Amazon Vine program is available in the US and a few other countries.
Unfortunately, the products that are available are only the products that ship within that country or may be stored in local distribution centers.
Some larger items may also only be shipped very locally to where they are stored.
So, if you live outside the U.S. you may still be able to join the program but may be much more limited on what products you have access to request.
Process of reviewing Amazon Vine products
In your Amazon Vine dashboard, you will be able to find products recommended specifically to you, products for all Vine reviewers, and any other product that is available to request for all members.
It’s best to check back frequently for any items you want as this changes daily, and sometimes hourly.
There have been times when I’ve found an item I wanted several weeks or even a month or two later than when I first checked. Give it time and most likely what you want will become available.
Once you find the items you want, go ahead and request the products. Most products will be shipped to you in a couple of days, or within a month.
Being an Amazon Prime member does not change how quickly something is shipped to you though. But, there are tons of other great benefits as a Prime Member other than free 2-day shipping.
Step-by-step process to review Vine products:
Request the product you want
Test the product within a thorough, but timely period
Write a complete and honest review of the product (include pictures, video, and/or other information you feel is ample for that product). Real reviews are great, they aren’t just looking for positive reviews
Submit the review and wait for it to be approved (usually a few days to a week)
Update the review if you feel this is necessary
If you struggle to find the products you want to review, try using different keywords. Rather than looking up “bridal shower gifts” try just looking up “bridal” or “wedding”.
This will greatly broaden your search as some items may be ranked under a certain keyword, but not another.
If this does not work, try also using another term for the product.
For example, when I type in ‘tumbler’, I see an insulated thermos, and I also see some stickers that go on thermoses. When I type in ‘cup’ I see thermoses again.
Contrary, when I type in ‘bookends’ with no space, I find a dozen products. But when I type in ‘book ends’ with a space, I only get one product. This is because of how businesses add their products to Amazon when using keywords.
What is required to maintain Amazon Vine membership?
To be in good standing with the Amazon Vine program you will need to write reviews in a timely manner. For some products, a thorough review may require several weeks of testing, whereas other products can be reviewed almost right away.
Some products I really try and include an image of. Things like electronics, clothing, and other things that are difficult to see in scale from a product image alone. Real life images work best for buyers to make an informed decision.
As a Silver Status Member, you will be able to request up to 3 items per day and up to $100 value each. You will need to review at least 80 items, and 90% of your items by or before the end of your evaluation period. After your evaluation period, you can get upgraded into the Gold Status.
As a Gold Status Member, you will be able to request up to 8 items per day with any price value. The review requirements are the same with at least 90% of 80 products reviewed by the end of the evaluation period.
You will need to have at least 60% of your products reviewed at any time to stay in good standing. However, this will take some time while you are getting enough products to review, so don’t worry too much about this in the beginning.
If you do not keep up with your reviews, your account may be placed under review (no pun intended here). I had this happen to me at one point around last Christmas when I became too busy for a while to write any reviews.
But, I got caught back up and was able to return to good standing status as a member. And, I was still able to request items during this period, just in case you were wondering.
I have noticed there is some confusion among many Vine Voice members as to when you get upgraded to Gold Status. At one point I thought if I reached the minimum requirement of 80 products with 90% of reviews I would be upgraded.
But, you will not be upgraded until the end of your evaluation period, unless you are somehow an exception to this rule.
I recommend catching up on your reviews about once a week. Or, more often if you would like. This helps you to avoid getting behind.
How to make money from Amazon Vine
According to the rules of the program, you cannot sell, gift, or otherwise give away your Vine products for a 6-month period. After this period, you may do with the items as you wish.
At this point, you may turn or flip the products and sell them for profit. However, if you decide to make some extra cash with this, please do not sell a product for more than it is valued on Amazon.
This is wrong, deceitful, and may cause bad blood among those involved. So, it is best to sell the items for less than the original value.
You may also use any products you get in your business if you wish. They are still just products, so if you use a Vine product in your business to make money, then more power to you.
Example: One item I had requested was an off-brand KitchenAid mixer attachment. I could easily use this to make money from baking.
When can you sell the products you get?
There is a required 6-month waiting period before you get rid of any products by any means. It is best to wait this period before you decide to gift or sell any product.
If you decide to gift or sell any products sooner than this period, you can and may be removed from the program. So, if you are concerned about this, make sure to date the products you receive so you don’t forget.
You can also look in your account to check on those dates.
It’s best to not sell any products for more than the taxable value. You also should not market any products as any brand other than what they actually are.
So, when I mentioned I got an off-brand KitchenAid attachment, it would be wrong and deceitful for me to market it as an ‘official’ brand attachment.
Can you gift the products you get?
Yes. After the 6-month waiting period required by Amazon. If gifting an item is necessary for a thorough review, however, and the product is within your family, in most cases this should not be too much of an issue.
But, this does not guarantee that you aren’t breaking the program rules. So, do this at your own risk.
Can you be both an Amazon Affiliate and a Vine Voice?
As a blogger, I am also a member of the Amazon Affiliate program, and I am also a member of the Amazon Voice program.
As of June 2024, I am not aware of or have been informed of any restrictions that an Amazon Affiliate can’t also be a Vine Voice. Nor, have I found any information that states otherwise.
So, I say the more the merrier!
Final thoughts on how to become an Amazon Vine Reviewer
The Amazon Vine program is a great program for companies, customers, and Vine Voices alike. It’s actually a fairly easy program to join and can be a great way to save and even make money.
While there are some important requirements you’ll have to follow as a Vine Voice, the benefits far outweigh any negatives.
So, if you’re looking to save some money this year, start reviewing your previous Amazon purchases to increase your chances of becoming a Vine Reviewer, and keep an eye out for that email!
Did you know that there was a way to get free stuff from Amazon?
Author bio:
Hey there! My name is Nicole Nicolet and I am a blogger at Let’s Make Life Great. When I first learned that blogging could make you money full-time I was skeptical, but decided to give it a try as a way to make passive income on the side. So, after taking Michelle’s free blogging course, I jumped in!
I started writing and researching different ways to save money, make money, and budget better. I also tried different side hustles like making digital printables, online courses, and more. Even though I’m still learning and growing, I enjoy writing posts about my blogging journey to help me document the tricks and tips I’ve learned since I started.
I aim to help my audience make more money, grow a business, and reach their financial goals through the content I create. And I even have a free resource page on my site, because who doesn’t love free stuff?
So, one day, when I stumbled upon the Amazon Vine program I decided to try it and see if I was eligible. And, sure enough, I was.
I’m inspired to share my journey with you in hopes that you too can learn different ways to save thousands each year as an Amazon Vine Member.
Making Sense of Cents Note: I hope you enjoyed this article on how to become an Amazon Vine Reviewer. This invitation-only program looks for high-quality reviews to help improve a product’s visitibility. This can be a great way to get free stuff from Amazon and save some money! I’ve read that there are around 5,000 to 10,000 Amazon Vine reviewers currently, and it looks like they are still accepting many new product reviewers.
As a type of alternative investment, real estate can add diversification to a portfolio and act as a hedge against inflation. Real estate investment trusts (REITs) and real estate crowdfunding offer two unique entry points to this alternative asset class.
Both allow you to invest in real estate without being required to own property directly. Comparing the pros and cons of real estate crowdfunding vs. REIT investing can help you decide which one makes the most sense for your portfolio.
Understanding Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Real estate investment trusts are legal entities that own or finance income-producing properties or invest in mortgage-backed securities. The types of properties a REIT may invest in can include:
• Hotels and resorts
• Office space
• Warehouses
• Storage space
• Multifamily apartment buildings
• Data centers
• Medical facilities
• Retail shopping centers
• Single-family homes
The primary attraction of REITs is the ability to enjoy the benefits of property investment — namely, dividend income — without purchasing real estate directly.
REITs are also considered a type of alternative investment. As with many alternative investments, real estate-based assets don’t tend to move in sync with the stock market. For this reason, investing in REITs may provide portfolio diversification.
REITs may be publicly traded, meaning they trade on an exchange like a stock. REITs must pay out 90% of their taxable income to shareholders as dividends, though some may pay as much as 100%.
If you compare REITs vs. real estate mutual funds, dividends aren’t always required with the latter. Real estate mutual funds can invest in REITs, mortgage-backed securities, or individual properties. While you may have access to a broader range of properties, you may enjoy less liquidity with real estate funds.
Recommended: SoFi’s Alt Investment Guide for Beginners
Alternative investments, now for the rest of us.
Start trading funds that include commodities, private credit, real estate, venture capital, and more.
💡 Quick Tip: While investing directly in alternative assets often requires high minimum amounts, investing in alts through a mutual fund or ETF generally involves a low minimum requirement, making them accessible to retail investors.
Overview of Real Estate Crowdfunding
What is real estate crowdfunding? It’s a strategy that allows multiple investors to pool funds for property investment. In return, investors share in the profits generated by the investments. Regulation crowdfunding makes real estate crowdfunding possible, as entities can raise capital from investors without registering with the SEC, as long as they offer or sell less than $5 million in securities.
In terms of how it works, real estate crowdfunding platforms seek out investment opportunities and fully vet them before making them available to investors. Individual investors can then choose which properties they’d like to invest in.
Depending on the nature of the investment, you may collect interest payments, rental income, or dividends. Real estate crowdfunding can offer access to a variety of property types, including:
• Multifamily housing
• Industrial space
• Build-for-rent projects
The minimum investment varies by platform — it is commonly upwards of $5,000, but may be $500 or even lower in some cases. Some real estate crowdfunding platforms require investors to be accredited, meaning they must:
• have an income exceeding $200,000 (or $300,000 with a spouse or spousal equivalent) in each of the two prior years, with an expectation of the same income for the current year, OR
• have a net worth exceeding $1 million, alone or with a spouse/spousal equivalent, excluding the value of their primary residence, OR
• hold a Series 7, Series 65, or Series 82 license in good standing
Comparing REITs and Real Estate Crowdfunding
When choosing between a REIT vs. crowdfunding, it’s helpful to understand each option’s potential advantages and disadvantages.
Pros and Cons of REITs
Here are the main benefits of investing in REITs vs. crowdfunding.
• Risk management. Alternative investments like real estate may help you balance risk in your portfolio. REITs and real estate in general have a lower correlation with the stock market.
• Accessibility. Purchasing an actual investment property usually requires getting a loan and raising capital for down payments and closing costs. REITs can offer a much lower barrier to entry for investors.
• Dividends. REITs must pay dividends to investors, which may be attractive if you want to generate passive income with investments.
• Liquidity. Publicly traded REITs offer liquidity since you can buy and sell shares as needed, similar to a stock.
• Returns. REITs can potentially generate significant returns in a portfolio compared to stocks or other investments.
Now, here are some of the drawbacks of REIT investing.
• Fees. You’ll typically pay management fees to invest in REITs, as with any investment, but some may charge more than others. Paying attention to investment costs is key, as the more fees you pay, the less of your investment returns you keep.
• Overweighting. You can choose which REITs to invest in, but you don’t have a say in the underlying properties. Investing in REITs that own similar properties could overweight your portfolio in a single sector (e.g., malls or office buildings) and thus increase your risk profile.
• Interest rate risk. Changing interest rates can affect the value of REITs, which can influence the yield you might get. When rates rise, REIT values can decline, requiring you to adjust your expectations for a profit.
• Taxes. REIT dividends are typically taxed as ordinary income, up to 37% (plus a 3.8% investment surtax). But investors may also see a short- or long-term profit from the REIT, which would be taxed as capital gains. There is also the potential for return on capital, which can be complicated. It may be wise to consult a professional.
Pros and Cons of Real Estate Crowdfunding
Here are the main pros of crowdfunding real estate investments.
• Diversification. As with REITs, real estate crowdfunding allows you to diversify beyond traditional stocks and bonds.
• Low minimums. Some, though not all, real estate crowdfunding platforms allow you to get started with as little as a few hundred dollars. That can make entering this alternative asset class or spreading your investment dollars out over multiple property types easier.
• Geographic diversification. Real estate crowdfunding platforms can offer investors exposure to markets across the country. That can make it easier to target a specific region if you’re looking for the next “hot” market.
• Returns. Crowdfunded real estate may generate above-average returns, or exceed the returns you could get with REITs.
• Passive income. Owning a rental property can be time-intensive if you’re managing the property yourself. Real estate crowdfunding allows you to reap the benefits of rental income, without the typical headaches that go along with being a property owner.
And now, here are the cons.
• Fees. Just like REITs, real estate crowdfunding platforms can charge fees. Fee structures can sometimes be complex, making it difficult to assess what you’ll pay to invest.
• Illiquidity. Liquidity in the stock market is one thing, but when it comes to real estate crowdfunding, it’s an even bigger consideration owing to the length of time your capital may be locked into an investment. Once you invest in a property, you’re essentially committed to owning it for the duration of the holding period. It’s not unusual for real estate crowdfunding platforms to offer investments with holding periods of five years or more, making them highly illiquid.
• Accreditation requirements. Some crowdfunding platforms only accept accredited investors. If you don’t meet the standards, you won’t be able to invest through those platforms.
• Taxes. Income from crowdfunded real estate investments is taxable, though not always in the same way. You may be subject to different tax rates based on how dividends and interest are paid out to you. You may want to consult with a professional.
Which Investment Strategy Is Riskier?
It’s difficult to pinpoint which is riskier when comparing a REIT vs. real estate crowdfunding, as each one has different risk factors.
With REITs, the biggest risks may include:
• Liquidity risk, which could make it difficult to sell your shares if you’re ready to leave an investment.
• Changing market conditions or rising and falling trends, either of which could directly impact real estate values.
• Interest rate sensitivity, which can influence REIT values.
The main real estate crowdfunding risks may include:
• Platform risk, or the risk that the marketplace you’re using to invest could shut down before you’re able to withdraw your capital.
• Poor vetting, which may allow unsuitable investments to make it onto the platform.
• Changing regulations, which may affect the real estate crowdfunding space as a whole.
Whether you choose a REIT vs. crowdfunding, lack of education or understanding is also a risk factor. If you don’t understand the basics of how either type of investment vehicle works, you could be putting yourself in a position to lose money.
Due Diligence Considerations
REITs and real estate crowdfunding platforms should perform due diligence in vetting investments to make sure they’re suitable. However, it’s wise to do your own research to understand what you’re investing in, who you’re investing with, and the potential risks.
As you compare REITs or real estate crowdfunding platforms, keep the following in mind:
• Minimum requirements to start investing, including accredited investor status
• Range of investment options
• Transparency concerning fees and investment selection
• Holding periods
• Performance track record
• Overall reputation
Talking to other investors who have used a particular crowdfunding platform or invested in a certain REIT can offer perspective on the good and bad.
The Takeaway
Real estate can be an addition to your portfolio if you already have some experience in the market, and have an affinity for real estate. As a type of alternative asset class, investing in real estate can add diversification to your portfolio, and potentially act as a hedge against inflation. Both REITs and real estate crowdfunding enable you to invest in real estate without the hassle of actual property ownership and maintenance, but come with different risk factors than you’d find with traditional securities.
Ready to expand your portfolio’s growth potential? Alternative investments, traditionally available to high-net-worth individuals, are accessible to everyday investors on SoFi’s easy-to-use platform. Investments in commodities, real estate, venture capital, and more are now within reach. Alternative investments can be high risk, so it’s important to consider your portfolio goals and risk tolerance to determine if they’re right for you.
Invest in alts to take your portfolio beyond stocks and bonds.
FAQ
What are the main advantages and disadvantages of investing in REITs?
Investing in REITs can offer the benefits of dividend income and portfolio diversification, without requiring you to own property directly. The disadvantages of REITs can include interest rate risk and market risk, both of which can affect the value of your investments.
How does real estate crowdfunding differ from traditional REIT investments?
Real estate crowdfunding allows investors to pool funds together to invest in property and collect interest, dividends, and/or rental income. REITs own and operate investment properties and pay dividends to investors. REITs and real estate crowdfunding can differ concerning the types of properties you can invest in, the minimum investment required, and the fees you’ll pay.
How are taxes treated for REITs and real estate crowdfunding?
REIT dividends are primarily treated as ordinary income for tax purposes (although you may face capital gains on any profits). Real estate crowdfunding returns may be subject to capital gains tax and/or ordinary income tax rates, depending on how they’re structured. Because the tax treatment of these two entities can be complicated, it’s probably wise to consult a professional.
Photo credit: iStock/kate_sept2004
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Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.
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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.
An investor should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. This and other important information are contained in the Fund’s prospectus. For a current prospectus, please click the Prospectus link on the Fund’s respective page. The prospectus should be read carefully prior to investing. Alternative investments, including funds that invest in alternative investments, are risky and may not be suitable for all investors. Alternative investments often employ leveraging and other speculative practices that increase an investor’s risk of loss to include complete loss of investment, often charge high fees, and can be highly illiquid and volatile. Alternative investments may lack diversification, involve complex tax structures and have delays in reporting important tax information. Registered and unregistered alternative investments are not subject to the same regulatory requirements as mutual funds. Please note that Interval Funds are illiquid instruments, hence the ability to trade on your timeline may be restricted. Investors should review the fee schedule for Interval Funds via the prospectus.
Investment Risk: Diversification can help reduce some investment risk. It cannot guarantee profit, or fully protect in a down market.
Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): Investors should carefully consider the information contained in the prospectus, which contains the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other relevant information. You may obtain a prospectus from the Fund company’s website or by email customer service at [email protected]. Please read the prospectus carefully prior to investing.
Shares of ETFs must be bought and sold at market price, which can vary significantly from the Fund’s net asset value (NAV). Investment returns are subject to market volatility and shares may be worth more or less their original value when redeemed. The diversification of an ETF will not protect against loss. An ETF may not achieve its stated investment objective. Rebalancing and other activities within the fund may be subject to tax consequences.
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.
Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results. SOIN-Q224-1900951-V1
Understand how much extra income you could get from a side hustle like DoorDash and get a budgeting and investing basics refresh.
This Week in Your Money: How much extra money can you really make from side hustles? What are budgeting and early investment strategies for young professionals? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss the realities of gig economy jobs with Tommy Tindall, a NerdWallet writer who tried working for DoorDash to see what kind of income it would give him. He shares tips and tricks on the ease of starting with DoorDash, the practical challenges involved, and how your location and lifestyle can impact your earnings.
Today’s Money Question: Host Elizabeth Ayoola joins Sean and Sara to help answer a listener question from a recent college graduate about early investment strategies. They discuss how young professionals can apply the 50/30/20 rule to their finances, the importance of setting clear savings goals, and how to start investing at a young age. They discuss the benefits of starting investments early, the differences between active and passive investing options, and the importance of automating investments to build wealth over time.
Check out this episode on your favorite podcast platform, including:
NerdWallet stories related to this episode:
Episode transcript
This transcript was generated from podcast audio by an AI tool.
Sean Pyles:
Have you ever gotten a food delivery or a ride in an Uber and wondered whether these gigs are really worth the effort as a side hustle? Well, this episode will deliver some answers.
Sara Rathner:
Cute. Welcome to NerdWallet’s Smart Money Podcast. I’m Sara Rathner.
Sean Pyles:
And I’m Sean Pyles. This episode, Sara and I are joined by our co-host, Elizabeth Ayoola, to answer a listener’s question about money goals, especially when you’re early on in your financial journey. How do you get a grip on your finances and set yourself up for long-term success?
Sara Rathner:
But first, we’re turning to side hustles. This month on Smart Money, we’re running a special series about how you can increase your income, whether you want more money to invest or you’re working on building up your savings, or you really just want some extra cash to spend on whatever junk appears in your social media feeds.
Sean Pyles:
And we are not here to judge you for whatever you spend your money on, but watch any social media influencer or read any article about ways to increase your income and inevitably someone mentions taking up a part-time job in the gig economy like Uber, DoorDash, Airbnb, take your pick. And I’ve always been pretty skeptical that these gigs will net you meaningful amounts of cash, especially considering all the time and effort involved.
Sara Rathner:
Absolutely. If you’re going to put miles on your car or let strangers sleep in your rental property, it needs to be worth it. And we don’t have access to a vacation house for the purposes of this podcast, but we do have a Nerd on staff at NerdWallet who actually did DoorDash for a couple of days to get a feel for whether these jobs live up to the hype. Tommy Tindall is here to share his insights with us. Tommy, welcome back to Smart Money.
Tommy Tindall:
Hey there. Thanks for having me.
Sean Pyles:
So Tommy, you recently made a really fun video for NerdWallet’s YouTube channel where you test drove DoorDash for a few days. What were your hopes and expectations going into this journalistic exercise?
Tommy Tindall:
Yeah, so I study and write quite a bit about side hustles and for this one, I really wanted to go the extra mile, get it, and test it out myself, try to make the advice a little more valuable, right? Give it a true test. And delivery driving is super popular and seemingly accessible, at least that’s what I thought, was my hypothesis, I should say, an easy way to make side money. So I really wanted to answer a couple questions that I think people have about a gig like this, and one is just how easy is it to get started? Can you really sign up on your phone, get a red bag in the mail and start driving? And spoiler alert, yes, that’s what I did. You can. And also can you make real money?
Sean Pyles:
Okay, so what were the main things that you were tracking as you weighed whether this side hustle was worth it?
Tommy Tindall:
I wanted to keep it easy, so I was just keeping a close eye on the time I spent driving while delivering, the miles I drove, and of course how much I earned and really wanted to get to what’s the real pay when you factor in the cost of driving.
Sara Rathner:
So talk with us a little bit about the experience of doing this. Was it fun? Was it boring? Did you get chased by any wild animals? Did you use this as an opportunity to catch up on episodes of Smart Money?
Tommy Tindall:
Well, I wanted it to be fun, but it was kind of hectic. I mean, I remember there were a couple moments of zen where I was just cruising, windows down, just looking outside thinking this is the life. But as soon as I started thinking that way, ding, ding, I’d get another delivery. And I think hustle is a real good term for this because it was kind of a grind. And what really got me, which I thought was interesting, was the constant interaction with my phone. It was draining. I was using maps to navigate, to take orders, and it was just a lot of interaction with the phone while driving.
At one point I, quick story had a 16-mile delivery, which was good pay. It was like $18 of base pay, which was really good. So I took it, but I was so distracted kind of trying to figure out where I was going, that I went the wrong way on 95 and was screaming, pounding the wheel, as you can imagine, and just like, efficiency. That’s what I was going for. Also, keep in mind, I was filming this experience for the video and that totally added to my stress. So maybe more practice without trying to film myself, I could be a little more efficient, get a little more time to enjoy solitude and catch up on my favorite podcasts like this one. But yeah, it was hectic.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. But you can’t forget that this is a job, right? It’s going to have stressful, difficult moments like any job.
Tommy Tindall:
I was reminded of that quickly, that this is a job and I kind of felt the stress. When I would get a delivery, I wanted to make sure the food was hot and get there quickly, know where I was going. So I had that sense of, hey, you’re on the clock, you’re working.
Sara Rathner:
That distracted driving element is also pretty terrifying.
Sean Pyles:
Tommy Tindall:
Yeah. Now when I see people on the road, I’m wondering are they delivering right now? So before I yell “get off your phone,” I’m wondering that.
Sara Rathner:
Sean Pyles:
Sara Rathner:
They might be.
Sean Pyles:
Either way, get off your phone.
Tommy Tindall:
Sara Rathner:
Tommy Tindall:
Sara Rathner:
I know. So Tommy, you mentioned this in your video, you live in a smaller town, a more remote area. How does that affect your ability to make money from DoorDash or any other app-based job like this?
Tommy Tindall:
I mean, it matters a lot because it’s how busy it’s going to be around you. So location matters. It’s where you live, which towns you have access to with a short drive that may be more populated. So I live, it’s a smaller, more rural but kind of suburban town outside of Baltimore. And what I did before I started was I would watch the DoorDash app, the map section of the app and just kind of see where the hotspots were.
And of course areas closer to Baltimore where it’s more densely populated, more restaurants within close proximity of each other, they were regularly busy during the peak times and they were shaded in pink on the maps. That’s how you know you can go out. When the map is like pink or red, you can Dash on a whim. When it’s gray, which it was sometimes in my town, you have to wait or schedule a Dash for later. But luckily where I live during the busier lunch hour, the option to Dash now was available during the weekday when I tried this. So I was able to stay closer to home, which I think was more realistic, because if I did this, I don’t think I’d want to drive that far. I’d want to stay closer to home, so.
Sean Pyles:
You don’t want to have to commute for your side gig.
Tommy Tindall:
Exactly. You want to get out there and do it maybe on the lunch hour during work, which I was thinking, which we’ll talk about. Probably kind of hard to do because I did find myself going from one end of my town to another because it’s not that populated, so it cost me some time.
Sean Pyles:
Well, that also makes me think about wear and tear on your vehicle and other related expenses like gas. Was that a worry of yours as you were doing the side hustle?
Tommy Tindall:
Yeah, this was a big worry for me because I am somebody who loves cars and I can be a little obsessive about keeping our vehicles maintained. So just all the stop and go driving, it was just kind of giving me a nervous tick. That was on my mind the whole time. I think I kind of make that clear in the video a little bit, and I should also mention that I drive a full size Ram pickup truck, which I thought would be fun to test for this, but not the ideal gig economy vehicle. It’s inefficient, hard to maneuver.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, lots of storage space, but maybe more than you need for a Starbucks run or something like that.
Tommy Tindall:
Oh, yeah. And the maneuverability. I think at one point I pulled off a busy road into the wrong driveway and I had to sort of Austin Powers my way out. You remember that 20 point turn he had to do in the first movie and all while the customer, the next house over was watching me. So when I finally got over there, we had a little laugh about it and I think she did tip me. I don’t know if she tipped me after the fact or not, which you can do in the app.
Sean Pyles:
You were providing some entertainment along with the delivery?
Tommy Tindall:
Oh, yeah. When I did get to interact with customers like that, I made it kind of fun. I’d be like, “Yeah, you don’t see people driving a truck very often, do you?” But yeah, I was a little anxious about my own vehicle and the wear and tear.
Sean Pyles:
Okay, so Tommy, after three days of Dashing, tell us how much time you spent driving, how far you drove, and how much you earned.
Tommy Tindall:
All right, well here are the stats. I went on three Dashes for this test and drove about six and a half hours on deliveries altogether. I put 90 miles on my personal vehicle, which was my big dump truck as I mentioned. Earned a total of $86, but factor in the 17 MPG that I was getting. And gas was I think around $3.60 a gallon when I was doing this. So less than $19 in fuel costs. True earnings are more like $67 or $10.31 cents an hour. So I mean, not a lot of money.
Sean Pyles:
So I’m going to wager that’s less than you’re making at NerdWallet on an hourly basis.
Tommy Tindall:
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Not giving up the main hustle.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. Do you think this was worth it?
Tommy Tindall:
So yes and no, and I’ll start by saying I’m glad gigs like this exist because I was really blown away by the accessibility of this gig. I mean, I was signed up and through the background check in literal minutes, and if you, the listener, meets the basic qualifications, I mean you can probably start working and start earning, and I like that. It’s not like saying side hustle options, go be an influencer and wait a couple years to build a following before you make your first dollar. I mean, you sign up and you can make money, which I think is great. And flexibility of course is the selling point of a delivery driving job like this. But at the expense of what? I felt like I was really hustling. I didn’t make a lot of money and thinking back, I mean this would be a real grind for me to do on the side.
It’s really about where I’m in my life. I mean, I have a main job, I have a family, I have young kids in school and sports, a home that continues to break that I have to maintain, I serve in my church and I really covet kind of that little free time that I have left. So I guess all that to say, not quitting my day job. And I think doing this made me more grateful of my main hustle and reminded me that I think there’s merit in what’s become kind of an older way of thinking where you find a good company, work hard, build your skills, grow your confidence, gain expertise, and hopefully increase your salary over time. So whether it’s worth it I think depends on personal situation, because you do make money.
Sara Rathner:
So who do you think a side hustle like this is good for?
Tommy Tindall:
People who do have some extra time or need extra cash and can take advantage of the flexibility to work whenever, because again, that is the selling point of a job like this. Also people who can work the system to their advantage. And you see a lot of YouTube videos of people sort of gaming this and chasing something called peak pay, which is an incentive where you can add plus one, two, three, or more dollars to a delivery if it’s really busy. So the competitive types, which is not me, admittedly, but I do wonder if I would’ve tried this at a different time in my life, like back in college or in my first years working a job when I lived in Washington, DC, had it been available.
Sean Pyles:
Well, Tommy Tindall, thanks so much for talking with us.
Tommy Tindall:
Absolutely. Thanks for having me.
Sean Pyles:
So listener, you just heard Tommy describe an interesting way that he earned some money. Ahead of this month’s series about increasing your income, we have our new Nerdy question of the month for July, which is: what is the most creative thing that you’ve done to earn more money? Maybe you negotiated a significant raise or you’re one of those job hoppers that has a new gig every couple of years. Tell us what is the most interesting thing that you’ve done to increase your income?
Sara Rathner:
I mean, I’ve rented out my basement for a commercial shoot, so there’s that.
Sean Pyles:
Okay. Interesting.
Sara Rathner:
Made 1,400 bucks and bought new storm doors. What a day. Anyway, if you’ve done something like that or something else, call or text us on the Nerd Hotline at (901) 730-6373. That’s (901) 730-NERD, or email us at [email protected]. We might just share your story on a future episode. Maybe inspire some of our other listeners to take up an interesting side hustle.
Sean Pyles:
And while you’re at it, send us your money questions, too. It is our job as Nerds to answer whatever your money question is. So send it our way on the Nerd Hotline, (901) 730-6373 or email it to us at [email protected]. Well now let’s get into this episode’s money question segment after a quick break. Stay with us. We’re back and answering your money questions to help you make smarter financial decisions. This episode’s question comes from Adrian, who left us a voicemail. Here it is.
I’m a recent college graduate. I graduated college in June of 2023 and I am six months into my new corporate world job. I’m trying to save 25% of my income per month and I’m trying to start investing. I don’t really know what my savings goals should be. I’m down for some high risk investments, but I don’t know, I’m trying to just learn the basics of investing, how to plan for life. What would you do if you were in my shoes, if you could go back in time and be 23 and not have kids or a mortgage or anything?
Sara Rathner:
To help us answer Adrian’s question on this episode of the podcast, Sean and I are joined by our co-host, Elizabeth Ayoola. Hey Elizabeth.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Hey, my favorite dynamic duo.
Sean Pyles:
I love getting a question from a listener who is so young because even though they’re only 10 years younger than me, it does feel like a lifetime ago that I was 23 and making these financial decisions for the very first time. One thing that I find really interesting about Adrian’s question is that while they are so early in their financial journey, their questions really can apply to anyone, because as I’m sure we all know well, plenty of people in their 30s and 40s and beyond are still trying to figure out their budgets and their financial goals. So with that in mind, I think that our listener and all listeners really could benefit from a little bit of budgeting 101. So Elizabeth, where do you think they should start?
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Basically, I think they need to start with a budget. That’s going to tell you how to slice and dice your money. You should probably maybe start with the 50/30/20 budget, which we are advocates for at NerdWallet, or it might be the 60/30/10 budget depending on your cost of living and where you are. Now, for those who don’t know what the 50/30/20 budget is, 50% go to your needs, 30% to your wants and 20% to debt, paying down debt and also saving money. I do think it’s important to know, however, these numbers are not set in stone. It really just depends on your finances and you can adjust the numbers to fit where you are in your financial life right now. I myself currently save above that 20 bucket, but luckily I don’t have that much debt, so that’s why I’m able to save more money and save more than the 20.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And our listener wants to save 25% of their income, which is really ambitious, especially for someone who is so young. I think when I was 23, I was saving maybe 2% of my budget, and it wasn’t even intentionally, it was just by chance, because that’s what I had left over at the end of the month.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
You were doing great, Sean, because let me tell you, I was saving 0% of my budget at 20 something. So that is ambitious. I think it’s possible, but it just again depends on where your finances are.
Sara Rathner:
I like an ambitious savings goal, especially when you’re young. Some of the best advice I was given by a CFP that I used to work with was save as aggressively as you can for as long as you can because life only gets more complicated and more expensive. So if aggressive for you is 3%, that’s great. If aggressive for you is 25%, that’s great, and if you have to change it up from month to month, that’s fine too.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
So our listener is dedicated to being a hardcore saver, and I love that for you, listener. So Sean, I know you’re also big on saving and you have some tricks for effectively saving money. What do you think?
Sean Pyles:
So I would start by encouraging Adrian to have something to save for. Again, I’m thinking a lot about myself in my early 20s, I didn’t really have any sort of short, medium, or long-term goals or priorities of any sort because I was just focusing on paying my rent and having fun. So I understand how it can be hard to understand what your priorities might be, and this is where I think something that’s very woo woo but effective can come into play. And that is a visualization exercise. Now, if you’re rolling your eyes, just bear with me because I swear it can be super helpful. So when you are 23, 33, 43, think about where you see yourself in the future in five years, in one year, in 20 years. So maybe that means do you want to move to a new city in the next year? Do you want to buy a house in five years? Do you want to retire in 40 years? Imagine where you will be at these different points in your life and think about how you can save money to get there.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
I would not even say that’s woo woo, Sean. I mean, so I definitely started doing that in my late 20s and honestly, the life I have today was a lot of the woo woo stuff. So it worked for me.
Sean Pyles:
The manifesting is real.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
It’s a real thing.
Sara Rathner:
And if you’re not really into the whole idea of manifesting as a term, that’s fine too. You could also think about it in terms of just naming your goals. Instead of just being like, I’m going to save 25% of my salary. For what? So say what the “what” is. So maybe online savings accounts like high yield savings accounts, you could actually name the account. So you could have, this is the account because I need to replace my car, or this is the account because I need to buy a new computer. Or this is the account that I’m saving up for a down payment on a home for. And then beginning to say, okay, I’m going to put this amount of money in this month for this goal and this goal. Makes it so much easier to stay organized and there’s some science behind it, making it so that you actually are more successful in terms of reaching your savings goals by just naming the goal. So if you don’t want to do the woo woo thing, you could do the practical thing and just put some names on stuff.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah. And what you’re talking about there is really the marriage of the woo woo and the super practical and tactical, where you can start with knowing what you want and then getting the accounts that can help you save the money for that. So for a lot of people, that’s going to mean starting out with an emergency fund, building up over time three to six months of the needs budget that you have. That’s like rent and medicine and groceries, things like that. And then building out the other savings buckets for things like a vacation fund, a house fund, a wedding fund. I have 10 savings accounts across all of the banks that I partner with. And they are all specifically allocated for my different goals. I know 10 is kind of a ridiculous amount, but it works for me.
And what makes it easy is that I automate my deposits into these accounts. So I don’t even have to think about it. One of my accounts is only getting $40 a month, and that’s enough for me to save, to build on that goal over time. But I don’t have to be worried about, oh, okay, am I going to have enough for when I need a new rug for my house eventually. I just know it’s already going in the background.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, I love this. It’s that concept of reverse budgeting where you automate transfers into your various accounts for different goals every month.
Sean Pyles:
And whenever we talk about savings accounts, it can be easy for we Nerds who are steep in this to maybe even take for granted the fact that high yield savings accounts are such an amazing thing for people to have. People can be getting even around 5% back for what they have sitting in their savings. And if you think about some average returns from the stock market some years are around 7%, and that can be much riskier than just having a savings account. I really do recommend people shop around, look at some of our roundups on NerdWallet and see what sort of high yield savings account might help you meet your goals, because you’ll be getting a much greater return on your money than you would get from a traditional brick and mortar bank.
Sara Rathner:
So our listener, Adrian, is a spring chicken in the world of finance and in the world of investing, which they also mention, having a long time horizon can be one of your best assets. And if you’re in your 30s and listening to this, you still have a long time horizon. So don’t think it’s all over if you didn’t invest in your 30s. Now let’s talk about investing at a younger age. Elizabeth, what are your thoughts there?
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Oh my gosh. I totally get the feeling of being overwhelmed and not understanding where to start. But it’s really important I think, not to let that paralyze you and to just start as soon as you can. And the first step in doing that is creating a strategy. And what the strategy is going to do is it’s going to tell you what your goals are and how much you need to save to achieve them and by what timeline. Now, it doesn’t have to be over complicated because I think that’s where people get tripped up, especially because there’s so many retirement and saving calculators online to help with this. And yes, I’m going to shamelessly plug NerdWallet. We have lots of those, go check them out. But yeah, knowing what age that you want to retire and how much you need will help guide your investing strategy. It’s also going to help you decide what to invest in, the best vehicles to use, and how much to put in each. What do you think, Sara, about time horizons in that sense?
Sara Rathner:
Oh, it’s probably one of the best things you have working for you because the way compound interest works mathematically is the longer of a time horizon you have, the less you can save per month or per year and still come out with a higher amount of money in the end versus waiting an extra 10 years, an extra 15 years, then you have to invest so much more per month just to catch up and still end up with less money overall.
Sean Pyles:
And I would recommend Adrian or anyone else who’s getting started in investing or just taking it seriously for the first time, is to get a lay of the land and understand all of the different investment accounts that are out there. Because there are all these different ones, like a 401k and a Roth and a Roth IRA that people have probably heard about, but really understanding what they are and when one is more beneficial than another for your circumstances can help you make the most of your investments. And something to think about too, since Adrian is so young, is that your younger years are often the best time to take advantage of an IRA because you are getting taxed at a lower rate when you’re earning less money than you will be taxed at later on in your career. So really use these early years to your advantage.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Yeah, I’m with you Sean. You guys also should decide for those people listening whether you want to do active or passive investing. If you are like me and you ain’t got time for that, and when I say that, I mean checking the stock market every day, then you may want to consider passive investing and some passive investing options include ETFs or robo-advisors and kind of securities like that. But yeah, once you do all those things, the most fun part is automating your investments and knowing that you’re probably growing both while you’re sleeping.
Sean Pyles:
Yeah, I think for a lot of people, sometimes the best strategy to start can be the strategy of “I want my money to make me more money.” And that’s where I started out in my mid 20s when I first started taking investing seriously. I didn’t want to spend a lot of time actively managing investments. And guess what? Actively managed investments often perform worse than passively managed investments. So passive is probably going to be the easiest thing for most people to do. And I just set up an account with a robo-advisor that was trusted and well-reviewed on nerdwallet.com, and I just have automated deposits and it makes it super simple. I’ve been doing it for years and I’m already receiving literal and metaphorical dividends from that.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Also, you want to think about fees when you’re looking at things like that and what has low fees and performance and other things, but don’t let that stop or overwhelm you as well. Just check out some resources on how to pick an ETF also.
Sara Rathner:
Yeah, I will also add that whenever I hear somebody in their early 20s say that they are, “Down for some high risk investments,” I think somebody’s been talking to their friends about crypto and I don’t know. I mean, for all I know Adrian just means, oh, I really want to dabble in a more stock forward portfolio. Sure. Honestly, you’re probably talking about crypto, aren’t you? Before you dabble in speculative investments, things like cryptocurrency, things like, I don’t know, precious metals and real estate and all sorts of stuff like that, you want to set aside a solid foundation. Just the things that we’ve been talking about, automating transfers of money into retirement accounts, either through your employer or on your own, diversifying those investments. And then, only then, if you have money left over, then you can dabble a little bit, sprinkle a little spice onto your investments, maybe 10% of your portfolio at the most into the higher risk, like crazy stuff. But set a good foundation first. Don’t put all of your money into speculative investments and then wonder why you don’t have any money left because you probably won’t.
Sean Pyles:
And I will just quickly add for the sake of our compliance department, that we are not financial or investment advisors. If you want specific individualized investment advice, speak with a financial advisor, hopefully a fiduciary financial advisor. Okay. Now, I know we’ve been kind of talking around this question for this conversation, but I would love to hear what you two would have done differently if you could go back to when you were 23 and maybe improve your finances, knowing all that you know now?
Elizabethy Ayoola:
That’s a deep, deep, deep sigh. So honestly speaking, the first thing I thought is like, oh my God, I would’ve stopped partying and buying alcohol and save more money. But then I remembered that I was living in Nigeria earning like $400 a month, which was seen as a good salary. So I barely had any money to live, quite frankly. And I think that’s a reminder that sometimes you just ain’t got really barely enough money to save and you just need to earn more. But I definitely would have educated myself more on personal finance and I would’ve at least stashed away something into an investing account. So that’s what I would’ve done. But then again, if I started investing too early, I might be in Turks and Caicos right now instead of chatting to you all. So I guess it worked out how it was supposed to.
Sean Pyles:
I’m glad you’re here with us, but also I would be happy for you if you were traveling the world instead of doing this. Sara, what about you?
Sara Rathner:
So I think a lot of people in their early 20s are, there’s just a lot of fear and uncertainty at that point in your life, and I definitely felt that at that time where there are all these big life milestones that are coming up for you eventually and you just don’t know when they’re going to happen. And so I was so worried about whether or not I’d be able to get to that point. But you’re 23.
Knowing how fast the next 10 to 20 years will go for you, just savor it because everything else is going to pile on really, really fast. And the way you spend your weekends is going to look really different. Do take a couple of steps to improve your position in life later on and use that gift of time. But then, yeah, you should have the wants budget, you should go travel with your friends, go out with your friends. Once you all get partnered up, you’re not going to see your friends as often, so enjoy it.
Sean Pyles:
Well, as someone who definitely enjoyed themselves a lot in their early 20s, I don’t regret any of it, really, shockingly, but it did come at the expense of my financial health in some senses. I really didn’t invest until my mid 20s. I barely had a budget until around the same time. So I would go back and encourage myself to be a little bit more balanced in the having fun and the forward planning aspect of life. But you’ve got to learn your lessons as you learn them. And that’s where I was at the time.
And one thing I think is important to realize and think about as you are trying to map out what having an adult financial life looks like is that the beginning of this financial journey is always going to be the hardest because you simply don’t know what you don’t know. There’s so much to learn. When you’re 23, you’re paying rent on your own for the first time. You’re figuring out how to make meals for yourself for the first time and building these good habits does take time. So don’t feel like you have to do everything all at once, but do make that concerted goodwill effort to try to better your relationship with money and use it to build the life that you want. Well, Elizabeth, thanks so much for coming on and talking with us.
Elizabethy Ayoola:
Thanks for having me.
Sara Rathner:
And that’s all we have for this episode. Remember, we’re here for you, whatever life phase you’re in, and we want to hear your real world questions because we’re here to make you smarter about your money decisions. So turn to the Nerds and call or text us your questions at (901) 730-6373. That’s (901) 730-NERD. You could also email us at [email protected]. Also visit nerdwallet.com/podcast for more info on this episode.
Sean Pyles:
And remember, you can follow the show on your favorite podcast app, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeartRadio, to automatically download new episodes. This episode was produced by me. Tess Vigeland helped with editing. Sara Brink mixed our audio. And a big thank you to NerdWallet’s editors for all their help. And here’s our brief disclaimer again. We are not financial or investment advisors. This nerdy info is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.
Sara Rathner:
And with that said, until next time, turn to Nerds.
Looking for second job ideas to increase your income? You’re not alone. Many people look for side gigs to help pay bills, save for big purchases, or simply have extra spending money. Finding the right second job and making extra income can make a big difference in your financial life. With so many options available,…
Looking for second job ideas to increase your income? You’re not alone. Many people look for side gigs to help pay bills, save for big purchases, or simply have extra spending money.
Finding the right second job and making extra income can make a big difference in your financial life. With so many options available, there’s likely something that fits your skills and schedule. Whether you want a job you can do from home or one that gets you out and about, there’s a side job out there for you.
For me, I was able to find a second job and it completely changed my life. In fact, it’s how I paid off my $40,000 in student loans in just 7 months. Making extra money also helped me to stop living paycheck to paycheck and to save more money!
Best Second Job Ideas
Below are the best second job ideas:
1. Blogger
Blogging used to be my side hustle and it is now my full-time job where I have earned over $5,000,000 over the years.
I started Making Sense of Cents just as a hobby, and it eventually turned into my second job. I didn’t know that blogs could make money or that it could become my full-time job. I didn’t even understand what a blog was or how it worked.
Starting a blog can be a great way to earn extra income. You can write about topics you are passionate about, such as travel, food, or personal finance. The best part is that you have the freedom to work on your blog whenever you have free time.
For me, it was a great second job because I could work on my blog before I went to my day job, during my lunch break, after I got home from work, and on the weekends. You get to make your own schedule, so that is a huge plus!
You can learn more about how to begin in my free How To Start a Blog Course here.
Here’s a quick outline of what you will learn:
Day 1: Reasons you should start a blog
Day 2: How to choose what to blog about
Day 3: How to create your blog (you’ll learn how to start a blog on WordPress)
Day 4: How to make money blogging
Day 5: My tips for making passive income from blogging
Day 6: How to grow your traffic and followers
Day 7: Extra blogging tips to help you be successful
2. Proofreader
Being a proofreader is a great second job idea. It’s perfect if you love reading and have a good eye for catching mistakes. You get to find errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
You can work from home as a proofreader. Many companies and websites offer remote proofreading jobs. Some popular platforms include Upwork, FlexJobs, and Scribendi.
You might proofread books, articles, or even student papers. The work can be flexible, letting you choose when to work. This makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Proofreaders can earn a decent amount of money. Some jobs pay by the hour, while others pay by the project. According to some sources, full-time proofreaders can make around $50,000 per year. Even if you don’t work full-time, you can still make a good side income.
I personally have a proofreader for my blog, and I know many others who have proofreaders for their businesses as well. It’s a very much-needed and in-demand job.
You can learn more at How To Start A Proofreading Business And Make $4,000+ Monthly.
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This free training teaches you how to start a proofreading side hustle (and how to earn $1,000+ per month!), even if you are brand new and don’t have any previous proofreading experience.
3. Take online surveys
Taking online surveys can be a simple way to earn extra money in your spare time. Companies want to know what you think about their products, services, or marketing campaigns.
Many websites offer paid surveys. You can sign up for these sites and start taking surveys right away. Each survey usually takes a few minutes to complete.
You might earn anywhere from $0.50 to $5 per survey, depending on the length and complexity.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for include:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Prime Opinion
Five Surveys
PrizeRebel
Pinecone Research
Online surveys can be done from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to fit around your other commitments. Just remember, while this can add up over time, you will not make a full-time income from just taking surveys.
I have taken many, many surveys over the years, and what I like about them is that you can do them on your own schedule – in the mornings, during your lunch break, before you go to bed – whenever. There is no strict schedule and they are super easy to do.
4. Dog walker or pet sitter
Becoming a dog walker or pet sitter is a great way to make extra money. You can set your own schedule and enjoy spending time with furry friends. Plus, many people need reliable pet care (I have personally found it hard to find a good dog sitter in the past, so I personally know that there is a lot of demand for this second job!), so there are plenty of opportunities.
Using dog walking apps like Rover, you can easily find clients. These platforms connect you with pet owners in your area. Depending on how much time you invest, you could potentially earn between $400 and $1,000 a month.
When I have had dog sitters in the past, I was paying around $100 a day for my two dogs to be watched in the person’s home. So, a 10-day trip earned the person $1,000.
Taking care of animals can also be very rewarding. You get to exercise while walking dogs and enjoy the company of pets. It’s a job that keeps you active and can be a lot of fun if you love animals.
No special skills are needed, but being responsible and loving pets is important. You must be punctual and trustworthy since pet owners rely on you to take care of their animals.
My mother-in-law as well as my sister are both dog walkers and pet sitters and enjoy what they do.
5. Virtual assistant
Being a virtual assistant is a great second job idea. You can help businesses and professionals with tasks like managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling social media. This role tends to have flexible hours, making it easier to fit into your schedule.
One of my first side jobs was working as a virtual assistant. It was a fun and flexible way to earn extra money. There are many kinds of virtual assistant jobs. The money I made helped me pay off my student loans quickly, stop living paycheck to paycheck, and become my own boss. I think it’s a great way to make money, whether you want a part-time or full-time job.
Starting as a virtual assistant can be easy. Websites like Upwork, FlexJobs, and Indeed have listings for virtual assistant jobs. You just have to set up a profile and start applying. For me, I also let my friends and those in my industry know that I was growing my virtual assistant business, and that helped me find jobs as well.
A virtual assistant’s tasks can include:
Managing social media accounts
Scheduling travel and appointments
Managing email inboxes
Organizing events
Communicating with clients
Ordering supplies
Managing calendars
Handling logistics
Coordinating Zoom calls
Moderating online forums
Running personal errands
Answering customer service questions
Performing data entry
Managing websites
Creating presentations
Sending invoices
Now, one virtual assistant most likely won’t do all of these tasks – it simply depends on what the company or person is looking for.
Learn more at Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs.
6. Graphic designer
You can make extra money as a graphic designer, and this can be a good second job idea if you want to work from home. A graphic designer is what you think – they design different kinds of graphics.
One way is to create design templates. These can be for websites, social media, or even printable designs. You can sell these templates online and get paid each time someone buys them.
Another option is freelance work. You can sell services like logo design, branding, or social media graphics, and you can find clients on sites like Upwork or Fiverr.
7. Social media manager
Social media managers handle different social media platforms for businesses.
Your job can include creating content, posting updates, and responding to followers. You might also need to analyze data to see what posts are doing well and which ones are not.
They work for one company or multiple clients. It’s important to have good communication skills and a creative mindset. Some social media managers also do graphic design or video editing for their social media posts.
Being a social media manager can be fun and flexible. You can usually work from home and set your own hours. This control and flexibility make it an excellent job for people looking to earn extra income on their own terms.
For me, I have been a social media manager in the past as a second job. It was great as a flexible side hustle!
8. Online tutor
If you enjoy teaching and have a strong understanding of a subject, you can try finding online tutoring jobs. Online tutoring lets you share your skills and help students from anywhere, and you can tutor kids in math, science, and reading, or even help them prepare for tests like the SAT or ACT.
Platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com connect you with students looking for help. You create a profile, list your skills, and set your rates. Most tutors charge between $30 and $60 per hour. Teaching English as a second language is also a popular option. Many companies need English tutors to teach students abroad.
Online tutoring is flexible because you can choose your own hours and work from home. This makes it easy to fit around your teaching job or other responsibilities. Some tutors even make up to $1000 a week by dedicating just a few hours each day.
9. Bookkeeper
Becoming a bookkeeper is a great second job, and it can typically be done from home.
Bookkeepers keep track of financial records for businesses. This could include recording transactions, managing payroll, and preparing financial reports.
You don’t need a special certification to become a bookkeeper, making it easier to start.
The best part is that you can do this job from anywhere with just a laptop and some software. This flexibility means you can work from home or even when you’re traveling.
Since bookkeeping services are always in demand, you can find clients easily. This can be a very profitable side hustle. Some bookkeepers even charge $60 an hour or more.
Learn more at How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs.
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This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
10. Freelance writer
Working as a freelance writer is a great way to make extra money.
Freelance writers are self-employed and work for magazines, blogs, websites, companies, and more. A lot of what you read online today is written by a freelance writer.
I have been a freelance writer for many years, and I really enjoy it. I have written for many different websites and companies, and I make good money doing so.
You can write from home, at your own pace, and choose projects that interest you. Many companies need blog posts, articles, web content, and social media posts.
11. Photography
Getting paid to take pictures is a popular second job idea.
What’s great is that there are many ways to get paid for photography, such as:
Stock photos – Stock image websites are popular places for photographers to sell their pictures. These sites let customers buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use. Websites, TV shows, books, social media accounts, and more use stock photos all the time. Some popular stock photo websites are Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Adobe Stock, and Dreamstime.
Portraits and event photos – As a photographer, you can focus on taking portraits and event photos. This area is in high demand, especially for weddings, elopements, birthdays, and corporate events.
Post pictures on Instagram or Facebook – Social media platforms like Instagram are great for sharing your pictures and gaining followers. Many people make a full-time income from their Instagram accounts. They do this through sponsored partnerships with companies, affiliate marketing, and selling their own products.
12. Personal trainer
Becoming a personal trainer is a great second job idea. You can help people get in shape while earning extra money.
You can work at a gym or do private sessions at clients’ homes. Some trainers also provide online coaching, which gives you more flexibility.
Personal trainers sometimes create workout plans tailored to each client’s needs. They might also give advice on nutrition, and this way, they can help clients with both exercise and diet for better results.
Personal training can be done part-time, which makes it a good fit if you have another job. Many people want training in the mornings, evenings, or weekends.
13. Etsy seller
Starting an Etsy shop can be a fun and rewarding second job. If you enjoy crafting or creating handmade items, this might be perfect for you. Etsy is a popular online marketplace where you can sell unique products.
There are many things you can sell on Etsy, such as:
Etsy can be a great way to turn your hobbies into extra income.
You can learn more at How To Sell On Etsy Successfully: A Beginner’s Guide.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
14. Babysitter
Babysitting is a great way to earn extra money. You can choose your own hours, making it easy to fit it around your main job or school.
Parents always need trustworthy people to watch their kids, and they might need help for an evening out or during the day if they work long hours.
As a babysitter, you can earn around $15 to $25+ per hour, depending on your experience and location. Some families might even pay more if you have special skills, like CPR training or if you are watching multiple children.
You can find babysitting jobs through local community boards, babysitting apps, or word of mouth. Sometimes, friends or family might also need help.
15. Delivery driver
A delivery driver job is one of the most popular side hustle ideas. You don’t need a lot of experience to get started, and all you need is a vehicle and a driver’s license. Many services, like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart, let you choose your own hours. This flexibility is perfect if you have a busy schedule.
You can deliver different items depending on the service you work for. Some companies focus on food delivery, while others may deliver groceries or packages.
The pay can vary based on where you live and how much you work. Some drivers make around $15 to $25 per hour including tips.
16. Bartender
Bartending is a flexible and fun second job. You can work at bars, restaurants, or special events like weddings.
Some bartender jobs don’t require a lot of experience. You usually have to start as a barback, helping with stocking and cleaning, then learn to make drinks. Then, you may be able to move up and find a part-time job as a bartender.
17. Transcriptionist
Being a transcriptionist can be a great second job. Transcriptionists listen to audio recordings and type out what they hear. It’s a simple job and doesn’t require a lot of training.
You can do this job from home and all you need is a computer and good internet. This makes it a flexible option where you can work on transcriptions during your free time or on weekends.
There are usually some requirements. Many places want you to type fast and accurately. For others, you might need to pass a background check or transcription tests.
You can learn more at 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly.
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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
18. Rent your extra space
Do you have an extra room, basement, or garage? Renting out your extra space can be a great way to earn some extra cash each month passively.
You can list your spare room on websites like Airbnb or Vrbo if it’s a room or apartment.
If you have a garage or storage space, you can rent it out for storage. Websites like Neighbor allow people to find storage options nearby.
Before you start, check local laws and regulations. Some areas have rules about renting out space, so it’s important to be informed.
19. Handyperson
Being a handyperson can be a great way to make extra money. You can help people fix things around their homes, such as fixing leaky faucets, repairing doors, or assembling furniture.
You don’t need fancy tools for many jobs, just a good set of basic tools.
Many people need small repairs done but don’t have the skills or time. That’s where you come in. You can find clients through local ads, word of mouth, or online platforms like Taskrabbit.
Working as a handyperson has flexibility too and you can choose jobs that fit your schedule.
20. Rideshare driver
Apps like Uber and Lyft allow you to drive people around and get paid for it.
One of the best parts about driving for rideshare apps is the flexibility. You can set your own hours and work whenever you want.
Most rideshare companies have an easy sign-up process. They usually require a background check, a valid driver’s license, and a car that meets their standards. Once approved, you can start accepting rides and earning money.
The earnings vary depending on your location, the time of day, and how many hours you drive. Some drivers make a nice side income by working during peak hours when rates are higher.
21. Restaurant server
Being a restaurant server can be a great way to earn extra money and is popular for evening second jobs. Many restaurants have flexible hours, which is perfect if you need to juggle another job or school.
Servers often get tips, so your income can vary day to day. Some nights are busier and can bring in more money.
22. Clean houses
Cleaning houses is a good way to earn extra money with a second job. You can work on the weekends or after your regular job.
Plus, you can choose your clients and set your own hours.
To get started, all you need are basic cleaning supplies. You can sell your services to friends and family first. Word-of-mouth is powerful, and you might get more clients through recommendations.
23. Write book reviews
If you enjoy reading and sharing your thoughts about books, you can earn money by writing book reviews. Authors and publishers value your honest opinions because they help other readers decide what to read next. Readers also enjoy reading these reviews, making it helpful for everyone involved.
Here are some websites where you can earn money by writing book reviews:
OnlineBookClub.org – They provide free books at first. After your first review, you can earn cash for each review you write, typically between $5 and $60.
Kirkus Media – They look for reviewers for both English and Spanish books, especially for the Kirkus Indie section. Reviews are around 350 words and due two weeks after the book assignment. They cover all genres, with over 10,000 books reviewed annually.
Upwork – Create a profile and set yourself up as a book reviewer. This freelance platform allows you to set your own rates, with book reviewing rates ranging from $15 to $75 per hour.
The US Review of Books – They hire freelance writers for 250- to 300-word reviews that go beyond summary to provide insights into the book. Applicants need to submit a resume, writing samples, and references.
Reedsy Discovery – Review books before they are published and earn through tips from readers, typically ranging from $1 to $5 per review. It’s a way to influence which books gain popularity early on.
Other opportunities – Websites like Booklist (pays $15 per review, focused on short reviews for libraries), BookBrowse, Women’s Review of Books, and Publishers Weekly also pay for book reviews and are actively looking for new reviewers.
You can learn more at 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books.
24. Mow lawns
Mowing lawns can be a great second job. It’s simple, flexible, and very profitable.
You can start with not a lot of money too. For example, if you already have a lawn mower, you’re ready to go, and you can start by seeing if anyone in your neighborhood needs their lawn mowed.
Pricing your services depends on the size of the lawn and the complexity of the job. Some lawns might be easy and quick, others might take more time. Many people charge between $40 and $50+ per lawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
When looking for second job ideas, it’s important to find something that fits your schedule and goals. Here are answers to some common questions about picking the best side gig and managing two jobs.
What is the best 2nd job to have?
The best second job depends on your interests and skills. Some popular side hustle ideas include blogging, proofreading, taking online surveys, dog walking or pet sitting, and being a virtual assistant. These jobs have flexibility and can often be done from home.
What are some good jobs I can do at night after my day job?
Jobs you can do at night include customer service representative, security guard, bartender, or freelance work like writing and graphic design. These jobs usually have evening shifts or can be done remotely, fitting in well with a daytime schedule.
What are some good second jobs at night from home?
If you want to learn how to make extra income while working full-time, then my favorite way is to find good second jobs that you can work at night from home. This way, you don’t have a commute and it won’t interfere with your day job. Some good evening jobs from home include blogging, taking surveys, proofreading, bookkeeping, writing book reviews, and transcribing.
How can I make an extra $1000 a month?
To make an extra $1000 a month, you may want to try freelance writing, virtual assistant work, or becoming a part-time tutor. These jobs can pay well and offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your primary job.
How can I make an extra $2000 a month?
Earning an extra $2000 a month may require a higher-paying side gig. Options include freelance web development, consulting, or starting a small business like dropshipping. These jobs can have higher earnings but may require more specialized skills or time investment.
How to get a second job with a 9-5?
You can get a second job with a nine-to-five by looking for evening or weekend positions and looking for jobs with flexible hours such as bartending, retail cashier, or working as a rideshare driver. Online jobs like tutoring or freelancing can also have nice flexibility to work after your main job.
What is the highest paying side hustle?
The highest-paying side hustles can include freelancing in tech fields like software development, graphic design, or consulting. Real estate investment, if you have the money to start investing, can also be very high paying.
Do you get taxed more if you have two jobs?
Having two jobs can put you in a higher tax bracket, meaning you might pay more in taxes. It’s important to understand how this affects your overall earnings. I recommend talking with a tax professional to talk about your tax situation and to make sure that you aren’t overpaying (or underpaying!).
How will my employer know if I have a second job?
Your employer may know if you have a second job if it affects your primary job performance or if you disclose it. Some employers also run social media checks to see if they can learn anything about you that may hurt their business. You may want to check your employment contract if you are worried, as some employers may have clauses about working multiple jobs.
Is having two jobs worth it?
Having two jobs can be worth it if you need extra income for savings, paying off debt, or reaching financial goals. It requires good time management and can be tiring, but many find the financial benefits to be rewarding. For me, I found having more than one job well worth it because it allowed me to pay off my student loan debt quickly, save more money, and pursue my passions.
Second Job Ideas – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best second job ideas.
As you can see, there are many popular second job ideas that may interest you. From online jobs like blogging, proofreading, and bookkeeping to in-person jobs like personal training, delivery, restaurant jobs, and more, there are many ways to make extra money so that you can reach your goals.
If you need a second job while working full-time, you are not alone. Many people are in your shoes. I recommend finding something that best fits your schedule and is at least somewhat flexible so that you aren’t making yourself too tired.
For me, I have had many side jobs. One thing that has always helped me is to make sure that it would fit with my day job and be flexible – because my day job did come first. Plus, I didn’t want to waste more time than I would need to by commuting back and forth or doing things that weren’t needed.
Want to learn how to make quick money in one day? There are plenty of opportunities out there that let you earn some extra cash without a long-term commitment or if you need cash immediately. Whether you prefer working online or doing tasks around your neighborhood, you can find a side hustle that fits your…
Want to learn how to make quick money in one day? There are plenty of opportunities out there that let you earn some extra cash without a long-term commitment or if you need cash immediately.
Whether you prefer working online or doing tasks around your neighborhood, you can find a side hustle that fits your skills and schedule. From driving for a rideshare to selling unused items, making quick money in a day is more achievable than you might think.
I have personally done most of the side hustles below, so I know they are real.
Best Ways To Make Quick Money in One Day
Below are the best ways to make quick money in one day:
1. Flip items for resale
Flipping items for resale is a fast way to make money. You buy things at a low price and sell them for more. And you can even start with stuff you already have at home.
You can sell clothes, old phones, books, unused gift cards, kitchen items, and jewelry.
Many people have lots of items just lying around, so you could easily find things to sell without spending a dime to buy new stock.
Selling your items can be quick too by listing your stuff on sites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. These platforms have many buyers looking for good deals.
Recommended reading: How I Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
2. Sell your clothes
When I was younger, I worked at a secondhand clothing store for a few years. I know how great these shops are, especially for making extra money.
I have sold a lot of clothes over the years, both online and in person. I even had a small business reselling clothes. So, I know a lot about selling used clothes!
Selling your clothes is a great way to clean out your closet and make some quick cash. You probably have clothes lying around that you don’t wear anymore, maybe because they don’t fit or aren’t your style.
You can begin by gathering items you no longer need. Check that they’re clean and in good condition. Next, decide where you want to sell them.
Local secondhand and consignment shops are an option if you prefer selling in person. These shops buy used clothes and pay you in cash or store credit. It’s quick and straightforward, but remember they might not accept everything. Secondhand and thrift stores like Plato’s Closet will give you cash the same day, so this is a good option if you need money right now.
Selling online gives you a bigger audience and more options. Sites like ThredUp make it easy. Order a Clean Out Kit, fill it with clothes, and send it back. ThredUp handles almost everything.
Another option is Poshmark. This is an app where you can list your clothes, set prices, and sell directly to buyers. You take photos, write descriptions, and ship items after they sell. Poshmark takes a small fee from each sale.
EBay is also popular. You just create listings, set starting bids, and see how much you can earn. Auctions can end quickly, so it’s great for fast sales.
Instagram can also be a fun place to sell if you have a following. You can post pictures of your clothes, add hashtags, and engage with your buyers.
Here are 16 Best Places To Sell Clothes For Cash.
3. Sell old electronics
Selling old electronics can be a great way to make quick money in one day.
You can start by looking around your home for unused gadgets such as old phones, laptops, tablets, or even game consoles.
Your old electronics can be sold on sites like Decluttr, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Retailers like Apple, Amazon, and Best Buy also have trade-in programs. You can exchange your old devices for gift cards to use at their stores.
If you want quick cash, these methods are fast and convenient. Just gather your old electronics, pick the best place to sell, and you could have extra money in your pocket by the end of the day.
4. Dog walking and pet sitting
Dog walking is a fun and easy way to make money quickly. If you love dogs and enjoy spending time outdoors, this can be a great option for you. There are several dog walking apps that connect dog walkers with pet owners.
One popular app is Rover. It’s easy to sign up and get started. You can set your own rates and choose when you want to work. Many people find Rover helpful because there’s always a demand for dog walking services.
Another popular app is Wag for people looking for a pet sitter.
Dog walking rates can vary. Typically, you can earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on the number of dogs and the length of the walk. This can add up quickly, especially if you take multiple jobs in one day.
My mother-in-law as well as my sister are both dog walkers and really enjoy what they do!
5. Complete online surveys
Doing online surveys is a simple way to make quick money in one day. Many companies want your opinion to improve their products or services, and by sharing your thoughts, you can earn cash or gift cards.
Some paid survey sites where you can take surveys include:
Freecash
Prime Opinion
Five Surveys
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Earning money from answering surveys isn’t quick and won’t make you rich. But if you have an hour, it’s an easy way to make a little extra cash.
I have answered a lot of surveys over the years. I liked that I could do them during little breaks in my day, like before and after work, during lunch, or while riding in a car. They are easy to answer and usually only take a few minutes.
6. Freelance work
Freelance jobs are a great way to make fast money. You can use your skills to help others and get paid for it. Plus, lots of people need freelance writers, graphic designers, and web developers.
Here are some ideas:
If you enjoy writing, you can find jobs that need blog posts, articles, or even editing. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr connect you with clients who need these services.
Are you good at art or graphic design? Many businesses look for freelance graphic designers. They need help with logos, social media posts, and website designs.
Web developers can also find plenty of work online. You could help build a website or fix one that’s already running. Code issues can be tricky for many, but if you’re good at it, you can get paid well.
You can also offer services like proofreading, transcription, or even managing social media accounts. These jobs can be done quickly and still earn you money.
Freelancing gives you the freedom to choose what you do and when you work. Since it’s online, you can do it from the comfort of your home. It’s a flexible way to make quick cash on your own schedule.
I have been a freelancer for years, and I think it’s a great way to make more money.
You can learn more at 16 Best Freelance Jobs & How To Get Started.
7. Sell crafts on Etsy
Selling crafts on Etsy is a fun and creative way to make quick money. Many buyers love unique, handmade items that they can’t find anywhere else.
I shop on Etsy all the time (I actually just bought a custom card for someone as well as a specific live plant that I couldn’t find anywhere in person!).
Items like jewelry, handmade soaps, and candles are very popular. These items are easy to make and tend to sell well. Stickers and printables also have a big market and can be a good way to make a passive income stream. You can also make bath products like sugar scrubs and geode bath bombs. People love these items because they are both pretty and useful.
Here are 16 Best Things To Sell On Etsy To Make Money.
8. Rent out a spare room
Renting out a room is a great way to make money fast. If you have a spare room, you can try listing it on sites like Airbnb, Facebook, or Craigslist.
You can rent your room for a night, a week, one month, or even longer. This flexibility allows you to choose what works best for your schedule.
When I was younger, I had extra bedrooms in my house and rented them out to roommates. I rented to long-term renters and people I knew, like friends and my sister. It didn’t cover my whole mortgage, but it covered about half, which I thought was great!
9. Food delivery
Food delivery jobs can help you make quick money in one day. There are many food delivery apps and services that need drivers to deliver meals from restaurants and grocery stores to customers.
One popular option is DoorDash. As a DoorDash driver, you pick up food from local restaurants, deliver it to customers, and you can keep 100% of your tips and cash out daily.
Another good choice is Uber Eats. With Uber Eats, you set your own hours and enjoy the freedom of no boss. You can deliver food in your spare time and get paid fast.
For grocery delivery, there is Instacart. Instacart is a popular website for people who want to make extra money by shopping for and delivering groceries.
These food delivery services are flexible. You can work whenever you have free time and you can typically cash out your earnings the same day, so this is great if you need to make money quickly.
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Instacart is a popular website for people looking to earn extra money shopping for and delivering groceries. Instacart gives you the option to turn your free time into a chance to make some extra money.
10. Participate in focus groups
Participating in focus groups is a quick way to make money in one day. Companies want your opinion on products or services, and they pay well for it. You can earn between $50 and $150 for an hour of your time.
Focus groups can be done online or in person. Online focus groups are convenient because you can join from home, and in-person groups might offer even higher payouts.
User Interviews is a popular site to find focus groups to take part in.
To get started, sign up on these websites and fill out your profile. Companies will contact you when a study matches your profile.
I did a user interview once and got paid $400 for just one hour of work. It was easy and done online through a video call to get my opinion on a new website feature.
Recommended reading: 19 Best Places To Find Paid Research Studies
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User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
11. Provide handyman services
If you’re good at fixing things, selling handyman services can be a quick way to make money. Many people need help with small repairs around the house like fixing leaky faucets, installing ceiling fans, or even putting up pictures. These jobs don’t take long and can be done on short notice.
You can start by putting up flyers in your neighborhood or posting on local community boards online (for example, there’s probably a Facebook group for your town that you can join and post on).
You can also use apps like Taskrabbit to find jobs quickly. These apps connect you with people looking for immediate help. This way, you don’t have to wait long to start earning money.
You are typically paid the same day you finish the job for handyman services.
I have personally hired different handymen over the years for all sorts of services, such as a bathroom cabinet install, painting a bedroom, flooring repair, and even a roof repair.
12. Play game apps
Ever thought about making money just by playing games on your phone? There are plenty of apps where you can do just that.
Here’s a quick list of the top game platforms that pay real cash:
KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Freecash
Game apps pay real money rewards because they earn money from ads and in-app purchases. They share a part of their earnings with players like you and me to keep them engaged and playing their games.
Recommended reading: 23 Best Game Apps To Win Real Money
13. Have a yard sale
Having a yard sale (or garage sale) is a great way to make quick money in just one day. It helps you declutter your home and turn unwanted items into cash.
You usually can’t ask for a really high price on anything, but it can be a way to sell a lot of things at once and make some cash in one day.
You can sell all sorts of things – basically anything and everything that you own.
14. Sell unused gift cards
Lots of people have gift cards they never use. Maybe you have one for a store you don’t shop at. Instead of letting it collect dust, you can sell it and get cash.
Many websites let you trade your card for money such as Raise and CardCash, which are two popular sites. They usually give you around 90% of the card’s value.
To sell a gift card, you’ll enter the store’s name and the card’s balance. You’ll get an offer right away, and if you accept it, you can get paid by PayPal, direct deposit, or even a check.
15. Find unclaimed money
Did you know there might be money out there waiting for you to claim it? It’s called unclaimed money, and it’s typically from forgotten accounts, old jobs, or refunds.
To see if you have any free money to claim, go to unclaimed.org. This site is run by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA).
The site will then take you to missingmoney.com. This is a helpful tool that works with states to help people find their unclaimed money. You just need to enter your first name, last name, and state.
It’s free to search and free to claim your money. So, take a few minutes to check it out. You might find some extra money waiting for you!
I just looked and I had around $60 in free money that I could claim!
16. Babysit for neighbors
Babysitting is a great way to make quick money. Many parents need help, especially on weekends or evenings.
Let your neighbors know you are available. You can also ask friends to spread the word or even post in local Facebook groups.
17. Search for Craigslist gigs
Craigslist can be a great place to find quick-paying jobs. Many people need help with tasks, and they post ads looking for workers who can start right away.
To find Craigslist gigs in your town, go to Craigslist and look for the “gigs” section.
You can find jobs like yard cleanup, moving help, helping around the house, putting up flyers, event staff, selling plasma, tutor help, and more.
Some gigs you find may even be more specialized, like participating in local medical research studies. These gigs can pay quite a bit more, sometimes up to $1,000.
18. Wash or detail cars
Washing or detailing cars is a great way to make quick money. You can start by selling your services to friends, family, and neighbors. Most people appreciate a clean car and may not have the time to do it themselves.
You don’t need much to get started and most likely just need basic supplies like soap, sponges, towels, and a vacuum can be enough. For detailing, you might need some special products like polish and wax.
Once you get a few clients, word of mouth can help you grow your business. People will recommend you if you do a good job. Plus, you can adjust your pricing based on how much time and effort each job takes.
19. Cash in your coins
Do you have a jar full of coins sitting around? Cashing them in can be a quick way to get some extra money.
First, look for a nearby bank or credit union that you belong to as many will exchange coins for free if you have an account with them.
Coinstar machines are another option. These are usually found in grocery stores and retail shops. Be aware that they charge a fee if you want cash. To avoid the fee, sometimes you can opt for an egift card instead.
Learn more at Where To Cash Coins For Free Near Me – 9 Best Places.
20. Clean homes
One way to make quick money in a day is by cleaning homes. You can get paid to clean houses, apartments, or short-term rentals like those listed on Airbnb.
Cleaning tasks can include vacuuming, dusting, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms, and you might also need to do things like changing bed linens and washing dishes.
21. Sign-up bonuses
Sign-up bonuses are a way to make some quick money.
Many apps and websites offer these bonuses to encourage you to join them. They often come in the form of cash, gift cards, or rewards points.
Some places that give sign-up bonuses include:
Sometimes when you open a bank account, you can also get a sign-up bonus too!
22. Recycle items
Recycling can be a great way to earn quick money.
Here are some items you may be able to recycle for extra money:
Aluminum cans are easy to collect and recycle.
You can also gather old newspapers and cardboard boxes.
Metals like copper, brass, and steel can get you a good price. Sort them into different types before taking them to the scrapyard. Scrapyards often pay for clean and separated metals.
Glass bottles and jars are another option. Collect them from friends, neighbors, or local events. Check with recycling centers to see how much they pay per bottle.
Even cooking oil can be sold to companies that convert it into biodiesel or soap. Save your used cooking oil in containers and find a local recycler who buys it.
Don’t forget about selling books! Old textbooks or novels can be sold online or at local bookstores. Sites like eBay and Amazon have buyback programs that offer cash or store credit.
To make the most money by recycling, gather as much as you can, store it safely, and take it to the right place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions on how to make quick money in just one day.
How can I make money ASAP today?
If you need to learn how to get quick money in one day without paying anything, then I recommend finding things around your home to sell, such as clothes, jewelry, books, an old phone, and more.
How can I make $100 per day?
There are many ways to make $100 a day. You can sell items you don’t need like old clothes or electronics. You can also flip items for resale or sell services like cleaning or home repair.
How can you actually make $1000 a day?
Making $1000 in a day is tough but not impossible. It might involve selling high-value items like jewelry, doing freelance work, or offering specialized services. Jobs in the gig economy, such as driving or delivering, can earn you money immediately, and you can combine them with other gigs to boost your daily earnings.
How can I make money in just hours?
Try quick tasks like dog walking, babysitting, or selling items from around your home.
How to make quick money in one day as a kid?
Kids can earn money by doing chores, babysitting, or selling homemade crafts. Offering to mow lawns or do yard work for your neighbors is also a good option.
How to make quick money in one day on my phone?
Your phone can help you earn money in various ways too. You can sell things you don’t need or use your skills on freelance platforms. Answering surveys, selling photos, or being a virtual friend can also earn you money, all from the comfort of wherever you are.
How to make quick money in one day online?
To make quick money in one day online, you can take online surveys, freelance your skills, or sell items on eBay or other platforms. You can also offer services on gig websites like Fiverr.
How To Make Quick Money in One Day – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make quick money in one day.
If you need money immediately, there are many things you can do to make money today. Whether you’re saving for a goal or dealing with an unexpected expense, these tips can help you achieve financial flexibility in just one day.
Some may be more of a part-time side gig, whereas others can be a full-time income. It all just depends on what you’re looking for.
What do you think is the best way to make money in one day?
Want to learn how to make quick money in one day? There are plenty of opportunities out there that let you earn some extra cash without a long-term commitment or if you need cash immediately. Whether you prefer working online or doing tasks around your neighborhood, you can find a side hustle that fits your…
Want to learn how to make quick money in one day? There are plenty of opportunities out there that let you earn some extra cash without a long-term commitment or if you need cash immediately.
Whether you prefer working online or doing tasks around your neighborhood, you can find a side hustle that fits your skills and schedule. From driving for a rideshare to selling unused items, making quick money in a day is more achievable than you might think.
I have personally done most of the side hustles below, so I know they are real.
Best Ways To Make Quick Money in One Day
Below are the best ways to make quick money in one day:
1. Flip items for resale
Flipping items for resale is a fast way to make money. You buy things at a low price and sell them for more. And you can even start with stuff you already have at home.
You can sell clothes, old phones, books, unused gift cards, kitchen items, and jewelry.
Many people have lots of items just lying around, so you could easily find things to sell without spending a dime to buy new stock.
Selling your items can be quick too by listing your stuff on sites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. These platforms have many buyers looking for good deals.
Recommended reading: How I Made $40,000 In One Year Flipping Items
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
2. Sell your clothes
When I was younger, I worked at a secondhand clothing store for a few years. I know how great these shops are, especially for making extra money.
I have sold a lot of clothes over the years, both online and in person. I even had a small business reselling clothes. So, I know a lot about selling used clothes!
Selling your clothes is a great way to clean out your closet and make some quick cash. You probably have clothes lying around that you don’t wear anymore, maybe because they don’t fit or aren’t your style.
You can begin by gathering items you no longer need. Check that they’re clean and in good condition. Next, decide where you want to sell them.
Local secondhand and consignment shops are an option if you prefer selling in person. These shops buy used clothes and pay you in cash or store credit. It’s quick and straightforward, but remember they might not accept everything. Secondhand and thrift stores like Plato’s Closet will give you cash the same day, so this is a good option if you need money right now.
Selling online gives you a bigger audience and more options. Sites like ThredUp make it easy. Order a Clean Out Kit, fill it with clothes, and send it back. ThredUp handles almost everything.
Another option is Poshmark. This is an app where you can list your clothes, set prices, and sell directly to buyers. You take photos, write descriptions, and ship items after they sell. Poshmark takes a small fee from each sale.
EBay is also popular. You just create listings, set starting bids, and see how much you can earn. Auctions can end quickly, so it’s great for fast sales.
Instagram can also be a fun place to sell if you have a following. You can post pictures of your clothes, add hashtags, and engage with your buyers.
Here are 16 Best Places To Sell Clothes For Cash.
3. Sell old electronics
Selling old electronics can be a great way to make quick money in one day.
You can start by looking around your home for unused gadgets such as old phones, laptops, tablets, or even game consoles.
Your old electronics can be sold on sites like Decluttr, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Retailers like Apple, Amazon, and Best Buy also have trade-in programs. You can exchange your old devices for gift cards to use at their stores.
If you want quick cash, these methods are fast and convenient. Just gather your old electronics, pick the best place to sell, and you could have extra money in your pocket by the end of the day.
4. Dog walking and pet sitting
Dog walking is a fun and easy way to make money quickly. If you love dogs and enjoy spending time outdoors, this can be a great option for you. There are several dog walking apps that connect dog walkers with pet owners.
One popular app is Rover. It’s easy to sign up and get started. You can set your own rates and choose when you want to work. Many people find Rover helpful because there’s always a demand for dog walking services.
Another popular app is Wag for people looking for a pet sitter.
Dog walking rates can vary. Typically, you can earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on the number of dogs and the length of the walk. This can add up quickly, especially if you take multiple jobs in one day.
My mother-in-law as well as my sister are both dog walkers and really enjoy what they do!
5. Complete online surveys
Doing online surveys is a simple way to make quick money in one day. Many companies want your opinion to improve their products or services, and by sharing your thoughts, you can earn cash or gift cards.
Some paid survey sites where you can take surveys include:
Freecash
Prime Opinion
Five Surveys
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Earning money from answering surveys isn’t quick and won’t make you rich. But if you have an hour, it’s an easy way to make a little extra cash.
I have answered a lot of surveys over the years. I liked that I could do them during little breaks in my day, like before and after work, during lunch, or while riding in a car. They are easy to answer and usually only take a few minutes.
6. Freelance work
Freelance jobs are a great way to make fast money. You can use your skills to help others and get paid for it. Plus, lots of people need freelance writers, graphic designers, and web developers.
Here are some ideas:
If you enjoy writing, you can find jobs that need blog posts, articles, or even editing. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr connect you with clients who need these services.
Are you good at art or graphic design? Many businesses look for freelance graphic designers. They need help with logos, social media posts, and website designs.
Web developers can also find plenty of work online. You could help build a website or fix one that’s already running. Code issues can be tricky for many, but if you’re good at it, you can get paid well.
You can also offer services like proofreading, transcription, or even managing social media accounts. These jobs can be done quickly and still earn you money.
Freelancing gives you the freedom to choose what you do and when you work. Since it’s online, you can do it from the comfort of your home. It’s a flexible way to make quick cash on your own schedule.
I have been a freelancer for years, and I think it’s a great way to make more money.
You can learn more at 16 Best Freelance Jobs & How To Get Started.
7. Sell crafts on Etsy
Selling crafts on Etsy is a fun and creative way to make quick money. Many buyers love unique, handmade items that they can’t find anywhere else.
I shop on Etsy all the time (I actually just bought a custom card for someone as well as a specific live plant that I couldn’t find anywhere in person!).
Items like jewelry, handmade soaps, and candles are very popular. These items are easy to make and tend to sell well. Stickers and printables also have a big market and can be a good way to make a passive income stream. You can also make bath products like sugar scrubs and geode bath bombs. People love these items because they are both pretty and useful.
Here are 16 Best Things To Sell On Etsy To Make Money.
8. Rent out a spare room
Renting out a room is a great way to make money fast. If you have a spare room, you can try listing it on sites like Airbnb, Facebook, or Craigslist.
You can rent your room for a night, a week, one month, or even longer. This flexibility allows you to choose what works best for your schedule.
When I was younger, I had extra bedrooms in my house and rented them out to roommates. I rented to long-term renters and people I knew, like friends and my sister. It didn’t cover my whole mortgage, but it covered about half, which I thought was great!
9. Food delivery
Food delivery jobs can help you make quick money in one day. There are many food delivery apps and services that need drivers to deliver meals from restaurants and grocery stores to customers.
One popular option is DoorDash. As a DoorDash driver, you pick up food from local restaurants, deliver it to customers, and you can keep 100% of your tips and cash out daily.
Another good choice is Uber Eats. With Uber Eats, you set your own hours and enjoy the freedom of no boss. You can deliver food in your spare time and get paid fast.
For grocery delivery, there is Instacart. Instacart is a popular website for people who want to make extra money by shopping for and delivering groceries.
These food delivery services are flexible. You can work whenever you have free time and you can typically cash out your earnings the same day, so this is great if you need to make money quickly.
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Instacart is a popular website for people looking to earn extra money shopping for and delivering groceries. Instacart gives you the option to turn your free time into a chance to make some extra money.
10. Participate in focus groups
Participating in focus groups is a quick way to make money in one day. Companies want your opinion on products or services, and they pay well for it. You can earn between $50 and $150 for an hour of your time.
Focus groups can be done online or in person. Online focus groups are convenient because you can join from home, and in-person groups might offer even higher payouts.
User Interviews is a popular site to find focus groups to take part in.
To get started, sign up on these websites and fill out your profile. Companies will contact you when a study matches your profile.
I did a user interview once and got paid $400 for just one hour of work. It was easy and done online through a video call to get my opinion on a new website feature.
Recommended reading: 19 Best Places To Find Paid Research Studies
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User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
11. Provide handyman services
If you’re good at fixing things, selling handyman services can be a quick way to make money. Many people need help with small repairs around the house like fixing leaky faucets, installing ceiling fans, or even putting up pictures. These jobs don’t take long and can be done on short notice.
You can start by putting up flyers in your neighborhood or posting on local community boards online (for example, there’s probably a Facebook group for your town that you can join and post on).
You can also use apps like Taskrabbit to find jobs quickly. These apps connect you with people looking for immediate help. This way, you don’t have to wait long to start earning money.
You are typically paid the same day you finish the job for handyman services.
I have personally hired different handymen over the years for all sorts of services, such as a bathroom cabinet install, painting a bedroom, flooring repair, and even a roof repair.
12. Play game apps
Ever thought about making money just by playing games on your phone? There are plenty of apps where you can do just that.
Here’s a quick list of the top game platforms that pay real cash:
KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Freecash
Game apps pay real money rewards because they earn money from ads and in-app purchases. They share a part of their earnings with players like you and me to keep them engaged and playing their games.
Recommended reading: 23 Best Game Apps To Win Real Money
13. Have a yard sale
Having a yard sale (or garage sale) is a great way to make quick money in just one day. It helps you declutter your home and turn unwanted items into cash.
You usually can’t ask for a really high price on anything, but it can be a way to sell a lot of things at once and make some cash in one day.
You can sell all sorts of things – basically anything and everything that you own.
14. Sell unused gift cards
Lots of people have gift cards they never use. Maybe you have one for a store you don’t shop at. Instead of letting it collect dust, you can sell it and get cash.
Many websites let you trade your card for money such as Raise and CardCash, which are two popular sites. They usually give you around 90% of the card’s value.
To sell a gift card, you’ll enter the store’s name and the card’s balance. You’ll get an offer right away, and if you accept it, you can get paid by PayPal, direct deposit, or even a check.
15. Find unclaimed money
Did you know there might be money out there waiting for you to claim it? It’s called unclaimed money, and it’s typically from forgotten accounts, old jobs, or refunds.
To see if you have any free money to claim, go to unclaimed.org. This site is run by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA).
The site will then take you to missingmoney.com. This is a helpful tool that works with states to help people find their unclaimed money. You just need to enter your first name, last name, and state.
It’s free to search and free to claim your money. So, take a few minutes to check it out. You might find some extra money waiting for you!
I just looked and I had around $60 in free money that I could claim!
16. Babysit for neighbors
Babysitting is a great way to make quick money. Many parents need help, especially on weekends or evenings.
Let your neighbors know you are available. You can also ask friends to spread the word or even post in local Facebook groups.
17. Search for Craigslist gigs
Craigslist can be a great place to find quick-paying jobs. Many people need help with tasks, and they post ads looking for workers who can start right away.
To find Craigslist gigs in your town, go to Craigslist and look for the “gigs” section.
You can find jobs like yard cleanup, moving help, helping around the house, putting up flyers, event staff, selling plasma, tutor help, and more.
Some gigs you find may even be more specialized, like participating in local medical research studies. These gigs can pay quite a bit more, sometimes up to $1,000.
18. Wash or detail cars
Washing or detailing cars is a great way to make quick money. You can start by selling your services to friends, family, and neighbors. Most people appreciate a clean car and may not have the time to do it themselves.
You don’t need much to get started and most likely just need basic supplies like soap, sponges, towels, and a vacuum can be enough. For detailing, you might need some special products like polish and wax.
Once you get a few clients, word of mouth can help you grow your business. People will recommend you if you do a good job. Plus, you can adjust your pricing based on how much time and effort each job takes.
19. Cash in your coins
Do you have a jar full of coins sitting around? Cashing them in can be a quick way to get some extra money.
First, look for a nearby bank or credit union that you belong to as many will exchange coins for free if you have an account with them.
Coinstar machines are another option. These are usually found in grocery stores and retail shops. Be aware that they charge a fee if you want cash. To avoid the fee, sometimes you can opt for an egift card instead.
Learn more at Where To Cash Coins For Free Near Me – 9 Best Places.
20. Clean homes
One way to make quick money in a day is by cleaning homes. You can get paid to clean houses, apartments, or short-term rentals like those listed on Airbnb.
Cleaning tasks can include vacuuming, dusting, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms, and you might also need to do things like changing bed linens and washing dishes.
21. Sign-up bonuses
Sign-up bonuses are a way to make some quick money.
Many apps and websites offer these bonuses to encourage you to join them. They often come in the form of cash, gift cards, or rewards points.
Some places that give sign-up bonuses include:
Sometimes when you open a bank account, you can also get a sign-up bonus too!
22. Recycle items
Recycling can be a great way to earn quick money.
Here are some items you may be able to recycle for extra money:
Aluminum cans are easy to collect and recycle.
You can also gather old newspapers and cardboard boxes.
Metals like copper, brass, and steel can get you a good price. Sort them into different types before taking them to the scrapyard. Scrapyards often pay for clean and separated metals.
Glass bottles and jars are another option. Collect them from friends, neighbors, or local events. Check with recycling centers to see how much they pay per bottle.
Even cooking oil can be sold to companies that convert it into biodiesel or soap. Save your used cooking oil in containers and find a local recycler who buys it.
Don’t forget about selling books! Old textbooks or novels can be sold online or at local bookstores. Sites like eBay and Amazon have buyback programs that offer cash or store credit.
To make the most money by recycling, gather as much as you can, store it safely, and take it to the right place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions on how to make quick money in just one day.
How can I make money ASAP today?
If you need to learn how to get quick money in one day without paying anything, then I recommend finding things around your home to sell, such as clothes, jewelry, books, an old phone, and more.
How can I make $100 per day?
There are many ways to make $100 a day. You can sell items you don’t need like old clothes or electronics. You can also flip items for resale or sell services like cleaning or home repair.
How can you actually make $1000 a day?
Making $1000 in a day is tough but not impossible. It might involve selling high-value items like jewelry, doing freelance work, or offering specialized services. Jobs in the gig economy, such as driving or delivering, can earn you money immediately, and you can combine them with other gigs to boost your daily earnings.
How can I make money in just hours?
Try quick tasks like dog walking, babysitting, or selling items from around your home.
How to make quick money in one day as a kid?
Kids can earn money by doing chores, babysitting, or selling homemade crafts. Offering to mow lawns or do yard work for your neighbors is also a good option.
How to make quick money in one day on my phone?
Your phone can help you earn money in various ways too. You can sell things you don’t need or use your skills on freelance platforms. Answering surveys, selling photos, or being a virtual friend can also earn you money, all from the comfort of wherever you are.
How to make quick money in one day online?
To make quick money in one day online, you can take online surveys, freelance your skills, or sell items on eBay or other platforms. You can also offer services on gig websites like Fiverr.
How To Make Quick Money in One Day – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make quick money in one day.
If you need money immediately, there are many things you can do to make money today. Whether you’re saving for a goal or dealing with an unexpected expense, these tips can help you achieve financial flexibility in just one day.
Some may be more of a part-time side gig, whereas others can be a full-time income. It all just depends on what you’re looking for.
What do you think is the best way to make money in one day?
Ready to achieve millionaire status without a cent to your name? Let’s kickstart your journey with these 15 genius strategies. Each step brings you closer to your goal, building wealth through dedication and strategic moves. It’s not just about money, but the lessons learned and connections made along the way that pave the path to financial success.
Create a Financial Plan
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Craft a financial plan that charts your path to millionaire status. It’s not just a dream but a calculated strategy based on your goals and timeframe. Establish clear objectives and a roadmap to reach financial independence.
Positive Mindset for Success
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Cultivate a positive mindset to unlock financial success. By fostering optimism and clarity, you empower yourself to manifest your aspirations with confidence. Maintain a can-do attitude to navigate challenges on the road to wealth.
To learn more: 125+ Money Affirmations to Attract More Money into Your Life
Start Saving – Even Small Amounts
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Kickstart your savings journey with small but consistent contributions. Embrace mini-saving challenges that gradually accumulate wealth without disrupting your daily life. These incremental savings lay the foundation for financial independence.
To learn more: 15 Mini Savings Challenge Printables To Save More Money
Pay Off Debts ASAP
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Prioritize debt repayment to accelerate your journey to financial freedom. Eliminating debt releases resources for wealth-building endeavors and boosts your net worth. Experience the transformative power of debt freedom on your path to millionaire status.
To learn more: How to Get Out of Debt in 5 Easy Steps
Find High Income Skills
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Discover lucrative skills to boost your earning potential. In today’s dynamic economy, capitalizing on your abilities can open doors to additional income streams. Invest in developing valuable skills that align with market demands for long-term financial success.
To learn more: Top High Income Skills Without a Degree to Learn
Grow Your Income with Side Hustles and Entrepreneurship
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Expand your earning capacity through diverse income streams. Side hustles and entrepreneurship offer flexible opportunities to leverage your talents and time, paving the way for financial abundance. Explore avenues to grow your income outside traditional employment.
To learn more: Find The Perfect Side Hustle for You
Learn Investing 101
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Master the fundamentals of investing to build wealth over time. Unlock the power of compound interest and passive income by venturing into the world of stocks and investments. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to navigate the financial markets effectively. Don’t delay!
To learn more: How To Invest In Stocks For Beginners: Investing Made Easy
Adopt a Growth Mindset
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Foster a growth mindset and learn from successful individuals. Embrace opportunities for personal and professional development to accelerate your wealth-building journey. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who inspire and challenge you to reach new heights.
Pick Your Community
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Surround yourself with like-minded individuals committed to financial success. Build a supportive community that encourages wealth accumulation and mutual growth. Engage with peers who share your aspirations and values to stay motivated on your path to millionaire status.
Stay Debt Free
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Maintain financial stability by avoiding debt traps. Free yourself from debt burdens to enhance your ability to save, invest, and accumulate wealth. Embrace a debt-free lifestyle that propels you toward financial independence and long-term prosperity.
To learn more: 7 Simplistic Habits Needed for Debt Free Living
Avoid Lifestyle Inflation
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Resist the temptation of lifestyle inflation to safeguard your financial future. Balance increasing income with disciplined spending habits to maximize savings and investments. By curbing lifestyle inflation, you preserve resources for wealth-building endeavors.
To learn more: Avoid the Trap of Lifestyle Creep and Reach Financial Freedom
Take Advantage of Compounding Interest
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Harness the power of compounding interest to grow your wealth exponentially. Let your investments generate returns that fuel further growth, accelerating your journey to millionaire status. Start early and leverage the magic of compounding for long-term financial success.
Focus on Your Long Term Vision
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Cultivating a long-term vision is important to know what you are striving towards. Develop a comprehensive financial plan that encompasses savings, investments, retirement, and estate planning. Stay committed to your vision and adapt your strategy as you progress towards millionaire status.
To learn more: Host a Vision Board Party: Plenty of Ideas for Success
Take Immediate Action
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Seize the moment and take proactive steps towards financial success. Avoid the pitfalls of procrastination by prioritizing saving, investing, and debt repayment. Embrace immediate action to overcome inertia and propel yourself towards your financial goals. Then, you will become a millionaire.
To learn more: How to Become a Millionaire with No Money
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Are you wondering what the best low-maintenance businesses are? Looking for a business that doesn’t need much work? You’re not alone. Many people want to find ways to make money without having to spend all their time managing things. There are plenty of low-maintenance businesses that can provide good income with less effort. You just…
Are you wondering what the best low-maintenance businesses are? Looking for a business that doesn’t need much work? You’re not alone. Many people want to find ways to make money without having to spend all their time managing things.
There are plenty of low-maintenance businesses that can provide good income with less effort. You just need to know what options are out there and how they can fit into your busy life.
So, what makes a business low-maintenance?
This will vary from person to person, but businesses that are low maintenance are usually simpler to run because they use automation to handle work automatically. This means you don’t have to spend as much time and effort managing and growing your business.
These kinds of businesses usually have fewer things that need attention, which makes them easier to manage. For example, a vending machine business mostly involves refilling machines and collecting money. Another example is owning rental property, where you might only need to deal with tenants and handle repairs from time to time.
Running a low-maintenance business has many benefits. It reduces stress and workload for the business owner, allows for easier growth because work is simplified, and lets you concentrate on long-term planning instead of daily tasks. This approach can improve work-life balance and give you more time for hobbies and personal interests outside of work.
For me, I run a fairly low-maintenance business. It took some time to get to this point, but I now work around 10 hours a week. I can use my free time to do what I want and pursue my passions. So, I personally know how helpful these are.
Best Low Maintenance Businesses
Below are the best low-maintenance businesses to start:
1. Printables
Printables are a great low-maintenance business idea. You create digital files that people can print at home, and these can be things like journals, planners, calendars, or coloring pages.
One of the best places to sell printables is on Etsy. You make the design once and then you can sell it over and over again, and this means you don’t have to keep making new products.
Another benefit is that you don’t need any inventory. Customers download the files and print them themselves, and this saves you time and money on shipping and storing products.
To start, you’ll need some basic design skills. There are many free tools online you can use like Canva, and with some practice, you can create professional-looking products.
By focusing on quality digital products and good customer service, you can build a steady stream of income with printables. It’s a fun and creative way to make money with low upkeep.
You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
2. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a great low-maintenance business idea. You can promote products and services of other companies. When someone buys through your link, you earn a commission. It’s like getting paid for recommending things you like.
I do affiliate marketing through this blog (you can learn about starting a blog here in my free blogging course), Making Sense of Cents, and I think it’s a great way to make money – whether you are looking for a full-time income or a part-time side hustle.
Setting up isn’t hard and you can use blog posts, social media, or a YouTube channel to share your links. I recommend choosing products related to things you love or know a lot about. That way, it feels natural and fun to share, plus you know that you are helping the people who are clicking on your referral links.
One thing I really love about affiliate marketing is that you don’t need much money to start. Joining affiliate programs is almost always free (I’ve actually never been asked to pay to join one, and I have never seen one that has a fee). Many companies have referral programs, such as Amazon, eBay, and even smaller brands.
The best part is, you don’t handle inventory or customer service. The company does all that and you just focus on getting people to click your links.
Affiliate marketing can be done from anywhere with internet access. It’s a flexible way to make money, especially if you have a busy schedule. Just put in some initial effort to set everything up, and it can almost run by itself.
For me, I spend less than 10 hours usually on my blog, and it earns me a full-time income. I put in a lot of work in the beginning, and now things run mostly by themselves with just a little maintenance from me, such as updating blog posts and sending out emails.
You can learn more at Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook.
3. Vending machines
Vending machines are a great low-maintenance business idea because they don’t take a lot of time to manage and can bring in extra cash. You place them in high-traffic areas and just need to restock them every so often.
You can sell all kinds of items in vending machines. Snacks and drinks are popular choices; some people even sell toys or beauty products. The key is to pick items that your target customers (the people who are already at the location where you will place your vending machines) will want to buy.
One of the best parts about vending machines is the low start-up cost. You can start with just one machine and grow your business from there. Plus, you don’t have to hire a lot of staff or deal with a complicated setup.
Running a vending machine business also means you can earn passive income. Once your machine is set up and stocked, it can make money while you do other things. You just need to check on it and refill it when needed.
Learn more at How To Start A Vending Machine Business.
4. Real estate rental
Real estate rental is a popular way to earn passive income with low maintenance.
You can start by buying a property and renting it out. This could be a single-family home, a condo, or even an apartment.
Many people use platforms like Airbnb to rent properties to tourists, and this can be a good way to make money if you live in a popular area.
If managing the property seems overwhelming, you can hire a property management company. They handle things like finding tenants, collecting rent, and doing maintenance. Hiring a property management company can be a good way to make this a more low-maintenance business.
Learn more about low-maintenance real estate ideas at 23 Best Real Estate Side Hustles To Make Extra Money.
5. ATM business
We’ve all used ATMs, but did you know that someone like you or me is making money from them?
An ATM business can be a great low-maintenance business choice. You place ATM machines in busy locations where lots of people need cash.
You earn money from the fees people pay to use your machines, and these small fees can add up quickly.
The start-up cost is your main expense, as ATMs usually cost around $2,000 to $3,000 each or more, and you will have to buy these yourself.
Managing ATMs doesn’t take much time either because once the machines are set up, they mostly take care of themselves. You just need to refill them with cash and make sure they are running well.
Overall, this business can provide a steady flow of income with a low effort once everything is in place. As long as you pick good locations and keep your machines running, you can make money with less day-to-day work.
6. Laundromat
Starting a laundromat business is a popular low-maintenance business. People always need clean clothes, so there is a steady demand.
A laundromat often needs less day-to-day management because you just need to make sure machines are working and maintain a clean environment.
You can set up your laundry service in a busy neighborhood where people need quick and easy laundry solutions. This will help you attract more customers.
With a laundromat, most of the work is done by machines. You just need to make sure the machines are working properly and help customers if they have questions.
Learn more at Are Laundromats Profitable? How Much Do Laundromats Make?
7. Self-storage units
Self-storage units are one of the best low-maintenance businesses you can start. People need extra space to store their belongings, and you can provide that for them.
You don’t need to be there all the time, and you can set up a system where people can access their storage unit with a code or key card. This means fewer hours spent managing the business.
The demand for storage units is high in many areas. People are always looking for a place to keep their stuff – whether they are moving, downsizing, or just need extra space.
Once your storage units are rented out, you can earn passive income each month.
Maintenance is minimal for self-storage units. Most of the work involves keeping the area clean and making sure everything is secure. You might need to fix a door or handle paperwork occasionally, but it’s not time-consuming.
You can sell climate-controlled units to attract more customers and charge a higher rate too. Some items need to be stored in specific conditions, and providing this option can set your business apart.
You can also add features like 24-hour surveillance cameras and secure fencing to make your customers feel safe. People are more likely to rent from you if they know their belongings are protected.
For me, I personally have used a storage unit a few times – for my personal belongings such as boxes and even for an RV and boat. They always had crazy long waits, and some towns even had waitlists of years long – so there is a lot of demand!
Learn more at How To Invest In Self-Storage For Beginners.
8. Car wash
Starting a car wash business can be a smart idea. You can choose to open a self-service car wash or an automated one, and both options require less daily work compared to a full-service car wash.
A self-service car wash lets customers wash their own cars. This means you don’t need many employees, and you just need to keep the place clean and maintain the machines.
For an automated car wash, cars go through a machine that does the washing. You only need to check the equipment and refill supplies like soap and water.
Car washes can be profitable. Many people prefer to have a clean car but don’t have the time to wash it themselves, so this keeps the demand high.
You can also offer extra services like a vacuum that customers can use for an additional fee. This can boost your income without much extra work.
With some planning and the right setup, a car wash can be a great low-maintenance business idea. Plus, it can provide a steady income once it’s up and running.
9. Create an online course
Creating an online course is a great low-maintenance business idea. You can share your knowledge and skills with people all over the world. Once you create and upload the course, it can keep making money even while you sleep.
I started my first online course around 8 years ago and have earned over $2,000,000 from it over the years. Much of the work was done up front, and I am still able to help students today. I update the course all the time, but most of the legwork was done years ago, which has been so nice.
You can start this low-maintenance small business idea by thinking about what you are good at.
Online courses can be made on all types of subjects, such as gardening, baking, musical instruments, business, finance, travel, and more.
Another plus is you can always update or add new content to keep your course fresh and relevant. This can attract new learners and keep current ones coming back for more.
An online course is a fantastic way to earn passive income with some upfront effort and minimal ongoing maintenance.
Note: I recommend signing up for this free training – How Anyone Can Create an Online Course That Sells – In this free training, you will learn the 7-step process to create, market, and launch a profitable online course.
10. Stock photo photography
Stock photo photography is a great low-maintenance business idea where you can get paid to take pictures. You can take pictures in your free time and upload them to stock photo websites. Each time someone downloads your photo, you earn money.
All you need is a decent camera. You can even use your smartphone if it has a good camera!
You don’t have to worry about managing inventory or dealing with customers directly, and you can just focus on taking high-quality photos that people want to use.
Popular subjects include landscapes, cityscapes, and everyday objects. Seasonal themes and holiday photos also do well.
Once you’ve uploaded your photos, they can keep earning money for years, and that’s why it’s considered a passive income source.
11. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a popular business model for many beginners. You sell products online, but you don’t need to keep them in stock. Instead, your supplier ships the products directly to your customers. This means you don’t need to spend money on storing inventory.
Once your website is set up and products are listed, it can handle sales automatically. As orders come in, you can streamline shipment processes, allowing your business to handle more customers without much added effort.
Another great thing about starting a dropshipping business is that it is affordable. With little or no start-up capital, you can list products on your website and start selling. You only buy the products from your supplier when you make a sale.
Another positive about dropshipping is the low risk involved. You’re not stuck with unsold inventory. Plus, you don’t need to worry about packing and shipping items. This makes dropshipping a low-maintenance business idea.
12. Print-on-demand
Print-on-demand is a great low-maintenance business idea. You can create custom designs for items like T-shirts, mugs, and phone cases.
You don’t have to worry about storing inventory. When someone buys a product, the print-on-demand company prints it and ships it directly to the customer, and this makes the process very hands-off for you.
Printful and Printify are popular print-on-demand companies. They offer many different products and work with various platforms like Shopify and Etsy. You can sell your designs in multiple stores, reaching different audiences.
What’s nice about print-on-demand is you can start small and grow. You only pay for the products customers buy. This means low upfront costs and reduced financial risk for your business.
Starting a print-on-demand business can be a great way to make money with minimal effort.
13. Parking lots
Parking lots can be a great low-maintenance business. If you have a space in a busy city, it’s a prime spot as a lot of people probably need parking, and they’re willing to pay a good price for it.
Once you set up a parking lot, there’s not much you need to do. You might have to repaint lines or put up new signs occasionally, but these tasks are easy and don’t take much time.
Owning a parking lot has other benefits too, with the main ones being that you don’t have to manage a lot of employees, and the maintenance costs are pretty low. Plus, you don’t need to be there every day to keep it running smoothly.
Starting a small parking lot with just 20 spaces can already bring in good money. If you charge $20 per day per space, you could see an annual revenue of around $146,000, with a high profit margin.
14. Billboards
Billboards are a great low-maintenance business. Once you set them up, they don’t need a lot of work. You can rent out advertising space to companies that want to advertise.
Starting a billboard business means finding good locations. Busy streets and highways are best and you need to rent or buy the space. After that, the billboard does the work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting a low-maintenance business can be a great way to earn income with minimal effort. Below are some common questions and answers about low-maintenance business options.
What is the cheapest business with the most profit?
The cheapest business with the most profit to start includes businesses like selling printables on Etsy, affiliate marketing on a blog, creating an online course, and dropshipping.
What is the easiest business to start and maintain?
The easiest business to start and maintain includes printables, self-storage units, stock photo photography, and parking lots.
What kinds of businesses can I start that don’t require a lot of time to manage?
Vending machines are a great option. Once placed in high-traffic areas, they require little maintenance. Just stock them up and collect your earnings.
Which businesses can really run by themselves?
Real estate rentals can run mostly by themselves, especially if you hire a property manager. They take care of the day-to-day tasks like rent collection and maintenance.
What are the best business choices for earning passive income?
ATM businesses can generate passive income. You earn money from surcharge fees every time someone uses your machine. Place your ATMs in busy locations to maximize earnings.
What is the least riskiest business?
Self-storage facilities are low risk. People always need storage, and once set up, these facilities require minimal management. You collect rental fees without much daily involvement.
How do you find low-maintenance businesses for sale?
To find a business that runs itself for sale, check listings on websites like BizBuySell and LoopNet, or contact business brokers. Before purchasing, thoroughly research and vet any business to make sure it meets your needs and expectations.
What are the best businesses to buy for passive income?
Buying existing laundromats or storage facilities can be great for passive income. These businesses already have cash flow and customers, reducing your initial workload, and you can purchase them to get started quicker.
Best Low Maintenance Businesses – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best low-maintenance businesses.
There are many types of businesses that run themselves and are low maintenance as you learned above. These include selling printables, affiliate marketing, vending machines, rental real estate, running a laundromat, renting storage space, and more.
Some key traits of low-maintenance businesses include:
Few routine tasks
Easy to manage
Low maintenance or repair needs
One of the biggest benefits is the reduced time and effort required. Many low-maintenance businesses can be set up to run smoothly with minimal daily involvement. This frees you up to focus on other important tasks, like spending time with family or pursuing hobbies.
Low-maintenance businesses are also highly scalable. Since you spend less time on daily tasks, you can concentrate on growing your business. As it grows, you can duplicate your model and open more locations or move into new markets.
What do you think are the best low-maintenance businesses?