The Sting of Inflation: 25 Real Ways to Make Money from Home

As inflation continues to impact our daily lives, many individuals are seeking ways to supplement their income. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or simply make ends meet, there are numerous opportunities available to earn extra cash from the comfort of your home or while out and about. NerdWallet has compiled a list of 25 legitimate ways to make money, detailing what it takes to get started, age requirements, and how quickly you can expect to be paid.

How to Make Money Online

1. Pick Up Freelance Work Online

Freelancing is a flexible way to earn money online. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com offer a variety of gigs, including writing, graphic design, programming, and virtual assistance. If you’re bilingual, consider translation work on sites like Gengo.

Setup Time: 24-48 hours for profile approval.
Ease of Start: Easy if you have expertise.
Payment Speed: Varies by platform; Upwork pays after a review period.

2. Test Websites and Apps

Get paid to provide feedback on websites and apps through platforms like UserTesting.com. After completing a short test, you can earn money for your insights.

Setup Time: Less than an hour.
Ease of Start: Easy with the right tech.
Payment Speed: 14 days after completing a test.

3. Learn to Use AI Tools

With the rise of generative AI, there’s a growing demand for individuals who can leverage these tools. You can offer services like content creation, digital product development, or even teaching others how to use AI.

Setup Time: 24-48 hours if using freelance sites.
Ease of Start: Easier if familiar with AI.
Payment Speed: Varies by client.

4. Take Surveys for Money

While not a high-paying gig, taking surveys can be a simple way to earn some extra cash. Sites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie allow you to earn points redeemable for cash or gift cards.

Setup Time: Just minutes.
Ease of Start: Very easy.
Payment Speed: Varies by site.

5. Make Money from Your Blog with Affiliate Links

If you have a blog with decent traffic, consider joining an affiliate network. You earn a commission for every sale made through your referral links.

Setup Time: Can take time to build an audience.
Ease of Start: Easy to start; maintaining content is challenging.
Payment Speed: Typically a month or two.

6. Sell Your Wares on Etsy

If you’re crafty, consider selling handmade items on Etsy. With millions of active buyers, it’s a great platform for artisans.

Setup Time: A few hours to create a shop.
Ease of Start: Moderate; requires preparation.
Payment Speed: 1-7 days after a sale.

7. Self-Publish an E-Book

If you have a knack for writing, self-publishing on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing can be lucrative. You can earn up to 70% in royalties.

Setup Time: Quick once the book is ready.
Ease of Start: Easy to start writing.
Payment Speed: Monthly after reaching a $100 threshold.

8. Get Advertising Revenue from Your Blog or YouTube Channel

If you create engaging content, you can monetize it through ads. YouTube requires 1,000 subscribers to join its Partner Program.

Setup Time: Several weeks to get started.
Ease of Start: Depends on content quality.
Payment Speed: Monthly after reaching a $100 threshold.

9. Become an Instagram Influencer

With a dedicated following, you can partner with brands to promote their products. Use platforms like Open Influence to find opportunities.

Setup Time: Quick to create an account.
Ease of Start: Requires time to build a following.
Payment Speed: Varies by partnership terms.

10. Monetize Your Twitch Channel

If you enjoy gaming, consider streaming on Twitch. You can earn money through subscriptions, donations, and ad revenue.

Setup Time: Quick to start streaming.
Ease of Start: Easy to set up; building an audience takes time.
Payment Speed: Monthly after reaching payout thresholds.

11. Sell Your Photography

If you’re a photographer, consider selling your images on platforms like Fine Art America or SmugMug. You can earn money from prints, merchandise, and more.

Setup Time: A few hours to create a profile.
Ease of Start: Easy if you have a portfolio.
Payment Speed: Varies by platform.

How to Make Money from Home

12. Become a Dog Walker with Rover or Wag

If you love pets, consider dog walking through apps like Rover or Wag. You can set your own schedule and even offer pet sitting services.

Setup Time: A few weeks for approval.
Ease of Start: Easy if you love animals.
Payment Speed: 2 days to a week.

13. Sell Unused Gift Cards

Turn unused gift cards into cash by selling them on sites like CardCash or GiftCash. You can receive up to 92% of the card’s value.

Setup Time: Minutes.
Ease of Start: Easy.
Payment Speed: A few days to two weeks.

14. List Your Spare Bedroom on Airbnb

Renting out a room or your entire home on Airbnb can be a lucrative side hustle. Just ensure you comply with local regulations.

Setup Time: A few hours to create a listing.
Ease of Start: Simple if you have a space to rent.
Payment Speed: Typically 24 hours after check-in.

How to Make Money Offline

15. Sell Your Gently Used Clothes

Declutter your closet and make money by selling clothes at local consignment shops or online platforms like Poshmark.

Setup Time: Varies by sales channel.
Ease of Start: Easy.
Payment Speed: Varies by method.

16. Trade in Old Phones and Electronics for Cash

Sell old devices on platforms like Gazelle or Swappa, or use ecoATM kiosks for instant cash.

Setup Time: Quick.
Ease of Start: Easy.
Payment Speed: Varies by platform.

17. Get a Babysitting Gig

Babysitting can be a great way to earn money. Use platforms like Care.com or Sittercity to find clients.

Setup Time: Minutes to create a profile.
Ease of Start: Easy with referrals.
Payment Speed: When the parents return.

18. Rent Out Your Car

If you have a car that you don’t use often, consider renting it out through services like Turo or Getaround.

Setup Time: About 30 minutes.
Ease of Start: Easy if you have a suitable vehicle.
Payment Speed: Varies by platform.

19. Sign Up for TaskRabbit

If you enjoy helping others, consider signing up for TaskRabbit to assist with various tasks like cleaning, moving, or handyman services.

Setup Time: A couple of hours.
Ease of Start: Easy.
Payment Speed: A few days after a job.

20. Become a Private Tutor

If you excel in a subject, consider tutoring students either online or in person. You can set your own rates based on your expertise.

Setup Time: Varies by demand.
Ease of Start: Moderate.
Payment Speed: Varies by platform.

21. Drive for Uber or Lyft

Driving for rideshare services can be a flexible way to earn money. Just ensure your vehicle meets the requirements.

Setup Time: A few weeks for approval.
Ease of Start: Easy if you have a qualifying vehicle.
Payment Speed: Instant or within days.

22. Make Deliveries for Amazon or Uber Eats

Join the growing delivery trend by signing up for services like DoorDash or Instacart. You can earn money per delivery and keep tips.

Setup Time: About a week.
Ease of Start: Easy with reliable transportation.
Payment Speed: Varies by service.

23. Find Work as a Housesitter

If you’re responsible and enjoy taking care of homes, consider housesitting. You can find gigs through personal networks or platforms like HouseSitter.com.

Setup Time: Minutes to create a profile.
Ease of Start: Depends on demand.
Payment Speed: Typically at the end of a gig.

24. Sign Up to Be a Mystery Shopper

Businesses often seek feedback on their services. Sign up with companies like IntelliShop to become a mystery shopper.

Setup Time: Quick application.
Ease of Start: Relatively easy.
Payment Speed: Varies by company.

25. Put Your Drone to Work

If you own a drone, consider offering aerial photography services for real estate or events. This can be a lucrative niche.

Setup Time: Varies based on client acquisition.
Ease of Start: Moderate; requires certification.
Payment Speed: Varies by client.

Watch Out for Making Money Scams

While the internet offers numerous opportunities to earn money, it’s essential to be cautious. Avoid any opportunity that requires upfront fees or personal financial information. Research companies through forums and check their Better Business Bureau profiles for legitimacy.

Conclusion

In today’s economy, finding ways to supplement your income can alleviate financial stress and provide a sense of security. Whether you choose to freelance, sell products, or offer services, there are countless opportunities available. By exploring these options, you can find the right fit for your skills and lifestyle, helping you navigate the challenges of inflation and achieve your financial goals.

25 Strategies for Earning Money Both Online and Offline