» Make Extra Cash
With the cost of living on the up, thousands (if not millions) of people are looking for ways to earn extra money alongside their regular income to help make ends meet. It’s not just those in traditionally low-paid work who are struggling, even middle-income earners are feeling the pinch too. So what can be done to pull in some much needed, extra cash? Here are some of the best ways to supplement your income:
Sell your old stuff
Do you have a collection of vinyl records gathering dust in the loft, or maybe some vintage costume jewellery you don’t wear? It’s possible to sell almost anything these days, whatever you have, there’s a buyer out there somewhere for it. You just need to find them. Try selling at car boot sales, online auction sites and by placing cards in newsagents windows. You’ll be amazed at how much you can rake in by selling stuff you’d normally have taken to the charity shop or simply thrown out.
Take online surveys
Join some online survey sites and get paid for giving your opinion on a variety of subjects. Many pay in shopping vouchers as well as cash. Sometimes there will be the opportunity to enter prize draws too. Often a points system is operated whereby you collect points to exchange for gifts, vouchers or a cash payment. Here’s a few sites we’ve found:
Surveys.co.uk
OffersClick
Yougov
Global Test Market
Product Survey Centre
Survey Scout
Become a dog walker
If you’re dog lover with experience in handling dogs, why not make some extra money from dog walking? This can be as simple as charging your neighbours to take their dog out while you walk your own dog, or more of a small business. Try placing some ads at the newsagent and on online noticeboards for your area. You could even deliver a few leaflets locally advertising your services.
Make things to sell
Are you crafty? Why not utilise an existing skill, or learn a new one and make some things to sell? Pottery, jewellery, greetings cards – the list is endless. Sell to friends and family and at craft fayres, school fêtes and seasonal markets. Online auction sites make a good outlet and these are also good places to pick up competitively priced craft materials.
Become a home tutor
Do you speak a second language, play a musical instrument or have academic qualifications in core subjects such as maths and english? You may be able to find work teaching in your spare time. Parents will pay good money to home tutors who can help their kids through key exams. There are always adults too, wanting to learn a new skill such as singing, jewellery making, cooking – whatever your expertise, look into passing it on to others and making a extra cash in the process.
Please remember the income tax implications of any extra money you earn. Depending how you’re making your second income, you may need to register as self-employed. Visit the HM Revenue & Customs website for more information.