More Money, More Options: Additional Ways to Earn Extra Income

Ok let's be real- waiting on a paycheck that barely covers your bills isn't enough. Especially with the rising costs of living, the unreliability within the job market, and the current decisions that are being made by organizations that don't have your best interest in mind, having multiple income streams isn't just a luxury-it's now a necessity!

Here's some good news. There are plenty of flexible ways to earn extra income that don't require quitting your 9-5 or running yourself into the ground. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or want to develop a skill that pays long term, here are 5 Legit Ways to earn extra income starting now.

1. Get Paid to Shop & Deliver

If you don't mind driving or shopping for others, delivery jobs are an easily accessible and flexible way to make money on your own schedule. These platforms let you earn by shopping for groceries, delivering packages, or picking up takeout orders:

Instacart- Shop for groceries and deliver them to customers. Great for those who don't mind combing through grocery store aisles.

Amazon Flex- Deliver Amazon packages in your own car. You pick the time blocks that work best for you.

DoorDash- Pick up food orders and deliver them locally. Some restaurants also have prepped orders, so you just grab and go!

Pro Tip: Work during peak hours (lunch, dinner, weekends) to maximize tips and earnings.

2. Freelance Your Skills

Are you good at a specific skill? If so, you can use it to make extra money! No matter what the skill is, there is probably someone who is willing to pay you to do it! Whether you write, design, edit videos, or great at maneuvering through social media, (this one is in huge demand!) freelancing lets you get paid for what you already know and do well- this is without needing a degree or a full-time commitment.

Where to start:

1. Fiverr & Upwork- Offer services like writing, graphic design, voiceovers, or video editing.

2. PeoplePerHour- This is great for small business services like social media management.

3. Freelancer- A huge marketplace for everything from coding to virtual assistance.

Pro Tip: Start with a low-pressure gig (like proofreading resumes or designing social media posts) and increase your rates as you gain experience.

3. Get Paid to Tutor Online

If you're good at explaining things, tutoring can be a highly profitable side hustle. You don't need to be a certified teacher- many platforms let you tutor in subjects you already know (like Math, English, or Business).

Best tutoring platforms:

1. TutorMe & Skooli- Great for academic subjects like math, science, and test prep.

2. Cambly- Talk to people learning English (super easy-just have conversations and get paid).

3. iTalki- Teach a language you know and set your own rates.

Pro Tip: If you prefer one-on-one sessions, try advertising tutoring services on Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor for local clients.

4. Work Events with Flexible Staffing Gigs

Event staffing is one of the easiest ways to make some extra money if you're available. How it works is, you sign up for jobs as needed-no long-term commitment, just extra income on demand.

Best events staffing platforms:

1. Qwick- Hospitality jobs like bartending, catering, and event staffing.

2. Instawork- Work at concerts, sports games, or private events.

 Pro Tip: Most of these jobs Pay the same day- which is perfect if you need money ASAP!

5. Offer a Professional Service 

If you're looking for long-term income, learning a high-demand skill is the move!

Taking a short course can set you up to charge premium rates for your services.

Profitable services you can offer:

1. Bookkeeping- Businesses ALWAYS need someone to handle their finances. Courses like Bookkeper Launch can get you started.

2. Tax Preparation- Take an online tax course and start helping others with their returns.

3. Notary Services- A quick certification can have you making $50-$200 per signing.

   
   

Pro Tip: Market your services on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram to reach potential clients in your area.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent, Earn Extra Income

You don't need to jump into everything at once- pick ONE option that works best for your schedule, test it out, and build from there. The goal is to diversify your income, so if one stream slows down or switches up, you have others to fall back on. This is important for your financial sense of self and security!

Let me know in the comments section below, which one of these income streams would you try first?