6 Ways to Make Some Extra Cash

There are times in your life you may be looking to bring in some extra money on top of your regular salary. Or maybe you don’t have a regular salary. Perhaps you are always looking for more money! Whether you are trying to fund a weekend getaway or save a bundle to put toward your retirement, there are some less-common sources of income you can explore. There are plenty of unexpected ways to bring home the bacon; it just may take a little research and creativity. Check out these ways to earn extra cash.

1. Share Your Thoughts

Freelance writing can be great if you are looking to cash in on your thoughts and journalistic skills without giving up your freedom to a full-time gig. While a freelance career may change the way you manage your finances, consider searching blogs, magazines and other news or sharing services for the chance to write from home on your own time. You may be able to find a niche where you can focus on a topic you are passionate about or perform research on something you are interested in.

2. Give Yourself to Research

Without endangering yourself with unnecessary medical tests, you can earn cash by helping with psychological and scientific experiments. If you are willing to go into a nearby lab, this can be a fast way to increase your savings. Sometimes this involves little more than showing up to a university’s campus.

3. Cash In on Your Clothes

When you next look at your wardrobe, see if there are any clothes you can part with. Between online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon, social media virtual sales, group yard sales and fashion swap parties, you can cash in on your clothes and cut down your excess. This goes for jewelry too — consider a gold party or selling your pieces to a local jeweler in addition to the Internet sale options.

4. Answer Questions & Write Reviews

There are several sites and surveys on the Web that will pay for your opinions, advice or review. As long as you are mindful of scams, spending a little time on the computer can yield some great “bonus” cash. It’s a good idea to research the companies ahead of time, especially before handing over any personal information.

5. House- or Pet-Sit

Whenever people go on vacation and you are staying put, you have the chance to earn some extra money. Whoever is out of town will likely want someone to watch their house, definitely need help with their pets and sometimes both. Consider having friends and family recommend you, advertise locally or even hit the Web for sites to register as a house- or pet-sitter.

6. Rep Your Brand

With social media gaining considerable speed, try making some money from your followers, whether they are family, friends or fans. Companies and brands know that the best advertisement is a recommendation from a trusted connection, so they will reward you well for spreading the word on your Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or Google+ accounts.

Not every idea will work for you or bring in the big bucks, but every unexpected dollar is an addition to your current funds. It’s a good idea to check around and find an opportunity that matches your interests and available time.