how to make money on the side

Make Money on the Side: Easy Ways to Earn Extra Cash

Feeling the pinch of inflation and looking to boost your income? You’re not alone. Many people are turning to side hustles and part-time jobs for extra cash. But where do you start? This guide will show you easy ways to make money on the side. You can use your skills, hobbies, or start a new business.

Key Takeaways

Pick up Freelance Work Online

Today, the need for freelance work online has grown a lot. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com are full of chances to make extra money with freelance work online, freelance gigs, and online freelancing. If you’re good at writing, coding, designing, marketing, data entry, or virtual help, there’s a big market for your skills.

A report from Freelancer.com says freelance creative writing jobs grew by 58% in the second quarter of 2023. Even though AI is getting better at making content, it can’t replace the skill and touch that human writers add. Companies want writers who can work with AI and know about SEO. This could be a great way to make money if you’re willing to learn and get better.

The money you can make in remote work opportunities is really good. Some freelancers earn $100 an hour or more for their writing. If you know what you’re doing, you can start working in just 24-48 hours. How fast you get paid depends on the platform, but it can be as quick as 10 days on Upwork for hourly work.

Side Hustle Average Hourly Earnings
Bookkeeper $19
Career Coach $24
Curriculum Writer $33
Copy Editor $25
Customer Service Representative $15
Editor $27
Executive Assistant $29
Graphic Designer $24

If you want to make more money or try out freelance work online, check out Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com. They have lots of options. With the right skills and hard work, you can find a good online freelancing side job.

Test Websites and Apps

In today’s digital world, your opinion is very valuable. Companies want to know how well their websites and apps work. By testing these, you can earn money from home.

Earn Extra Cash through Website and App Testing

At UserTesting.com, you can earn for sharing your thoughts on digital products. First, pass a quick test to join. Then, you’ll get invites for tests. These tests are short, lasting 5-25 minutes, and you can make $5 to $25 per test.

You get paid through PayPal about two weeks after finishing a test. You need a computer, internet, and a microphone. Some tests also require a certain system setup, like 1GB RAM and 600MB free space.

Platform Average Payment Test Duration Payment Method
UserTesting $10 per 20-minute test 5-25 minutes PayPal
TestingTime Up to $50+ per hour 60-90 minutes PayPal
PlaytestCloud $9 per 15-minute test 15 minutes PayPal
Userlytics $5 to $90+ per test Varies PayPal

There are more places like Checkealos, Enroll, Ferpection, and others for testing websites and apps. Each has different pay, rules, and ratings. It’s good to check a few to see what suits you best.

“Getting paid to test websites and apps is a great way to earn extra cash without a lot of time or effort. It’s a flexible side gig that allows you to work from home and provide valuable feedback to the companies that need it.”

Learn to Use AI Tools

Generative artificial intelligence is becoming more popular. A recent report from PwC says the North American economy will see a $3.7 trillion impact by 2030 thanks to AI. It’s a great time to learn how to use AI tools to make money. You can do this by offering freelance AI services, helping clients with digital products or editing AI content, improving your ads with AI, or teaching others how to use AI tools.

You can set up AI-powered services in 24-48 hours on freelance platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.com if you know AI tools. How much you earn depends on your clients or the products you sell. By monetizing your AI skills, you could make thousands of dollars a month. AI tools can make an experienced person even more productive. Users can be 80% of the way to making their first dollar with an AI-optimized task.

Offer AI-Powered Services

Creating content takes a lot of time and creativity. But, AI tools like ChatGPT and Jasper AI can help. They’re great for making newsletters, sales pages, and other content. Freelance writers can earn money online by using these AI tools for ghostwriting and freelancing. These tools have different prices and features.

AI code assistants like Copilot can speed up development tasks. No-code app-building tools like Bubble and Directual make app development easier. This lets you offer AI tool training services to clients who want to improve their processes.

Using AI for digital marketing can also be a good side hustle. These tools can automate tasks, create campaigns, and analyze results. This helps you improve business operations with AI. AI marketing tools use predictive analytics to optimize and improve marketing strategies, giving you an edge in the digital market.

Whether you’re experienced or just starting, AI offers many chances to monetize your AI skills and make extra money. From freelance AI services to teaching others about AI tools, the opportunities are vast for those ready to use this new technology.

Take Surveys for Money

If you want to make some extra cash, consider taking paid online surveys. You won’t get rich, but you can earn small amounts that add up. Remember, these sites usually offer gift cards, not cash.

Popular sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, Branded Surveys, InboxDollars, and Ipsos i-Say let you sign up quickly. You can start earning small amounts for each survey you finish. The time to reach the payout varies, but with regular effort, you could earn $1 to $5 a day.

Here are some stats to help you understand paid surveys better:

  • Swagbucks has given out over $550 million in cash and gift cards since starting in 2008 and redeems 7,000 gift cards every day.
  • InboxDollars has paid out more than $80 million to its members since 2000.
  • Survey Junkie says you can earn about $40 a month by doing three surveys a day.
  • FreeCash has paid out more than $64 million in rewards since it started.
  • FocusGroups.org has given out more than $32.5 million to its members.

Online surveys won’t change your life, but they can give you a steady “mad money” income. Use it for fun or saving. Just don’t let the promise of cash for opinions distract you from better ways to make money.

Online survey

“Completing three surveys daily on Survey Junkie could help earn as much as $40 monthly.”

Overall, online surveys are a good way to earn cash for opinions in your free time. But, keep your expectations in check. Diversifying your side hustles will help you earn more.

Make Money from Your Blog with Affiliate Links

If you have a decent audience on your blog, you can earn extra cash by joining an affiliate marketing program. This way, you can make money by promoting products or services on your blog. You get a commission when your readers click on the link and buy something.

Many bloggers have made a lot of money with affiliate marketing. It’s a great way to earn passive income by using your blog’s traffic. Just pick affiliate programs that fit your blog’s theme and help your readers.

Getting Started with Affiliate Marketing

To start with affiliate marketing, follow these steps:

  1. Build an engaged audience for your blog. The more traffic and loyal readers you have, the more potential you have to earn through affiliate sales.
  2. Research and apply to relevant affiliate programs. Popular options include Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and Commission Junction.
  3. Integrate affiliate links into your blog content, making sure to disclose your affiliate relationships to your readers.
  4. Promote your affiliate products through social media, email newsletters, and other marketing channels.
  5. Continuously monitor your affiliate performance and adjust your strategy as needed to maximize your earnings.

With the right approach, affiliate marketing can be a powerful way to earn money from your blog and monetize your website. By affiliate marketing, you can use your audience and content to earn a passive income.

“Affiliate marketing has been a game-changer for my blog. It now accounts for over 80% of my total revenue, allowing me to turn my passion into a profitable business.”

The key to successful affiliate marketing is to provide real value to your readers, not just sell products. Choose affiliate programs that match your niche and create quality content that teaches and informs your audience. With patience and hard work, you can make your blog a profitable side hustle.

Sell Your Wares on Etsy

If you’re good at crafts like woodworking, jewelry-making, or pottery, Etsy is a great place to sell your items. It’s a top spot for artisans and creators, with 95 million active buyers. Setting up an Etsy shop might seem hard, but with the right steps, you can join this lively community of unique crafts.

Prepare Your Etsy Shop for Success

Before selling on Etsy, you need to get ready. First, collect your items and take high-quality photos and write detailed descriptions. Pick a catchy name for your shop and create a strong brand. Also, learn about Etsy’s rules, fees, and tools to make selling easy and profitable.

After setting up your shop, you’ll need to stand out. With so many sellers, it’s key to grab customers’ attention. Use smart SEO on Etsy by adding relevant keywords to your shop and items. Join Etsy teams, take part in forums, and connect with other sellers to grow your network.

Setting the right prices is crucial for success on Etsy. Think about your costs, like materials and time, and check out what others charge. Remember, Etsy takes a fee of $0.20 per listing, 6.5% on sales, and 3% + $0.25 for payment processing.

With hard work, smart marketing, and the right items, selling crafts online on Etsy can be fulfilling. Reach Etsy’s huge customer base and show off your skills!

“Etsy connects millions of global users for buying and selling unique, handmade goods.”

how to make money on the side

In today’s economy, having a side job can really help. You might want to make extra money, save for emergencies, or follow your passion. There are many ways to make money on the side. Let’s look at some side jobs that can increase your income and meet your financial goals.

Leverage Your Skills

One great way to earn more is by using your skills. Consider freelancing on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.com. You can offer writing, programming, design, marketing, or virtual help. Recently, freelance creative writing jobs grew a lot on Freelancer.com, with a 58% increase in listings in Q2 2023.

Become a Tester

Another way to earn money on the side is by testing websites and apps. Sites like UserTesting.com and TryMyUI pay you for short tests and your feedback. You can make up to $10 per test, and more for live chats. This is a flexible and rewarding side job.

Explore the AI Boom

Artificial intelligence is changing the world, and there’s a big need for AI-related services. Think about freelancing in AI, helping businesses use AI better, or teaching others about AI tools.

  • Offer AI-powered writing, analysis, or image creation services
  • Consult with companies on implementing AI solutions
  • Provide training and workshops on AI tools and technologies

By being ahead and using the AI trend, you can make money on the side. You’ll also help move this important technology forward.

“The best side hustles are the ones that allow you to leverage your existing skills and interests to generate additional income.”

Finding the right balance between your main job and your side hustle is key. With good planning, hard work, and a positive attitude, you can find extra earning potential. This can lead to financial freedom on your terms.

Become an Influencer

Do you have a big following on social media like Facebook and Instagram, or a popular blog? If yes, think about becoming a social media influencer. You can make money by sharing your posts. Your niche could be fashion, cookware, or home décor, making you a go-to for businesses online.

To succeed, reach out to brands you love and show them you’re interested in working together. You can do sponsored content, where you post about their products, or affiliate marketing, earning money when your followers buy through your links.

The influencer marketing industry is booming, expected to hit $15 billion in 2022. This is a great chance for social media influencers to earn money as an influencer. Use your audience and make engaging content to join this growing market and earn more.

Monetize Your Influence

Here are ways to make money from your social media or blog:

  • Look for sponsored content with brands that match your audience and values.
  • Check out affiliate marketing options on platforms like ShareASale and Amazon Associates.
  • Sell merchandise to your followers using services like Gelato.
  • Host events or workshops to connect with your followers and make more money.
  • Offer paid subscriptions or special content for your biggest fans.

By having different ways to make money, you can keep earning regularly and stay safe from market changes. Remember, being a successful social media influencer means always making content that your audience loves.

“Diversifying income streams through channels like sponsored posts, merchandise sales, and events ensures sustained success and financial security for social media influencers.”

Drive for Uber or Lyft

Driving for companies like Uber and Lyft is a great way to make extra money. You can work on your own time and don’t need much to start. You can earn up to $22 per hour by driving people around.

To start, sign up with Uber or Lyft, pass a background check, and hit the road. Most drivers work about 10 hours a week, choosing their own hours. You get paid every week through direct deposit, and it’s all done online.

You’ll need to pay for gas, car upkeep, and wear and tear on your car. But, if you already have a car and a smartphone, the costs are pretty low. Driving for rideshare can make a lot of money during busy times, like holidays or big events.

To make more money, try these tips:11

  • Keep snacks and water in the car for you and your passengers.
  • Know where to find restrooms and free parking.
  • Stay away from busy areas to get higher fares.
  • Log in and out of the app to catch surge pricing.
  • Keep a high rating to keep getting rides.
  • Track your miles for tax deductions.

With rideshare driving, you can choose when you work and how much you make. About 45% of Americans have a side job like this to help their main income.11 If you want to make some extra cash or explore your area, driving for Uber or Lyft is a great choice.

“I made a quarter-million dollars one year, mainly by selling jewelry to passengers.”

Deliver Groceries

If you love shopping but don’t want to spend your own cash, think about becoming a grocery delivery driver. Companies like Shipt and Instacart let you shop for and deliver groceries to people. You can earn up to $22 per hour doing this.

As a grocery delivery driver, you set your own hours. You can work as much or as little as you want. This is a great way to make extra cash or even start a full-time on-demand grocery shopping business. These platforms make it easy to make money delivering items to people in your area.

Earn with Shipt and Instacart

Shipt started in 2014 and connects people with same-day grocery delivery in over 5,000 cities. Experienced Shipt shoppers can earn about $24 per hour. Instacart, which began in 2012, also offers a flexible grocery delivery driver job. Shoppers can make at least $4 per “batch” and sometimes more than $10.

Shipt and Instacart need shoppers to be 18 or older. They use smartphones with the latest software. Shoppers get through background checks in one business day, so they can start earning fast.

Platform Potential Earnings Minimum Age Payment Method
Shipt Average of $24 per hour 18+ Weekly direct deposit
Instacart At least $4 per “batch”, sometimes over $10 18+ (21+ for alcohol delivery) Weekly direct deposit, Instant Cashout available

Looking to make extra cash or start a side hustle? Grocery delivery driving is a great choice. With Shipt and Instacart, you can start making money delivering groceries in your area today.

grocery delivery driver

Babysit or Pet Sit

Teenagers often have the edge in babysitting, but you can join in too. Many parents want trustworthy sitters for date nights or errands. Let your friends, neighbors, and community know you’re ready to help. Set your rates between $15-25 per hour, and you’ll start making extra cash.

If you love animals, pet sitting services could be perfect for you. Sites like Rover and Care.com connect pet owners with caring sitters. You can earn $15-25 per hour by providing daily check-ins, walks, feedings, and companionship for pets. Some pet sitters even make up to $1,500 a month.

Tips for Successful Babysitting and Pet Sitting

  • Establish clear rates and communicate them upfront with clients.
  • Build trust by providing references, sharing your experience, and being transparent about your qualifications.
  • Go the extra mile by providing engaging activities for kids or personalized care for pets.
  • Market your services through online platforms, social media, and word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Prioritize safety and security by verifying client information and keeping a trusted contact informed.

Whether you prefer babysitting jobs or pet sitting services, these gigs are flexible and rewarding. They let you earn money watching children or animals and boost your income. With the right approach and dedication, you can make your passion for kids or pets into a successful side hustle.

Advertise on Your Car

Want to make some extra cash? Consider turning your car into a moving billboard. Companies like Wrapify, Carvertise, and Nickelytics will pay you to wrap your car with ads.

It’s easy: these companies will put a full or partial wrap on your car. Then, you just drive around as usual. The more you drive, the more you make. On average, drivers can earn $264 to $452 per month with a full wrap.

How It Works

These car advertising platforms have certain car requirements. They look for cars from 2010 or newer with no major damage. Drivers must be at least 21 and pass a background check.

After approval, the company will set up a time to put the wrap on your car. Then, just drive as you normally do. The company will track your miles and pay you. Payments go into your bank account every two weeks or monthly.

  • Wrapify offers an estimated pay range of $181 to $452 per month
  • Carvertise pays up to $500 per month for their ads
  • Nickelytics reports most drivers earn $175 to $250 per month

Car advertising is a fun and easy way to make extra money. If you meet the basic requirements, you can turn your daily drive into a side job.

“The more you drive, the more you’ll earn. Wrapify says the average person who does a full wrap on their car makes about $264–452 a month.”

Conclusion

The world of side hustles is full of chances to make extra money, learn new skills, and follow your dreams. You can try freelancing, online work, driving for companies, or selling things you make. There are many options that match your talents and lifestyle.

If you’re a Millennial wanting to secure your finances or a seasoned pro looking for a new hobby, side hustles are great. Thanks to new technologies and the gig economy, starting a side job is easier than ever. You can turn your free time into a way to earn more.

Starting a side hustle means finding a balance, not getting too tired, and picking things you love and are good at. It’s a chance to learn new things, improve your career, and maybe even change paths. With hard work and good planning, your side hustle can bring you both personal and financial benefits.

FAQ

What are some real ways to make money at home, online or out and about?

NerdWallet lists 25 ways to earn extra income. Options include freelance work, testing websites and apps, using AI tools, and taking surveys. You can also sell crafts on Etsy, become a social media influencer, deliver groceries, babysit, or pet sit, and get paid to advertise your car.

How can I make money through freelance work online?

Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com offer freelance opportunities. You can provide services such as writing, programming, design, marketing, and virtual assistance. Freelance creative writing jobs saw a 58% increase in listings on Freelancer.com in Q2 2023.

How can I get paid for testing websites and apps?

Companies like UserTesting.com pay for your feedback on websites and apps. First, complete a short test to get approved. Then, you’ll receive testing opportunities and get paid via PayPal after 14 days.

How can I make money by using AI tools?

Offer freelance services using AI tools, improve your business with AI, or teach others about AI. With AI’s growing demand, this side hustle can be profitable.

How can I earn money by taking online surveys?

Sites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie offer online surveys for extra cash or gift cards. While payouts are small, it’s an easy way to earn. The time to get paid varies by site and your effort.

How can I make money from my blog through affiliate marketing?

Join affiliate networks like Amazon Associates or ShareASale. Earn commissions by promoting products on your blog. Build an audience and apply to networks to start earning when visitors buy through your links.

How can I sell my handmade crafts online?

Use Etsy to sell handmade items like woodworking, jewelry, embroidery, and pottery. Set up your shop, list items with photos and descriptions, and market to Etsy’s 95 million buyers.

How can I become a social media influencer and get paid?

With a large social media following, partner with brands for sponsored content and affiliate marketing. Reach out to brands and explore platforms like ShareASale and Amazon Associates.

How can I earn money by delivering groceries?

Work for companies like Shipt and Instacart to deliver groceries. Enjoy flexible hours and earn up to per hour.

How can I make money by babysitting or pet sitting?

Advertise your babysitting or pet sitting services through word-of-mouth or platforms like Care.com or Rover. Earn -25 per hour watching kids or pets.

How can I get paid to advertise on my car?

Wrapify pays you to advertise on your car. Drive as usual and earn 4-452 per month with a full car wrap.

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