Quick and Easy Ways to Make Extra Money

This is part of our Financial Literacy Month Question and Answer series

Question: Cindy, do you have any quick and easy ways to make extra money? I’m interested in putting some into savings and paying off some debt, too. Thanks. ~ Jayne

Answer: Good question, Jayne. There are many ways to make extra cash even when you are working full time. One of the best ways to make more money in your spare time is to do something you love and to find someone who will pay you for it. Here are a few and I invite readers to add their ideas in the comments below.

* Collectors, computer savvy individuals, and the natural salesmen can all make a few bucks by setting up an eBay account and selling all the items they have stored around the house. If it’s boxed up and covered with dust then you aren’t using it. Why not send it to someone who will truly appreciate it, and you can appreciate the cash in its place.

* Almost every weekend, somewhere in the United States, some city or town is holding a fair or festival that offers booth spaces for crafters. Get your hobby to work for you by attending some the festivals and selling the items that you have been giving away as gifts. It might help to visit a few first to get a feel for the different crafting trends and the best locations for your booth space.

* Digging in the dirt is not for everyone, but almost everyone loves to have a beautiful yard. If you have a green thumb, then why not offer to share that with others. It might be surprising how many people will take you up on the offer. It will probably be downright shocking how much they are willing to pay for the service. I know I’d love to have some help in this area!

* If you don’t want to labor away in other people’s yards, then why not sell the fruits of your labor from your own yard. Pot up some of the multiplications your plants have grown and sell them at the local flea market. Find a local farmers’ market to sell excess fruits, vegetables or flowers.

* Take seasonal or temporary work - as long as it doesn’t interfere with your full-time job and you still have some time to yourself. A part-time job can be the perfect way to make that extra income you need for a special goal.

If you need some extra income or just want to make some quick or easy cash, then look at what you have. Sell off anything that you don’t need or want, use your skills or talents to meet needs that others may have, or take a part-time job to reach the financial plans you have for your future.

Good luck to you, Jayne!

Warmly, Cindy