After participating in pop-ups and markets—and working with AD100 designer Alex Papachristidis—founder Alice Minnich opened Larger Cross to embrace New Jersey’s “bucolic lifestyle.” The shop features a wonderful mix of country house essentials, including antique English furniture and silver, Mexican etched glassware, and other stylish finds. Though Larger Cross has select pieces on its web store, its Oldwick location is a must-visit because of its robust inventory and soothing sage green interior.
Charming and often locally made home accessories and gifts are the specialty of interior designer Laura Hodges, who runs this storefront in the historic area of downtown Catonsville. Knitted throw blankets, handmade ceramics, ample artwork, and a profusion of pillows are what keep shoppers stopping by.
Think of Good Neighbor as one of the few home decor stores that can appeal to all the senses. Located in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood, the retailer boasts a roster of contemporary wares sure to elevate any entryway, living room, or home office. (Highlights include rippled glassware from Ferm Living, Hem’s vibrant side tables, and terrazzo stools courtesy of Normann Copenhagen.) Should you get hungry mid-spree, grab a coffee or sweet treat at Good Neighbor’s in-store café. You can also check out Green Neighbor, the retailer’s New Age nursery next door that sells plants and modern gardening essentials.
Eclectic design enthusiasts might know Yowie for its sprightly social media presence; however, its brick-and-mortar store in Philadelphia’s Queen Village is well worth the in-person visit. Yowie is open only a few days each week, but if you schedule your stop for the right moment, you’ll see that Shannon Maldonado packs the storefront with punchy ceramics, glassware, pillows, and linens, as well as innovative provisions. Out-of-towners, take note: In 2023, Yowie opened a colorful hotel attached to the storefront for some bold beauty sleep.
Growing up in Amsterdam, founder Natalie van Dijk had a deep appreciation for all-things home decor—so much so that she studied textile design in Europe and pursued a career in New York City. When she decided to open her shop in Boston’s South End, she blended aspects of her unique journey into one storefront: the sleek aesthetic of Amsterdam, the luxuries of Paris, and the innovative spirit of NYC. (Lekker is Dutch for “pleasing, enjoyable, and tasty.”) Van Dijk’s perfected the balance of understated and upscale with furniture upholstered in Alexander Girard textiles, outdoor rugs by Chilewich, and table lamps by &Tradition.
Home Remedies has been serving up classic New England charm since 2010—and remains a favorite design destination for locals and out-of-towners alike. (Even the store itself feels unequivocally Maine, thanks to its exposed wooden beams, brick walls, and a sprinkling of shiplap.) Nestled on Portland’s bustling Commercial Street, the retailer is the epitome of east coast style with an assortment of Thibaut throw pillows, lobster-printed serveware, and cast-iron cookware.
Midwest
With a studio-slash-storefront a stone’s throw away from Chicago’s famed Wrigley Field, Mitchell Black is the place to find custom and bespoke wall coverings in any style. You can also specify statement-making wall murals, peel-and-stick repeats, and just about anything else that will add a graphic punch to a project. In addition to signature repeats, Mitchell Black is also brimming with designer collaborations from the likes of Beth Glover and Forbes Masters, among others.
Open on weekends, or by appointment, The Stoop isn’t the kind of store you can sporadically swing by. But once you finally carve out some time to visit the West Town retailer, you’ll be happy you did. While The Stoop might have an impressive selection of secondhand clothes and accessories, it’s the homewares section that offers hit after hit. On any given day, you can pick up a complete Alessi by Michael Graves set or graphic art by Erin Burke.
Shopkeeper Beth Berke isn’t an interior designer by trade. (In fact, she spent many years as an aid and social worker.) However, when she was sprucing up her historic home many years ago, Berke found herself searching all corners of the earth for unique vintage pieces—and loved every minute of it. Her hobby turned into a full-fledged business with South Loop Loft, which is located just north of Chicago’s Fulton Market area. From Carrara marble office furniture dating back to the 1980s to a Belgian “space age” sofa from the 1970s, South Loop Loft gives retro finds a cool, trending flair.
UK homeowners are renting out a room in their house as a way of making some extra money amid the cost of living crisis that has pushed mortgage rates to record highs.
Over one in every 10 (12%) London homeowners have started renting out a room in their house in the past year to generate additional income, according to Barclays Consumer Spend report.
The trend is not exclusive to the capital, as some 3% of homeowners across the UK have also rented out a room in their property to make a bit more money.
UK homeowners have been particularly hit by cost of living woes, with the average rate on a two-year fixed deal currently stands at 5.74%, while for a five-year deal, rates are around 5.24%, according to figures from Uswitch.
Borrowers would need to spread their home loans over more than 70 years to be able to afford the same mortgages on offer just two years ago, banks have said.
Mortgage rates have risen substantially as the Bank of England increased interest rates to a 16-year high in a bid to tackle inflation.
The data from the Barclays report showed that one in six (16%) aren’t confident about their ability to meet their mortgage or rental payments, and 18% of those with mortgage or rent payments are adjusting their spending habits to cope with rising housing costs.
Still, consumers’ confidence in their general household finances remained steady in March, at 67%.
Jack Meaning, chief UK economist at Barclays, said: “With an expectation that the Bank of England will cut interest rates from June, and banks responding by reducing mortgage rates, our research suggests that the housing costs that have been a drag on consumers for over a year are on the cusp of a turn, and will become a boost to spending from H2 and beyond. Today’s data shows this transition happening in real time.”
Higher mortgage rates have also hit the property market, as house prices fell for the first time in six months in March amid rising mortgage rates, according to Britain’s biggest mortgage lender.
A typical home now costs £288,430, around £2,900 less than last month, said Halifax.
Household spending such as DIY and electronics fell 5.2% in March, with one in six (16%) holding off home renovations due to current economic pressures.
Bad weather hits consumer spending
Consumer card spending growth flatlined in March as wet weather dampened both retail and restaurant sales.
Retail spending remained almost flat at 0.7%, brought down by falling in-store spending. Face-to-face retail (excluding groceries) was down 2.1% and clothing fell -1.8%, as spring showers deterred shoppers from visiting the high street. Meanwhile, restaurants had another challenging month, down 12.6%, consistent with the fall witnessed in February (13.4%), Barclays said.
This comes as 45% of consumers said they were continuing to rein in discretionary spending, with the majority (53%) of this group cutting back on clothing and accessory purchases, and nearly half (47%) spending less on dining out.
Britons are more concerned than ever about the cost of every day items, with concerns about general inflation shooting up to 87%.
Karen Johnson, head of retail at Barclays, said: “Retailers were braced for a more subdued start to 2024, and recent figures are in line with expectations. The wet weather has been a key factor in the slowdown in discretionary spending, as it’s meant fewer visits to the high street and to hospitality venues.
“However, in spite of this initial lull, many retailers are confident that spending will rebound in the coming months, particularly in anticipation of better weather, the energy price cap drop, an uplift in the National Minimum Wage, and the buzz around major events such as Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and the Paris 2024 Olympics.”
Easter helps retail sales after difficult start to year
A separate report by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and KPMG Retail showed a more optimistic view on the UK retail sector in March.
Total UK retail sales were up by 3.5% on last March, above the three-month average of 2.1% and the 12-month average of 2.9%, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC)-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor.
Food sales increased by 6.8% year on year, driven by Easter falling unusually early and the subsequent uplift ahead of the long weekend.
Easter also boosted sales of products such as cookware and tableware, as people readied themselves to host family and friends. Home textiles such as throws and pillows were also popular as consumers sought to spruce up their homes ahead of spring.
Elsewhere, wet weather dampened sales of garden furniture, barbecues, DIY products, and clothing and footwear.
Online sales continued to slide, falling by 1.4% despite strong performances in home accessories, health, beauty, and homewares.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “After a difficult start to the year, retailers are hopeful that with warmer weather around the corner, consumer confidence will spring back up.
“A strong retail industry can boost investment across our towns and cities, and as we gear up for a general election, it is essential the next government recognises this and rethinks the burdensome costs imposed on retailers.”
Watch: London house prices pull ahead in reversal of ‘race for space’
Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
MILAN — When Chef Eric Adjepong discussed the building blocks of his first home collection, he slipped and said he used Ghanaian ingredients to make his first home goods collection with Crate & Barrel.
“I meant materials — Ghanaian materials,” he exclaimed a second afterward.
Indeed, switching hats from the head of the kitchen to the head of design was a big change, but a welcome one. “I like the idea that these items can last forever,” as opposed to his eclectic dishes that last seconds on the palate, he said.
The 36-year-old chef and host of Food Network’s “Wildcard Kitchen”decided to return to his parents’ homeland to build this collection. “It was more than a homecoming — it was a discovery,” the first generation Ghanaian American said.
Related Articles
Upon arrival in the village of Bolgatanga, he was greeted by a mini parade with music, dance and food. It was there where he came into contact with the region’s basket weavers, who showed him the entire process of Bolga basket weaving.
Bolgatanga, which is situated in northern Ghana, is a heartland of genuine Bolga baskets, which are exclusively woven by the Indigenous Gurune or Frafra people. Weavers collect beta vera straw, which is subtracted from the top of the grass, and they then leave the roots to grow.
Other products in this vibrant collection were inspired by the Ashanti Empire, which was founded in 1670 and impacted much of the modern culture of the dynamic region.
With more than 60 pieces of cookware, glassware, serveware and decor, the collection includes a Ghanaian-made market tote; the Didi Ketoa appetizer plates inspired by West African bead work; the Sobolo glass punch bowl with a green marble base, and the Akan-inspired Nkwanta Hammered Brass Punch Ladle, also indicative of the region’s artisan traditions.
The first of his family to be born in the U.S. from Ghanaian parents, Adjepong said growing up in New York City made him bold and that growing up around Albanian, Puerto Rican, Jewish, Italian, West African and Caribbean cultures greatly influenced his cooking style. Still, he’s been drawn to Ghana and travels there at least four times a year. Accra, a booming cultural hub for Afro Beats, art and fashion, is also a burgeoning pulse for both the kitchen and the design worlds, he said.
Crate & Barrel and Crate & Kids senior vice president of product design Sebastian Brauer said when contemplating new partnerships, the firm has an eye out in “special corners of the world” on what’s resonating with communities and audiences beyond just the design world, from cooking to music, technology and fashion on an international scale.
“When chef Eric’s team approached us, we saw a powerful opportunity to bring his first kitchen line to life. We worked intimately with him to celebrate his West African heritage and multicultural New York City roots and combined that with his talent as a chef with Crate & Barrel’s timeless and global design approach, to create functional pieces…,” he said.
A rising star in U.S. television, Adjepong is known for his success in bringing West African cuisine into the mainstream culinary conversation. Following experiences in several Michelin-starred restaurants, he entered the “Top Chef” circuit and was featured as a finalist on season 16. On Food Network, he has made appearances on “Selena + Chef,” “Chopped,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” “Supermarket Stakeout” and “Tournament of Champions.” He also has a degree in culinary arts and nutrition from Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island and a masters degree in public health in international public health and nutrition from the University of Westminster in London. On Wednesday he became the Save the Children’s newest global ambassador, joining fellow celebrities Jennifer Garner, Camila Cabello and Dakota Fanning.
Eric Adjepong for Crate & Barrel’s exclusive collaboration will be available in-stores and online at Crate & Barrel from Thursday.
Crate & Barrel’s fashion-forward sister brand CB2 is also reaching further afield, scouting designers and collaborations with compelling storytelling. Last month its Black in Design Collective launched by artist and designer Evan Jerry, added leading Niamey, Niger-based architect Mariam Issoufou Kamara and Lagos-based designer Nifemi Marcus-Bello to its roster.
Prepare to elevate your living spaces just in time for the holiday season with Decor Days—an exclusive online-only sales event offering The Home Depot’s biggest style savings of the year. Running from Oct. 5 – Oct. 9, 2023, this five-day extravaganza will feature deals on quality furniture, stylish home decor and more.
A Seamless Shopping Experience
Decor Days is a testament to The Home Depot’s commitment to offering a seamless, interconnected shopping experience. The event is designed to meet customers where, when and how they want to shop. With Decor Days, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Wide Selection: Discover everything you need for whole-home decor and styling ahead of the holidays.
Convenient Pickup and Delivery: Take advantage of the retailer’s everyday free Buy Online, Pick Up in Store (BOPIS) service, as well as free and flexible delivery on more than 10,000 online decor items.
Hassle-Free Returns: If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, you can return it with ease in-store or by mail.
Transform Your Space
During this limited-time event, customers can take advantage of significant discounts on a variety of home furnishings and finishing touches for every hosting need. Here are some highlights:
80 % Off Home Decorators Collection – Gold Metal Wall Sconce Candle Holder
70% Off TableCraft 3-Piece Enamelware Mixing Bowl Set
63% Off Harper & Bright Designs Gray Twin Size Metal Triple Bunk Bed with Wood Decoration
65% Off Home Decorators Collection Purcell 3-Piece Washed Denim Botanical King Duvet Cover Set
60% Off Artistic Weavers Demeter Ivory 8 ft. x 10 ft. Abstract Area Rug
58% Off Gotham Steel Hammered Copper 10-Piece Aluminum Non-Stick Cookware Set
Visit HomeDepot.com/decor from Oct. 5 – Oct. 9, 2023, and seize the opportunity to transform your living spaces with incredible style savings. Let Decor Days be your guide to creating a home that reflects your unique taste and personality.
Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free. Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home….
Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free.
Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home.
It doesn’t matter if you’re skilled or just getting started – there are ways to make money without paying anything at the beginning. You can use your creativity and skills in things like making content, providing digital services, and selling stuff online to make a steady income.
I personally have made money online in many different ways without paying anything to get started, so I know that this truly does exist.
Best Ways To Make Money Online Without Paying Anything
Here’s a quick summary of my favorite ways to make money without investment:
Best way to make money online freelancing – Proofreading
My favorite way to make money online for free – Blogging
Best way to make money online for passive income – Selling printables
Best way to make money online for those who like numbers – Bookkeeping
Below are the best ways to make money online without paying anything.
1. Blogging
Blogging is exactly what I started years ago, and I didn’t pay any money in the beginning to get started.
If you want to make money with a laptop, then this is what I recommend.
I began Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and it has helped me earn over $5,000,000 since then. I started my blog on a whim to share my own money journey, not even knowing that people could make money from blogs or how to make a successful one.
Now, it’s my full-time job!
Eventually, you will have costs with a blog, just like with most of the businesses listed below, if you want to grow and make more money. But, the expenses are low compared to how much money you may be able to make.
So, what’s a blog? A blog is like this content you’re reading now – it’s writing on a website. You can blog about something you’re passionate about, something you know a lot about, or even something you want to learn more about (people enjoy following firsthand journeys!).
There are many different niches (topics) that you can write about too, such as travel, personal finance, home, lifestyle, family, food, and more.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
10
Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
2. Printables
Selling printables is a way to make passive income from home without upfront costs.
This is because printables are digital files that you can download and print at home. You only need to make one digital file for each product, and then you can sell it multiple times.
They can be things like grocery shopping lists, invites, thank you cards, digital art, or gift tags.
I have bought many printables myself, and many others do too. Recently, I purchased a printable to help teach my daughter the alphabet. It was a useful tool, and I could easily print it at home.
You can learn more about this at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Proofreading
If you like finding mistakes in written content and want to start a business without spending a lot of money, then proofreading might be a good choice for you. This can be a part-time job or a full-time career working from home.
Many proofreaders earn around $40,000 a year or even more.
Proofreaders look for errors in articles, ads, books, student papers, emails, transcripts, and more.
To become a proofreader, all you need is a laptop or tablet, an internet connection, and the ability to spot mistakes and errors. So, you probably already have everything you need to get started.
I recommend signing up for a free 76-minute workshop, where you can learn more about becoming a proofreader. You can sign up for the free How To Become a Proofreader workshop here.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Proofreader And Work From Anywhere
10
This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
4. Freelance writing
Freelance writing is a great way to make money online without any upfront costs, as you don’t need any expensive equipment to get started.
A freelance writer is someone who writes for different places like websites, blogs, magazines, ads, books, and other things.
I have been a freelance writer for many years now, all from my laptop. I really enjoy being a freelance writer, and I have many friends who do this as well. I started this job because I wanted to make money from home and not spend money trying to figure it out. And, it worked!
This job can earn you more than $50,000 a year. Some of my friends who are freelance writers make over $200,000 a year.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
5. Opening an online store
Starting an online store is a way to make money without upfront costs, and sites like Etsy and Shopify make this possible.
On Etsy, you can sell things like handmade or vintage items and craft supplies. This online marketplace is great if you’re creative and want to sell unique, one-of-a-kind products. Shopify, on the other hand, has more flexibility in what you can sell and allows you to build your personal storefront.
There are many different types of things you can sell, such as digital products like ebooks or web design templates, which don’t require inventory and can be sold repeatedly without additional cost. Physical products, on the other hand, can also be sold but keep in mind that you’ll need a plan for shipping, and you may have to spend money in order to have them as inventory to list on your store.
Another idea is dropshipping. This is a business model where you don’t need to keep inventory or ship products yourself. Instead, you work with suppliers who take care of inventory and shipping for you.
Below are some ideas for things you could sell through an online dropshipping store:
Travel items such as portable luggage scales, neck pillows, or travel cubes
Fitness equipment like yoga mats, weights, or resistance bands
Sustainable products such as reusable utensils, bamboo toothbrushes, tote bags, or eco-friendly cleaning supplies
Camping-related items like hammocks, lanterns, cookware sets, and survival kits
Jewelry such as stackable rings, layered bracelets, anklets, and statement earrings
6. Print-on-demand
Similar to the above, print-on-demand (POD) is a business model where you sell your custom designs on products like T-shirts, mugs, and books, but only print them once an order is placed.
It’s a popular way to start an online business with minimal upfront costs because you don’t have to worry about inventory. Your job is to create the designs and set up your online store.
Once a customer buys a product, the order goes straight to your POD supplier who prints and ships it under your brand name.
7. Stock photography
Stock photography is a way to make money online without any cash up front. If you already have a camera or even just a cell phone, you can get started selling stock photographs.
You are simply taking photos, putting them on a stock photo website, and selling them to people and companies.
People buy stock images from websites like Shutterstock, Getty Images, or Adobe Stock for many reasons, such as adding them to their websites, articles, blog posts, advertisements, and social media.
You can sell many types of pictures, including travel, business, people, food, animals, health, fashion, sports, and more.
For example, if I write a blog post about making money with a laptop, I might buy a stock photo of a laptop. Or, if I need a picture related to making money while traveling, I’d find a picture of a vacation to include in my blog post. Stock images can make a blog post more enjoyable to read.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
8. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a way for you to earn money by promoting products or services online, and you don’t need anything special to get started.
With affiliate marketing, if your friend or follower buys a product through a referral link you share, you get paid a commission – it’s as simple as that.
First, pick products you love and are sure others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program. Each program gives you an affiliate link. This link tracks who clicks and buys from your recommendation.
Your job is to share your affiliate link with as many interested people as possible. You could write about it on your blog, make videos, or even just share it on social media.
I recommend signing up for Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook to learn more.
9. Playing games and watching videos for money
There are lots of money-making apps that let you earn cash by playing games or watching videos on your phone.
These apps pay you real money because they make money from ads and in-app purchases. To get you to keep playing, they give you a share of their earnings. For watching videos, the sites reward you with points for watching sponsored videos, and these videos can range from ads to short clips.
Now, these won’t make you rich, but it is a way to make money from your phone without upfront costs.
Here’s a quick list of the top video and game apps that pay real cash:
KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Recommended reading: 15 Ways To Make Money From Your Phone
10. Market research and focus groups
If you love sharing your opinions, market research and focus groups are great ways for you to earn cash online without paying anything. This kind of work connects you with companies seeking feedback on their products or services. It’s all about understanding what you think as a consumer.
Lots of companies want to hear from people like you and me, and you can share your opinions with them using just a laptop or phone, some free time, and a good internet connection.
When I was paying off my student loans, I took online surveys almost every day. I did them before work, during lunch, or after work. Even though they didn’t make me a lot of money, they were flexible because I could do them whenever I had time. Plus, they were really easy and didn’t require much thinking!
Here are some survey companies I suggest:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
PrizeRebel
User Interviews – This one pays on average around $60 per assignment (much higher than the rest, but it is a little more work for participants as these are usually video calls or on the phone)
Signing up for these survey sites is free, and typically, they pay about $1 to $3 for each survey you finish.
11. Online tutoring
As an online tutor, you get to teach students from the comfort of your home. Your job is to share your knowledge and help in a subject you know well. You don’t have to worry about traveling or a strict schedule; you can choose when to do your online tutoring gig.
You can make between $30 and $60 per hour or more, depending on the subject’s difficulty and your expertise. And you don’t need to spend any money up front, so it’s a way to earn online without extra costs.
As a tutor, you might spend 30 minutes to an hour giving a lesson, answering questions online, or working one-on-one with a student in a video lesson.
12. Virtual assistant job
You can make money from home as a virtual assistant by doing administrative tasks for clients online. You don’t need anything to get started other than a computer or laptop.
Virtual assistants, or VAs, do tasks similar to administrative assistants, but they work from home or anywhere with internet.
Virtual assistants do things like:
Email management – Answering and organizing emails
Calendar management – Scheduling appointments, meetings, and events
Administrative support – Preparing reports, presentations, and documents
Travel arrangements – Booking flights, hotels, and transportation for business trips
Internet research – Doing online research on topics to write about, competitors, products, etc.
Personal tasks – Booking appointments or making dinner reservations
I’ve been a virtual assistant before (it was actually one of my first online jobs, and I liked how I didn’t have to spend money to become a VA), and I also have one who works for me, so I know how useful they can be! Plus, you don’t need anything expensive to get started.
13. Social media influencer
Being a social media influencer is a real way to make money online without any initial cost, and plenty of people have started their social media accounts by spending absolutely $0. In fact, I think most people start as just a hobby!
You can start with just your phone, by taking pictures and sharing your thoughts on social media accounts like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
You can earn money as a social media influencer through sponsored posts, where brands pay you to promote their products or services in your posts. You can also make money through affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions from sales made through your referral links. Plus, you can sell digital products like ebooks or online courses.
I’ve been a social media influencer for years, monetizing my Instagram and Facebook accounts. It’s allowed me to collaborate with brands I love and promote products I already use.
14. Transcriptionist
Becoming a transcriptionist can be a good choice to make money online without upfront costs. This is something that you can learn to do, and transcriptionists usually make around $15 per hour.
As a transcriptionist, you can earn money from home by turning audio files or video files into written documents. Clients can include marketers, authors, filmmakers, academics, speakers, and conferences.
To find transcription jobs, some places to start include:
Rev – Transcribers on Rev earn an average of $245 per month, with top earners making up to $1,495.
CrowdSurf – CrowdSurf pays for short transcription tasks, which are great for those looking for quick, manageable projects.
TranscribeMe – This platform is good for beginners as they give training and only require a reliable internet connection and computer.
Recommended reading: 18 Top Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners
10
In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
15. Video gaming livestreams
Yes, you can make money online with no upfront costs by live streaming (such as a video game that you like to play). Eventually, you may want to upgrade to higher-quality equipment, but you can start right away with what you already have – your computer and phone.
Twitch is a website where you can make money by playing video games, talking with viewers in real time through live streams, and more.
As your viewer count grows, you can start making money. Streamers can earn through ways such as:
Subscriptions – Your fans can pay a monthly fee to support you as subscribers.
Donations – Viewers can send you tips if they enjoy your stream.
Advertisements – You can get paid from ads that run on your live stream.
Sponsorships – Companies may pay you to promote their products.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
16. YouTube
Starting a YouTube channel is a popular way to make money online without any initial investment. You can record videos from your phone or camera, and you don’t really need anything else to get started in the beginning.
You can start a YouTube channel about many different topics like finance, home, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost anything nowadays, and there’s still space for more!
In your YouTube videos, you can include links to products you recommend, earn money from ads that play during your videos, get paid by brands to feature their products, and even sell your own stuff.
17. Freelance graphic design
As a graphic designer, you can earn money online without investing any money up front. You can create designs such as logos, social media graphics, and branding materials for clients.
To start, you will most likely want to create a simple but impactful portfolio to display your work. This is your opportunity to show your abilities to potential clients, so you will want to include your favorite projects and what reflects your design style.
You can also sign up on freelance sites like Fiverr where businesses look for designers like you.
18. Virtual bookkeeping
Bookkeepers manage financial records, track expenses, and generate financial reports; it requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
This job typically pays more than $40,000 a year. Plus, many types of businesses require bookkeepers, making it a great career choice with opportunities for growth.
Even better, you can do this job from home using your computer and the internet.
Yes, you don’t need a degree to be a bookkeeper. You can start by learning basic bookkeeping and the software most businesses use.
If you want to become a bookkeeper, there is a free workshop all about finding a virtual bookkeeping job, and you can sign up for free here.
10
This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
19. Write an ebook
Writing an ebook can be a way to make money without needing upfront investment, other than your time and effort. This is something you can do yourself too, such as through the self-publishing route on Amazon.
Ebooks are digital books that you can download and read on devices like tablets, phones, e-readers, or laptops. They’ve become very popular because they’re affordable and easy to access.
I’ve purchased many ebooks myself, ranging from nonfiction to fiction, and many, many other people have as well.
Recommended reading: How this person is making $200 a day in book sales passively.
20. Online travel agent
A travel agent is a professional who helps people plan and book trips, vacations, and other travel arrangements. They give their expertise and support in finding the best deals on transportation, accommodations, and activities, considering their clients’ preferences, budgets, and needs.
Travel agents also give helpful advice on destinations, suggest itineraries, arrange tours and excursions, and handle logistics such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and travel insurance.
There are many different kinds of niches you can sell vacations and trips in, such as luxury travel, cruises, Disney, budget travel, and adventure holidays.
21. Write book reviews
If you enjoy reading and talking about books, you can make money by writing reviews at home. Authors and publishers want to hear your honest opinions because they help other readers choose their next book. Readers also like these reviews, so it benefits everyone involved.
You don’t need anything other than your computer (or even just your cell phone) to write the reviews. Many times, the book is given to you to review, so you don’t even have to pay for that.
This is typically more of a side gig for spare cash and free books.
Here are some websites where you can make money online by writing book reviews:
OnlineBookClub.org – They give free books for your first book review (and no other payment). After your first review, you can earn cash for each review, usually between $5 and $60.
Kirkus Media – They look for reviewers for both English and Spanish books, particularly in the Kirkus indie section. Reviews involve around 350-word summaries due two weeks after receiving the book. They cover all genres, with over 10,000 books reviewed annually.
Upwork – Create a profile as a book reviewer on this freelance platform. You can choose projects that interest you and set your own rates.
The US Review of Books – They hire freelance writers for 250- to 300-word reviews that go beyond summarizing to provide insights into the book. To join, submit a resume, writing samples, and a couple of references.
Reedsy Discovery – Review books before they are published and get paid through tips from readers, ranging from $1 to $5. It’s an exciting way to influence which books become popular.
Learn more at 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books.
22. Online job opportunities
There are many more ways to make money online that won’t cost you money to get started, and these include:
Finding remote part-time or full-time jobs – If you want a full-time income or are interested in part-time work, popular job search platforms like Indeed can help. They help you find jobs that fit your schedule where you work for someone else as an employee, such as software engineer, developer, human resources manager, IT manager, and more.
Customer service and support jobs – As an at-home customer service rep, you would work for companies, answering customer questions and issues that they may be having.
Data entry and administrative jobs – Data entry jobs are ideal for you if you have a good eye for detail and can work independently.
These are all jobs where you would be working for someone else, but online from home. The company would normally provide you everything you need to get started, such as any software and possibly even the laptop as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make money online without paying anything.
How can I make money online completely for free?
There are many ways to make money online completely for free. You can start a blog, freelance write, bookkeep, write book reviews, sell stock photography, or become a virtual assistant.
How can students earn money online without any investment?
Students can make money online without any investment by answering online surveys, tutoring online, freelance writing, proofreading, blogging, and more. Whether you want to make extra cash or a full-time income, there are many options for students.
How to Make Money Online Without Paying Anything – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make money online without paying anything.
Getting started with making money online might feel overwhelming and impossible, but it’s not impossible if you do it right.
The internet has many places where you can show off your skills as a writer, artist, or tutor. You can also sell items online, or even play games and give your opinion in surveys.
What other ways are there to make money online for free without investment?
The idea of re-gifting things you’ve received over the years is often met with criticism. But if you’re looking for ways to save money during the holiday season, certain items are OK to re-gift.
I’m a Financial Expert: Always Buy the Cheapest Version of These 10 Things Read: Pocket an Extra $400 a Month With This Simple Hack
Before re-gifting anything, though, it’s important to understand that there’s a certain etiquette involved with it. For example, the items you re-gift should either be brand new or easily pass as being new. You should also avoid giving the same gift to the original gifter or to someone who might tell them what they received. And, ideally, you’ll want to choose something that suits the recipient and isn’t just something you want to get rid of.
By doing these things, nobody can call you “cheap” or “lazy” when they receive the item. And if you do it right, you might even be able to re-gift items without anyone ever knowing.
With that in mind, here are the top items that are completely OK to re-gift, according to etiquette experts.
Find Out: 9 American Travel Brands to Stay Away From
Sponsored: Open a new checking account and earn early paycheck access; up to 2 days early with Discover® Cashback Debit with Early Pay
Home Decor or Holiday Decorations
Many households have an assortment of home decor items that they either never or rarely use. Sometimes, these items are passed down as family heirlooms. Other times, they were originally gifts that simply didn’t match the recipient’s preferences. Whatever the case, if you have certain home decor items or holiday decorations, you might be able to re-gift them for someone else looking to save money.
“In addition to being lovely re-gifts, decorative things like festive candles, exquisite ornaments, or sophisticated home décor pieces are equally delightful,” said Danial Adams, the CMO of Still Water Wellness. Many of these items can be easily incorporated into anyone’s home, too.
Find Out: 10 Costco Meals That Are Cheaper Than Buying Takeout
Kitchen Supplies
If you have duplicates of small kitchen appliances or supplies, you might be able to cut costs and re-gift them as well. From dish sets to cookware to blenders, these items can be both practical and the perfect addition to someone else’s home.
“Small kitchen gadgets like coffee makers or blenders can often be regifted, especially if they are in excellent condition. These items are practical and can find new homes without any issues,” said Alexander Havkin, regional sales and project manager of Ecoline Windows.
Other options include small kitchen gadgets, high-quality cookware, utensils, nonstick pans, and stainless steel knives. To ensure proper etiquette, make sure everything is in good condition. If possible, use the original packaging as well.
“Never regift items that are outdated,” advised Katherine Melton at Nexofly. “Items that are not current or show signs of wear can easily be identified as regifts.” Certain older items might also fail to meet current safety standards.
Home Security Gadgets
If you’ve got home security items that you don’t use, such as a specialized doorbell or outdoor camera, you might want to consider re-gifting them. You can even re-gift books related to home security if desired.
“If you received a duplicate or an upgrade of a security device that’s still in its original packaging, it can be a great gift for someone looking to enhance their home security,” said Eugene Klimaszewski, the president of Mammoth Security Inc.
Don’t try to re-gift a home security system that’s already been programmed for your unique home layout, though. This and other personalized security options might not work properly for the next person.
Alcohol
Alcohol isn’t high on everyone’s wish list, but it’s a very common gift to receive — especially under celebratory circumstances. The good news is that, if you’ve got a couple of bottles at home that you’re never going to drink, you might have someone in your social circle who’d like them. Plus, alcohol is generally easy to repackage.
“Bottles of alcohol are always great gifts to give, as well as re-gift,” said Troy Portillo, Director of Operations of Studypool. “You might’ve been given a bottle of wine from a well-meaning friend and you know you don’t like that particular label. It’s perfectly fine to re-gift it to someone else.”
On the other hand, if the bottle was personalized in some way, you might be stuck with it.
Pet Supplies
Next up on the list of items that are OK to re-gift are certain pet supplies, toys, and treats.
“Gently used or new pet toys can be re-gifted, as long as they are in excellent condition and your recipient has a furry friend,” said Mollie Newton, the founder of PetMeTwice. “Similarly, unopened pet treats or food can be re-gifted if they haven’t reached their expiration date. Just ensure that the recipient’s pet doesn’t have any allergies or dietary restrictions.”
Certain pet supplies should not be re-gifted, however. This includes medications and supplements that are specific to your pet. It also includes used grooming products such as pet combs or open bottles of pet shampoo.
Winter Clothing
Winter apparel can make for a great gift, especially if it’s never been used and still has its original tag. Clothing items that are OK to re-gift include scarves, gloves, and hats.
Just be aware that certain sizes, colors, patterns, and even fabrics might not work with everyone’s tastes. Before gifting or re-gifting clothing, make sure you know the recipient’s preferences.
Tools
If you’ve received tools that are just cluttering up your space or gathering dust in a closet or garage, you might want to consider re-gifting them the next time you’re celebrating a holiday or a birthday.
“Tool kits, equipped with essential tools for household repairs or DIY projects, make practical and thoughtful gifts,” said Steve Chan, the team lead at Repairs. Your recipient can then use these tools for their own home improvement projects or related tasks.
Scented Candles and Perfumes
Last but not least, etiquette experts say that scented candles and perfumes that have never been used are OK to re-gift. The same goes for diffusers and essential oils.
“As long as the scents are appealing and unused, these items can be regifted if you know the recipient’s taste,” said Matthew Carlson, the founder of Parent Presents.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Shop in Your Own Home This Holiday Season: 8 Items That Are OK To Re-gift, According to Etiquette Experts
Crate & Barrel will never let you down. And now that it’s Cyber Monday, it won’t let your wallet down either.
The coveted retailer is commonplace for wedding registries and, of course, holiday gifts. Now, Crate & Barrel is hosting its first-ever Cyber Monday Warehouse Sale where you can find up to 30% off sitewide.
From dinnerware sets and sectional sofas to the most festive of candles and the plushest of blankets, we’re all about its online catalog right now.
So, the New York Post rounded up a cheat sheet of the best Crate & Barrel finds that are all on sale and waiting to be placed into your online shopping cart.
Now through Nov. 29, enjoy up to 50% off furniture, up to 20% off best-selling sofas and sectionals, free threshold shipping for orders of $99 or more and up to 30% off favorites (including entertaining items, holiday decor, kitchen brands and select bedding and lighting).
More, find up to 60% off clearance items while supplies last. In short, it’s a shopping soiree we’re marking as one word: sensational.
The Hague Mid-Century Sofa has a contemporary charm we love — and it’s $300 off for Cyber Monday. Its flared arms, tapered conical legs anad nestled cushions make it a bit more upscale than other models you may see online, too.
It’s not the time to skip on Crate & Barrel’s outdoor patio furniture offerings. For a limited time, invest in the Jeannie Teak Outdoor Chaise Lounge by Leanne Ford. We love its well-made silhouette and resort-grade cushion, most of all.
KitchenAid Artisan Series Matte Milkshake 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
As a top gifting pick, the KitchenAid Artisan Series Matte Milkshake 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is on sale for $100 off at Crate & Barrel in a sea of beautiful colors to best suit your kitchen and aesthetic. From mixing cake batter and whipping cream to kneading bread dough, it’s a surefire staple.
Le Creuset Signature 7.5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Chef Oven
Meet one of the most beautiful pieces of kitchenware we’ve ever seen: the Le Creuset Signature 7.5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Chef Oven. This Cyber Monday, enjoy nearly $200 off this stovetop decor piece and versatile cooker.
Faux Hemlock 74″ Pine Pre-Lit LED Christmas Garland
No, it’s not too late to pick up elevated Christmas decor. We’re all about the Faux Hemlock 74″ Pine Pre-Lit LED Christmas Garland, especially now that it’s just over $100 right now.
Nespresso Lattissima One Silky White Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
The Nespresso Lattissima One Silky White Espresso Machine by De’Longhi is one of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee makers that crafts barista-style brews in a flash. Trust us when we say, a Nespresso machine is the *best* gift we’ve ever received.
Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor
If you’re on the hunt for a newly minted food processor, we have the Cyber Monday deal for you. The Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor is on sale for $50 off at Crate & Barrel and from a brand we trust.
Pick up the J.K. Adams Heritage Serving Board at Crate & Barrel — the serving essential for your next charcuterie. It’s just shy of $100 for a kitchen grab you’re sure to use on repeat.
Upgrade your indoor botanical center with the Wesley Metal Plant Stand. We love the traditional, timeless look of these sleek and tall planters. Oh, and there are two sizes to choose from (or, our idea: purchase both for added dimension).
If you’re all about finding cookware on sale for Cyber Monday, we recommend the Zwilling Clad Xtreme Hard-Anodized 10-Piece Cookware Set at Crate & Barrel. This set includes 8- and 10-inch fry pans, 2- and 3-quart lidded sauce pots, a 3-quart lidded sauté pan and a 6-quart lidded Dutch oven.
The Doret White Jersey Quilt Full/Queen is your solution to clean, white bedding — at a discount, nonetheless. Not to mention, Crate & Barrel has some exquisite duvet covers, if we do say so ourselves.
The Cassi White Table Lamp has to be one of the most beautiful table lamps we’ve seen. Worth the splurge, its neutral charm is just what we love to adorn our dressers and coffee tables for a little home decor refresh.
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a kitchen appliance the New York Post team raves about (simply because it’s one of the best air fryer and toaster oven hybrids). Now, you can score it for even less.
The Cuisinart Espresso Defined Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Machine is easily one of the coolest coffee makers we’ve seen, thanks to versatility and entertaining hotspot. Additionally, you can choose your ideal brewing temperature, espresso volume, milk volume and standby time.
Pick up a multi-purpose furniture piece — the dining table and the home office desk. Thanks to Crate & Barrel’s Seb Oak Wood Desk/Dining Table, you’ll be scoring this stunning two-in-one showpiece for just under $1,000.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.
It’s not uncommon to hit a moment in your financial life when you could use some cash…like, right away. Maybe you have a slew of unexpected expenses, get laid off, or need to help a loved one in need. Whatever the case, you may be craving a quick cash infusion.
To help out, here’s a list of 23 ways to get some money flowing your way ASAP. Some are online methods, others are in-person, but all can help you out when you are in a pinch.
Read on to see which of these ideas may suit you, plus tips on staying safe as you go after those additional funds.
When You Need Quick Cash
Many people hit a time when they could really use some additional cash. Perhaps you moved to a new town and need to put down a security deposit on a rental as well as pay your movers. Or you are a freelancer, and one of your clients is slow to pay. Or you need pricey dental work which isn’t fully covered by your health insurance. Or perhaps you just went overboard on holiday gift buying, and now your credit card bill is due.
Whatever the reason, if you need to get money fast and don’t want to break out your high-interest plastic to see you through, don’t panic. There can be an array of ways to bring in cash quickly. Some are online (taking marketing surveys), some are in person (dog walking), but there is likely to be at least a couple that suit your preferences and your situation.
💡 Quick Tip: An online bank account with SoFi can help your money earn more — up to 4.60% APY, with no minimum balance required.
Online vs Offline Money-Making Opportunities
As you look into ideas for how to get money fast, one key consideration is whether you want to do so online or offline. Perhaps both ways suit you, but many people have a preference.
If you have a job, are caring for dependents, or otherwise are under time constraints, you may prefer to squeeze in your money-making activities here and there. Online opportunities may suit you well, since some are available 24/7. For example, you could upload items you want to sell on eBay at any hour.
For others, offline work is more suitable. If, say, you are a brilliant guitar player and have a knack for sharing your skills, music lessons could be a good path, and you might find doing these in person more rewarding than via Zoom. Or holding a yard sale and selling off unwanted stuff could bring in a good amount of cash quickly.
Making Money Online
To help you scope out opportunities, consider this list of online ways to make quick cash.
1. Take Online Surveys and Market Research
From the privacy of your home, at your convenience, you could be earning small amounts of money (which can add up) by taking online surveys, watching videos, or even sharing your search history. These typically help marketers gain insight into consumer behavior and opinions Some places to sign up: Branded Surveys, Inbox Dollars, and Survey Junkie sites.
2. Sign Up for Freelancing Platforms
Do you have a skill to share…and sell? You might be able to offer your writing, social media, web design, translation, or other talents on a platform like Upwork, and get paid for freelance gigs. This can be an especially good way to make money even with no job.
3. Sell Products on E-Commerce Websites
If you are artsy or craftsy, you might try posting your work for sale online. Whether you make necklaces, take great nature photos, or knit beautiful baby sweaters, Etsy is a popular option. Just keep in mind that e-commerce websites typically have posting fees and then take a cut of your sales.
4. Offer Online Tutoring and Courses
You might be able to make quick cash by teaching online. Did you score in the top percentile on a standardized test or ace high-school physics? Are you pretty much fluent in French, or can you make bake-off-worthy cakes? You might be able to do remote tutoring or offer a class online. The key to bringing in quick cash here will be marketing your services well, so do a little online research upfront about how to bring an audience your way.
5. Try Affiliate Marketing
Do you love social media and have a strong presence, whether as a gamer, sharer of clothing hauls, or a guide to neighborhood businesses? If so, you could make quick cash via affiliate marketing. This means that you earn a commission on every visit, sale, or sign-up that you generate for a brand or merchant. You can learn more at affiliate marketing sites such as SemRush.
6. Find Unclaimed Money
Did you know that unclaimed funds, whether from forgotten-about bank accounts or insurance benefit checks that were never cashed, can wind up with the state government and sit, waiting to be claimed? It may be a bit of a longshot, but it can’t hurt to check out this unclaimed funds website and see if there is any cash in your name that you might collect.
7. Claim App Referrals
You may be used to those “Refer a friend and get $25!” offers online. If the shoe fits, as they say, wear it! For instance, if a buddy signs up for a PayPal or a Swagbucks account at your recommendation, you could benefit with a small chunk of change heading your way as a thank you.
8. Open a Bank Account
The personal finance business can be competitive these days, and some banks will offer you a tidy sum to open an account with them. This is among the more common bank bonuses, and while amounts will vary, you could earn a quick $250 this way. These offers are often at online vs. traditional banks. Just be sure to read the fine print before you sign up to make sure that there aren’t fees or minimum balances that would be challenging for you.
9. Sell Unused Gift Cards
Here’s a slightly weird way to make money. Do you have a gift card or two, maybe sent by a well-intentioned relative, sitting unused? Perhaps you never go to the coffee chain the card is for, or you don’t have a branch of the store nearby. You might recoup some of the card’s value by selling it on a site like CardCash, ClipKard, or GiftCash.
10. Get Paid Sooner
Need more ideas for how to make quick cash? This one doesn’t exactly bring in more money but can give you access to your earnings sooner. Some financial institutions will make your paycheck available up to 48 hours early when you sign up with direct deposit. Again, this isn’t a sum beyond what you earn, but it can let you, for instance, pay bills on time when you otherwise couldn’t.
11. Work as a Virtual Assistant
In this age of automation, many jobs can be done remotely as long as you have computer and wifi access. That includes being someone’s assistant and helping with tasks like scheduling, correspondence, and travel arrangements. Look for listings on sites like FlexJobs and LinkedIn.
💡 Quick Tip: If your checking account doesn’t offer decent rates, why not apply for an online checking account with SoFi to earn 0.50% APY. That’s 7x the national checking account average.
Making Money Offline
Need more inspiration on how to make quick cash? There are plenty of ways to do so in the real world instead of online. Here is an assortment of ideas for getting some money into your bank account, where it’s needed most.
12. Do Local Odd Jobs and Gigs
Are there any services, whether one-off or ongoing, that you could offer? You might be able to help a senior with shopping, do yard work, assist someone with cleaning out their basement before they move, or set up for a party. Take a look at sites like Fiverr, Craigslist, or Nextdoor, as well as locations like community bulletin boards at cafes and other locations.
13. Sell Unused or Unwanted Items
Your junk could be someone else’s treasure that they might be willing to pay for. You could have a yard sale or visit one of the many places to sell your stuff. Items that could be sale-worthy include good condition electronics, cookware, clothing, sports equipment, housewares, home decor, your vinyl collection, and more.
14. Pet Sit or Walk Dogs
Here’s another idea for how to make quick cash, and it’s perfect for animal lovers: Do some pet sitting or dog walking. Using a well-known social networking site or a pet sitting site could help get attention and build the business; you might also try posting flyers in your neighborhood offering dog-walking services. Cash payments can make this a good gig for those who don’t want to wait for their money.
15. Tutor or Skill Share
As mentioned above, if you have a skill or talent (from speaking great Spanish to coding), you could tutor or offer instruction. Local schools and community centers could be a good place to market your skills; think about what credentials you can tout to show prospective students that you have the know-how.
16. Recycle for Cash
In this era of eco-consciousness, there are plenty of opportunities to recycle for cash. This can be as simple as gathering your own and your neighbors’ unwanted cans and bottles and redeeming them, or you might get scrap metal via Craigslist or Freecycle and then sell it to a scrap yard. And who knew? You might even earn quick cash via recycling cardboard at BoxCycle.
17. Take Care of Children or Elders
Could you do some babysitting, childcare, or eldercare to bring in cash? You’re likely to have some warm and fuzzy feelings too after doing gigs like these and helping others. Caregivers may have to go through an in-depth vetting process to sign up with an agency like Care.com, so be prepared to answer lots of questions (Do you have experience? What would you do in an emergency? Will you cook and clean?) and provide background information and ID.
18. Pawn Items of Value
Let’s say you have an urgent car repair bill and unfortunately haven’t got enough saved in an emergency fund. You could get cash quick by pawning an item (think jewelry, wristwatches, electronics, and musical instruments). This means you take it to a pawn shop, get cash, and if you come back and repay the loan in a certain time frame, you retake possession of the item. If you don’t, the pawn shop can sell it. This practice could benefit you when you need money fast.
19. Rent Out Extra Space
You’ve probably heard about the sharing economy, which can allow people to monetize their unused space. For instance, if you live in a popular area and have an extra bedroom, you might rent it out on Airbnb to people visiting your town for a few nights. You may even be able to rent out your unused parking space on Spacer.
20. Deliver Food
It’s a sign of the times: Food delivery, from groceries to restaurant meals to bubble teas, is on the rise. You might be able to make some fast money by doing this kind of delivery via a service like DoorDash, UberEats, InstaCart, and GrubHub, among others. This can be a good way to use your free time to bring in some cash when you need it quickly.
21. Drive Rideshare
Similarly, if you have access to a car, you could drive a rideshare for a company like Uber or Lyft. Whether ferrying people to the airport, work, or out to dinner, it can be a good way to monetize your free time.
22. Flip Free Items
Are you handy? Here’s a way to get some money flowing your way: You could snag items from Freecycle, Craigslist, Nextdoor, or even the curb, and refurbish and sell them as a low-cost side hustle. Maybe someone is getting rid of an old coffee table or nightstand that’s in rough shape. You could refinish or paint it and sell it at a profit. Yes, it takes a bit of time to do this work, but the opportunity to bring in perhaps a couple of hundred dollars for your effort is real.
23. Cash in Your Coins
Here’s an easy idea for making quick cash: Look around your house for that coin jar that many people have shoved in a closet or on a windowsill. If you have a stash of quarters somewhere, you might be surprised by how much it can add up to. Getting it to the bank or a retailer that offers coin counting and redemption services could bring you a good infusion of cash.
Combining Online and Offline Opportunities
Now that you’ve read this list, you can begin to think about which ideas spark the most interest or best suit your situation. When you want to make quick cash, you don’t have to try just one method.
Feel free to mix up online and offline techniques to make money fast. You might drive a rideshare on Sundays and tutor via Zoom twice a week. It’s all about what works best for you.
Balancing Your Time
One thing to remember as you work to bring in extra cash is that it is possible to overdo it. Whether you have a job and/or a family or are unemployed and single (or anything in between), remember that you do need downtime and rest. Don’t overschedule yourself with odd jobs and other money-making tasks. You need to balance your time. And if you are sleep-deprived and exhausted, you can’t do a good job making money anyway!
Tips for Staying Safe While Making Quick Cash
A word or two of warning as you look for ways to make quick cash: There are occasionally scams and dangerous situations out there. Be savvy as you move ahead.
Avoiding Scams
If an opportunity to make money sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are quite a number of employment scams out there, so be vigilant. Work-from-home scams and overpayment scams are common; check out Fraud.org’s site to learn more and protect yourself.
When selling items, also proceed with caution. There are also fraudsters using overpayment and money order trickery to get something for nothing.
Managing Personal Information
If you are applying for gig work, be cautious about to whom you send your personal information (such as your Social Security number and banking details). Do your research and vet the recipient of this info; otherwise, you might be dealing with a scammer who is trying to commit identity theft.
The Takeaway
Many people encounter a moment when they could really use some cash quickly. Happily, there are many ways to get money flowing your way, both online and offline. From dog walking to selling your unwanted stuff, from tutoring to taking surveys on your laptop, there are likely several options that can suit your needs.
And once you make that extra moolah, make sure it’s working hard for you and earning you some interest, thanks to a good banking partner.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.
SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.
Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.
Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet..
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
Hosting a successful Thanksgiving on a budget starts with smart shopping strategies and a manageable guest list.
November 1, 2023
Every November, family and friends gather to reflect on what they’re grateful for and indulge in a home-cooked meal. But with food costs steadily increasing, Thanksgiving can easily be one of the most stressful and costly holidays of the year.
The good news? You don’t have to break the bank to host a holiday dinner that leaves your guests full and impressed. Here are some tips for hosting Thanksgiving on a budget without compromising on the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
1. Get a head start on planning
It’s never too early to start preparing for the holidays, especially if you’ve volunteered to host. Haley and Justin Brown-Woods, financial coaches and hosts of the Price of Avocado Toast podcast, recommend thinking about what type of Thanksgiving you’d like to create. Will it be casual or elegant? A full, traditional meal or just heavy appetizers?
Most importantly: How big will the celebration be? Having a rough idea of how many people you’ll be hosting will provide a better sense of how much food and drink you’ll need, which can help you set a realistic budget.
One tip: If you’ve previously hosted Thanksgiving, review bank statements from those years to approximate your expenses for this year’s dinner.
2. Keep your guest list in check
The more, the merrier, right? Not necessarily. Too many Thanksgiving guests mean more mouths to feed—and more money spent. “One of the first steps we’d suggest when doing Thanksgiving on a budget is being modest in who you invite,” Haley says. More guests can mean you might need to plan for considerations like dietary restrictions or picky kids. To keep it simple, invite only close family members or just your immediate household.
“As you add to the list of guests, you need to ask yourself how much more of each dish you’ll need to make,” Haley says. “Boiling a few extra potatoes is wildly different from making an entire new casserole pan of dressing. Do you plan on giving out leftovers to all? Do you have disposable containers to send it all home in? Ask yourself what kind of post-meal situation you’re comfortable with and then build around that.”
3. Commit to a budget and build your savings fund
Once you’ve figured out the guest list and your overall style, determine a budget for food, decorations, and other expenses based on how many guests you plan to invite. Then, pad your final budget to cover any unexpected costs that might pop up.
Try to keep your budget limited to the essentials. “You do not need to buy or serve everything,” Haley says. “Potatoes don’t need to be curated into four styles, and you don’t need every extra casserole you saw on social media.”
Having a rough estimate for expenses is the first step toward building your holiday fund. To help your savings go even further, consider opening a high-yield online savings account to take advantage of the compound interest it earns every month.
Start saving with no minimum balance
Discover Bank, Member FDIC
“We suggest having a sinking fund in a high-yield savings account built specifically for holidays that you can add to each month and then pull from when needed,” Justin says. “This could be for things like groceries, gifts, excursions, or any other expenses that come with the holiday season. When we save in advance for our goals, not only do we feel empowered, but we spend more intentionally because we recognize the work and planning that went into getting to that point.” Not to mention, you’ll experience lower overall stress if you come out of the holidays without considerable debt to pay back in the new year.
4. Take inventory of what you have
One simple trick to ensuring a successful Thanksgiving dinner on a budget? Figure out what you already have at home to reduce unnecessary expenses. Pantry staples, like sugar and flour, can last for many months, and there’s no need to buy them brand new just for one dinner. If you’re missing a certain-sized pot or baking tray, consider borrowing cookware from a guest before the big day. Thrift stores are also an inexpensive place to find what you need to help keep your Thanksgiving spending under control.
5. Shop with a budget-first mindset
Haley recommends several money-saving tips when shopping for Thanksgiving dinner on a budget.
“Buy off-brand when possible,” Haley says. “You don’t need name-brand condensed soup for a green bean casserole. Your guests will still love whatever is made. The flavors meld together anyway, so cut costs as much as possible.”
Another tip: To curb spending, buy certain items ahead of time to avoid last-minute and unnecessary purchases. “Start stocking up on the nonperishables months in advance,” Haley adds. “You’ll be tempted to buy straight from the Thanksgiving display if you shop too close to the holiday. And you know what else is on that display? Decor, extra desserts, favors, and other stuff you absolutely do not need.”
6. Save money on the decor
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enhance the Thanksgiving mood. Decorating for Thanksgiving on a budget is a chance for you to exercise creativity and maybe even enlist the help of guests for a night of crafting. Instead of buying that fancy centerpiece you saw online, use it as inspiration to create a centerpiece with decorations you already own or can thrift on the cheap.
Better yet: Take a minimalist approach to your Thanksgiving decorations.
“As far as decor, less is more,” Haley says. “A comforting table setting, maybe one from years past, is just enough. Sometimes we forget that ‘more’ can really mean ‘busy,’ which detracts from the connection we crave on this holiday.”
7. Consider hosting dinner potluck-style
Want to really limit the stress and spending? Offer to host a potluck Thanksgiving or “Friendsgiving” dinner. As the host, you can still cook the main entrees like the turkey, but a potluck allows you to delegate smaller side dishes to your guests—especially if you can’t trim down your guest list.
Justin says: “We are big fans of potluck style. If your extended family is so close that you can’t avoid the invites, consider asking all to contribute meaningfully, in alignment with their budget. Find spaces where folks can contribute, and then ask if that works or if they’d like to adjust. An example could be, ‘Hey, we’re so excited to have you for Thanksgiving. We’re asking everyone to contribute a dish so the meal is easier on all. Would you be comfortable bringing that famous dish you make?’”
Granted, there are certain circumstances where guests may not be able to contribute. For example, family members visiting from out of town might not be able to bring a home-cooked dish or have time to visit the store before dinner. If traveling guests offer, feel free to accept their contribution. Otherwise, it’s probably best not to ask.
Don’t let hosting duties stress you out
Most importantly, Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and loved ones to reflect on all they’re grateful for and to enjoy each other’s company. Hosting should be fun—not gray hair-inducing, and it’s important to remember that who you invite is more important than how much you spend on the tablecloths.
“Remind yourself of what your values for the holiday are,” Haley says. “If feeding people is a value, then how can we do that comfortably, without breaking the bank? If connecting with loved ones matters more, maybe you can save on the meal in some capacity. Value-based spending is key to enjoying your money and your life, so identify the value and then spend intentionally within that framework.”
Ready to raise your hand to host this year’s Thanksgiving on a budget? Check out the features of a Discover® Online Savings Account to see how it can support your holiday savings efforts today.
Articles may contain information from third-parties. The inclusion of such information does not imply an affiliation with the bank or bank sponsorship, endorsement, or verification regarding the third-party or information.
Take advantage of major markdowns on home decor, rugs, furniture, mirrors, mattresses, bedding, cookware and more.
Adrian MarlowContributor
Adrian is a deals and updates writer on the Commerce team at CNET. With a love of books, entertainment, travel, tabletop games and, yes, even fandom, they can often be found at concerts, RenFest, Dragon Con or at home binge-watching everything from new hits to classics. After graduating from Kennesaw State with a B.A. in English and Professional Writing, Adrian had a short gig in casting, followed by a long stint teaching English lit, theater and film. Adrian enjoys sharing insights and favorite finds with their readers.