Underemployed? How to Make Extra Cash to Make Ends Meet
If you aren’t making quite enough to pay the bills at your day job, you may want to consider a side gig that puts a bit of extra cash in your pocket. These ways to make extra money are designed to supplement your income without taking away from the effort require to sustain your main source of employment. Read on for some of the best ways to earn extra cash on the side.
1. Trade in Your Video Games and Electronics
If you’re a tech enthusiast, you probably have outdated video games and technology around your house that you no longer use. You can trade in video games for cash. Consider taking these to your local game shop and trading them in, or selling on an online yard sale or auction site.
2. Place Ads on Your Car
If you have a relatively late-model vehicle, you can earn between $500 and $1,000 per month by having it wrapped with ads. How does it work? Sign up online with a reputable company, who will make you an offer based on your demographics, location, and the type of car you drive. However, think carefully before you do this. The reason being is that you may need that car as it may be your only means of transportation. However, if you can get away with a bike, bus, train, or other forms of public transportation then selling your care will make you some extra cash and it will save you money month to month on repairs and especially on insurance.
3. Tutoring/Proctoring for Standardized Test
For those who were excellent students, tutoring for tests like the ACT and SAT is a great way to make money on the side. Schools also pay people to serve as proctors while the tests are being given, meaning that you keep time and make sure the rules are being followed. You can proctor for any given test including standardized tests whether they are for the undergraduate or graduate level exams.
4. Join a Focus Group
Your opinion is valuable, and there are many reputable organizations willing to pay you to serve on online and in-person focus groups. Usually, you sign up and then are emailed opportunities, and must take a survey to see if you qualify. These often pay around $50-100 per hour. Keep in mind that this often depends on the topics that the focus group is covering. That means the pay range could vary slightly. It also depends on how long the focus group will last. You should also note that you will need to qualify for each focus group you apply for. Often time’s focus groups are looking for a certain demographic and background of various different kinds of people. However, this again will depend on the focus group you are applying to.
5. Freelance on the Side
If you have skills in writing, editing, or graphic design, there are tons of freelance databases that can help match you with opportunities. While you may need to cut your rates to help you get hired at first, the more experience means the more money you’ll make. You might also consider blogging as well. If you do well enough in the blogging world, you can bring in some extra money.
Once you get rolling with one of these side business, consider banking the money for a rainy day or putting it toward credit card debt or other high-interest bills. In addition to earning extra money on the side, you may want to consider cutting your expenses; for example, get a roommate, or rent out your garage.
Category: Career
