Offline At-Home Here are some tips on how to earn money from a side gig and how long it will take to start seeing results.
NerdWallet compiled a list of 25 legitimate methods to earn money online, from home, or on the go. We provide information about each possible side employment, including age restrictions, starting criteria, and pay rates. Even though most people desire to earn money quickly, do not underestimate “slow” gigs because they could end up paying more in the long run.
- How to make money online
- How to make money from home
- How to make money offline
How to make money online
1. Pick up freelance work online
Earn money online by using platforms like Freelancer.com, Fiverr, and Upwork. Numerous freelance employment, including writing, programming, design, marketing, data entry, and virtual assistant work, are available on these websites.Â
Speaking a second language with ease? Examine translation websites like Blend Express or Gengo, or generate business by creating your own website. Keep track of the going rate for the type of work you perform so you know how much to charge, regardless of the type of freelancing you do.
According to a recent Freelancer.com study, the fastest-growing job category on the website in the second quarter of 2024 was computer security, with postings rising by 27.1%.
Writing-related jobs are likewise in great demand. Despite its increasing use in content production, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is not yet able to completely replace human writers. Employers are seeking writers with at least rudimentary knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) and the ability to edit AI content; developing or honing SEO abilities might be a profitable side gig. For their freelance writing services, some independent contractors charge $100 per hour or more.
Total time: Getting your first gig can take a long time.
Setup time: 24 to 48 hours.
How simple to begin: Simple, if you possess the necessary skills.
Age limit: usually 16 to 18 years old.
The rate of payment varies depending on the website.
2. Test websites and apps
Websites such as UserTesting.com offer a another avenue for earning money from home. You get compensated for your opinions about how well—or poorly—certain apps and websites function. To be accepted by UserTesting, you must pass a brief test. The sort of test you take will determine how much you get paid.
Total time: A few days may pass before approval.
Less than an hour for setup.
How simple it is to get started: Simple, provided you have the necessary technical equipment and finish a test.
The minimum age is 18 years old.
The payment period is typically 14 days.
3. Learn to use AI tools
Generative artificial intelligence is becoming more and more popular. According to PwC research, the AI market would have a $3.7 trillion influence on the North American economy by 2030.
Therefore, there has never been a better moment to learn how to use AI tools to generate income. Here are a few side projects involving AI:
- utilizing AI tools as a freelancer to assist in the creation of digital goods or the editing of AI material for a customer.
- enhancing your current small business’s management, marketing, and advertising campaigns.
- instructing people in the usage of AI tools.
The whole time is contingent upon demand.
Setup: If using a website like Upwork or Freelancer.com, it takes between 24 to 48 hours.
How simple it is to get started: It will be simpler if you are already familiar with AI technologies.
Age requirements are 18 for Upwork and 16+ for Freelancer.com.
The speed at which you will be paid varies depending on your chosen platform, the volume of things you sell, and your client.
4. Take surveys for money
Taking internet surveys can earn you money from home, but do not expect to make a lot of money. Generally speaking, survey websites do not pay out much, and many of them are more helpful for earning gift cards than cash. Survey Junkie and Swagbucks are two of the most well-known survey websites. To choose which survey site is ideal for you, read our review.
Overall time: It will require some time.
Setup takes only a few minutes.
Very easy to get started. Simply sign up and get started.
Age restrictions vary by venue, ranging from 13 to 18+.
The rate of payment varies depending on the website.
5. Make money from your blog with affiliate links
Joining an affiliate network could earn you money if you are a blogger with a sizable following. When someone clicks over from your website to the partner site and makes a purchase, you, as an affiliate, are compensated. This is how some bloggers earn a lot of money, especially those who work full-time in affiliate marketing. To increase blog traffic, you can use social media or websites like Pinterest. Learn more about blogging for profit, including affiliate marketing.
Total time: Developing an audience can take a long time.
Setup: Creating a website is simple using blog templates.
How simple it is to get started: Producing consistent material can be more difficult.
Minimum age: varies.
You could expect to be reimbursed within a month or two on average.
6. Sell your wares on Etsy
Have a passion for ceramics, jewelry-making, woodworking, or needlework? Sell your handicrafts on Etsy, the popular website for craftspeople offering home products, artwork, and trinkets. Etsy claims to have over 96 million active customers and generated over $13 billion in revenue from goods sales in 2023. Find out more about earning money on Etsy.
Total time: Customers may take a long time to find you.
Setup: Quite involved at times.
On the difficulty meter, “hard” is the closest thing to “easy” to begin.
Age requirement: 13 and up.
Depending on your preferences, you may receive payment on a daily, weekly, bimonthly, or monthly basis.
7. Self-publish an e-book
Writing a decent book is difficult, but publishing it online is simple. You can sell your book or books on the Kindle store by using Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing if you are a prolific writer. Publishing a book is free, and royalties of up to 70% of each sale are yours to keep. Write your book, upload your manuscript, and include a descriptive description and the information that will be seen. Decide on a pricing and watch for sales.
Total time: What is your typing speed? It goes without saying that writing a book may be a pain in the ass.
Setup: When the book is ready, KDP will find it quick and simple.Â
How simple it is to get started: Just write.Â
Parents and guardians can sell books for minors using their accounts, however the minimum age is 18+.
You will be paid on a monthly basis. If you want to pay by check or wire transfer, you must have at least $100.
8. Get advertising revenue from your blog or YouTube channel
Turn your cat videos into cash videos. If your YouTube videos or blog posts draw a big audience, you may be able to make money from advertising. YouTube sets 1,000 subscribers as the benchmark for applying to the YouTube Partner Program if you want to place ads on your channel. You can apply with 500 subscribers for other monetizing features like channel memberships. You can also use Google’s AdSense, the same ad platform on YouTube, to put relevant ads on your blog or website for earning potential. Learn more about using Google AdSense and YouTube to generate income.
Total time: It can take several weeks to get up and running.
Setup: Fairly easy.
How easy to start: Depends on how good you are at producing interesting videos.
Age threshold: 18+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Could take a long while to earn the first payout; then monthly.
9. Become an Instagram influencer
Businesses are leveraging Instagram influencers, or users with sizable, devoted followings, to promote their goods. You can participate by reaching out to the brands you wish to collaborate with or by applying for chances through a marketing platform such as Open Influence or Aspire. Learn more about Instagram revenue generation. (This is another method of earning money on TikTok.)
Total time: You will have to persevere.
Setup is simple and quick.
How simple it is to begin: Not very simple. Read: Gaining influence requires growing a following.
Age requirement: 13 and up.
The rate of payment varies depending on the collaboration.
10. Monetize your Twitch channel
If you have a consistent following on Twitch, the popular gaming website, gaming could be a method to earn money from home. In addition to earning money from viewers’ virtual applause, or “Bits,” streamers who become Affiliates or Partners may also receive a portion of subscription and ad revenue. Find out more about earning money on Twitch.
Total time: The game may be lengthy.
Setup is simple and quick.
It is easy to get started, but it takes time to gain a following.
Age requirement: 13 and up.
You will be paid on a monthly basis.
11. Sell your photography
Make money off of your photos by uploading them to websites like Fine Art America, where you can sell them as prints, T-shirts, phone cases, and more. SmugMug, 500px, and PhotoShelter are additional marketplaces for photographers. Some websites offer features like cloud storage, password-protected galleries, and personalized websites, but they also require a subscription.
Total time: You must be found and liked by buyers.
Setup: Only a couple of hours.
How simple it is to get started: All you need is a collection of pictures.
Minimum age: varies.
Your sales platform will determine how quickly you are paid.
How to make money from home
You do not even need to leave your house to pursue certain side projects. Alternatively, if they do, it might only be a quick stroll with a pet. Being creative and having a strong work ethic are necessary when working from home. Here are some fantastic home-based side gig ideas:
12. Become a dog walker with Rover or Wag
Do you adore dogs? Select dog walking as your first source of income. On-demand dog walking is available through apps like Wag and Rover, so you can arrange walks whenever it suits you. You could provide overnight dog boarding if you have the space and, if you rent, with your landlord’s consent. If you sign up for these services, make sure to read the fine print.
Total time: It could take a while to develop a clientele.
Setup: Approval may take several weeks.
How simple to begin: Do you have a pet? You are ready to go.
The minimum age is 18 years old.
You will be compensated between two days and a week.
13. Sell unused gift cards
Sell unused or partially used gift cards on websites such as CardCash or GiftCash to earn extra cash. You can exchange your card for one you will use, or you can get up to 92% of the card’s value back, according to CardCash. Find out more about handling unused gift cards.
Total time: If your gift card is for a well-known retailer, in minutes.
Simple to set up.
How simple it is to get started: It is best to sell as many gift cards as possible.
The minimum age is 18 years old.
Payment timeline: a few days to roughly two weeks.
14. List your spare bedroom on Airbnb
Another approach to earn additional cash is to rent out your house or extra bedroom on vacation rental websites. To maintain and clean the property, replace household items, and cover service fees, budget a certain amount of money. Before you begin, carefully review your rental agreement, HOA regulations, and any zoning or other restrictions. Find out more about launching an Airbnb company.
Total time: Depending on where you are, demand determines success.
Setup: It only takes a few hours to generate and publish a listing.
How easy it is to get started: It is easy if you have a rental property.
The minimum age is 18 years old.
How quickly you will get paid: at least one day following check-in.
How to make money offline
There’s online and at- home ways to make extra money and then there’s a third alternative: offline. This version of the gig economy may require more work, but the upside can be substantial. Since there’s no esca
15. Sell your gently used clothes
You can quickly earn some money by selling the clothes you no longer wear. Use websites like ThredUp and Poshmark to find customers, or start with nearby consignment stores to earn money more quickly. Take crisp, well-lit pictures of your items before listing them online, and look up comparable products to determine competitive pricing. Learn some strategies for selling your clothes.
Time total: varies depending on the sales channel.
Setup is quick and simple. You can just load a box with clothing and send it in, or you can visit a consignment store.
How simple it is to begin: Simple. Perhaps the most difficult task is organizing the closet.
Age requirement: 13 and up.
The speed of payment varies depending on the sales channel.
16. Trade in old phones, electronics for cash
Have an old gaming system, laptop, iPad, or phone laying around? Offer it for sale on websites such as Facebook Marketplace, Gazelle, or Swappa. Take a look at eBay’s and Amazon’s trade-in programs, which compensate participants with Amazon gift cards. Try an ecoATM kiosk, which gives you cash for your device right away, if you are in a hurry.
Total time: Your time will vary because there are several possibilities.
Easy to set up.
How simple it is to begin: Simple, particularly if your device is in good condition.
Age requirement: usually 18; refer to the terms of service.
Where you sell will determine how quickly you are paid.
17. Get a babysitting gig
Anyone can earn money by watching other people’s kids, from college students to recent retirees. Although word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family are still a fantastic way to get started, you can also reach a wider audience by creating a free profile on Care.com or Sittercity. To increase your marketability, list any particular abilities you possess, such as CPR certifications.
Total time: Setting up online takes a few minutes, but getting recommendations from locals could take some time.
Setup takes only a few minutes.
How simple it is to get started: Spreading the word is crucial.
If you are using referrals, the age threshold is really young. 18+ internet users.
When the parents return home is when you will get paid.
18. Rent out your car
People who live in cities frequently go days or weeks without using their cars. With services like Getaround and Turo, which allow you to hire out your car by the hour or day, you can turn that idle time into extra cash. Getaround or Turo gets a cut for protecting your car while it is being hired, but you keep the majority of those profits.
Total time: The local market will determine how much demand there is for your vehicle.
Setup: Creating an account takes roughly thirty minutes.
How simple it is to begin: It is simple if you have the right car.
For Turo, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license; Getaround does not specify an age limit.
The rate of payment varies depending on the website.
19. Sign up for TaskRabbit
You might be a good fit for helping people if you truly enjoy standing in lengthy lines or assembling Ikea furniture. You can find folks who need assistance with a range of tasks, including moving, cleaning, delivery, and handyman services, through websites like TaskRabbit. Additionally, the website provides a number of online and virtual services, like data input and research project assistance. Learn how to use TaskRabbit to generate income.
Total duration: The time you spend will depend on the demand for your abilities in the area.
Setup: A few hours, followed by some approval time.
How simple it is to get started: Simple, although research is required.
The minimum age is 18 years old.
How quickly you will be paid: A few days following a job.
20. Become a private tutor
Become a private tutor and use your skills in math, science, foreign languages, or test preparation into a profitable side career. Both in-person and online tutoring are available. Your experience, level of expertise, and market demand can all affect how much you charge. Create a profile on websites like Tutor.com or Care.com, or check Craigslist to see what kinds of tutors are needed. Additionally, you can promote your services at community centers and local schools.
Total time: Depends on the topic. Some businesses may have a weekly minimum availability requirement (Tutor.com, for example, requires 5 hours).
Setup: May require some work.
How simple it is to get started: It may take some time for students to locate you.
Age restriction: Any.
The platform will determine how quickly you are paid; review the terms of service.
21. Drive for Uber, Lyft
Drive people around and earn money by signing up for Uber, Lyft, or both. Just remember to account for maintenance and gas expenses. In addition to agreeing to a background check and a review of your driving history, you must have a qualifying vehicle in good condition. Find out how to earn money as a Lyft driver or how to become an Uber driver.
Total time: Relies on the demand in your market.
Several weeks for setup.
How simple it is to get started: Not hard, however you will need the correct kind of car.
Age range: 21–25, depending on the region.
Paying you will happen very quickly. either right away or in a few days.
22. Make deliveries for Amazon, Uber Eats
Join a service like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex to capitalize on the expanding delivery trend. Most of the time, you get compensated for each delivery, and you may even get tips. In many cities, Postmates and DoorDash allow you to deliver using a bike or scooter, so a car is not always necessary. But the sale nearly always includes a background check. Find out more about how to use Instacart, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex.
Total time: Relies on the demand in your market.
Setup: A week or so.
How simple it is to begin: Simple, provided you have a reliable mode of transportation.
Age requirement: 18 years of age or older, depending on the service.
The speed of payment varies depending on the vendor.
23. Find work as a housesitter
Become a housesitter if you are willing to keep an eye on someone is house, possibly taking care of the rubbish, watering the plants, and feeding the pets. Seek recommendations from your personal network or use HouseSitter.com, which links housesitters and homeowners.
Total time: Relies on the demand in your market.
Setup: A few minutes, or longer if you attempt to generate revenue through recommendations.
How simple it is to get started will rely on local needs.
Age requirement: varies per location.
How quickly you will be paid: Usually at the conclusion of a job; negotiate with clients.
24. Sign up to be a mystery shopper
Companies frequently want to know how they are doing from the viewpoint of their customers. Become their eyes and ears by signing up. Online applications are available through websites such as Sinclair Customer Metrics, BestMark, and IntelliShop. Just be cautious about frauds and do your homework before registering.
Time spent overall: varies by location.
Setup: While applying is quick, approval may take some time.
How simple it is to begin: Not too difficult if you have the necessary technology and transportation.
Age restriction: Site-specific.
The rate at which you will be compensated varies by company.
25. Put your drone to work
Some of the greatest camera drones are available for less than $500, and you can profit from that investment. Drone pilots are used by real estate agents to provide aerial photographs of a house’s exterior and even entertaining fly-through movies of its interior, which can be a comparatively simple source of income. You can frequently charge extra for clients looking for aerial inspections and land mapping if you are willing to pick up more complex skills, such drone mapping.
To become a drone pilot and register your drone with the Federal Aviation Administration, you must pass an exam. You can then apply for flying jobs.
The whole time is contingent upon demand.
Setup: After passing a test, you will need to find clients.
How simple it is to begin: You are probably eligible if you already own a drone.
Age requirement: 16 and up.
The rate at which you will be compensated varies by company.
