How To Make Money Online: 25 Quick And Easy Ways

If you’re looking to make some extra income with a side gig, there are various opportunities available, whether online or offline. I have compiled a list of 25 real ways to earn money from home, online, or through other means.

Each side job comes with details like what’s needed to get started, age requirements, and the expected timeframe for receiving payment. While many people prefer quick earnings, it’s important not to overlook the “slower” gigs, as they may offer higher long-term rewards.

Making money online is a popular choice in today’s gig economy. Whether you’re aiming to become a six-figure social media influencer or just want to supplement your regular income with online side jobs, here are some viable options:

1. Test Websites and Apps

Another way to make money from home is by using websites like UserTesting.com. You can earn money by sharing your thoughts on how well certain websites and apps function or don’t. The process typically involves completing a short test for acceptance, after which you’ll receive compensation based on the type of test.

Total Time: Approval time can vary.
Setup: Takes less than an hour.
How Easy to Start: It’s relatively easy, provided you have the necessary tech equipment and can complete a sample test.
Age Threshold: Generally 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payments are typically made within seven days.

Need to Know:

Usually, you’ll need to complete a sample test as part of the application process.
Testing opportunities will start coming your way once your application is approved.
The approval timeline can vary.
Payment amounts depend on the test’s length, and you usually receive payment via PayPal seven days after completing a website or app test.

Requirements:

You need to be at least 18 years old.
A computer, internet connection, and microphone are required.
Mobile app testers will also need an Android or iOS mobile phone or tablet.
Some websites may have language requirements.

2. Make Money from Your Blog with Affiliate Links

If you’re a blogger with a decent audience, you can earn money by joining an affiliate network. Affiliates earn commissions when visitors click through from your website to a partner site and make a purchase. It can be a lucrative way to monetize your blog. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Building an audience can take time.
Setup: Building a site with blog templates is straightforward.
How Easy to Start: Starting is easy, but consistently creating content can be a challenge.
Age Threshold: None.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Typically within a month or two.

Need to Know:

You need an established blog, social media account, or online presence with a healthy number of monthly visitors.
You must apply for and be approved by an affiliate marketing network such as CJ Affiliate, ShareASale, FlexOffers, Rakuten Advertising, or Amazon Associates.
Payment schedules and thresholds vary by affiliate network, so be prepared to wait at least a month or two for your first payment. For example, Amazon Associates pays out earnings 60 days after the end of the earning month, while ShareASale disburses earnings monthly.

Requirements:

A blog, social media account, or online presence that attracts a steady stream of visitors.

3. Sell Your Crafts on Etsy

If you have a talent for woodworking, jewelry-making, embroidery, or pottery, you can sell your handmade crafts on Etsy. It’s a platform known for artisans selling various home goods, art, and unique items. Here are the details:

Total Time: Finding customers may take time.
Setup: Can be somewhat involved.
How Easy to Start: Leaning toward “difficult” on the difficulty scale.
Age Threshold: 13+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Typically from the next day to seven days after a sale.

Need to Know:

Setting up an Etsy shop can be done in a few hours, but the preparation work, including creating merchandise, photos, descriptions, a shop name, and a business plan, can be time-consuming.
It may take weeks or more to attract customers and make sales.
Once you sell an item, payment goes into your Etsy Payments account first and is then deposited into your bank account based on your chosen deposit schedule.

Requirements:

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

4. Self-Publish an E-Book

If you have a talent for writing and the patience to produce a book, self-publishing an e-book can be a way to make money. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Writing a book can be a time-consuming process.
Setup: Quick and easy on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) once your book is ready.
How Easy to Start: Just start writing.
Age Threshold: 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Monthly, after reaching the $100 earnings threshold.

Need to Know:

Self-publishing is straightforward, but success isn’t guaranteed. Competition is fierce, with millions of e-books available on the Kindle Store.
You can choose between two royalty options: 70% or 35%. To qualify for the 70% option, your book’s price must be between $2.99 and $9.99.
Formatting your manuscript properly is essential for a smooth conversion to e-book format.

Requirements:

You need to create a Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) account to get started.
Proper formatting of your manuscript is crucial for a seamless conversion to e-book format.

5. Pick up Freelance Work Online

Make money online by leveraging platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com. These websites provide opportunities to engage in a variety of freelance jobs, including writing, programming, design, marketing, data entry, and virtual assistant work. If you’re fluent in a second language, you can explore sites like Gengo or Blend Express or even create your own platform to attract clients. Regardless of your freelancing niche, it’s essential to stay informed about the prevailing rates for your type of work to determine appropriate pricing.

Total Time: It may take some time to secure your first gig. Setup: Typically, 24-48 hours. How Easy to Start: Easy, provided you have the required expertise. How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment timelines vary by site.

Need to Know:

Upwork may take up to 48 hours to approve your profile, and landing your first freelance project may require some patience.
Payment methods and withdrawal periods differ by platform. For instance, on Upwork, the timing of earnings release depends on the payment type. Hourly contracts follow a weekly billing cycle, with funds available for withdrawal 10 days later. Fixed-price contracts involve a five-day waiting period. Project catalog contracts allow withdrawal after five days, and bonus payments become available in the same timeframe, pending client reviews. On Fiverr, you’re paid when the work order is complete, but you can’t withdraw funds for 14 days (shorter for Top Rated Sellers and Fiverr Studio Members).

Requirements:

Upwork and Fiverr typically require users to be at least 18 years old to sell their services.
Freelancer.com usually sets a minimum age requirement of 16.
Some websites may have additional citizenship or residency requirements, particularly if you intend to work within the United States.

Making money online through freelancing offers flexibility and the potential for substantial earnings, especially if you specialize in areas with growing demand, such as creative writing and content editing. While securing your first gig may take some time, it’s a valuable way to leverage your skills and generate additional income.

6. Become a Dog Walker with Rover or Wag

If you love dogs, you can make money by becoming a dog walker through apps like Rover or Wag. Here are the details:

Total Time: Building a client base may take time.
Setup: Approval can take a few weeks.
How Easy to Start: If you love pets, you’re good to go.
Age Threshold: 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Within two days to a week.

Need to Know:

It takes about 10 to 20 business days for your Rover profile to be reviewed and approved.
The application process for Wag takes about two weeks and includes a background check and pet care quiz.

Requirements:

You must live in an area where Rover or Wag operates.
If you want to pet-sit, you need a pet-friendly living space.
You’ll need to pass a background check.

7. Sell Unused Gift Cards

You can make extra money by selling unused or partially used gift cards on websites like CardCash or GiftCash. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Only minutes if your gift card is for a popular store.
Setup: Easy.
How Easy to Start: The more gift cards you have to sell, the better.
Age Threshold: Old enough to have a credit card.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Typically within 1-2 days.

Need to Know:

Websites like CardCash and GiftCash provide instant offers or quotes for your gift cards.
You can sell gift cards at kiosks and some retail locations for immediate cash, or opt for online sales, which take longer but may yield better offers.

Requirements:

Some gift cards may need to have a minimum balance to be eligible for resale.
Gift cards with expiration dates may not be eligible.

8. List Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb

Renting out your home or spare bedroom on vacation rental sites like Airbnb is a great way to make extra money. Here are the details:

Total Time: Success depends on demand in your area.
Setup: You can create a listing within hours.
How Easy to Start: If you have a place to rent, it’s a straightforward process.
Age Threshold: 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: About one day.

Need to Know:

You can create a listing and start accepting reservations on the same day.
Payments are usually disbursed about 24 hours after your guest’s scheduled check-in time, with processing times depending on your chosen payout method.

Requirements:

Comply with any rules governing short-term or vacation rentals in your area, including city ordinances and regulations from your landlord or homeowners association.

9. Sell Your Gently Used Clothes

Selling clothes you no longer wear is a quick way to make money. You can do this through local consignment shops or online platforms like ThredUp and Poshmark. Here’s the information you need:

Total Time: Varies by sales channel.
Setup: Easy and fast. You can visit a consignment shop or send a box of clothes online.
How Easy to Start: It’s easy; the hardest part is cleaning out your closet.
Age Threshold: Any.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by sales channel.

Need to Know:

There are various ways to sell used clothing and accessories, and most of them are quick to start.
Fast options include selling to brick-and-mortar consignment stores that pay cash on the spot.

Requirements:

Gently worn shoes, clothing, and accessories.
Items are usually inspected for quality before acceptance.

10. Learn to Use AI Tools

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is gaining prominence, with predictions of a significant impact on the North American economy by 2030. This presents an excellent opportunity to learn how to make money using AI tools. Some AI-related side hustles include:

Integrating AI tools as a freelancer to create digital products or edit AI-generated content for clients.
Enhancing advertising, marketing, and business management efforts with AI.
Teaching others to use AI tools.
Total Time: Depends on demand.
Setup: Around 24-48 hours if using platforms like Upwork or Freelancer.com.
How Easy to Start: If you’re already familiar with AI tools, starting will be easier.
Age Threshold: 16+ for Freelancer.com and 18 for Upwork.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment varies depending on the client, the number of products you sell, and your chosen platform.

Need to Know:

Take time to become familiar with AI tools.
Ensure you meet the requirements of the freelance gig site you choose.
Payment terms and conditions will depend on your client and the site you use.

Requirements:

You’ll need a computer, internet connection, and microphone.

11. Take Surveys for Money

You can earn money from home by participating in online surveys, although the earnings are generally not substantial. Many survey sites offer gift cards rather than cash rewards. Some popular survey sites include Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. Here are the details:

Total Time: It will take some time to accumulate earnings.
Setup: Only takes a few minutes.
How Easy to Start: Very easy, just sign up and begin.
Age Threshold: Typically 13 to 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by site.

Need to Know:

Survey sites can be a good option for beginners looking to make money online because you can sign up and start taking surveys quickly.
The time it takes to receive payment depends on the survey site and how much time you invest in taking surveys.
Some sites require you to reach a minimum earnings threshold before cashing out.
Some survey sites use a points system that can be exchanged for cash (via PayPal) or gift cards.

Requirements:

Most survey sites have a minimum age requirement, which varies from 13 to 18 depending on the site.
Individual surveys may have specific eligibility criteria, and you may be disqualified from a survey without detailed explanation.

12. Get Advertising Revenue from Your Blog or YouTube Channel

If you have a popular blog or YouTube channel, you can generate income through advertising. Here are the details:

Total Time: It may take several weeks to establish a significant audience.
Setup: Fairly easy.
How Easy to Start: Depends on your ability to create engaging content.
Age Threshold: 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: It could take some time to reach your first payout, then you’ll receive payments monthly.

Need to Know:

To monetize your YouTube channel, you’ll need at least 1,000 subscribers and be part of the YouTube Partner Program.
Google AdSense can be used on a website or blog with fewer eligibility requirements.
Expect at least two months before ad revenue starts coming in.
You must reach a $100 earnings threshold before you can receive a payout.

Requirements:

For your blog, you need a website that has been active for at least six months.
For YouTube, you must have over 1,000 subscribers.
You must be at least 18 years old.

13. Become an Instagram Influencer

Companies are increasingly turning to Instagram influencers to promote their products. If you’re interested in becoming an Instagram influencer, here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Building a substantial following can take time.
Setup: Quick and easy.
How Easy to Start: It’s not easy; you must build a significant following to have influence.
Age Threshold: 13+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment speed varies based on partnerships.

Need to Know:

Setting up an Instagram account is fast, but gaining a substantial following can take months or even years.
To monetize your influence, you’ll need to find paid opportunities, which can be done through affiliate networks or by directly contacting brands.
Payment terms will vary based on your agreements, but affiliate networks typically pay earnings in the month following campaign completion.

Requirements:

An Instagram account with a dedicated and engaged following.
Meeting the requirements of any affiliate network you join.

14. Monetize Your Twitch Channel

If you have a dedicated following on Twitch, a platform popular among gamers, you can make money through various means, such as donations, subscription revenue, and ad revenue as a Twitch Affiliate or Partner. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Building a substantial following can take time.
Setup: Quick and easy.
How Easy to Start: Easy to start, but it takes time to build a following.
Age Threshold: 13+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Monthly.

Need to Know:

Setting up a Twitch channel and starting to stream can be done in a day, but it takes weeks or even months to build a significant following.
Donation revenue can typically be withdrawn quickly, depending on your chosen payout method.
Subscription and ad revenue earned as a Twitch Partner or Affiliate are usually paid out around the 15th of each month, with a minimum balance requirement for most payout methods ($50 or $100).

Requirements:

To qualify for a share of game sales, ads, and subscription revenue, you need to achieve certain viewership and broadcast milestones on Twitch.

15. Sell Your Photography

If you’re a photographer, you can turn your photos into income by selling them on platforms like Fine Art America, SmugMug, 500px, or PhotoShelter. Here are the details:

Total Time: Depends on how quickly your work attracts buyers.
Setup: A few hours.
How Easy to Start: If you have a portfolio of photos, you’re on your way.
Age Threshold: Any.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by sales platform.

Need to Know:

Setting up a profile on platforms like SmugMug, PhotoShelter, or Fine Art America can be done in a few hours if you have a collection of original work.
Payment terms and amounts vary widely depending on the platform you choose.

Requirements:

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

16. Trade in Old Phones and Electronics for Cash

If you have old phones, laptops, or gaming systems lying around, you can sell them online on sites like Swappa, Gazelle, or even Amazon’s trade-in program. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Depends on your chosen selling method.
Setup: Quick and easy.
How Easy to Start: It’s easy, especially if your device is in good condition.
Age Threshold: Any.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by the platform you choose.

Need to Know:

Depending on the platform, you can sell directly to buyers or to resellers. The time it takes to get paid varies accordingly.
Fees may apply on certain platforms.

Requirements:

A used phone, laptop, gaming system, etc.
Some platforms may require verifying that the device is not stolen or under a repayment plan for cell phones.

17. Get a Babysitting Gig

Babysitting is a great way to make money, and it’s open to various age groups. You can start by getting word-of-mouth referrals or creating a profile on platforms like Care.com or Sittercity. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Online setup takes minutes; building local referrals may take time.
Setup: Only a few minutes.
How Easy to Start: The main task is getting the word out.
Age Threshold: Very young for referrals; 18+ online.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: When the parents come home.

Need to Know:

You can create a profile on Care.com or Sittercity in a matter of minutes.
Payment is typically made after each babysitting gig.

Requirements:

Usually, you need to be at least 18 to list as a caregiver on Care.com and Sittercity.
Background checks may be required.

18. Rent Out Your Car

If you have a car that you don’t use all the time, you can make money by renting it out through services like Getaround or Turo. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Demand depends on your local market.
Setup: Setting up an account takes about half an hour.
How Easy to Start: If you have a suitable vehicle, it’s easy.
Age Threshold: A valid driver’s license and 21+ in most cases.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by the platform.

Need to Know:

You can create a listing on platforms like Turo or Getaround in under 30 minutes.
Payment processing times depend on the platform.

Requirements:

You must own your car, or if you lease it, check your lease agreement’s terms.
Your car must meet certain requirements regarding make, model, year, and mileage.
You should have a valid driver’s license.
You must meet the platform’s age requirement, which is typically 21 years old.

19. Find Work as a Housesitter

Housesitting involves watching over someone’s home, including tasks like feeding pets, watering plants, and taking out the garbage. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Depends on demand in your area.
Setup: Takes minutes or more if you try to drum up business through referrals.
How Easy to Start: Depends on the need in your area.
Age Threshold: Varies by site.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Payment is typically received at the end of the gig.

Need to Know:

You can create a profile on housesitting websites within minutes, but it may take time to secure your first gig.
Payment is usually made by the homeowner when you complete your housesitting job.

Requirements:

Most housesitting websites have an age requirement.

20. Sign Up to Be a Mystery Shopper

Businesses often seek feedback from customers through mystery shopping. You can sign up to be a mystery shopper through various online platforms. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Varies by the platform.
Setup: Applying is relatively quick, but approval can take some time.
How Easy to Start: Reasonably easy if you have the required transportation and technology.
Age Threshold: May vary by site, but typically 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by the company.

Need to Know:

The application process is generally quick, but approval times can vary.
Payout timing also varies by the company; some, like BestMark, issue payments monthly.

Requirements:

Most mystery shopping services have an age requirement, usually 18 or older.
Some platforms may require reliable transportation and internet access.

21. Put Your Drone to Work

If you own a drone, you can make money by offering services like aerial inspection, photography, and land mapping. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Depends on demand.
Setup: You’ll need to make time to study for and pass a test, as well as find clients.
How Easy to Start: If you already have a drone, you’re likely qualified.
Age Threshold: Usually 16+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by company.

Need to Know:

Give yourself over a month to study, schedule, and pass a written test.
You’ll also need to find clients, and payment will depend on your agreement with them.

Requirements:

You’ll need a drone.
To operate legally, you’ll need certification, which involves passing an aeronautical knowledge test.
A background check is also necessary.

It’s crucial to exercise caution and be aware of potential scams when exploring opportunities to make money online or from home. Here are some tips to help you avoid scams and make informed decisions:

22. Sign Up for TaskRabbit

If you enjoy doing tasks for others, TaskRabbit can connect you with people who need help with various tasks, both physical and virtual. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: The time you spend depends on local demand.
Setup: Creating a profile takes a couple of hours, and approval time varies.
How Easy to Start: It’s easy, but you’ll need to do some research.
Age Threshold: 18+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: You typically receive payment a few days after completing a task.

Need to Know:

You can set up your profile and register in a few hours, but you can’t start accepting tasks until your profile is approved by TaskRabbit.
After approval, you’ll need to pay a $25 fee, so it’s worth researching your market and the value of your skills to see if it’s worth it for you.
Payment is usually made via direct deposit, which takes a few days to appear in your account.

Requirements:

You must be at least 18 to start working with TaskRabbit.
Prospective Taskers must pass a background check.

23. Become a Private Tutor

You can turn your expertise in subjects like math, science, foreign languages, or test preparation into a side gig by becoming a private tutor. You can offer your services online or in-person. Here are the details:

Total Time: Varies depending on the subject matter and demand.
Setup: Can be somewhat involved.
How Easy to Start: Students need to find you, which might take some time.
Age Threshold: Any.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Usually quickly, often right after the session.

Need to Know:

The time it takes to start depends on demand in your area, and it might take a while before you get your first student.
If you haven’t tutored before, allow for time to prepare so that students feel they’re getting the most out of their sessions.
Payment timing depends on whether you tutor via a platform or in-person, but it’s generally quick.

Requirements:

You need to have a deep knowledge of a subject that people need help with, such as mathematics, a foreign language, or test preparation.
Educational requirements might apply, and some tutors may need to be currently enrolled in a 4-year university or have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited 4-year university.

24. Drive for Uber or Lyft

Joining Uber or Lyft as a driver can be a quick way to make money by providing rides to passengers. Here are the details:

Total Time: Depends on demand in your market.
Setup: Takes a few weeks.
How Easy to Start: It’s not difficult, but you’ll need the right type of vehicle.
Age Threshold: You need to be licensed to drive in your area and have at least one year of licensed driving experience (or three years if you’re under age 25).
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Very fast, often instantly or within days.

Need to Know:

Allow some time for the application process, background check, and car inspection.
Lyft and Uber can pay you instantly through a debit card or transfer earnings to your bank account fairly quickly.

Requirements:

You need a car with four doors that meets specific requirements regarding the year, physical condition, etc.
Inform your car insurance company of your plans before starting to drive.

25. Make Deliveries for Amazon, Uber Eats

With the growing trend in delivery services, you can sign up for platforms like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, or Amazon Flex to make money by delivering various items. Here’s what you need to know:

Total Time: Depends on demand in your area.
Setup: Takes about a week.
How Easy to Start: Easy, as long as you have dependable transportation.
Age Threshold: Usually 21+.
How Fast You’ll Get Paid: Varies by the platform.

Need to Know:

The background check can take a few days, and processing times vary.
Payments from these services vary but are generally issued weekly or more quickly.

Requirements:

You’ll need a way to deliver items, which could be a car, scooter, or bike depending on the service.
A smartphone is necessary to accept and process jobs.
Each delivery service has a minimum age requirement that varies.

Be cautious of fraudulent money-making schemes.

Beware of Upfront Fees: Legitimate opportunities typically won’t require you to pay upfront fees. If a job or business opportunity asks for money before you can start, it’s often a red flag.
Avoid Certification Scams: Some scams offer certifications or training programs with promises of high earnings. Be skeptical of such offers and research the legitimacy of the certification provider.
Protect Your Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like your Social Security number, credit card number, or bank details to unknown sources. Legitimate employers or businesses won’t request this information during the application process.
Check for Reviews and Complaints: Look for reviews and feedback from others who have tried the opportunity. Online forums and platforms like Reddit can provide unfiltered insights into people’s experiences. Additionally, check if the company has a Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile and review its rating and any reported complaints.
Use Caution with High-Paying Promises: Be cautious of opportunities that promise unrealistically high earnings with little effort. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Research the Company: Conduct thorough research on the company or platform offering the opportunity. Look for information about its history, leadership, and business practices.
Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t feel right or you have doubts about an opportunity, trust your instincts and proceed with caution or avoid it altogether.

Be cautious of fraudulent money-making schemes.

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