HERE’S HOW TO EARN MONEY THROUGH A SIDE GIG AND THE TIMELINE FOR SEEING ADDITIONAL INCOME.
The impact of inflation might lead you to consider earning additional income. If you have the time and motivation, you can leverage your skills and interests through a side hustle.
25 legitimate ways to earn money from home, online, or on the go. For each potential side gig, we provide information on starting requirements, age limitations, and the timeframe for receiving payments. While many seek quick earnings, it’s important not to overlook slower gigs, as they can often yield higher long-term returns.
- Ways to earn money online:
- Methods to earn money from home:
- Techniques to make money offline:
Ways to earn money online:
1. Take on freelance projects online.
Earn Money Online with Freelance Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com
These platforms provide opportunities for various freelance jobs, such as writing, programming, design, marketing, data entry, and virtual assistance. If you’re fluent in a second language, check out sites like Gengo or Blend Express, or promote your services through your own website. Whatever type of freelancing you pursue, stay informed about the current rates for your services to set competitive prices. Learn how to get started on Upwork.
A recent report from Freelancer.com revealed that creative writing jobs saw the fastest growth in listings on its site in the second quarter of 2023, increasing by 58%. While generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used for content creation, it can’t fully replace human writers. Companies seek writers who can edit AI-generated content and have a basic understanding of search engine optimization (SEO). Enhancing your SEO skills could be a profitable side hustle, with some freelancers earning $100 an hour or more for their writing services.
Total time: It may take some time to land your first gig.
Setup time: 24-48 hours.
Ease of starting: Easy, if you have the necessary expertise.
Payment speed: Varies by platform.
Important Information:
Upwork may take up to 48 hours to approve your profile. Keep in mind that securing your first freelance job might take some time.
Payment schedules vary by platform. On Upwork, the timeline for receiving earnings depends on the type of payment:
- Hourly contracts: Follow a weekly billing cycle, with funds available for withdrawal 10 days later.
- Fixed-price contracts: Have a five-day waiting period before you can withdraw funds.
- Project catalog contracts: Allow for payment withdrawal after five days.
- Bonus payments: Become available after five days as well.
In all cases, the client must review and approve your work.
On Fiverr, you’re paid once the work order is complete, but you can’t withdraw funds for 14 days. This waiting period is shorter for Top Rated Sellers and Fiverr Studio Members.
Requirements:
- Age: Upwork and Fiverr require users to be at least 18 years old to sell work, while Freelancer.com requires users to be at least 16.
- Residency: Some platforms may require you to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
2. Test Websites and AppsAnother way to earn money from home is through sites like UserTesting.com. These platforms pay you for providing feedback on the usability of various websites and apps. You’ll need to complete a short test to be accepted, and payment depends on the type of test.
Total time: Approval time can vary. Setup time: Less than an hour. Ease of starting: Easy, if you have the necessary tech equipment and pass a sample test. Age requirement: 18+. Payment speed: 14 days.
Important Information:
You must complete a sample test as part of the application process.
You will start receiving testing opportunities once your application is approved.
The approval timeline can vary.
Payment amounts depend on the length of the tests. You will be paid via PayPal 14 days after completing a website or app test.
Requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You need a computer, internet connection, and microphone.
- Mobile app testers must have an Android or iOS mobile phone or tablet.
- The practice test and most user testing require proficiency in English, German, or French, though some test opportunities may be available in other languages.
3. Learn to Use AI Tools
The use of generative artificial intelligence is increasing rapidly. According to a recent PwC report, the North American economy could see a $3.7 trillion impact by 2030 due to the AI market.
Now is a great time to learn how to make money using AI tools. Some AI-related side hustles include:
- Integrating AI tools as a freelancer to create digital products or edit AI content for clients.
- Enhancing advertising, marketing, and management for your existing small business.
- Teaching others how to use AI tools.
Total time: Depends on demand.
Setup time: Around 24-48 hours if using a site like Upwork or Freelancer.com.
Ease of starting: Easier if you’re already familiar with AI tools.
Age requirement: 16+ for Freelancer.com and 18+ for Upwork.
Payment speed: Varies by client, the number of products you sell, and your chosen platform.
Important Information:
- Allow yourself time to become proficient with AI tools.
- You must meet the requirements of the freelance platform you select.
- Payment will vary based on your client and the terms and conditions of the site.
Requirements:
You will need a computer, an internet connection, and a microphon.
4. Take Surveys for Money
You can earn money from home by participating in online surveys, though it’s unlikely to be a significant source of income. Many survey sites offer more in the way of gift cards than cash. Popular survey sites include Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. Check out our analysis of survey sites to determine which one might be the best fit for you.
Total time: It may take some time to accumulate earnings.
Setup time: Just a few minutes.
Ease of starting: Very easy—simply register and start.
Age requirement: 13 and up.
Payment speed: Varies by site.
Important Information:
Survey sites can be a good option for beginners looking to make money online since you can sign up and start taking surveys within minutes.
The time it takes to get paid varies by site and depends on how much time you spend completing surveys.
Some sites require you to reach a minimum earnings threshold before you can cash out.
Other survey sites award points that can be redeemed for cash (via PayPal) or gift cards.
Requirements:
Most survey sites have a minimum age requirement, typically ranging from 13 to 18, making them a viable option for teens looking to earn money online.
Be aware that individual surveys may have specific criteria, and you might be disqualified from a survey without much explanation.
5. Earn Money from Your Blog with Affiliate Links
If you have a blog with good traffic, you can earn money by joining an affiliate network. As an affiliate, you earn a commission when someone clicks through your affiliate link and makes a purchase on the partner site. Some bloggers make substantial income from affiliate marketing, especially those who focus on it full-time. You can also use social media or platforms like Pinterest to drive traffic to your blog. Learn more about affiliate marketing and other revenue streams for bloggers.
Total time: Building an audience can take a significant amount of time.
Setup time: Creating a blog is easy with templates available.
Ease of starting: While starting may be straightforward, consistently producing content can be challenging.
Age requirement: Any.
Payment speed: Typically a month or two on average.
Important Information:
First, you’ll need a blog, social media account, or other online presence that attracts a substantial number of visitors each month.
Next, apply to and get approved by an affiliate marketing network such as CJ Affiliate, ShareASale, FlexOffers, Rakuten Advertising, or Amazon Associates.
Payment schedules and minimum thresholds vary by network, but typically you’ll wait at least a month or two for your first payment.
- Amazon Associates pays out earnings 60 days after the end of the calendar month in which they were earned.
- ShareASale disburses earnings on a monthly basis.
Requirements:
A blog, social media account, or another online platform that regularly draws a steady flow of visitors.
6. Sell Your Creations on Etsy
If you have a talent for woodworking, jewelry-making, embroidery, or pottery, you can sell your crafts on Etsy, a popular platform for artisans offering home goods, art, and unique items. Etsy boasts 95 million active buyers and reported over $13 billion in merchandise sales in 2022. Learn more about how to succeed on Etsy.
Total time: It may take some time for customers to discover your shop.
Setup time: Can be quite detailed.
Ease of starting: Generally considered “hard” on the difficulty scale.
Age requirement: 13+.
Payment speed: From the next day to up to seven days after a sale.
Important Information:
Setting up an Etsy shop is relatively quick and can be done in a few hours.
However, preparing to open your shop involves more time-consuming tasks. You’ll need to create your merchandise, take photos, write descriptions, choose a shop name, and develop a business plan. After setting everything up, attracting customers might take additional time, potentially weeks, depending on your products. Therefore, expect the overall process to be slow.
Once you make a sale, payment is first deposited into your Etsy Payments account and then transferred to your bank account according to your chosen deposit schedul.
Requirements:
If you’re over 13 but under 18, you can sell on Etsy, though you’ll be considered a minor and must adhere to additional policies.
You must have all the necessary rights to the merchandise you sell in your shop.
7. Self-Publish an E-Book
Writing a great book can be challenging, but the internet makes it easy to publish and sell. If you’re a writer who can produce content, you can use Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) to sell your book on the Kindle store. Publishing is free, and you can earn up to 70% in royalties from each sale. Simply write your book, provide a clear description, upload your manuscript, and set the price to start selling.
Total time: The time depends on your writing speed, as writing a book can be time-consuming.
Setup time: Quick and easy on KDP once your book is ready.
Ease of starting: Just begin writing.
Age requirement: 18+.
Payment speed: Monthly, after you reach the $100 threshold.
Important Information:
While self-publishing is straightforward, it doesn’t guarantee that your book will sell, as the Kindle Store is highly competitive with millions of e-book titles.
You can choose between two royalty options: 70% or 35%. If you select the 70% royalty rate, your book must be priced between $2.99 and $9.99. Opting for the 35% royalty rate allows more flexibility with pricing.
Requirements:
You need to set up a Kindle Direct Publishing account to begin.
Proper formatting is crucial. Amazon notes that most Microsoft Word documents convert easily to e-books, but other formats are also supported.
8. Earn Advertising Revenue from Your Blog or YouTube Channel
Transform your popular content into income by monetizing with ads. If your YouTube videos or blog posts attract a large audience, you can earn money through advertising. To place ads on your YouTube channel, you need at least 1,000 subscribers to apply for the YouTube Partner Program. You can apply for additional monetizing features like channel memberships with 500 subscribers. For blogs or websites, you can use Google AdSense, the same ad platform used on YouTube, to display relevant ads and generate revenue. Learn more about making money on YouTube and Google AdSense.
Total time: Setting up can take several weeks.
Setup time: Fairly easy.
Ease of starting: Depends on your ability to create engaging content.
Age requirement: 18+.
Payment speed: It may take a while to receive your first payout, then payments are monthly.
Important Information:
Signing up for Google AdSense is straightforward, but to use AdSense with YouTube, you must be part of the YouTube Partner Program.
AdSense can also be used on websites or blogs with fewer eligibility requirements.
Allow at least two months for ad revenue to begin accumulating.
You need to earn at least $100 before you’re eligible for a payout.
Once you reach the $100 threshold, earnings are issued between the 21st and 26th of the following month.
Requirements:
- An active website that has been running for at least six months.
- For YouTube, you need a minimum of 1,000 subscribers.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
9. Become an Instagram Influencer
Brands are increasingly partnering with Instagram influencers—individuals with substantial, engaged followings on the platform—to promote their products. You can get involved by applying for opportunities through marketing platforms like Open Influence or Aspire, or by reaching out directly to brands you want to collaborate with. Learn more about how to make money on Instagram. (You can also use this approach on TikTok.)
Total time: Success requires consistent effort.
Setup time: Quick and easy.
Ease of starting: Challenging, as building a following and gaining influence takes time.
Age requirement: 13+.
Payment speed: Varies depending on the partnerships.
Important Information:
Setting up an Instagram account is quick, but growing a substantial following can take months or even years.
Once you have a solid following, you’ll need to secure paid opportunities. This can be done through affiliate networks or by pitching brands directly.
Payment timing depends on your agreement, but affiliate networks generally pay out earnings in the month following the completion of a campaign.
Requirements:
An Instagram account with a dedicated and engaged following.
You must also meet the criteria set by any affiliate network you work with.
10. Monetize Your Twitch Channel
Gaming can be a lucrative way to earn money from home if you have a steady following on Twitch, a popular platform for gamers. Streamers can receive donations from viewers and earn a share of subscription and ad revenue once they achieve Affiliate or Partner status. Learn more about how to make money on Twitch.
Total time: Building a successful channel can take a considerable amount of time.
Setup time: Quick and easy.
Ease of starting: Simple to start; building a following takes time.
Age requirement: 13+.
Payment speed: Monthly.
Important Information:
You can start a Twitch channel and begin streaming within a day, but building a following can take weeks or even months.
Donations may be available for withdrawal relatively quickly, depending on your payout method.
Subscription and ad revenue as a Twitch Partner or Affiliate is typically paid out around the 15th of each month. You must have a minimum balance of $50 for most payout methods, or $100 for wire transfers.
Requirements:
To become a Twitch Affiliate or Partner and qualify for a share of game sales, ads, and subscription revenue, you need to meet specific viewership and broadcast milestones.
11. Sell Your Photography
Monetize your photographs by selling them on platforms like Fine Art America, where you can offer your images as prints, T-shirts, phone cases, and more. Other options for photographers include SmugMug, 500px, and PhotoShelter. Some of these sites may require a subscription but offer benefits such as cloud storage, password-protected galleries, and a customized website.
Total time: Success depends on attracting buyers who appreciate your work.
Setup time: Just a few hours.
Ease of starting: If you already have a collection of photos, you’re well on your way.
Age requirement: Varies.
Payment speed: Depends on the sales platform.
How to Make Money from Home
Some side hustles let you earn from the comfort of your home, and others might involve a short walk around the block with a furry friend. Working from home requires creativity and perseverance. Here are some great home-based side gig ideas:
12. Become a Dog Walker with Rover or Wag
If you love dogs, dog walking is a great beginner-friendly side hustle. Apps like Wag and Rover offer on-demand dog walking opportunities, allowing you to pick up walks according to your schedule. If you have space (and your landlord’s permission, if you rent), you can also provide overnight dog boarding. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully when signing up for these services.
Total time: Building a client base might take some time.
Setup time: Approval can take a few weeks.
Ease of starting: If you’re passionate about pets, you’re set to go.
Age requirement: 18+.
Payment speed: Generally between two days to a week.
Important Information:
It typically takes about 5 to 10 business days for your Rover profile to be reviewed and approved.
The application process for Wag generally takes around two weeks and includes passing a background check and a pet care quiz.
Requirements:
- You need to live in an area where Rover or Wag operates.
- If you plan to offer pet-sitting services at your own home, your apartment or house must allow pets.
- A background check is required.
13. Sell Unused Gift Cards
Turn unused or partially used gift cards into cash by selling them on platforms like CardCash or GiftCash. CardCash, for example, offers up to 92% of the card’s value or allows you to trade it for a card you’ll use. Learn more about what to do with unwanted gift cards.
Total time: Just minutes if the gift card is from a popular store.
Setup time: Easy.
Ease of starting: The more gift cards you have to sell, the better.
Age requirement: Old enough to have a credit card.
Payment speed: Typically a few days to about two weeks.
Important Information:
You can receive an instant offer or quote on sites like CardCash and GiftCash.
Gift cards can also be sold at kiosks and participating retail locations for same-day cash. Alternatively, selling them online might take longer but could yield a better offer.
Requirements:
Your gift card may need to have a minimum balance to be eligible for resale, and not all cards will receive offers.
Gift cards with expiration dates may not be accepted.
14. List Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb
Renting out your home or spare bedroom on vacation rental sites like Airbnb is another way to earn extra money. Be prepared to invest in cleaning, maintaining the property, replacing home goods, and covering service fees. Also, review your rental agreement, HOA rules, and any zoning or other restrictions before you start.
Total time: Success depends on demand, which is influenced by your location.
Setup time: You can create and publish a listing within hours.
Ease of starting: If you have a space to rent, the process is straightforward.
Age requirement: 18+.
Payment speed: Typically a day or more after check-in.
Important Information:
You can create a listing and begin accepting reservations on the same day.
Payment is usually processed about 24 hours after your guest’s scheduled check-in time, though the exact timing depends on your chosen payout method.
Requirements:
You must comply with any regulations related to short-term or vacation rentals, including city ordinances and rules set by your landlord, condo board, or homeowners association.
How to Make Money Offline
While online and at-home methods for earning extra money are popular, there’s also the option of making money offline. This approach might require more effort, but it can be quite rewarding. Some offline methods might still involve an online component:
15. Sell Your Gently Used Clothes
Selling clothes you no longer wear is a quick way to earn some extra cash. Start with local consignment shops for faster sales, or use platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark to find buyers. When listing items online, ensure you take clear, well-lit photos and research similar items to set competitive prices. Get tips on how to sell your clothing.
Total time: Depends on the sales channel.
Setup time: Easy and quick. You can visit a consignment shop or send a box of clothes to an online platform.
Ease of starting: Simple. The most challenging part may be cleaning out your closet.
Age requirement: 13 for Poshmark, 18 for ThredUp.
Payment speed: Varies by sales channel.
Important Information:
You can sell used clothing and accessories through various methods, all of which are relatively quick to start.
- Fast: A local consignment store like Plato’s Closet can provide cash immediately.
- Medium: Other in-person or online consignment shops will pay you when your items sell or after they receive and inspect them. In either case, expect to wait at least a month for your payment.
Requirements:
- Gently worn shoes, clothing, and accessories.
- Items will undergo various inspections before acceptance. For instance, ThredUp checks for issues like pilling, fading, shrinkage, missing parts (such as buttons), and stains.
16. TRADE IN OLD PHONES, AND ELECTRONICS FOR CASH
Have an old phone, iPad, laptop, or gaming system lying around? Sell it on a site like Swappa, Gazelle or Facebook Marketplace. Check out Amazon’s trade-in program, which pays participants in Amazon gift cards — and eBay, too. If you’re in a rush, try an ecoATM kiosk, which offers cash on the spot for your device.
Total time: Lots of options, so your time spent will vary.
Setup: A breeze.
How easy to start: Easy, especially if your phone is in good shape.
Age threshold: Typically 18; check terms of service.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by where you sell.
Important Information:
- Selling Directly (Swappa, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace): Generally, you need to take photos of your phone, verify that its electronic serial number is clean, and post your listing. While some platforms review and approve your post, this process is usually quick. Fees vary; for example, Swappa charges a 3% seller fee.
- Selling to Reseller (Gazelle): Provide a few details online for an instant quote. After sending in your device, you’ll receive payment once the company confirms that the device’s condition matches your description.
- Selling Directly: Payment timing depends on how quickly your phone or device sells. Once sold, payment is typically processed promptly.
Requirements:
- A used phone, laptop, gaming system, etc.
- Cell Phones: Verify that the phone is not stolen or under a repayment plan. Additionally, ensure there are no activation locks and review the terms of service for any other specific requirements.
17. Get a Babysitting Gig
Babysitting is a flexible way to earn money and is suitable for everyone from college students to retirees. While word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family can help you get started, you can also expand your reach by creating a free profile on sites like Care.com or Sittercity. Highlight any specialized skills, such as CPR certifications, to increase your appeal.
- Total Time: Setting up an online profile takes minutes, but gaining neighborhood referrals may take longer.
- Setup: Quick and easy.
- How Easy to Start: The key is spreading the word about your services.
- Age Threshold: Very young if relying on personal referrals; 18+ for online platforms.
- How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment is typically received when the parents return.
Need to Know:
- Setting up a profile on Care.com or Sittercity takes only a few minutes.
- Payment is usually made after the job is completed, either through the platform or directly from the client.
Requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old to create a caregiver profile on Care.com and Sittercity.
- Clients may require a background check.
18. Rent Out Your Car
City residents often leave their cars unused for days or weeks, which can be turned into extra income by renting them out through services like Getaround and Turo. These platforms allow you to rent your car by the hour or day. You keep most of the earnings, with Getaround or Turo taking a commission for insuring your vehicle during the rental.
- Total time: Demand for your car will vary based on your local market.
- Setup: Creating an account takes about 30 minutes.
- How easy to start: It’s straightforward if you have a suitable vehicle.
- Age threshold: Turo requires you to be 21 or older with a valid driver’s license; Getaround has no specific age requirement.
- How fast you’ll get paid: Payment timelines vary by site.
Need to Know:
- You can set up a listing on Turo or Getaround in under 30 minutes.
- Turo: Payment is initiated within three hours after the rental ends, but it may take a few days for your bank to process the deposit. This timing applies to all rentals after the first one, which takes a bit longer for Turo to process.
- Getaround: Earnings are accumulated monthly and paid out on the 15th of the following month. Payments are made via check or PayPal.
Requirements:
- If your car is leased, review your lease agreement and financing documents to ensure that you’re permitted to share it.
- Your car must meet specific criteria regarding make, model, year, mileage, and maintenance. It must also comply with safety standards. Additionally, you may need to agree not to list your car on other platforms.
19. Sign Up for TaskRabbit
If you enjoy assembling Ikea furniture or standing in long lines, you might be well-suited for completing tasks for others. TaskRabbit connects you with people who need assistance with a range of activities, including moving, cleaning, delivery, and handyman services. The platform also offers virtual tasks like research projects or data entry.
- Total Time: The time you spend will depend on local demand for your services.
- Setup: Takes a couple of hours to set up and get approved.
- How Easy to Start: Easy to get started, though some research is needed.
- Age Threshold: 18+.
- How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment is typically processed a few days after completing a job.
Need to Know
You can set up your TaskRabbit profile and register within a few hours, but you must wait for approval before you can start accepting tasks.
Once approved, you’ll need to pay a $25 fee. It’s a good idea to research your market and assess the value of your skills before deciding if the fee is worthwhile.
Payment is processed through direct deposit to your checking account and typically appears within a few days after completing a task.
Requirements
To work with TaskRabbit, you must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check.
20. Become a Private Tutor
Turn your knowledge in subjects like math, science, foreign languages, or test preparation into a profitable side gig by offering private tutoring services. You can choose to tutor either online or in person. Your rates will depend on your experience, expertise, and demand. To get started, check platforms like Craigslist for tutor needs, or create a profile on Tutor.com or Care.com. You can also promote your services at local schools and community centers.
- Total Time: Varies by subject; some platforms may require a minimum weekly commitment (e.g., Tutor.com requires 5 hours).
- Setup: Can be somewhat involved.
- How Easy to Start: It might take time for students to find you.
- Age Threshold: Any.
- How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by platform; refer to the terms of service.
Need to Know
The time it takes to start depends on local demand, so it might be a while before you get your first student. If you’re new to tutoring, allow time for preparation to ensure your students get the most value from their sessions.
Payment speed varies based on whether you tutor through a platform or in-person, but it generally doesn’t take long to receive your earnings.
Requirements
You’ll need substantial expertise in a subject that people seek help with, such as math, a foreign language, or test preparation.
Educational qualifications may be required; some tutoring roles might demand current enrollment in a four-year university or at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
21. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Earn money by driving passengers with Uber or Lyft. Keep in mind the costs for gas and vehicle maintenance. You’ll need a car that meets the platform’s requirements, and you’ll have to pass a background check and driving history review. Find out more about becoming an Uber driver or earning with Lyft.
Total time: Depends on the demand in your area.
Setup: Takes a few weeks.
How easy to start: Relatively straightforward, provided you have the appropriate vehicle.
Age threshold: Varies by service. For Uber, you need to be licensed to drive in your area with one year of driving experience (or three years if under 25). Lyft’s age requirement ranges from 21 to 25 depending on the region.
How fast you’ll get paid: Very quickly—either instantly or within a few days.
Need to know:
Expect some time for the application process, background check, and car inspection. Once approved, both Lyft and Uber provide fast payment options, letting you receive funds instantly via a debit card or transfer earnings to your bank account quickly.
Requirements:
You need a four-door car that meets specific criteria, including its model year and condition. Additionally, inform your car insurance company of your intention to drive for rideshare services.
22. Make Deliveries for Amazon, Uber Eats
Tap into the booming delivery market by signing up with services like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex. You’ll get paid per delivery and may also earn tips. Depending on the service, you might not need a car; for instance, Postmates and, in some cities, DoorDash, allow deliveries by bike or scooter. However, a background check is usually required. Learn more about how to get started with Amazon Flex, Uber Eats, and Instacart.
Total Time: Depends on demand in your area.
Setup: Typically about a week.
How Easy to Start: Easy, provided you have reliable transportation.
Age Threshold: Varies by service, but generally at least 18.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by vendor.
Need to Know:
Background checks may take a few days, with timing varying based on the service.
Payment schedules also differ among services, but generally, payments are issued weekly or faster.
Requirements:
You’ll need a method of delivery, such as a car, scooter, or bike, depending on the service.
A smartphone is essential for accepting and managing jobs.
Minimum age requirements vary by service.
23. Find Work as a Housesitter
If you’re open to taking care of someone’s home — including feeding pets, watering plants, and handling trash — consider becoming a housesitter. You can seek referrals from your personal network or use platforms like HouseSitter.com, which connects homeowners with housesitters.
Total Time: Depends on demand in your area.
Setup: Quick to set up, though building a referral network might take longer.
How Easy to Start: Depends on local demand for housesitting services.
Age Threshold: Varies by platform.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Usually at the end of the assignment; payment arrangements should be made directly with clients.
You can set up a profile on HouseSitter.com within minutes, but securing your first housesitting job might take some time.
Payment is usually made directly by the homeowner upon completion of the job.
24. Become a Mystery Shopper
Businesses often seek feedback on their performance from a customer’s perspective. As a mystery shopper, you provide valuable insights into their services. You can apply online through platforms like IntelliShop, BestMark, and Sinclair Customer Metrics. Be cautious of scams and thoroughly research any company before you sign up.
Total time: Varies by platform.
Setup: Application is quick, but approval may take some time.
How easy to start: Generally straightforward if you have the necessary transportation and technology.
Age threshold: Varies by platform.
How fast you’ll get paid: Payment times differ by company.
Need to know:
The application process is usually quick, but approval times depend on the company and can range from days to longer, based on demand.
Payment timing and methods vary; for instance, BestMark processes payments on a monthly basis.
Requirements:
Most mystery shopping services have an age requirement, such as being at least 18 for BestMark. Additionally, you may need internet access depending on the service.
25. Put Your Drone to Work
If you already own a camera drone, you can turn it into a money-making tool. Real estate agents often hire drone pilots for aerial photos and videos of properties. With more advanced skills, like drone mapping, you can attract clients needing aerial inspections and land mapping.
To get started, you’ll need to pass a test to become a certified drone pilot and register your drone with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). After that, you can start applying for gigs.
- Total Time: Depends on demand and client acquisition.
- Setup: Time required for certification and finding clients.
- How Easy to Start: If you own a drone and have basic skills, you’re likely ready.
Watch Out for Money-Making Scams
The internet offers many opportunities to earn money online or from home, but some of them may be scams. Be cautious of any “opportunity” that requires an upfront fee, charges for certification, or asks for sensitive information like your Social Security number or credit card details.
If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of an opportunity, check community forums, such as Reddit, for honest reviews and feedback. Additionally, review the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile to see their rating based on complaints, transparency, and other factors.
Keep a close eye on your finances, especially during tough times. If you’re experiencing financial stress, NerdWallet can help you find ways to save.
- Age Threshold: 16+.
- How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by company.
Need to Know:
- Allow over a month to study for, schedule, and pass the written test required for drone certification.
- After certification, you’ll need to actively seek clients.
- Payment timing and amounts will vary based on your clients.
Requirements:
- You’ll need to own a drone.
- For legal operation, you must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate, which involves passing an aeronautical knowledge test. The testing fee for this certificate is typically $175.