Whether looking to increase your monthly budget, saving for something special or wanting a little extra going-out money, there are myriad reasons to supplement your income with a side hustle. Thanks to technology, there are plenty of ways to bring in additional funds that allow for flexible scheduling, tap different talents and or allow you to make some money by getting rid of what you don’t even want. Here are a few popular — and potentially lucrative — ways to make a little extra cash.
TaskRabbit
If you consider yourself a jack- or jane-of-all-trades, sign up for Task Rabbit. This site connects users with trusted Taskers, who can accomplish everyday jobs like furniture assembly, yard work, home repairs, delivery and more. Set your own schedule and rates, then keep what you earn — plus tips! — minus a 15 percent commission fee.
Uber or Lyft
With rideshare apps usurping taxis, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make money driving people around. Uber and Lyft are the two largest players in the rideshare sphere. Uber drivers average around $15 an hour, while Lyft drivers average $17.50 an hour. (Rates reflect costs like app service fees and booking fees.) Drivers also take home tips. Keep in mind there’s the added cost of wear and tear on your vehicle, but if cruising around listening to music sounds like a good time, then this could be your dream side hustle.
Etsy
Have a knack for handmade goods? Make a few extra dollars and put your talents out there with an Etsy store. Sellers pay 20 cents to post an item, then pay a 5 percent transaction fee on the sale price, plus a 3 percent payment processing fee. Because Etsy is the preferred platform for thousands of talented makers, it’s the fastest way to reach people who love to stock their home with unique, handcrafted goods.
Fiverr or Upwork
Do you have experience in web design, writing, graphic design, translating, voice overs, social media or other creative fields? Find work quickly and easily on freelance marketplaces like Fiverr or Upwork. Simply create a profile, set up or search for a gig, and connect with business owners across the globe who are looking for someone just like you. Creatives can post services for free, set their own rates, and keep 80 percent of every transaction.
Poshmark
If you have brand-name clothes or accessories sitting in the back of your closet, post them on Poshmark. The consignment site allows you to sell gently used clothing to a captive, ready-to-buy audience. The site provides sellers with free labels, credit card processing, buyer protection and handles sales tax, then takes a small fee when your item sells.
Instacart or Shipt
Those who consider the grocery store a fun excursion will enjoy being an Instacart or Shipt shopper. Simply complete someone’s shopping list and drop it off at their house (options exist for delivery only as well as a lesser rate). Instacart pays $20 an hour plus tips, while Shipt shoppers make anywhere from $16-$22 an hour, and with both companies, shoppers keep 100 percent of their tips. The more shopping trips you complete, the more money you make, so if you’re a quick and efficient shopper, this may be the gig for you.
