Many of us have experienced month(s) where we’ve wondered where the cash is going to come from to pay for rent or put gas in the car. In the event that all available funds and traditional sources of credit have dried up, consider the following eight unusual ways to raise some extra cash:
Babysitting – While there are many part-time jobs available, you might be surprised to hear that babysitting is a very lucrative option – and in high demand. Babysitting jobs earn upwards of $15 an hour nowadays. So the next time someone you know needs a babysitter on a Saturday night, you might think twice before saying “no”.
Craigslist – Skip the yard sale and use the Internet alternative. Over 40 million people use Craigslist every month. Each fair-sized community has its own place on Craigslist, meaning most transactions are local and face to face. Thankfully, this reduces the chances for fraud or misleading offers. Take a moment to look around the site. It might give you some ideas on items you can sell that you never considered turning into cash.
Selling Crafts – If you’re in need of some quick cash, you’d be surprised how well you can do by selling handmade items. Handmade items like soaps and perfumed or infused oils do very well, especially on a site like Etsy (an online shop devoted to crafty vendors). Selling crafts is a great way to make quick money, just be sure you test the market for your item first.
Share Your Living Space – Sharing living expenses is a great way to worry less about bills and put a little more cash in your pocket. Before you ask someone to move in, however, make sure you draw up a lease agreement – even if it’s someone you know. Every space (living room, kitchen, bathroom, etc.) should be discussed in terms of sharing.
Temp Jobs – Tem Companies offer a glimpse of the inner workings of companies. You can learn how transnational corporations work, how human resources departments work, how a law firm works, etc. Who knows…if you show up on time, take reasonable lunch breaks and demonstrate initiative, you might end up with a permanent position. While temp jobs pay well, keep in mind that most do not provide benefits.
Amazon Mechanical Turk – If you have a lot of extra time on your hands, you might try signing up with Amazon’s Mechanical Turk program. Companies post tasks that machines are not easily able to complete, but are pretty simple for humans. Pick an assignment, complete it and get money credited to your Amazon account. Once you’ve accumulated $10, you can withdraw the money. If you have the ability to handle simple tasks quickly, this may be a good option to make some extra cash.
Rent Out Your Spot – If you have prime parking real estate, you could rent out your spot, park further away and take advantage of some exercise. Kill two birds with one stone. Who knows, you mind end up driving less and save on gas money too.
ISO Agent Programs – The opportunities for freelancers in the U.S. has never offered so many possibilities for a variety of industries. One of them being the payment processing industry. Consider one of the best ISO agent programs, First American Merchant’s ISO program. FAM provides agents with the expertise and tools they need to succeed, take their career/business to the next level and enjoy bigger profits.
The next time you’re in need of a quick cash, don’t let the situation stress and worry you. Take advantage of the unusual ways you can make a little extra cash and supplement your income. You might even find a business/career opportunity you never considered before.