25 Ways to Make Money Online (And Offline)

In a world where prices keep going up, you might be thinking how to make money. If you’ve got the time and energy, you can use your skills and passions to make money on the side.

At thoughts.money, we’ve gathered 25 practical ways for you to earn money from home, online, or right in your neighborhood.

For each side job, we’ll tell you what you need to get started, who can do it, and how quickly you can get paid. While quick money sounds great, don’t overlook the “slower” gigs – they might pay off more in the long run.

➤ How to Make Money Online

Making money online is a sought-after goal in today’s gig economy. Whether you’re aiming for influencer status or just need extra income from online gigs, we’ve got some practical options for you.

1. Become a Freelancer

Get started on websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com. These platforms offer various freelance jobs, from writing and programming to design, marketing, data entry, and virtual assistance.

Are you fluent in a second language?

Explore sites like Gengo or Blend Express. Regardless of your freelancing niche, keep an eye on the standard rates for your work so you know how much to charge.

Total time: Getting your first gig might take some time.

Setup: About 24 hours.

Ease of starting: Simple, if you’ve got the necessary skills.

Payment timing: Varies by platform.

What You Need to Know:

• Upwork approves your profile within 24 hours, but it might take longer to land your first gig.
• Payment varies across platforms. Upwork pays 10 days after the billing period ends, once you and the client review the work. Fiverr payments arrive when the work order is complete, but you can’t withdraw funds for 14 days.

Requirements:

• Upwork and Fiverr users must be at least 18 to sell work, while Freelancer.com requires users to be at least 16.
• Some sites might require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

2. Test Websites and Apps

Another method to earn money from the comfort of your home is by using platforms like UserTesting.com.

You’ll be compensated for sharing your insights on how well (or not so well) specific websites and apps function. After completing a brief test to qualify, you’ll receive payment based on the type of test.

Total time: Approval duration can vary.

Setup: Under an hour.

Ease of starting: Simple, provided you have the necessary tech equipment and complete a sample test.

Age requirement: 18 or older.

Payment timing: Within seven days.

Important Details:

• As part of the application process, you typically need to complete a sample test.
• Testing opportunities begin once your application is approved.
• The time it takes for approval varies.
• You’ll receive payment via PayPal within seven 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 require an Android or iOS mobile phone or tablet.
• Some platforms might have specific language requirements.

3. Take on Tasks through Amazon’s Mechanical Turk

In this era of automation, some tasks still call for a human touch. Such assignments are often delegated to crowdsourcing platforms like Amazon’s Mechanical Turk. As a “worker,” you might be assigned jobs that range from tagging images to transcribing videos or categorizing receipts.

These tasks can vary in length from a few minutes to several hours. Employers or “requesters” decide the payment for each task and confirm your work before compensating you. However, be cautious of potential scams, and make sure to do your research.

Online communities like the Turkkit and Turker Nation subreddits can guide you away from unreliable sources and provide insight into realistic earnings. Learn more about using Mechanical Turk for quick online income.

Total time: It can take up to three business days to know if you’re approved.

Setup: Depends on the chosen task.

Ease of starting: Simple if you possess the necessary skills.

Age requirement: You need to be 18 or older.

Payment timing: You receive payment after your work is approved, which might take up to 30 days.

Important Details:

• Once you submit your work, the requester has 30 days to approve it.
• You can opt for earnings to be deposited into your bank account or onto an Amazon gift card.

Requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old to register for Mechanical Turk.
• An Amazon account is required for Mechanical Turk registration.

4. Take Surveys

An option to make money from your home is participating in online surveys, although the income potential is limited. Survey sites usually offer modest rewards, often in the form of gift cards rather than cash.

Notable survey platforms include Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. For personalized guidance, explore our analysis of survey sites to find the best match for you.

Total time: Requires a substantial time commitment.

Setup: Takes just a few minutes.

Ease of starting: Extremely easy. Register and begin.

Age range: Typically 13 to 18 and older.

Payment timing: Varies by platform.

Important Details:

• Survey sites are a viable option for beginners seeking online income, as you can register and start participating within minutes.
• Payment timing hinges on the survey site and your survey-taking dedication.
• Some sites allow cashing out only after hitting a minimum earnings threshold.
• Certain survey platforms use points that can be exchanged for cash (via PayPal) or gift cards.

Requirements:

• Most survey sites have a minimum age requirement, usually ranging from 13 to 18 (site-dependent). These platforms can be an option for teenagers seeking online income.
• Individual surveys might come with specific prerequisites. Don’t be surprised if you’re disqualified from a survey without detailed explanation.

5. Become a Blogger

For bloggers with solid traffic, a potential revenue stream lies in affiliating with a network. In this arrangement, affiliates (that’s you) earn money when a user clicks from your site to a partner site and makes a purchase.

This method has proven lucrative for many bloggers. Explore affiliate marketing and additional monetization avenues for bloggers.

Total time: Constructing an audience may take a while.

Setup: Using blog templates, setting up a site is straightforward.

Ease of starting: Launching is manageable. Sustaining regular content production can be a separate challenge.

Age requirement: Any.

Payment timing: On average, it takes a month or two to receive payment.

Important Details:

• Begin by establishing a blog, social media account, or another online presence that attracts a substantial monthly visitor count.
• Next, apply to and receive approval from an affiliate marketing network such as CJ Affiliate, ShareASale, FlexOffers, Rakuten Advertising, or Amazon Associates.
• Payment timelines and thresholds differ across affiliate networks. Expect to wait at least a month or two for your first payment.
• Amazon Associates disburses earnings 60 days after the end of the month in which they were earned, while ShareASale pays out monthly.

Requirements:

• A blog, social media account, or other online presence capable of drawing a consistent flow of visitors.

6. Sell on Etsy

Do you have a knack for woodworking, crafting jewelry, creating embroidered pieces, or sculpting pottery?

Etsy is your platform to showcase and sell your crafts, offering a hub for artisans to market home goods, art, and curiosities. With 95 million active buyers and over $13 billion in merchandise sales during 2022, Etsy is a thriving marketplace for creators.

Total time: Allowing customers to discover your shop may take a while.

Setup: Can be fairly elaborate.

Ease of starting: Tends to lean toward the “challenging” side.

Age requirement: 13 and older.

Payment timing: Payments are typically received from the next day to seven days after a sale.

Important Details:

• Launching an Etsy shop is relatively straightforward and can be done within a few hours.
• However, the preliminary work before shop opening is more time-intensive. This entails gathering merchandise to sell, creating photos and descriptions, choosing a shop name, and crafting a business plan for success. Afterward, finding customers remains an ongoing endeavor, possibly spanning weeks. Therefore, anticipate a gradual pace for this venture.
• Upon making a sale, payment is first deposited into your Etsy Payments account and then transferred to your bank account, depending on your preferred deposit schedule.

Requirements:

• If you’re between 13 and 18 years old, you can sell on Etsy but would be considered a minor and need to adhere to extra policies.
• You must possess all necessary rights to the merchandise you offer in your shop.

7. Publish an eBook

Creating a compelling book is a challenge, but the internet simplifies the process of getting it out to readers. If you’re a writer who can produce pages, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) lets you sell your book(s) on the Kindle store.

It’s free to publish, and you can earn up to 70% of each sale as royalties. Write your book, craft a clear description and the necessary details, then upload your manuscript. Determine the price and see if it finds an audience.

Total time: Depends on your typing speed and the book’s complexity. Writing a book can be quite an undertaking.

Setup: Quick and easy on KDP once your book is ready.

Ease of starting: Simply begin writing.

Age requirement: 18 and older.

Payment timing: Monthly, once you cross the $100 threshold.

Important Details:

• While self-publishing is straightforward, success isn’t guaranteed. With millions of e-book titles on the Kindle Store, competition is fierce.
• You have two royalty choices: 70% or 35%. The price range for the 70% option is between $2.99 and $9.99. For the 35% option, you can set a higher price.

Requirements:

• You need a Kindle Direct Publishing account to initiate the process.
• Proper formatting is vital. While most Microsoft Word documents transition well into e-books, other formats are supported as well.

8. Earn from Ads

Transform your captivating content into a source of income. If your YouTube videos or blog posts attract a substantial audience, you might be able to generate money through advertising.

YouTube establishes 1,000 subscribers as the qualification for applying to the YouTube Partner Program. Upon approval, YouTube Partners unlock monetization features, including a share of ad revenue.

Alternatively, you can use Google’s AdSense, the same ad platform employed on YouTube, to display relevant ads on your blog or website for potential earnings. Learn more about monetizing YouTube and Google AdSense.

Total time: Initiating and ramping up might span a few weeks.

Setup: Generally not overly complex.

Ease of starting: Depends on your ability to create engaging videos.

Age requirement: 18 and older.

Payment timing: The initial payout might take a while, followed by monthly payouts.

Important Details:

• Signing up for Google AdSense is relatively straightforward. However, to use AdSense with YouTube, you need to be part of the Partner Program.
• AdSense can also be employed on a website or blog, with fewer eligibility prerequisites.
• Allow at least two months for ad revenue to start flowing in.
• Earnings must reach $100 before you’re eligible for a payout.
• Once you surpass the $100 threshold, earnings are issued between the 21st and 26th of each month.

Requirements:

• For your own website, it needs to have been active for at least six months.
• YouTube demands over 1,000 subscribers.
• You must be at least 18 years old.

9. Become an Influencer

Companies are enlisting Instagram influencers, individuals with substantial and dedicated followings on the platform, to endorse their products.

You can get involved by seeking opportunities through marketing platforms such as Open Influence or Aspire, or by reaching out to the brands you’re interested in collaborating with.

Total time: Persistence is key.

Setup: Swift and straightforward.

Ease of starting: Not very easy. Building a substantial following is essential to gaining influence.

Age requirement: 13 and older.

Payment timing: Payment timelines vary based on partnerships.

Important Details:

• Establishing an Instagram account is speedy, but cultivating a follower base may require months or even years.
• Once your follower count is substantial, you’ll need to find paid opportunities. This can be done through affiliate networks or by proposing collaborations to desired brands.
• Payment timing hinges on the agreement terms, with affiliate networks generally disbursing earnings the month following campaign completion.

Requirements:

• An Instagram account with a dedicated and engaged following.
• You’ll also need to fulfill the prerequisites of any affiliate network.

10. Earn from Twitch

If you have a devoted following on Twitch, the prominent gaming platform, gaming could transform into a home-based income stream.

Streamers can receive donations from viewers and even gain a portion of subscription and ad revenue once they attain Affiliate or Partner status. Uncover more details about monetizing on Twitch.

Total time: This process requires a long-term approach.

Setup: Swift and straightforward.

Ease of starting: Simple to begin; developing a following takes time.

Age requirement: 13 and older.

Payment timing: Monthly.

Important Details:

• Launching a Twitch channel and commencing streaming can occur within a day, but building a substantial follower base may necessitate weeks or even months.
• Depending on the payout method, you might be able to quickly withdraw donation revenue.
• Subscription and ad revenue earned as a Twitch Partner or Affiliate is typically disbursed around the 15th of each month. You need a balance of at least $50 (or $100 for wire transfers) for most payout methods.

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 Photos

Transform your photographs into income by using platforms like Fine Art America. This platform allows you to upload your images for sale as prints, T-shirts, phone cases, and more.

Other options for photographers include SmugMug, 500px, and PhotoShelter. While certain sites might necessitate a subscription, they often offer various features, such as cloud storage, password-protected galleries, and personalized websites.

Total time: Buyers need to discover and appreciate your work.

Setup: Only takes a few hours.

Ease of starting: If you have an array of photos, you’re already on the right track.

Age requirement: All ages.

Payment timing: Depends on the sales platform.

Important Details:

• Setting up a profile on sites like SmugMug, PhotoShelter, or Fine Art America is achievable within hours, assuming you possess a collection of original work.
• Payments can differ significantly based on the platform you’re using.
• Fine Art America: Payment is issued after the 30-day return window elapses and is sent on the 15th of each month.
• PhotoShelter: Payment is issued at the time of sale to your selected payment method (PayPal, Stripe, etc.).
• SmugMug: You can request payment to be issued the following month if your balance reaches at least $5.

Requirements:

• Requirements vary by platform, but you must have all necessary rights to the images you’re selling.

➤ How to Make Money from Home (Offline)

You don’t always have to step outside to find a side hustle. In fact, some opportunities might only involve a quick stroll around the neighborhood with a furry companion.

Tapping into the potential of working from home demands a sprinkle of creativity and a resilient mindset. Here, we present a range of fantastic concepts for home-based side gigs:

1. Become a Dog Walker

Have a fondness for dogs? Embark on the journey of dog walking as a newbie-friendly method to earn money. Platforms like Wag and Rover provide on-demand dog walking services, allowing you to take up walks whenever your schedule permits.

If you possess the space (and your landlord’s consent, in the case of renting), you could even offer overnight dog boarding. Make sure to thoroughly read through the terms and conditions when signing up for these services.

Total time: Crafting a clientele might take a bit of time.

Setup: Approval could take a few weeks.

Ease of starting: If you adore pets, you’re all set.

Age requirement: 18 and older.

Payment timing: Between two days and a week.

Important Details:

• The review and approval of your Rover profile typically take around 10 to 20 business days.
• The Wag application process takes approximately two weeks, involving a background check and a pet care quiz.

Requirements:

• To engage with Rover or Wag, you need to reside in an area where their service is available.
• For pet-sitting, you must have an apartment or house that permits pets.
• Passing a background check is mandatory.

2. Sell Unused Gift Cards

Boost your earnings by selling gift cards that are unused or partially used on platforms like CardCash or GiftCash. These websites claim to offer up to 92% of the card’s value.

On CardCash, you even have the option to exchange your card for one you’ll make use of. Explore further about dealing with unwanted gift cards.

Total time: Only takes minutes if your gift card is from a popular store.

Setup: Simple.

Ease of starting: The more gift cards you have to sell, the better.

Age requirement: Must be old enough to possess a credit card.

Payment timing: At least 1-2 days.

Important Details:

• Websites like CardCash and GiftCash provide instant offers or quotes.
• You can sell gift cards at kiosks and participating retail locations for same-day cash, or opt to sell them online. The latter option takes longer, but you might receive a more favorable offer for your gift card.

Requirements:

• Your gift card may need to meet a minimum balance to be eligible for resale. Not all cards will receive offers.
• Gift cards with expiration dates typically aren’t eligible.

3. Rent Out Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb

Renting out your home or an available spare bedroom on vacation rental platforms (like Airbnb) offers an additional means to earn money.

Be prepared to allocate resources for property cleaning and upkeep, replacing household items, and addressing service fees. Before you begin, ensure you thoroughly examine your rental agreement.

Total time: Success is influenced by demand, which is location-dependent.

Setup: A listing can be created and go live within hours.

Ease of starting: If you have a space to rent, the process is straightforward.

Age requirement: 18 and older.

Payment timing: Approximately one day.

Important Details:

• You can create a listing and start accepting reservations on the same day.
• Payment is typically sent out about 24 hours after your guest’s scheduled check-in time. The processing time depends on the chosen payout method.

Requirements:

• Adhere to all regulations governing short-term or vacation rentals for your property, including city ordinances and guidelines set by your landlord, condominium board, or homeowners association.

4. Sell Used Clothing

Unloading clothes you no longer wear is a swift way to generate extra income. Begin by considering local consignment shops for a quicker payout, or explore platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark to connect with potential buyers.

If you opt for online sales, ensure you capture clear, well-lit photos of your items and research comparable products to set competitive prices. Gather insights on selling your clothing.

Total time: Varies based on the chosen sales method.

Setup: Quick and simple. You can visit a consignment shop or pack clothes into a box and send them.

Ease of starting: Easy. The most challenging part might be decluttering your closet.

Age requirement: No restrictions.

Payment timing: Varies depending on the sales platform.

Important Details:

• Various quick-start options exist for selling used clothing and accessories.
• Rapid: Physical consignment shops like Plato’s Closet offer immediate cash payments.
• Moderate: Other in-person and online consignment stores pay you when items sell or upon item receipt and evaluation. In either case, anticipate at least a month for your payment.

Requirements:

• Gently worn shoes, clothing, and accessories.
• Items undergo different evaluations before being accepted. For instance, ThredUp assesses items for factors like pilling, fading, shrinkage, missing components (such as buttons), and stains.

5. Sell Used Electronics

Is your old iPhone, iPad, macbook, or gaming system collecting dust? Turn it into cash by selling on platforms like Swappa or Gazelle.

You can also explore Amazon’s trade-in program or eBay. For a quick option, consider using an ecoATM kiosk that offers instant cash for your device.

Total time: The variety of options means time commitment varies.

Setup: Effortless.

Ease of starting: Simple, especially for well-maintained devices.

Age requirement: Open to all.

Payment timing: Varies depending on the selling platform.

Important Details:

• Direct selling (Swappa, OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace): Usually involves photographing the device, verifying its electronic serial number, and listing it. Some sites review postings, but the time required is minimal. Fees differ; Swappa, for instance, has a 3% seller fee.
• Reselling to a buyer (Gazelle): Receive an instant quote by answering a few questions online. Once the company confirms your device’s condition, you’ll get paid.
• Direct selling: Payment timing depends on how quickly your device sells. Once sold, payment is prompt.

Requirements:

• An old phone, laptop, gaming system, etc.
• For cell phones: Ensure the device isn’t stolen or under a repayment plan.

6. Become a Babysitter

Individuals spanning from college students to recent retirees can earn by looking after other people’s children.

While word-of-mouth referrals are effective, you can also create a profile on platforms like Care.com or Sittercity to widen your reach.

Highlight any specialized skills, such as CPR certifications, to enhance your marketability.

Total time: Online setup is quick; local referrals may take longer.

Setup: Just a few minutes.

Ease of starting: Getting the word out is crucial.

Age requirement: Very young if referrals are used; 18+ online.

Payment timing: Upon completing the babysitting job.

Important Details:

• Crafting a profile on Care.com or Sittercity is a speedy process.
• Payment is typically received upon job completion.

Requirements:

• Generally need to be at least 18 for Care.com and Sittercity listings.
• Mandatory background check.

7. Rent Out Your Car

City dwellers often leave their cars unused for days or even weeks. Take advantage of this downtime by renting out your car through platforms like Getaround and Turo.

You’ll keep most of the earnings, with the platform taking a cut for safeguarding your vehicle during rentals.

Total time: Car demand depends on local market conditions.

Setup: Around 30 minutes to create an account.

Ease of starting: Simple if your vehicle is suitable.

Age requirement: Valid driver’s license and 21+.

Payment timing: Varies by platform.

Important Details:

• Set up a listing on Turo or Getaround in less than 30 minutes.
• Turo initiates payment within three hours of a rental ending, but expect a few days for your bank to process the deposit.
• Getaround rental earnings accumulate monthly and are paid on the 15th of the following month.

Requirements:

• Car ownership is a must. If leasing, review your agreement to ensure sharing is permitted.
• Your vehicle should meet specific requirements (make, model, year, mileage) and adhere to maintenance and safety standards.
• A current, valid driver’s license is essential.
• Typically, you need to be at least 21 years old according to platform age requirements.

8. Sign up for TaskRabbit

If you enjoy assembling furniture or helping with various tasks, TaskRabbit can connect you with people who need assistance. From moving and cleaning to data entry and research projects, you can offer your skills and services. Create a profile, undergo approval, and start accepting tasks. Note that a $25 fee is required upon approval.

9. Become a Private Tutor

Turn your expertise in subjects like math, science, foreign languages, or test prep into a profitable tutoring side gig. You can tutor online or in-person. Rates depend on your experience and demand. Platforms like Tutor.com and Care.com can help you get started. Advertising at local schools and community centers can also attract potential students.

10. Drive for Uber or Lyft

Earn money by driving passengers for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. You’ll need an eligible car, pass a background check, and meet other requirements. Payment is quick and can be received instantly or within days. Note that application, background check, and car inspection processes take some time.

11. Make Deliveries

Join delivery services like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex. You’ll earn per delivery and can even receive tips. In some cases, a car may not be required; some services allow bikes or scooters. Expect a background check as part of the process.

12. Be a Housesitter

If you’re open to house sitting, you can earn money by taking care of someone’s home while they’re away. Responsibilities may include pet care, plant watering, and garbage disposal. Platforms like HouseSitter.com can help connect you with homeowners seeking housesitters.

13. Be a Mystery Shopper

Businesses often want to know about customer experiences. Apply to be a mystery shopper through sites like IntelliShop, BestMark, and Sinclair Customer Metrics. Ensure you’re avoiding scams and thoroughly research before committing. Payment and requirements can vary by company.

14. Put Your Drone to Work

If you own a drone, you can find opportunities in areas like aerial inspection, photography, and land mapping. To become a drone pilot, pass a test and register with the FAA. Once qualified, you can apply for flying gigs and get paid for your services.

➤ How to Avoid Money Scams

Absolutely, being cautious and vigilant about potential scams is crucial when exploring opportunities to make money online or from home. Here are some tips to help you watch out for scams:

1. Avoid Upfront Fees: Legitimate opportunities should not require you to pay upfront fees. Be cautious if you’re asked to pay for information, training, or access to job listings.
2. Research the Company: Look up the company’s name online and search for reviews and feedback from others who have tried their services. Community forums, like Reddit, can provide valuable insights from real people.
3. Check for Contact Information: Scammers often avoid providing clear contact information. If you can’t find a legitimate phone number, address, or email for the company, it might be a red flag.
4. Protect Your Personal Information: Never share your Social Security number, credit card information, or financial details with a company that you’re unsure about.
5. Look for Red Flags: Be cautious of promises of guaranteed income, unrealistic earnings, or claims of easy money with minimal effort. Legitimate opportunities usually require effort and time.
6. Use the Better Business Bureau: Check if the company has a Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile. The BBB assigns ratings based on various factors, including customer complaints and business practices.
7. Use Secure Payment Methods: If a company asks for payment, use secure payment methods like credit cards or PayPal. Avoid wiring money or using untraceable payment methods.
8. Trust Your Instincts: If something seems too good to be true or doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and proceed with caution.
9. Research Job Listings: When exploring job listings, be cautious of positions that promise high pay for simple tasks. Legitimate jobs usually require skills and qualifications.
10. Check for Authenticity: Scammers often create fake websites or profiles to appear legitimate. Double-check the website’s URL, contact information, and online presence.
11. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious if you receive unsolicited emails or messages offering money-making opportunities. Legitimate companies rarely reach out in this way.
12. Use Reputable Platforms: If you’re using online platforms to find gigs or work, opt for well-known and reputable platforms with verified reviews and user feedback.

Remember, it’s always better to take your time, do thorough research, and ask questions before committing to any money-making opportunity. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to walk away and avoid potential scams.

➤ FAQ

1. How to make money online easily: There are several easy ways to earn money online, such as:
   • Testing websites and providing feedback.
   • Taking online surveys.
   • Selling your used items on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
   • Participating in affiliate marketing programs.
   • Renting out your vehicle on platforms like Turo or Getaround.
2. How to make money fast at home: If you’re looking to make money quickly from home, consider these options:
   • Selling your used clothes, electronics, or items you no longer need.
   • Offering babysitting services to friends, family, or neighbors.
   • Renting out a spare room on vacation rental websites like Airbnb.
   • Completing gig work, such as food delivery or online tasks.
3. How to make money right now: If you’re in urgent need of money, consider the following options:
   • Check local job listings or online platforms for immediate gig opportunities.
   • Pawn valuable items like jewelry, instruments, or electronics for a quick loan from a pawnshop.
   • Offer services like moving furniture, cleaning, or yard work in your local area.

Remember to carefully consider the terms and requirements of any “how to make money” opportunity before proceeding.

Additionally, be cautious of potential scams and protect your personal information when engaging in online or offline transactions.

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