If you're able to earn extra money in your spare time, you might generate enough cash to reach some of your financial goals. Maybe you're looking to pay off your credit card debt, or perhaps you need extra money for bills. Getting a part-time job may not be an option if you already work full-time. Fortunately, there are several ways to earn extra money in your spare time.
Selling your personal items is one way to earn extra money in your spare time. Go through your closet and pull out everything that you don't need. While you're sitting on the couch, go to Craigslist or another online marketplace and list these items for sale. Since this can be a dangerous way to sell items, don’t invite strangers to your home. Arrange to meet potential buyers in a public place.
If you have a passion for a particular subject – and you have good writing skills – start your own blog and earn money from ad revenue. Getting started is relatively easy and you can do so with no out-of-pocket expense - although you might look into self-hosting and buying a domain down the road. Search “starting a blog” online and you’ll find step-by-step instructions.
Maybe you don't want the responsibility of managing your own blog – to each his own. However, there’s the option of creating content for blogs owned by others. Craigslist, Freelance Writing Gigs, Journalism Jobs and ProBlogger regularly post writing and blogging jobs. Polish your writing skills, create a few samples and apply for jobs in your niche.
You won't get rich mystery shopping, but if you’re looking to earn extra money in your spare time, this opportunity is worth exploring. Companies will pay you to visit retailers in the local area. Afterwards, you’ll answer a series of questions related to your experience. In addition to a flat fee for each shop you visit, the company will reimburse your purchase up to a certain amount.
Offer to housesit for friends, relatives or coworkers who go out of town. This can be as simple as dropping by their house for a few minutes each day to grab their mail, remove flyers from their door and water the plants. You may not earn a lot of money, but the extra cash might help pay a bill.
If you have an SLR digital camera and a good eye, sell your personal photos to an online stock photography company. These companies are always on the lookout for photos in a variety of categories, including people, cities, nature, abstract, etc. Sign up with a company and upload your photos. If accepted into the database, you’ll earn a commission each time someone downloads your photo.
Years ago, I read a story about a lady who made a living entering sweepstakes and contests. She also spent eight to ten hours a day submitting entry forms - and understandably, the average person doesn’t have this kind of time. However, if you filled out a couple of sweepstake offers in your free time, you might win a small cash prize or maybe the jackpot.
So, you’re ready to put extra cash in your bank account? If you get creative and find something that you enjoy, you might be able to earn extra money in just a few hours a week.
How do you earn extra money?