Technology has made it easy to find a side hustle. But whether it’s because of childcare, physical abilities, car issues or other complications, it’s not always easy to leave the house to drive a rideshare, do someone’s grocery shopping, or accomplish another hired task.
Fortunately, there are plenty of side hustles that entrepreneurs can accomplish from home. As long as you have a computer, you can earn money while dinner cooks, while the kids sleep, before another job starts — or whenever you have an extra hour and want to make a little extra money.
Here are a few side hustles you can do from the comfort of your home.
Online language teacher
If your English is proficient, you can make money — and help others – as an online English teacher. (Certification in TOESL or EFL may be required for some organizations). Or, teach native English speakers Spanish, Filipino or another second language. Options include small group or one-on-one virtual lessons, and teachers can often set their own schedules and earn between $14-$20 an hour. Search for jobs online, or check out message boards or websites to see if anyone is in need of language help and set something up on your own.
Virtual assistant
Life is busy and people need help with everything from file organization to schedule management. Enter the virtual assistant side hustle. Tasks can include managing emails, making travel arrangements, updating websites, handling social media, making calls, billing, or any other administrative-style task. To get started, figure out what your strengths are, decide what services you will offer, and set a price. Then start a listing on Upwork, Zirtual, Belay or another freelance website.
Remote bookkeeping
If numbers are your strength, offer your services to businesses as a part-time bookkeeper. Many small businesses can’t afford this full-time financial role, making it a perfect home side hustle. This essential role keeps track of revenue and spending, sends invoices, pays bills, and maintains financial records. While a freelance bookkeeper may manage the day-to-day financial operations, the work can often be done in off-hours and from the comfort of your own home.
Rent a room
Have an extra room? Set up a cool bedroom and rent it out on Airbnb. Keep in mind that ratings matter, so you’ll have to ensure you provide stand-out hospitality and a comfortable and convenient space. Once your Airbnb profile has a few positive ratings, you’ll likely get more bookings, allowing you to make a little extra money by welcoming others into your home while you’re already there.
Etsy
Crafty people can establish a strong side hustle by posting their handiwork on the online marketplace Etsy. From knit goods to cross-stitch patterns to jewelry to woodwork to digital prints, Etsy is home for makers of all kinds. Put several of your latest creations on the site to set up your digital store, then start promoting on social media. Etsy takes 6.5 percent of every sale, but it’s quick, easy and relatively cheap to make money through your hobbies — and showcase your talents to the world.
Transcription service
Fast typers can make extra money by transcribing interviews, notes and other recordings for people. Transcriptionists can work on their own time and at their own pace — as long a they hit deadlines — and should be strong in the language they’re transcribing. Transcribers can charge per hour (generally around $15) or per audio minute (typically around $1), and while no formal education is required, taking online courses can improve both your skill set and the rate you charge.
With a few extra hours a week, you can add to your income — usually by tapping the skills you already have — and establish a solid side hustle that doesn’t involve leaving your home.
DISCLAIMER – This content is for informational purposes only, and is not financial, investment, or legal advice.
