Sometimes we try to solve big problems with big solutions. Take debt for instance. When a person owes many thousands of dollars, it might seem the only way to become debt-free is to apply for big payments, but that’s not true. Chipping away a debt a little at a time can be just as rewarding. Here are 20 Side Hustles or ways you can do just that.
1. Take online surveys
Companies such as Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, InboxDollars, and Vindale Research pay money for consumer insight. Most of these sites are free to sign up and start producing right away. The more sites you join, the more you can earn.
2. Negotiate your bills
Phone the companies to which you owe the most and see if you can reduce the interest rate or balance. If you’re a good customer that pays on time, they are more interested in working with you to keep you as a customer.
3. Shop for other people
Lots of people are home-bound or simply too busy to break away for a shopping trip. Sign up with Instacart or list your shopping services on Craigslist or Facebook. Once you have a few happy customers, have them write reviews so you can include these as references.
4. Rent a room
If you have a spare room you’re not currently using as a home office, consider letting it out to a full-time renter or list it on Airbnb. Depending upon where you live, you may be able to make thousands of dollars a month. If renting a room doesn’t appeal to you, maybe selling does. If you have the start-up cash, flipping houses is another great source of income.
5. Rent your car
Think of it like Airbnb. Car-sharing companies such as GetGo are platforms where private car owners can list their cars for rent.
6. Watch videos
Sites such as Swagbucks aren’t just paying for surveys. Some of these companies test video ads. You can watch videos for predetermined times and earn points, which you can then redeem for cash. You could also install the Nielsen app, to earn points for the time you’re already spending on your smartphone.
7. Sell your textbooks
Several online companies will pay you for your textbooks. BookScouter compares book prices and chooses the vendor willing to offer you the best price.
8. Become a gig worker
Gig working (freelancing) is more popular than ever. Dozens of websites specialize in connecting freelance workers with projects. Try Fiverr or Upwork and start earning cash for your talents. Gig workers span a wide variety of professions. Here are a few ideas:
- Proofreader
- Writer/copywriter
- Web designer
- Virtual assistant
- Social media poster
- Translator
- Uber or Lyft driver
- Pet sitter or pet walker
- Personal trainer
- Car detailer
- Tax preparer
- Photographer
9. Sell your gift cards
If you’re like most people, you have a small handful of gift cards you’ve yet to use. More likely, you’re never going to use them. Raise is an online site where people can buy and sell gift cards.
10. Create a course
If you have top skills in a particular discipline, programming language, or software, create an online course. There are lots of sites where you can sell your work, such as Udemy and Teachable.
11. Wrap your car
If you have a sharp-looking car, companies such as Wrappli will pay you to wrap it with their logo and messaging.
12. Refurbish antiques
If you like working with your hands and are creative, visit resale and thrift shops for unique furniture and refurbish it. You can sell your new works of art on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Having a side hustle like this can be a lucrative business. You will build up a steady stream of unique clientele who may come back regularly to buy from you. If you are using a site like ebay to sell your remastered antiques then take a look at the ebay seller fees calculator to make sure it is worth your while. The last thing you want to be doing is paying out money but not making a profit on what you are selling.
13. Groom dogs
If you love dogs and don’t mind getting a little wet, start a mobile dog washing or dog grooming business. You can set your hours and work around other family obligations or jobs.
14. Provide help for the disabled
If you’re healthy and able-bodied, consider helping those who are not. You need to have lots of compassion and patience to take on such a position, but the rewards are endless.
15. Wash windows
If you have a ladder, this might be the job for you. Post notices on Craigslist or Facebook for your services. If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be the best choice for you.
16. Become a mentor
If you have deep experience in particular business areas, think about sharing your wealth of knowledge with others just starting. Mentors and coaches work in many fields, including healthcare, business, relationships, and many more.
17. Transcribe audio recordings
Several companies specialize in transcription services. Sign up and ‘listen’ your way to becoming debt-free.
No matter your skill or area of interest, there’s a way to turn it into cash and take control of your financial future. Whether you’re renting your car or shopping for the elderly, income doesn’t have to amount to thousands of dollars at a time to be useful. Every little bit helps, and you may find a new career along the way.