While lottery winners are the exception, most ways to make money on the side require a commitment of time and a fair amount of work. There are ways to do so, though, that allow you to supplement your income.
- Sell your unwanted items. Your attic or garage is likely to hold items that other people consider treasures, and are willing to shell out good money for them. Do you have leftover supplies from a home improvement job that you will probably never use again? Other ideas include equipment from old hobbies or memorabilia from your high school or college days.
- Cover your car. Advertisers pay big money to have the name of their products highly visible. Depending on a number of factors, including the region of the country you live in, the marketing firm and the length of the promotion, this method could pay you several hundreds of dollars, or more, over the course of your contract.
- Become a shopper of mystery. Market research companies will pay you to buy gas, eat at restaurants or shop for everyday essentials in an effort to assess the services provided by retailers. You will be expected to report back on the cleanliness of the place, the treatment you receive from employees and other details stipulated by a particular assignment. This is a great way to pick up some extra cash while you are out shopping for those items you need anyway.
- Gaming online. Gaming and sports betting online is a favorite hobby for many people. You can earn you some money while you are having a good time. Fantasy sports teams as well as actual tournaments, such as the Super Bowl and the NCAA championship game, all lend themselves to betting. By learning the odds, studying the past trends and practicing, you can work out a strategy that can be quite lucrative.
- Sell your extra eggs or sperm. If you are young and healthy, there are plenty of people who will pay for your sperm or eggs. People who are not able to have children due to defective eggs or sperm are willing to pay top dollar for yours. A medical screening is required. All costs associated with it, as well as a stipend, are paid to you.
- Rent out a room. If you own your home and have an unused room, you could bring in a nice tidy sum each week or month by renting it out. Though the rental market varies widely across the country, it is often difficult for a single person to find an affordable place to rent on their own. Be sure to draw up a legally binding lease agreement and ensure that you are following all applicable state, federal and local laws.
Use the above list to get those creative juices flowing. These are just a few of the many ideas that you can use to get some extra cash on the side.
