You're in the right place if you're seeking out ways to bolster your finances quickly. “23 Legitimate Ways to Get Money Fast: From Online Surveys to Refinancing Loans” is a comprehensive guide that equips you with an impressive array of methods on how to gain that financial boost you need. This comprehensive guide covers easy and reliable tactics to secure more money ranging from online side hustles like taking surveys and proofreading, to selling thrift store finds or old clothes. There's a considerable diversity of options available, including childcare options, selling unwanted items, leveraging cash back apps, tapping into the sharing economy by renting space on Airbnb, and even selling your pictures. Even if you're looking for more substantial amounts, this guide doesn't leave you hanging with tactics like taking loans from closed ones, opening an online store, or even entering the digital market via affiliate marketing or freelance writing. You'll also learn creative tactics like being a Pinterest VA, or basic personal finance advice like curtailing unnecessary expenses and starting your investment journey. Amidst these suggestions, the guide helps with precautionary advice like avoiding payday loans and instead exploring a myriad of safer loan options. This guide is truly a goldmine; whether you're looking to make quick cash or endeavoring towards long-term financial goals, there's something for everyone.
Table of Contents
Taking Online Surveys
Understanding online surveys
Online surveys are a quick and easy way for you and businesses to exchange your time and opinion for some form of compensation, usually cash or gift cards. Companies, market research firms, non-profits, and even governmental bodies use these surveys to gather data and insights about their products, services, and various areas of interest.
Various platforms for online surveys
There are many platforms where you can participate in online surveys, like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and MyPoints. Each platform has its own guidelines, compensation rates, and requirements. It's worth exploring several to see which ones offer surveys you find intriguing, and that pay out in a way you find attractive.
Earning potential with online surveys
While you won't get rich taking online surveys, you can certainly earn some extra pocket money. Some people consistently earn $50-$100 per month. However, your earning potential largely depends on the amount of time you dedicate and how most surveys are available for your demographic.
Avoiding scam survey websites
Most online survey platforms are legitimate, but some are scams aimed at tricking you into disclosing personal information or making purchases. Always research a platform and read reviews from other users before joining. A legitimate survey site will never require payment for participation.
Becoming a Proofreader
Learning proofreading skills
Proofreading is the vital last stage in the writing process that ensures content is mistake-free. You'll need an excellent command of language and grammar, attention to detail, and an understanding of the writing style. Online courses, guides, and practice can all help you hone these skills.
Finding proofreading job opportunities
Proofreading jobs can be found on job board websites, freelancer platforms, or by networking in various writing and publishing communities. Businesses, publishers, and individuals often seek the help of proofreaders to ensure their written content is error-free.
Benefits of proofreading jobs
Proofreading jobs offer the prospect of flexible working hours, the ability to work from home, and a steady income. They can also provide the opportunity to read and learn from a wide range of interesting materials across different subject areas.
Challenges in proofreading jobs
Proofreading is detailed and meticulous work, which can be tiring and require high levels of concentration. You may also have to work with tight deadlines. Respecting client confidentiality and maintaining strict professional standards are key parts of the job.
Selling Thrift Store Finds
Shopping in thrift stores
Thrift stores can be treasure troves for those with a keen eye for value. Start getting familiar with what things cost, what's selling well, and what sorts of items you enjoy hunting for.
Identifying valuable items
From vintage clothing to antique furniture, valuable items come in many forms. Use smartphone apps to look up items on the spot, and learn about different brands, periods, and styles to help identify valuable items.
Listing and selling on various platforms
Once you've found something valuable, it's time to list it. eBay, Etsy, and Amazon are all popular marketplaces for thrift store finds. Take good photos, write clear descriptions, include relevant keywords, and be honest about any flaws to increase your chances of a successful sale.
The profitability of selling thrift store finds
The profitability of selling thrift store finds largely depends on the value of the items you find, your knowledge of the market, and how much time you spend. That being said, many people make a substantial side income — or even a full-time living — selling thrift store finds.
Holding a Garage Sale
Organizing a garage sale
Organizing a garage sale takes some work. You'll need to clean out your attic, basement, or garage, sort your unwanted items, price everything, advertise the sale, and set up on sale day. Make sure you check your local regulations about yard sales too.
Pricing items for a garage sale
Pricing garage sale items can be challenging. However, the main goal is to get rid of stuff, so be reasonable with your prices. Consider the item's age, condition, and original cost when pricing. Don't forget, people are looking for bargains at garage sales!
Promoting a garage sale
Promoting your garage sale is key to its success. Make signs, post on local community websites or social media groups, and tell your friends, family, and neighbors about the sale. Make sure to give enough notice and clearly state the date, time, and location of the sale.
Earning potential in garage sales
While profits can vary depending on what items you are selling and how many people visit your sale, most garage sales bring in a few hundred dollars. Remember, the primary intention is usually to clear out unneeded items rather than to make a profit.
Selling Old Clothes Online
Choosing selling platforms
You have many options for selling old clothes online, from eBay and Facebook Marketplace to clothes-specific apps like Poshmark and ThredUP. Consider the fees, ease of use, and potential audience when choosing the right platform.
Photographing and listing clothes
Good photographs are critical in online clothing sales. Make sure clothes are clean and well-presented, photograph them in good light, and include pictures of any details or flaws. Provide a thorough and accurate description of the item, including size, brand, condition, and any defects.
Pricing and shipping tips
Pricing depends on the brand, condition, and demand for the item. Do some research to see what similar items sell for. Consider offering free shipping and include the cost in your price, or be clear about shipping costs upfront.
Potential earnings from selling old clothes online
Earnings from selling old clothes online depend on the quality, brand, and condition of the clothes you're selling, as well as the platform you're using. Some people make a few dollars here and there, while others make a full-time income from their online clothing sales.
Babysitting
Developing babysitting skills
Babysitting requires many skills, including patience, emergency preparedness, and understanding child development. You might consider taking babysitting courses or getting first aid and CPR certified. It's also important to work on your interpersonal skills and rapport with both kids and their parents.
Marketing your service
Marketing your services can be done by word of mouth, flyers, social media, or through babysitting apps such as Care.com or UrbanSitter. Create a compelling profile or ad that details your skills, experience, and any certifications.
Babysitting rate considerations
Babysitting rates vary based on location, the number of kids you'll be watching, their ages, and the tasks you're expected to do. On average, babysitters can make anywhere from $10 to $20 per hour.
Precautions and child safety
Safety should always be the top priority when babysitting. Always familiarize yourself with the house rules, emergency contact information, and any specific instructions or allergenic considerations.
Donating Blood Plasma
Understanding the process
Donating plasma is similar to donating blood but takes a little longer. In the process, blood is drawn from your arm, the plasma is separated in a machine, and the rest is returned back to you. However, not everyone is eligible to donate plasma.
Eligibility for donating
In most countries, you have to be 18 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds to donate plasma. You also need to pass a medical examination and a screening for transmittable viruses like HIV and Hepatitis.
Earnings from donating blood plasma
You can earn about $20 to $50 per donation, depending on your weight. While it isn't a large sum of money, with consistent donations, you can earn around $200-$300 a month.
Health precautions and side effects
The blood plasma donation process is generally safe, but there can be side effects like fainting, bruising, or dehydration. It's important to replenish your fluids and to eat a balanced meal after donation. Never donate if you're feeling unwell.
Dog Sitting
Demands of dog sitting
Dog sitting can involve feeding, walking, playing with, and taking care of someone else’s pets while they're away. It also means dealing with the dog's behavior and quirks, and possibly handling emergency vet visits.
Finding dog sitting jobs
Sites like Rover or TrustedHousitters are great places to find dog sitting jobs. Put together a compelling profile that showcases your experience, skills, and love for animals to attract the best opportunities.
Earning from dog sitting
Rates for dog sitting vary depending on the type of care you're providing, your location, and the number of pets. However, many people find it to be a lucrative side income.
Tips for a successful dog sitting experience
For a successful dog sitting experience, always meet the pet first to ensure you both are comfortable with each other, learn the pet's routine, and ask about their behavior and any specific needs they might have.
Affiliate Marketing
Basics of affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people's products and receiving a commission for any purchases made via your affiliate links. It's a great way to earn money if you have a blog, social media presence, or email list.
Finding affiliate programs
Many companies from Amazon to smaller online stores have affiliate programs. You can find affiliate programs through affiliate networks or by checking your favorite companies’ websites. Look for products that fit well with your audience.
Promoting affiliate products
Successful affiliate marketing involves promoting products that are relevant and useful to your audience. Use a variety of promotional methods like blog posts, email marketing, social media posts, or videos to promote the products.
Earnings potential in affiliate marketing
Earnings with affiliate marketing can vary widely. Some affiliates make a few dollars a month, while others make full-time incomes. It often takes time and a large, engaged audience to make significant income with affiliate marketing.
Refinancing Car Payment
When to refinance your car
Refinancing your car can lower your monthly car payments or reduce your interest rate. You should consider refinancing if interest rates have dropped, your credit score has improved, or if you need to lower your bills.
Process of car refinancing
The car refinancing process involves obtaining a new loan to pay off your existing car loan. This could be through your existing lender or a new one. The new loan will have different terms such as a lower interest rate, longer repayment period, or lower monthly payments.
Benefits and pitfalls
While refinancing can lower your payments, it can also extend the length of your loan and you may end up paying more in interest over the life of the loan. It's crucial to examine the terms carefully and consider your financial situation.
Comparing Lenders
Comparing lenders allows you to find the best rate and terms for your car loan. Online tools can help you compare offers from multiple lenders at once. Make sure to consider factors such as interest rates, loan terms, and customer service before settling for a lender.
