The hope is always that you’ll communicate and work out any problems you have before it ever gets this far, but that doesn’t always happen. Sometimes relationships can become toxic by the end. And when that happens, it’s difficult for both parties involved. Here are the signs your roommate doesn’t like you.
1. Cutting off communication
This is one of the big signs your roommate doesn’t like you. When you two stop speaking, or even worse, when all communication comes in the form of a terse text message or a sticky note on the fridge, that’s good indication the relationship is either dead or dying.
2. What a mess
If you’re sharing a home, you need to share the responsibilities of maintaining that home. Sometimes it means maintaining the water heater. But it always means keeping your home neat and tidy. A messy desk is one thing (the sign of a genius, even!). And you can forgive a messy room. But not so much when that mess creeps out of your bedroom and into your shared space like the bathrooms, living room or worse, the kitchen. Keep your kitchens clean!
3. Who ate my creamy all-natural almond butter?
Is your roommate eating your food, deleting your shows from the DVR or even wearing your clothes without your permission? Talk it out before they delete all those reruns of “Say Yes To The Dress” you’ve been saving for a rainy Sunday.
4. The invisible roommate
If your roommate is never there, it could mean one of two things: Either they lead a busy and full life and aren’t home much or they’re not home much because they’re actively avoiding you.
5. They follow the trail
Can your roommate track your movements by the trail of chaos and mess you leave behind? Shoes by the door, clothes on the couch, dirty pots and pans on the stove and a messy bathroom all lead to one riled up roomie.
6. Feeling your inner Felix Unger
On the other side of the coin, if you’re a neat freak who disinfects the remote and follows people around with a dustpan while reminding them to use a coaster, you won’t win any popularity contests, either. Being neat is great. Being a neat freak isn’t.
7. Tummy time!
Do you hang out all day sitting naked on the couch? Do you work and sleep in your roommate’s bed? These behaviors are acceptable only if you’re a dog. Are you a dog? Bad roommate! Very bad roommate!
8. Is it the first already?
Pay your half of the rent on time. Every month. No exceptions. If you come up short, or if you’ll need help paying your half, tell your roommate early. Waiting ’til the last minute or even worse, flaking out altogether, is how you make a roommate an ex-roommate.
9. Do you smell that?
Can you remember the last time it was “your turn” to take out the trash? If you’re stomping on the trash trying to pack it down, odds are you’re not winning any popularity contests.
10. TMI
There’s confiding, and there’s chronic oversharing. Sure, as roommates, you’re expected to share some stuff, but not everything. Some details are better kept to yourself.
11. That looks fun…I guess
No one expects you to have all of the same interests. You may have some stuff in common. That’s part of the reason you’re living together. But if you’re putting down someone’s interests or insulting their favorite reality show, that’s just a jerk move.
12. Overnight guests
No one says you can’t have a partner spend the night, but if your significant other is over a lot (like A LOT), be discreet and respectful. Being kept awake all night by the headboard banging against your shared wall won’t win you any popularity contests.
13. Oh, did I wake you?
Just because you “don’t get tired until late” doesn’t mean anyone living in your home should have to stay awake. It’s fine if one of you is a night owl and the other is an early bird. But keeping the lights on and blasting the TV at 3 a.m. on a Wednesday isn’t cool.
14. Occupado!
Hogging the bathroom, using all the hot water, leaving your makeup all over the vanity or not cleaning out the sink after you shave isn’t only inconsiderate and gross. It’s also just bad hygiene. And if you use all the toilet paper, replace the dang roll. It’s not hard!
15. Your only habits are bad habits
If your roommate isn’t a smoker and complains the furniture and the carpet smells like your cigarettes, it’s a sign your roommate doesn’t like you. You need to take your ashtray outside or take your stuff to another house.
16. Vicious recycle
If your city or town collects recycling, you need to sort all your recyclables. Paper and plastic in one bin. Glass in another. If you think, “Eh, they’ll do it when they collect it,” when you bring everything out to the curb (you ARE bringing out the recycling, right?), you’re wrong. They won’t. And it’s not winning you any friends.
17. Molting and revolting
Personal hygiene is for the bathroom. Not the living room or the kitchen. So, when your hair gets all over the furniture and floors, no one thinks of it as a reminder of your presence. Also, no one wants to see you clipping your toenails on the coffee table. Take that mess to your room!
18. It’s not my fault!
And nothing ever is. If you’re not taking responsibility for your own actions, your roommate will want to take your keys back. Owning your actions is a part of adulthood, and hiding behind excuses and sob stories is what children do. The milk didn’t go bad because it was angry at you. It went bad because you left it on the kitchen table and it sat out all day.
19. I’m sorry you feel that way
You’re quick with a non-apology apology. When you finally realize you did something wrong, do you accept the consequences of your actions and try to make peace? Or, do you say what you think the other person wants to hear?
20. So funny I forgot to laugh
You think you’re hilarious, so why does every joke land with a silent thud? If every attempt at levity results in an indifferent eye roll, it might be time to take a step back.
21. Huh? You say something?
Maybe you don’t have a terrible roommate. Maybe they even try to include you in events and activities, inviting you to come along tubing down a lazy river or to an improv show. And maybe while you appreciate the gesture, it’s not really your scene. But instead of saying that, you ignore their invitations and sit on your couch staring at your phone. If you’re actively ignoring and not engaging, those offers of friendship will dry up.
22. Au naturale
The human body is a beautiful thing. But your roommate doesn’t want to see yours. Wear a towel or a robe when you’re coming out of the bathroom. And when there’s a roommate situation happening, pants are NEVER optional.
23. What’s that in your mouth? Drop it! Drop it!
Sometimes roommates come as a team with a pet. But when there’s an animal in the house, there should be rules and repercussions. If your dog got into your roommate’s bathroom and destroyed everything, you’re responsible. And if you don’t take responsibility, you’ll have to take your stuff and go.
24. You wouldn’t like me when I’m angry
You won’t get along with everyone you meet. And not all people are a good match. But if your roomie gets easily annoyed or angry, it’s a good sign your roommate doesn’t like you. Why live with someone who brings out the worst in you? Why bring out the worst in each other?
25. You’re just different people
Sometimes in life, you’re going to meet people you just don’t like and who don’t like you. Neither of you was offensive or rude or inconsiderate. Not everyone was meant to live together. And some relationships are better off being short term arrangements and ending peacefully.
How to handle roommate problems
If you see signs your roommate doesn’t like you, try to talk it out calmly and respectfully.
Roommates will bicker and annoy each other. It’s bound to happen in any dynamic. And no one is saying you have to be best friends. Most of us weren’t that lucky in the freshman dorms. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find some things to bond over…like a peaceful home, bad reality TV and not leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
Many people are turning to the option of living with a roommate to help balance out the financial strain of rental prices. Make sure you find the right one.
Since living with someone else can turn out as a pretty terrible experience sometimes, it’s important to vet out your roommates beforehand to avoid the bad ones. We’ve all heard the horror stories of piles of dirty dishes, the garbage that’s never taken out and late-night weekday parties. You may have even experienced these frustrations first-hand.
If you haven’t looked for one before, you may wonder how to find a roommate. Fortunately, with social networks and technology, there are plenty of roommate finder apps to help your search. Here is a list of our favorites and tips for identifying what is the best roommate finder app and websites for you.
1. Roomi
Roomi uses an algorithm to match you up with a roommate that would best be suited for you. You answer questions about yourself, what you’re looking for in an ideal roommate and Roomi then works its magic to pair two matches together.
Roomi has users do quick background checks and gives the option to link social media accounts so both roommates can feel more confident and secure in the process. Once you’re ready to message a potential “roomi,” you can do so through the app so you don’t have to exchange any personal contact information until you’re ready.
2. Roomster
Roomster has listings in more than 192 countries and 18 languages. It connects potential roommates using personality traits, keyword searches and interests to help you find your ideal match.
Members can match based on testimonials from friends, hobbies, interests and questions answered through their profiles. Roomster allows users to link their social accounts, so this app tends to have more data to find the perfect match. Once you find a potential roommate that looks promising, you can connect with them through the Roomster mailbox.
3. RoomEasy
RoomEasy is kind of like the Tinder of roommate apps. With RoomEasy, you create a profile, add personal description tags from their system and browse roommate and apartment listings. You can also connect your Facebook profile and see if your potential new roommate and you have any mutual friends.
Once you find something that interests you, you’ll “like” your favorite places or potential roommates’ profiles, and if they “like” yours, you’ll be matched. Once you’re matched, you can connect through the chat app.
4. SpareRoom
SpareRoom claims it is the busiest roommate app, with a roommate match being found every three minutes on its platform. What really sets SpareRoom apart from some other roommate apps is that it has a team of real people that screen each and every ad on SpareRoom so you can ensure listings are safe and verified.
This app even hosts speed room-mating events where you can meet up with people in your community and go through a roommate speed date-like process to see if you find someone you mix well with.
5. BunkUp
BunkUp is a pretty cool app that will help you find a roommate and an apartment. With BunkUp, much like the other apps, you fill out details about yourself and what you’re looking for in a roommate and are you’re matched or “BunkedUp.”
You can look for someone to move into your open space, move into a vacant room someone else is offering or find a new roommate to look for an entirely new apartment with. BunkUp even has agents that will help you find a new apartment.
6. Circle
Circle allows you to create a profile as either someone looking for a roommate to move into your place or as someone searching for a new place to live. It shows your potential roommates based on your profile and specifications.
It even “verifies” users, which means that a user has an authenticated driver’s license connected to their profile and they’ve passed a background check. Circle always shows you the “verified” potential roommates before all others, so you know that those who show up higher on your list are real people that aren’t trying to pull a scam. You’ll also be able to chat with potential roommates and ask questions to see who you get along with best to create a positive living environment.
7. Cirtru
Website only
Cirtru has truly adapted to the digital age. It allows users to take virtual tours within the platform so you can check it out safely from wherever you are. This makes it easy to both find a roommate to fill a vacancy in your home or look for an empty room to move into.
Cirtru is especially useful for animal lovers and owners as it allows you to set your preferences based on many criteria, including pet-friendly rentals and pet-welcoming roommates.
8. RoomieMatch
Website only
RoomieMatch is all about safety. It uses human “Scam Busters” to review submissions and listings, including an IP address location check to share the actual city in which people are, so you won’t deal with many scammers. Plus, your personal info is stored offline, instead of inline, so it can’t be accessed by online hackers and spammers
As a user, you can set your RoomieMatches based on gender, sexual orientation, lifestyle choices (like smoking/non-smoking), age and pet-friendliness.
9. Diggz
Website only
Diggz matches you with roommates based on a variety of factors connected with your profile, like your lifestyle, personality and personal preferences. You’ll be able to “like” other profiles that you’d be interested in rooming with. It’s similar to dating apps where you only talk to people that you “like” and who “like” you back.
Diggz works for almost any situation, whether you’re looking for a new roommate to move in with you, you want to move in with someone else or you want to search for a new place with a new roommate.
10. Roomaters
Roomaters uses more than the preferences you set for finding a roommate. Users take a personality test that helps when matching them with potential roommates.
Plus, you’ll get to input your interests, hobbies and a bit about what kind of roommate you are (social, introverted, messy, neat freak, etc.). So whether you like music, art, rock climbing or superhero movies, you can find someone you’ll enjoy living with.
Ask the right questions before sharing a living space
No matter where you source your new roomie, it’s essential to pose some hard-hitting questions aimed at gaining insights into their way of life and financial well-being. Here are several queries to initiate the conversation:
What qualities are you seeking in a roommate?
Are you thinking about a month-to-month rental arrangement, or are you leaning towards a longer commitment, such as a year?
Could you provide an overview of your typical work hours?
Do you share your living space with any pets?
What are your usual waking and sleeping hours?
How do you typically spend your leisure time?
Are there frequent visitors in your social circle? If so, who usually comes around?
Is smoking or alcohol consumption part of your routine?
Do you have any significant food or animal-related allergies?
Are you planning to bring along any furniture items? Do you have a need for parking space, perhaps a garage? What is your approach to maintaining cleanliness and tidiness around the house?
Roommate finder apps pair you with the right person
With so many roommate finder apps out there, it’s easier than ever to locate a perfect roommate — or at least a good one. Gone are the days of blindly showing up at someone’s place or finding a creepy classified ad in the paper. If you’re looking for the ideal roommate, give one of the above apps or sites a try.
…And Rent. pairs you with the right apartment
Maybe you already know who your potential roommate will be but you’re still looking at apartments together. We can help with that, too. Just type in your target city to get started, then filter by price range, pet-friendly apartments and more to help you decide.
Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.
American family finances have weathered the fallout of the dot-com bubble, the Great Recession and a pandemic over the last 30 years. Despite these challenges and more, single-parent households as a whole have actually seen broad financial improvements during this time.
Some households are better insulated to emerge unscathed (and even improved) from economic turmoil. On the other hand, families with one earner and multiple mouths to feed are at a disadvantage compared with those with multiple incomes when there is a job loss, high inflation, unexpected medical expenses or trouble in financial markets, for example. Measuring the financial health of a single-income household against one with two incomes would uncover few surprises. However, examining how the financial well-being of single-parent households has changed, and how it’s changed relative to others over time, tells a story of certain improvements and remaining opportunities for growth.
I am the product of a single-parent household. From the time I was 3 years old in the early 1980s, my mom raised my older brothers and me solo. Later, as an adult, I was the head of a single-parent household, raising my daughter who was born in 2000. Much has changed during that time, both in how I experienced the world through finances personally and within the broader economy. Charting the household finances of single-parent households across decades underscores these changes. Income, net worth and homeownership rates among single-parent households have improved dramatically, but these households still lack insulation from financial shocks, according to data from the Federal Reserve.
Family finances through the decades
The Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances is released every three years and is a trove of household financial data. I examined 30 years of the data, from 1992 to the recently released 2022 report, to see how my lived experiences aligned with the national picture and how the financial conditions of households like mine have changed.
Roughly 30 years ago, in 1992, I was 14 years old, living with my mother and one older brother, while my eldest brother was in college. During childhood, my mom received child support, but we still qualified for the free lunch program at school, a common proxy for household poverty. She had the good fortune of always having a steady job and put herself through college while raising us.
My experience as a parent — beginning in 2000 — was different in that I didn’t receive support payments from another parent but did qualify for broader public assistance. When my daughter was an infant, I received EBT benefits or “food stamps,” public housing and Aid to Dependent Children, commonly referred to as “welfare.” I, too, put myself through college and held down a job from the time she was born. Despite beginning my journey as a single mother at a deficit from where my mother began hers — quite a bit younger and with only one source of income — I was able to climb more quickly, perhaps because I only had one additional mouth to feed or because government and social supports of the era made it easier to do so.
Over the past 30 years, the median annual income of single-parent households has grown just over 45%, after adjusting for inflation, to $43,000, slightly faster than any other household type. Across all households, typical incomes grew about 27% during that period.
Note: The Survey of Consumer Finances defines single-parent households as those with children but not married or living with a partner.
A higher real income means a higher standard of living — your money can go further toward paying for the things you need. And my personal experience as a child and a parent aligns with this data — later in my daughter’s childhood, I was better able to afford things my mother would have considered luxuries when I was young.
I want to make it very clear that it’s little more than a neat coincidence that my personal life reflects the Federal Reserve data. Much is hidden in national aggregates, and many people have their own anecdotes that would run contrary to the data. In the case of “median income,” for example, we know that half of single-parent households earned less than $43,000 in 2022, and many likely earned much less. On the other hand, half earned more than that median amount. And though the national median grew during this 30-year period, some households surely experienced periods of declining income. Big aggregates allow us to examine broad trends, but they also sacrifice some details.
Net worth nearly triples; homes and retirement assets climb
Your net worth is the amount of your assets (the things you own of value) minus your liabilities, or debts. And single-parent households saw significant increases in net worth from 1992 to 2022. While households overall saw inflation-adjusted net worth climb 87% during this period, those headed by a single parent rose 189%.
A higher net worth represents greater insulation from financial difficulties. When you have more savings, equity in a home or lower debt, for example, you’re better able to accommodate unexpected expenses and better able to plan for long-term financial goals.
At least some of this growth in net worth is due to the rise of homeownership among single parents. The percentage of single-parent households who own their primary residence grew from 43% in 1992 to 50% in 2022, an increase of 17%, and the most dramatic increase among all family types during the period.
I was raised in rentals; my mother hasn’t owned a house since she had to sell the family home after my parents’ divorce. However, I purchased my first home when my daughter was 7 years old, thanks in part to the more accommodating standards of an FHA mortgage, down payment assistance and when I bought — it was 2007, and home loans were being passed out like candy.
Another important asset, retirement accounts, are now held by 37% of single-parent households, compared with 24% in 1992. While a marked improvement, there is still room for growth here. Among all households, 54% have retirement accounts.
So what can account for these improvements? It’s likely a combination of factors, starting with a “catch-up” period. Moms make up 80% of the heads of single-parent households, according to the U.S. Census, and women were afforded the right to apply for credit and loans such as mortgages only in 1974. The full implications of this change could certainly take decades to work their way into household personal finances and the economy at large. Further, the share of single mothers who work and the share of women going to college has increased over the past several decades, contributing to increased earning power. And finally, while a 2022 Pew Research Center survey found that the stigma of single motherhood is on the rise again, it’s likely still at a better place than 30 or 50 years ago, when legal protections against discrimination were lacking.
Where single-parent households can still gain ground
The share of single-parent households that save money actually fell over the 30-year period examined, from 45% to 41%. In fact, it fell across most household types during this period, though it fell the furthest for single parents. Without savings, you’re more likely to depend on debt when emergency expenses arise and less likely to be able to keep up with monthly bills.
Single-parent households are also the most common household type to revolve credit card debt, or carry it from one month to the next. More than half (52%) of these households carry a balance on their card from month to month, compared with 44% of all households, according to the data. Further, single-parent households saw the greatest change in this metric among all household types during the two-year period capturing the COVID-19 recession — from 2019 to 2022, that share rose 15%.
Carrying credit card debt increases monthly payment obligations, and household payment-to-income ratios reflect this. In any given month, roughly 11% of single-parent households have monthly debt payments exceeding 40% of their monthly income. This 40% threshold is considered a measure of financial vulnerability, and a greater share of single-parent households find themselves on the wrong side of this line than any other household type. Further, while the share of households over this 40% mark has decreased in the last 30 years, it’s fallen the least in single-parent homes.
Keys to continued improvements
Overall, typical household finances have improved over the last 30 years, and by some measures they’ve improved most dramatically for single-parent households. But going it alone as a parent, whether by choice or by chance, still presents some greater financial challenges. Namely, households like mine often lack the additional safety valves afforded households with two potential earners, making them more vulnerable and more likely to have to turn to debt in periods of financial stress.
For me, a single parent raised by a single parent, money decisions were always about caution and resourcefulness, being careful and conscientious about every dime spent and being a scrappy problem-solver when money was too tight to cover all of the expenses. Honestly, I was resentful of this as a child. But I was grateful for the foundation when I became a parent. Early in my daughter’s life, these lessons were crucial for keeping the lights on, quite literally. And now that I’m financially secure, these lessons still underpin how I think about money and how I talk about it in my work.
The average finances of single-parent households have improved over the years, but individual household finances can hit setbacks along the long-term climb. The path to financial security is rarely linear. Incrementally building an emergency fund, using debt strategically and knowing where to turn when things get tough can make it easier to rebound and get back on an upward track.
Are you looking for the best jobs for pregnant women? Pregnancy is a special and exciting time for moms-to-be, and you may be looking for ways to make money during this time period. Finding the perfect job when you’re pregnant can be a scary feeling, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to…
Are you looking for the best jobs for pregnant women?
Pregnancy is a special and exciting time for moms-to-be, and you may be looking for ways to make money during this time period.
Finding the perfect job when you’re pregnant can be a scary feeling, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to focus on looking for opportunities that suit your skill set, level of experience, and physical limitations during pregnancy.
For me, when I was pregnant not too long ago, I really loved being able to work from home. It made life so much easier, and the flexible hours helped greatly for when I wasn’t feeling up to it.
A good starting point could be looking for work-from-home positions or freelance opportunities that allow for more flexible schedules and the possibility of working at your own pace from the comfort of your home.
Recommended reading:
Best Jobs for Pregnant Women
There are 16 ways for pregnant women to make money listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Below are the top jobs for pregnant women.
1. Blogger
Blogging is exactly what I do for a living, and it is how I made money while pregnant as well.
Being a blogger means writing blog posts for people on the internet, just like with this blog post that you are currently reading.
You can write about things you like, such as money, travel, lifestyle, or family. Plus, you get to choose how you make money from your blog – there are lots of ways, like display ads or affiliate marketing.
Blogging is how I earn most of my money, and it has totally transformed my life. I can travel whenever I want, make my own schedule, be my own boss, and spend the whole day with my daughter. Plus, having flexible work hours helped me a ton while pregnant as I was able to choose my working hours.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
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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. Freelance writer
Similar to blogging, freelance writing gives pregnant women the opportunity to showcase their writing skills while working remotely. This job allows you to work on various writing projects, such as articles and ebooks.
Freelance writers create articles, website content, social media posts, or even ebooks for different people or companies.
I have worked as a freelance writer for many years. It’s a great career because you can work from home and set your own schedule, like writing only when you’re feeling good during your pregnancy or while your baby is napping.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs For Beginners
3. Tutor
An online tutor gives academic support to students via video chat or messaging platforms. It’s a good option for pregnant women as it is flexible and can be done from the comfort of your own home.
Helping students with their studies can be a good way to earn money while pregnant. There are lots of ways to tutor from home, and you can make your own schedule and decide how much or how little you want to work.
Recommended reading: 11 Best Places To Find Online Tutoring Jobs (Make $100+ an hour)
4. Sell printables on Etsy
If you have a knack for design, you can create and sell printables on Etsy. This is a great work-from-home option for pregnant women who are creative and enjoy designing digital products.
Printables are digital products you can download and print at home, like checklists for grocery shopping, planners for your budget, invitations for weddings, printable wall art, and more.
I recommend signing up for Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you ideas on what to sell online, how to get started, and how to make printable sales.
Recommended reading: 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.
5. Virtual assistant
Virtual assistants give administrative support to clients (like an administrative assistant!), including managing emails, organizing calendars, arranging travel (such as booking hotel stays and rental cars), and scheduling appointments.
With the flexibility to set your work hours, this online job is perfect for pregnant women.
I have been a virtual assistant in the past, and I currently have a virtual assistant. It is a much needed job that just continues to become more and more in demand.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
6. Transcriptionist
In this job, you convert audio files into written text. As a transcriptionist, you can work from home with flexible hours, making it one of the good jobs for pregnant women to work from home because you can work as much or as little as you want.
Transcription jobs are flexible, and you can do them right from home.
As an online transcriptionist, your job is to listen to audio or video recordings and write down exactly what is being said. The aim is to do it without making mistakes in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
I recommend watching Free Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? to learn more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
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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.
7. Answer online surveys
If you are looking for easy jobs while pregnant, then I recommend answering online surveys.
There is no set schedule, and you can do these while watching TV or in bed. No, you won’t get rich (nor will it be a full-time job), but it can give you a little extra spending money.
The survey companies I recommend for extra cash include:
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
Branded Surveys
PrizeRebel
American Consumer Opinion
User Interviews – These are the highest-paying surveys with the average being around $60. I have personally done one of these, and I was paid $400 for an hour of my time.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
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Swagbucks is a site where you can earn points for surveys, shopping online, watching videos, using coupons, and more. You can use your points for gift cards and cash.
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Branded Surveys is one of the most popular survey sites that rewards you in cash and gift cards for sharing your opinion. You can get paid anywhere from $0.50 to $5.00 per survey.
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American Consumer Opinion allows you to express your opinions on products and services through surveys and product testing. You can earn $1 to $5 per survey taken.
8. Proofreader
If you’re good at noticing small details, you could offer your services as a proofreader or editor for various kinds of content. This means checking and fixing mistakes in writing.
People such as writers and business owners hire proofreaders and editors to make their work better.
I personally have a proofreader, and I know many, many others who have proofreaders as well. It is an in-demand job that you can do while pregnant at home.
If you want to become a proofreader, I recommend joining the free 76-minute workshop – Learn How to Become a Proofreader…and Start a Freelance Proofreading Business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year)
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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.
9. Bookkeeper
If you’re good with numbers, you might try selling bookkeeping services online or for small businesses, either as a freelancer or part-time.
Bookkeepers are people who handle financial tasks for businesses and this includes keeping track of sales, managing expenses, and creating financial reports.
Plus, you do not need a bachelor’s degree to get started.
If you want to become a bookkeeper, I recommend watching the free training How To Become A Bookkeeper.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
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This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
10. Sell Canva templates
A Canva template is a ready-made design that you can sell for things like social media graphics, ebooks, and presentations.
Businesses, advertising professionals, social media influencers, and more buy Canva templates because it’s a helpful starting point if you’re not great at designing from scratch. These templates have blank spaces where you can add your own words and pictures. You can also change colors and fonts to fit your preferences.
They’re really useful for making things look good without spending a long time on it.
And, this is where you can come in.
You can design templates and sell them to others to use.
With Canva templates, you can sell a single design an unlimited amount of times. If you’re looking for something passive, this is a great way to learn how to make money while pregnant.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
11. Data entry clerk
Data entry clerks input, update, and double-check information in lists or tables, typing things like numbers and names to keep everything neat and organized.
On average, data entry jobs pay around $15 to $20 per hour.
All you need is an internet connection and a reliable computer to get started too.
This is a low-stress work-from-home job that is good for pregnant women.
12. Write book reviews
Book reviewers read books and get paid to share their opinions in book reviews. There are websites that pay you (and sometimes give you a free book) to talk about what you think of the books.
Some companies that pay for book reviews include Online Book Club, Kirkus Reviews, and BookBrowse.
So, if you find yourself reading a lot of books while pregnant, this can be a great place to start to make extra money.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
13. Graphic designer
If you have design skills, you can make money while pregnant by creating logos, website designs, brochures, business cards, marketing materials, and more for clients as an independent contractor.
This is a job that you can do as a freelancer, which means you can make your own schedule and work as much or as little as you would like.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
14. Social media manager
Social media managers and online community managers take care of a business’s social media accounts and online communities (such as forums) with the goal of bringing in new customers and helping the business grow.
They may post pictures or videos to highlight products or the company, and they might join in on popular social media trends, like on TikTok, to get more people to see them.
Social media managers also answer common questions that customers ask, such as on Twitter, in an Instagram Story, or in a TikTok video.
15. Search engine evaluator
A search engine evaluator, also called a Google Rater, is someone who gives ratings to websites based on how good and helpful they are.
This online typing job is perfect for beginners because you don’t need any experience to begin, and you don’t have to be an expert because Google prefers regular people to rate their sites.
Learn more at How To Become a Search Engine Evaluator.
16. Flea market flipper
A flipper buys items from places such as garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, or thrift stores and resells them online for a profit.
For example, you may sell clothing, appliances, household goods, and more as a flipper.
You may be able to earn extra money by flipping items for resale or possibly earn a full-time income!
A helpful free training that I recommend is Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days.
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about finding a job while pregnant.
Should I say I’m pregnant at a job interview? What are the rights of pregnant employees?
Legally, most employers cannot discriminate against you based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, as established in the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. However, you might wonder if you should disclose your pregnancy during an interview. Ultimately, it’s your decision. If you believe the job is a good fit for you and your pregnancy, you can choose to discuss it after receiving a job offer to determine the necessary accommodations.
It’s usually within your rights to only disclose your pregnancy when you feel comfortable doing so. You should prioritize your health and the needs of you and your child, and focus on finding a job that supports your situation.
What job should I get while pregnant?
When looking for a job while pregnant, you may want to look for jobs that are not physically demanding and have a flexible work schedule. Some job options for pregnant women include becoming a virtual assistant, freelance writer, or proofreader.
What are suitable jobs for women with high-risk pregnancies?
For women with high-risk pregnancies, it’s important to choose jobs that don’t have exposure to harmful chemicals or require heavy lifting. Remote jobs such as online tutoring, social media management, or bookkeeping are ideal in this situation, but you should always ask your doctor to see which jobs are best for your specific situation.
How can a pregnant woman earn money from home? What are the best remote jobs for pregnant moms?
I think working from home is the best possible job idea for pregnant women, and it’s exactly what I did while pregnant! Pregnant women can earn money from home by taking on remote work or freelancing positions. Some options include proofreading, virtual assistance, freelance writing, bookkeeping, and online tutoring.
Are there jobs available for women in their third trimester of pregnancy?
Yes, there are jobs for women in their third trimester of pregnancy. Remote jobs or freelancing in fields like writing, proofreading, or bookkeeping can be suitable during the third trimester, along with many others!
Can you start a job at 7 months pregnant?
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 says that companies with 15 or more employees can’t make job decisions based on pregnancy or childbirth. As long as you can do the job, a company cannot refuse to hire you just because you’re pregnant. So, if you are 7 months pregnant and need a job, you can get one.
What jobs can you not do while pregnant?
Jobs that you may want to avoid while pregnant include those that involve exposure to toxic chemicals or heavy lifting. Also, some roles with high stress or long hours may not be suitable for some pregnant women. I highly recommend talking with your doctor about which jobs are safe for you during your pregnancy if you have questions.
Can I use FMLA while pregnant?
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows qualified employees to take up to 12 weeks off from work without pay for certain family and health reasons, like being pregnant.
Is it OK to not work while pregnant?
Yes, it is okay not to work while you are pregnant. If you can afford it, then saving money ahead of time can be very helpful.
Best Jobs for Pregnant Women – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best jobs for pregnant women.
Whether you are looking for permanent or temporary jobs while pregnant, you have many options.
If you are wondering what is the best job for a pregnant woman, then the list above is a great place to start. Everyone is different, and everyone’s pregnancies are different – so, you will want to think about what you are comfortable doing as well as what you can physically and mentally handle.
For me, I was so nauseous and sick for the first several months that it was too hard for me to do pretty much anything. Working online was all that I could handle, and even then, that was difficult.
So, do not feel bad if you are not able to handle much. Pregnancy is hard! You are growing a baby and that takes a lot out of a person.
I hope you are able to find the best job for you.
What do you think are the best jobs for pregnant women?
Recommended reading: How To Take Maternity Leave When Self-Employed
We received a neat tip from usccstrategy which simplifies figuring out which card you used when referring a friend to an Amex card:
Look at your rewards transactions showing the referrer bonus. You’ll see there a string of letters/numbers attached to each referral bonus. Example:
See in the above screenshot one of the referrals is described as “K3QE” and one is described as “K3YC”.
Next, check your referral link. Look at the full expanded version of the link. Near the end of the long link you’ll see the 4-digit code which represents the card for referrals. That code will correspond to the code you see in the login.
For example, one code I checked ends with “92-201279-K50U%3A9997&v=1&xl=cp10gx”. If that card would refer a friend, they would see “K50U” in their rewards login. Cool.
The bad news is the holiday season is just about over. The even worse news is that it comes with a whole lot of cleanup and decoration organization. But don’t worry, there’s some good news here, too. Right now, QVC is having a sale on a variety of storage solutions for ornaments, artificial trees, wrapping paper, and more for up to 62 percent off.
QVC’s storage deals include items for all of your holiday essentials to help you clean up faster, stay organized, and keep everything in one space-saving place. Look for collapsible wreath boxes and ornament storage in 64-piece or 72-piece options. You can also find artificial tree bags starting at $28, plus multi-purpose containers to hold lights, gift bags, and other items you won’t need until next year.
Home Reflections 7.5-Foot and Under Tree Storage Bag With Wheels, $50 (was $83)
Periea 64-Piece Collapsible Ornament Storage Box
When it’s not in use, this ornament storage box is completely collapsible, and when it is, it keeps everything tidy thanks to its sturdy design with inserted metal rods and four divided trays to hold ornaments. You can safely transport it to its permanent spot during the year using the carry handles, and if you need a larger size, grab the 72-piece version that’s also on sale. The box is available in six designs, including red berry, gold floral, and green tartan.
Tidy & Co. Three-Piece Multi-Purpose Collapsible Storage Set
Another collapsible storage set is this one from Tidy & Co. that comes with three pieces—two small and one large cube—for storing decorations like ornaments, figurines, holiday trains, candles, lights, and more. Each box has a clear window pane to easily identify what’s inside, and they can be used with or without the inserts. One shopper said the “boxes were very sturdy, and if packed right, hold lots of items.” Another reviewer has found other uses for them, including their “yarn, sewing” and “cords from [their] TVs.”
Santa’s Bags Wrapping Paper Storage Tube
If you overestimated how many rolls of wrapping paper you would need, keep the excess neat for next year in this storage tube. It has a convenient carrying handle and zip top design so nothing can escape or become unraveled. The bag can hold up to twelve 40-inch wrapping paper rolls, more if yours are half-used. One shopper noted that this is a “really inexpensive way to organize,” and that now, their closet is “no longer” filled with “ripped wrapping paper.” Another reviewer shared that it “takes up very little space.”
Whether you need to pack up your tree lights, ornaments, or holiday garland, this one-size-fits-a lot storage box is a must, and it’s 62 percent off and just $15. The durable bag is made of water-resistant material and measures 41 inches, so it can even fit your longest unused rolls of wrapping paper. Plus, when it’s not in use, you can fold it up so it takes up almost no space.
Home Reflections 7.5-Foot and Under Tree Storage Bag With Wheels
When it’s sadly time to take down the artificial tree and pack it up for next year, grab Home Reflections’ wheeled storage bag that’s 39 percent off. The mesh window provides airflow while the straps keep the tree secure and in place. The bag has wheels to make transporting it up or down stairs as smooth as possible, and it can fit trees that are 7.5 feet tall or smaller.
While few enjoy the cleanup and organization that comes with the end of the holiday season, QVC’s sale on Christmas storage bags and boxes makes the process a little easier—and less costly. Find even more items below.
Home decor is a manifestation of personal style, and 2024’s interior design trends provide even more ways to express your point of view—boldly.
The accent walls and mid-century modern furniture that ruled 2023’s interior design trends aren’t disappearing entirely. But in the upcoming year, we can say goodbye to standard design rules and all-minimal-everything. Embrace clashing patterns, chrome counters, ultra-luxurious materials, and maximalism. Whether that means trading in beige soft sheets for a Barbiecore pink bedding set, or adding bow-adorned wallpaper to your kitchen a lá Sandy Liang, nothing is off-limits in 2024.
Like a fun pair of heels or sparkly party dress, 2024’s home trends are all about embracing creativity and fun. With expert input from interior designers and trend predictors, explore the five most popular interior design trends of 2024 that will help you express your individuality through your space.
2024 Interior Design Trend: Kitschy Kitchens
Oleksandr Shcherban//Getty Images
Gone are the days of clean marble and white walls in the kitchen. In 2024, we can expect to see more personality, color, and spunk in this essential area.
“We’re going to say goodbye to farmhouse kitchens, and hello to Kitschy Kitchens, or what we like to call ‘Kitschens,’” says Pinterest global trends and insight lead Sydney Stanback. “A way that people can tap into this trend is through incorporating thrifted finds, vintage appliances and eye-jarring pops of paint into their kitchen designs and cooking areas.”
2024 Interior Design Trend: Plenty of Patterns
Harrison Eastwood//Getty Images
Clean white walls are on their way out. “Having languished in the realm of neutrality for what feels like an eternity, we’ve witnessed the rise and subsequent demise of farmhouse, mid-century modern, and the all-encompassing minimalism craze. The universal aesthetic is teetering on the edge of ‘been there, done that,’” says Danielle Walish, Havely’s VP of merchandising and product design. “People are craving homes with character, personality, and a bit of oomph–a bold departure from the subdued styling that has held sway for too long.” Now, it’s time for a pattern on pattern (on pattern) renaissance.
“We’re not just talking about a small print here and there,” Walish elaborates. “It’s all about mixing it up–upholstery, textiles, wallpaper and beyond. From classic stripes to whimsical florals, modern motifs to organic botanicals. It’s all about making a statement.”
2024 Interior Design Trend: Master Metals
First chrome metallics came for statement earrings, then they came for home interiors. In 2024, metallic hues will enter living spaces in a new, big way.
“A trend that we’ve been seeing pop up recently, specifically within the fashion space–thanks to a certain very iconic artist who was on tour this summer–is cool silver tones. And cool silver tones and bold chrome will continue to grow in 2024, but will also evolve into the home category,” Pinterest’s Stanbuck says. “People trade in their trusty neutrals for something a bit more hardcore. We especially see that Gen Z and Millennials on Pinterest are driving this heavy metal aesthetic.” Aluminum accents are a shortcut to bring the shiny trend into home decor.
2024 Interior Design Trend: Saturated Spaces
asbe//Getty Images
Whether you want a pop of pink or a moody sitting room, 2024 is all about accessorizing with color. “From rich blacks and sultry navies to more lively hues of blues, greens, and even pinks, the color trends of 2024 advocate for a daring approach,” says Havenly design editor Heather Goerzen. “Excitingly, we’re observing a refreshing pushback against the ubiquitous all-white aesthetic. Whether through the application of monochromatic paints or the embrace of deep, saturated color schemes, color in all its glorious shades is reclaiming the spotlight.”
The expert notes that the trend manifests everywhere from painted alcoves and striking wallpapers to deep wood tones and evocative upholstery. “If ever there was a moment to unleash your color perspective,” Goerzen says, “it’s now.”
Quiet luxury was never just about fashion; it also crept into the home. “A year ago, everything, everywhere, was light-washed oak, calacutta marble, and matte accents,” Havenly VP of creative and design Shelby Girard reflects. “At first, this felt like such a refreshing scene–it was simultaneously calm and inspiring, collected and effortless. However, with such widespread adoption, particularly with new builds, the aesthetic began to feel a little…expected.” That’s why, in 2024, we’re seeing a return to luxurious materials of yore.
“As traditional design is once again taking center stage, we’ve seen a backlash against the usual materials and a desire to seek out elements that in and of themselves are more unique, dramatic, and notable,” Girard explains. “Think richly veined marbles in a range of striking colors, lush velvets with added dimension, crystal chandeliers for a hint of glamour, dark wood tones that speak to heritage, and un-lacquered hardware for a lovely patina.”
Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in home by working with the world’s leading authorities in interior and architectural design, textiles, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
Tatjana Freund is Hearst’s Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor, covering beauty, fashion and more across multiple brands. Previously, she worked at ELLE.com and Marie Claire. She’s a fan of whiskey neat, podcasts that give her nightmares, and one time Zoë Kravitz laughed at a joke she made.
Inside: Looking for the perfect graduation gift? Check out our selection of clever ways to give money. These graduation money gift ideas are fun ways to celebrate.
Graduations signify transitions from one chapter of life to a new groundbreaking journey. This major milestone should be marked with a special gift.
In various cultures, gifting money presents the ultimate creativity, coupled with practicality. It expresses your wishes for the graduate’s prosperity and financial independence.
We have the best graduation money gift ideas just for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
Why choose money gifts for graduates?
Graduates are on the brink of venturing into new territories, whether it’s furthering education, taking a gap year, investing in big-ticket items, or moving to kickstart a career. These steps often come along with substantial financial burdens.
A money gift, therefore, becomes a thoughtful and practical gesture.
A survey by the National Retail Federation recorded cash to be the most popular graduation gift, given by 55 percent of participants. In addition, 43% give greeting cards (often with cash inside), followed by gift cards at 32%, apparel at 14%, and electronics at 10%. 1
Hence, money gifts are not just loved by grads but also cherished by friends and family, making them a comprehensive gifting solution.
Fun and Creative Money Gifts for Graduates
Money Lei
Creating a money lei as a gift for a graduate is a fun and creative way to give cash. To make the lei, start by folding one-dollar bills in a fan shape, then thread them onto a necklace made of string or yarn.
You can add ribbons, faux flowers, or even banknotes of higher denominations to make it even more special. Learn how to make a money lei from this mom.
Money Chain
A fun and inventive way to present cash as a graduation gift is to create a paper chain out of dollar bills. This concept not only represents an inventive method to gift money, but it also adds a decorative touch to the graduate’s celebration.
You can assemble the chain using dollar bills and a stapler, turning it into a creative money necklace. To make it even more special, include a rosette made out of a larger denomination bill like $20 or $50 with the inscription “Congratulations Grad!”
Get detailed instructions on making a money chain.
DIY Graduation Money Cake
Graduations warrant celebration with a cake. How about centering the stage with a splendid DIY graduation money cake? It’s not just a delicious mouthful but also a delightful sight!
This visually humorous and surprisingly straightforward project involves rolling your dollar bills in a circular shape to resemble cake layers. Topped with a mini graduation hat and a congratulatory note, it’s sure to bring smiles for its sheer creativity and attractive bounty.
Better than a diaper cake, and perhaps more loved than a real cake, a money cake makes a clever centerpiece and a graduation gift. Use our inventive DIY money cake ideas to draw inspiration from to build a money masterpiece. Add a personal touch by incorporating your graduate’s favorite colors, stickers, or little decorative items that reflect their personality or interests.
Adding a creative twist to your monetary gift can make it even more memorable too. Spiraling money into a puzzle box, the recipient must solve the puzzle to claim their cash – this adds an element of excitement and challenge. You can choose a puzzle that suits the graduate’s interest, making this fun idea even more personal and thoughtful.
Secret compartments that hold hidden treasure. The recipient must learn how to crack the puzzle to open the secret box.
Graduation Cap Mason Jar with Money Diplomas
This graduation money jar by Must Have Mom not only serves as an impressive cash gift but, courtesy of the graduation cap, neatly doubles as a party decoration too. Handmade with love, filled with cash, and resonating with the graduation spirit – what’s not to like?
Fill the Mason jar with rolled-up bills, each ingeniously crafted to resemble mini diplomas. Secure these ‘diplomas’ with bright ribbons for color pop. Add some coins to represent the small steps it took to achieve this big milestone. Top it up with a mini graduation cap, which you can easily craft with black cardstock and an adorable tassel.
And the best part? It might even inspire your graduate to save!
Pizza Box Filled with Cash
Who doesn’t love pizza? Break up the monotonous way of handing over cash in a dull envelope by presenting it in a faux pizza box. Yes – you read that right! The pizza box filled with cash is an ingenious idea that adds a mix of humor, surprise, and cash!
Craft a pizza out of money bills, each piece folded and clipped like a pizza slice. Etsy and Simplistically Living suggest adding red paper circles with quarters on top for that real pepperoni look.
Learn how to make a pizza is the dough gift.
Graduation Money Box Gift Pull
The graduation money box gift pull bears a unique resemblance to a Kleenex box, offering a creative way to gift money to graduates.
This fun and interactive gift involves attaching money bills end-to-end using transparent tape and then neatly rolling them into a tissue box such that the top bill resembles a tissue ready to be pulled. Decorate the box to give it a celebratory touch, and as the graduate pulls out what they think is a tissue, they’d be pleasantly surprised to find a continuous roll of money instead.
Money Shirt and Tie Origami
The art of origami takes to gifting, adding a personal touch to the otherwise cliched act of gifting cash. Enter the money shirt and tie origami – a creative, fun, and super unique graduation gift.
This cleverly folded shirt and tie ensemble is made from a dollar bill. An epitome of the exciting transition from lecture halls to corporate corridors, it resonates with the graduate stepping into professional life. The stitched proverb “Clothes make the man” truly shines out here, for this crisp white money shirt is undoubtedly a charming symbol of maturity and real-world readiness. Add a quarter or a dime to resemble a metallic tie-pin.
For an in-depth tutorial on how to fold a dollar bill into a shirt and tie, you can look up directions here.
Unique Money Gift Presentation Ideas
Money Tree: An Ever-Growing Investment
In line with the adage, “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” we introduce you to a tongue-in-cheek yet highly symbolic take on this phrase. The Money Tree! (yep, I love to prove my dad wrong!)
This is a creative and innovative way of presenting cash as a gift. It’s also a symbolic nod towards the idea of financial growth and prosperity for the graduate, subtly wishing them monetary abundance throughout their journey.
Fortune Cookie Money Gift
Looking for a fun and quirky way to present money to the graduates on their big day? How about incorporating a little Asian flair and a dash of fun with a Fortune Cookie Money gift? This surprising and unique concept makes for a perfect impression!
The money fortune cookie idea, courtesy of The Paper Mama, is an attractive alternative to age-old gifting methods. Fold your money bills into the shape of fortune cookies and slip them inside a takeaway Chinese box for the ultimate presentation.
Elevate this gift by including a heartfelt note or some thoughtful advice inside each fortune cookie, just like the actual fortune cookies come with hidden messages. Each ‘cookie’ is also a symbol of luck and prosperity.
Zip-Open Money Holder
A Zip-Open Money Holder serves as a stylish and functional way for men to handle their cash, making it a perfect gift for graduates, birthdays, or festive occasions. The design allows for secure storage, and the feature of easily displaying cash by unzipping adds a hint of excitement to the gift-giving process.
With a myriad of styles ranging from minimalist to flashy, you can match the recipient’s personality perfectly.
Emergency Cash Inside Picture Frame: A Lifesaver Graduation Gift Idea
Imagine a rustic shadow box or a sleek modern frame housing a neat arrangement of cash bills under the caption “In Case of Emergency Break the Glass.”
Add a personal touch by including a caring note like “If you ever need help, I’ll be there for you.” This not only gives the impression of a safety net but also reassures them of your ongoing support.
It’s unconventional cash gifting, fun, practical, and literally, their savior ‘in case of emergency’.
Money Balloons to Life You Off Financially!
A truly unique and memorable way to gift money to graduates is to tuck it inside balloons, creating surprising cash confetti.
This sneaky method not only redefines the act of gift-giving, but also adds a fun and exciting element, as the receiver pops the balloon to discover their monetary gift within.
Check out how to make money balloons.
Handmade Money Surprise Bath Bomb
Time for a lovely bath with a hidden surprise! A fantastic way to hide money especially for teen girls!
This unique gift idea of bath bombs also is made with all natural and vegan skin care products. Perfect for small budgets!
Digital-age Money Gifting Methods
Transforming a Venmo Payment into Special Graduation Gift
Building upon this digital-age trend, Venmo introduced the “gift wrap” option, which transforms your usual cash transaction into an endearing cash gift. The payment comes with a short but heartfelt animated GIF intro, which makes the receipt of money all the more special for the recipient.
While Venmo currently does not offer graduation-specific designs, you may utilize the “Just Because” message. Personalize it in your own words, making it relevant to the graduation context. Conveying your wishes and love instantly uplifts the otherwise mechanical act of transferring money.
This digital-age money gift version is ideal if you’re miles apart on your loved one’s Big Day. Despite the physical distance, with Venmo and other such apps, you’re just a few clicks away from blessing the grad with your love, congratulations, and of course, monetary gift.
Money Tree with Gift Cards
A money tree spruced up with various gift cards is an innovative and exciting way to offer a present. This method is not just creative but offers a tangible and enjoyable surprise that surely excites the recipient.
Don’t miss out on purchasing a mix of gift cards from different retailers, topping the whole experience up with a variety of potential shopping sprees. This thoughtful gesture is sure to be appreciated and remember to add a personal touch for an unforgettable gift.
Gift Card in a Congratulations or Graduation Style Gift Box
For a unique and crafty gift presentation, consider placing your gift card inside a mini graduation cap box. This personalized touch not only adds an element of surprise but also highlights the sentimentality of the occasion.
DIY Money Gifts with Step-by-step Instructions
What a sweet Idea!
A unique and sweet way to gift money is by using a glass jar filled with a person’s favorite sweets or candies. Start by choosing a sturdy glass jar, and flood it with your recipient’s beloved candy.
The trick lies in tucking some cash amongst the treats, creating a delightful surprise for the recipient. You can even add a personal touch and a festive aura by attaching a note or decorating the jar appropriate to the occasion, be it graduation, birthday, or holiday.
Learn how to add an element of surprise to your money gift with a glass jar and sweets/candy,
McDonald’s Money French Fries Gift Idea
Everyone loves McDonald’s fries, but have you ever thought of gifting them in money form? The McDonald’s Money French Fries gift idea brings a unique blend of humor and surprise to your graduation gifting game.
This quirky idea involves emptying a McDonald’s french fry container and refilling it with neatly folded bills that mimic yummy fries. This arrangement can be topped off with a note adding to the humor such as, “Did Ronald McDonald ever tell you to keep the change?” or “Want cash fries with that?”
This fun-filled concept comes from Making Memories with your Kids , adding a light-hearted spin to the routine money gifting. Graduates would appreciate this unusual fusion of their fav fast-food chain and a monetary jump-start.
Money Flowers: An Elegant Cash Bouquet
Redefining flower gifting, meet the impressive Money bouquet, an intelligent amalgamation of art, appeal, and worth sure to impress any graduate.
Make the graduation day extra special by gifting your grad a bouquet of flowers with a twist. This project only requires folding skills and a little creativity. Gently roll your money bills to build the cake, then purchase your grad’s favorite flowers.
Plus you can buy the money bill holder on Etsy to make this project easier.
Pre-DIY Money Bouquet
Everyone loves to receive a bouquet of roses! This money gift idea is hidden within the gift. Very attractive present.
This Bouquet is sure to wow for any occasion!
Money Crayons – To Remind Them How Far they Have Come
Consider the charm of hiding money in crayons, an ingenious nod to the recipient’s childhood.
This unique gift idea not only brings back the delightful memory of days spent drawing and coloring with wax sticks, but it also symbolizes the progress the graduate has made, transitioning from using crayons as a child to earning money as an adult.
Learn how to make money crayons.
Investment in Their Future
Express your confidence in the graduate’s future and support their goals with an investment gift. A 529 college savings plan or an investment account is an excellent idea that not only shows your trust in the graduate but also your commitment to their future.
Many grads don’t know how to invest in stocks. So, this may be a great chance to teach them.
It’s not just about money but also a testament to your confidence in them and their dreams. An investment in their future is an invaluable graduation gift that is sure to be appreciated. It’s symbolic, purposeful, and plays a significant part in sculpting their future.
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Indulge in a Money Cake
Lights! Camera! Cake? Hold that thought because we’re going to redefine the whole cake cutting tradition at graduation parties in a fun and profitable way.
Why make a cake when you can make a money cake? It’s an eye-catching centerpiece, a conversation starter, a whole lot of fun, and a cash gift all in one. Inspirations turn dollar bills spiral into a multi-tier cake, complete with a graduation hat on top and maybe even whipped cream at the edges.
“Bake your success,” or let’s say, “Stack your success,” by creating a money cake for your graduate. So, let your creativity flow and gift a homemade cake that’s literally a slice of liquid net worth!
Money Cake Pull Out Kit
Don’t want to make a real cake? Then, opt for the easy solution with a money cake pull out kit! Perfect surprise for graduates with the most versatile and widely-appreciated gift of them all: cash?
We know how you can do it in style: the amazing money cake dispenser, an incredible accessory that you will use on endless occasions.
This complete cash dispenser set includes the special box, cake topper, 1 plastic roll with 50 connected pockets, and printed instructions.
FAQs About Money Gift Ideas For Graduation
A good grad gift with money is one that not only offers financial assistance but also a personal touch, a dash of humor, or a token of encouragement. It makes the recipient feel cared for and supported in their next journey.
Ultimately, a good grad gift with money expresses your congratulations, best wishes for the next chapters, and a monetary boost to help them get a head start in their next big adventure.
These are just creative ideas to make giving money more memorable.
Deciding how much cash to give for a graduation gift depends on several factors including your personal budget, your relationship with the graduate, and the graduate’s level of education.
We have found money gifts for high school graduates typically range from $20 to $300. The study suggests $50 to $100 as an average amount for close family members and friends.
For college graduates, some suggest higher amounts to reflect the monumental achievement. Paying for the Graduate suggests gifting at least $50, but depending on the relationship, you can give up to $500.
Remember, there’s no hard or fast rule determining the perfect amount for a graduation gift. What counts the most is the sentiment behind the gift. Ensure that it’s an amount you can comfortably give, for the graduate, regardless of the sum, will undoubtedly appreciate any cash gift received.
Which Creative Ways to Give Graduation Money Gifts is your Favorite?
Graduation is a momentous occasion and deserves a unique token of appreciation and celebration. Money gift ideas for graduation give you plenty of innovative ways to express your well-wishes, support, and belief in the successful road ahead for the graduate.
Whether it’s a Money Cake, Emergency Cash Inside Picture Frame, a McDonald’s Money French Fries, a Money Rosettes bouquet, or a Venmo payment with a personal message, you’re sure to leave a lasting impression.
Each of these ideas adds a fun and creative spin to the traditional act of gifting money.
Regardless of the amount, it is the thoughtfulness and creativity that will be remembered most by the graduate. I still remember ways I received money that was given unusually.
So, which is your favorite, and what novel money gift would you create for your loved one’s graduation?
Make sure to include these financial adults for young adults as wise wisdom.
Source
National Retail Federation. “Graduation spending to reach $5.2 billion with cash and greeting cards as most popular gifts.” https://nrf.com/media-center/press-releases/graduation-spending-reach-52-billion-cash-and-greeting-cards-most. Accessed December 20, 2023.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Want to learn how to make money on maternity leave? Parental leave can be a time of joy and excitement with a new baby around, but it can also mean money stress for parents. While you spend time taking care of your newborn, you may also need to find ways to make extra money to…
Want to learn how to make money on maternity leave?
Parental leave can be a time of joy and excitement with a new baby around, but it can also mean money stress for parents. While you spend time taking care of your newborn, you may also need to find ways to make extra money to pay for your expenses.
I had a baby not too long ago (she is currently 1.5 years old – time flies!), and being able to work while taking care of her has been a lifesaver. So, I understand why you’re reading this article – because I also had to work with a newborn.
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make extra money while still being present for those early months with your new baby.
Why You May Need Extra Money On Maternity Leave
Many families have to take unpaid maternity leave, and others may find their leave is simply not long enough and want to extend it longer (many families in the U.S. get 3 months or even much less time).
Not only that, but maternity leave is an expensive time with medical bills coming in, the cost of baby essentials (diapers aren’t free!), and everyday living costs.
Also, there might be unexpected costs that weren’t part of your maternity leave budget. Perhaps your baby needs special formula or medication, or maybe your car broke down. These unplanned costs can put a dent in your finances, especially when your income may already be reduced during your maternity leave.
Or, you might also be looking to create a financial cushion for the future such as by saving for vacations or even starting a college fund for your baby. So, finding ways to make extra money during your maternity leave can be very helpful.
Recommended reading:
How To Make Money On Maternity Leave
When trying to earn money during maternity leave, here are three things to think about:
Flexibility is key – Choose work that can adapt to unexpected baby-related needs. It should let you manage your time effectively.
Think about earnings and growth – Think about how much you can make, how quickly, and if there’s room to grow.
Pick something you like and fits your goals – Do you enjoy the work? You may want to find work that matches your interests, skills, and future plans.
Read further to learn how to make money on maternity leave.
Top ways to make money on maternity leave
There are 27 ways to earn extra money on maternity leave listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
1. Start a blog
Blogging is my favorite way to make money from home, and this is what I do while also raising my daughter.
Being a blogger involves creating content for online readers. You have the freedom to write about a topic you’re interested in (such as finance, travel, lifestyle, or family,) and freedom to decide how you want to make money on your blog – there are many different ways available such as affiliate marketing or displaying ads.
Blogging is my main source of income, and it has completely changed my life. I have the freedom to travel whenever I want, set my schedule, be my own boss, and I can spend all day with my daughter.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
2. Sell printables on Etsy
Creating and selling digital printables on Etsy is a great way to work on your own schedule and earn money.
Plus, it is fairly passive income as you only have to make one digital file for each printable, and you can sell it as many times as you like. Another positive is that you can start it very affordably because you only need a laptop and internet.
So, what is a printable? They are digital items that you can download and print at home, such as grocery shopping checklists, budget planners, wedding invitations, wall art, and more.
I recommend signing up for Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
Recommended reading: How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy
Other than printables, there are many other things you can sell on Etsy as well, such as soap, candles, jewelry, and more.
3. Transcription work
Transcription jobs are flexible and can be done from home. By turning audio files into text, you can earn money when it’s most convenient for you.
An online transcriptionist listens to audio or video recordings and writes down exactly what is being said. This process is called transcribing. The goal is to do this without any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
If you want to learn how to make money on maternity leave, this can be a great option as you can do this at home.
I recommend watching Free Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? to learn more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
4. Freelance writing
Freelance writers write articles, website content, social media posts, or even ebooks for clients.
I was a freelance writer for many years before switching to working full-time at writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It is a great career path where you can work from home and make your own schedule, such as writing while your baby is sleeping.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs For Beginners
5. Virtual assistant
One of my first side hustles was working from home as a virtual assistant. This is a great way to work from home and have your own schedule.
Virtual assistants do many different kinds of tasks for clients, such as answering emails, scheduling appointments, managing websites, sending invoices, and so much more. It simply depends on what the person who is hiring you needs done.
If you want to become a virtual assistant, I recommend watching the free training 5 Steps To Become a Virtual Assistant.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
6. Bookkeeper
If you’re good with numbers, you could sell bookkeeping services online or for small businesses, either on a freelance or part-time basis.
Bookkeepers are individuals responsible for managing financial things for businesses. This includes recording sales, tracking expenses, and generating financial reports.
If you want to become a bookkeeper, I recommend watching the free training How To Become A Bookkeeper.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
7. Freelance graphic design
With design skills, you can create logos, website designs, business cards, marketing materials, and more for clients and make money even during your maternity leave.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
8. Data entry
Data entry clerks are like computer organizers. They enter, update, and double-check information in lists or tables. They type things like numbers and names to keep everything neat and organized.
Data entry jobs pay around $15 to $20 an hour, on average.
9. Create Canva templates
A Canva template is a pre-made design you can sell for things like social media graphics, ebooks, and presentations. It’s a handy starting point if a person is not great at designing from scratch.
Businesses, advertising professionals, social media influencers, and more all buy Canva templates all the time.
Canva templates have blank spaces where you can add your own words and pictures. You can also change colors and fonts to suit your preferences. They’re really useful for making things look good without spending a long time on it.
With Canva templates, you can sell a single design an unlimited amount of times. If you are looking for something passive, this is a great way to learn how to make money on maternity leave.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
10. Tutor
Tutoring students can be a great way to make money while on maternity leave, as there are many options to tutor from home. You may be able to create your own schedule and pick how much or how little you would like to work.
You can find online tutor jobs on websites such as Tutor.com. If you’d prefer to do in-person tutoring, you can call or email local tutoring companies in your area or share your tutoring services on social media or in local Facebook parent groups for your area.
Recommended reading: 11 Best Places To Find Online Tutoring Jobs (Make $100+ an hour)
11. Rent out your baby gear
Since you have a baby, you probably have a lot of baby gear.
Did you know that you can make extra money by renting it out?!
Renting out your baby gear on sites like BabyQuip can be a game changer when it comes to making extra income during maternity leave. This site allows you to share your baby items with families in need (such as a person on vacation), turning your baby gear into a source of income.
From strollers and cribs to high chairs and toys and more, you can list many different items on BabyQuip’s site.
Plus, you don’t need to have a lot of baby gear in order to get started – you can start with as little as a crib (which is the most commonly rented item).
According to BabyQuip, the average person can earn around $1,000 a month, and some are able to make over $10,000 per month.
12. Baby sleep consultant
As you already know, sleep is so important for a baby (and for the parents!).
You can earn a living while on maternity leave by becoming a sleep consultant. This is where you help other parents by helping them improve their baby’s sleep habits and routines.
Pediatric sleep consultants are experts in helping children sleep better and they make a big difference in families’ rest.
Read more at How To Become A Sleep Consultant And Make $10,000 Each Month.
13. Deliver groceries
If you want a flexible side gig while on maternity leave (and you also have someone to watch your child), then you may want to look into delivering groceries and food.
This can be a flexible side hustle because you can choose your hours and how much you’d like to work each week.
Services like Instacart need grocery shoppers, and the average shopper makes $15 to $20 an hour to deliver groceries. Drivers are paid per order, and you get to keep 100% of your tips. With Instacart, you would be physically going into grocery stores, picking out the food items yourself, checking out, and then delivering the groceries to your customer.
You can also learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
There are other food delivery gigs that you can do as well, such as GrubHub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash.
14. Airbnb host
If you have a separate space to rent in your home, such as an in-law’s quarters or an apartment above a garage, then you may be able to make money during your maternity leave by renting this space out.
You can learn more about this at What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House.
15. Pet sit
If you are a pet lover, consider pet sitting for friends, family, or through an online service. It’s a great way to make some extra cash while you’re home and can be a fun addition to your day if you already have pets and babies at home.
If you’re interested in watching pets or dog walking, Rover is a platform where you can list your services and find clients.
16. Answer surveys
While answering online surveys and focus groups isn’t a way to make a ton of money, it can be a way to earn some extra money with whatever spare time you have from your newborn (such as when they are sleeping).
You simply share your opinions and answer simple questions, and in return, you can get cash or rewards like Amazon gift cards.
The survey companies I recommend include:
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
Branded Surveys
InboxDollars
PrizeRebel
American Consumer Opinion
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
17. Affiliate marketing
If you want to learn how to make money while on maternity leave, one of my favorites is affiliate marketing.
I have been an affiliate marketer for years through this blog, and it is what allows me to stay at home with my daughter.
Affiliate marketing means making money by sharing a referral link on your website, YouTube channel, social media account, and more. When people use your referral link to purchase something, you then earn money.
For instance, consider sharing books from Amazon on your blog. You give your readers a link to a particular book and encourage people to buy it through your affiliate link. Companies like Amazon value affiliates who bring in high-quality traffic because they appreciate the extra support in helping them make more sales.
If you want to learn more about affiliate marketing, I recommend Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook.
18. Proofread and edit
If you have an eye for detail, you may be able to sell your services as a proofreader or editor for different types of content.
Writers, business owners, and more hire proofreaders and editors to improve their work. There’s a big need for these types of positions, and you can find jobs through many different platforms.
If you want to become a proofreader, I recommend joining the free 76-minute workshop – Learn How to Become a Proofreader…and Start a Freelance Proofreading Business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year)
19. In-home childcare
One great way to make money while on maternity leave is to provide childcare services for other families in your area, either part-time or full-time.
This is one of the best stay at home jobs for someone on maternity or paternity leave because it allows you to stay home with your kids while making money at the same time.
Depending on your location, you might need specific licenses. But you could potentially begin without the extra legal steps by working with just one or two children. Just be sure to verify with your local city or state regulations beforehand. It’s also very important to make sure that your home is safe for children and that you are CPR certified.
20. Sell baked goods
Do you like to cook? You may be able to make money at home by starting a home bakery for people and/or pets. You can sell homemade baked goods at local farmers’ markets or online too.
You can read more at How To Make Extra Money By Starting A Home Bakery. Here, you’ll learn about the equipment you need to start a home bakery, food laws, how much to price your baked goods at, and more.
If you are interested in baking goods for pets, then I recommend reading How I Earned Up to $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
21. Stock photo photography
Selling stock photo photography can be a great way to learn how to make money on maternity leave. This is because you would be working for yourself and can take pictures in your free time.
Stock image sites are popular sites for photographers to sell their photos. These sites allow customers to purchase pictures for various uses like websites, TV shows, books, and social media.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and earn money from an older photo for months or even years in the future.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
22. Social media manager
Social media managers handle businesses’ social media accounts with the goal of attracting new customers and helping a business grow.
They might share images or videos showcasing products or the company, take part in popular social media trends (like on TikTok) to increase visibility, and respond to common customer questions.
23. Book reviewer
Book reviewers read books and share what they think through paid reviews.
Yes, there are websites where you can receive payment (as well as a free book) for sharing your thoughts about books. Some companies that pay for book reviews are Online Book Club, Kirkus Reviews, and BookBrowse.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
24. Flea market flipper
A flipper buys items from places such as garage sales, Facebook Marketplace, or thrift stores and resells them online for a profit.
You may be able to earn extra money by flipping items for resale or possibly earn a full-time income! You can even be able to make this a more flexible gig, such as only working during nap times.
A helpful free training that I recommend is Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days.
25. Rent out storage space
If you have unused space in your home, you can sell it as storage for rent to people in your local area. This can be a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or even an attic.
You can use a site called Neighbor to list any extra space you have available for rent and have the potential to make up to $15,000 per year.
You can sign up at Neighbor for free here and list your space.
You can also learn more about Neighbor at Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space.
26. Sell an online course
Selling an online course is a great option for stay-at-home moms and dads who want to have control over their schedule and earn a somewhat passive income.
Some topics that you can teach in a course are:
Fitness and exercise programs
Time management and productivity hacks
Parenting
Arts and crafts
Languages
Programming
Personal finance
Traveling
Photography and photo editing
Plants and gardening
Baking and pastry making
And so much more!
You can sell a course in many different ways, such as through Udemy or Teachable.
27. Rent out your unused RV
Instead of letting your RV sit in your driveway unused, you can list it on RVshare and make some semi-passive income. My sister has rented a few RVs from this site, and she has had a great experience each time!
Renting out an RV can earn you anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to a couple thousand dollars each month.
How To Manage Your Money On Maternity Leave
Managing your money while on maternity leave can be tough at times. If you are looking for more things that you can do other than only learning how to make money on maternity leave, you do have some options.
Below, I will be talking about how to cut your budget so that you can save money, as well as your rights and benefits on maternity leave.
Cut your budget
During parental leave, cutting your budget can be a great way to manage your finances while adapting to life with a newborn.
Here are a few ideas to help reduce your expenses during this time:
Evaluate your current spending habits to determine where you can make adjustments – This might involve tracking your spending for a month or looking back at bank statements. You’ll likely find areas where you can save, such as dining out, entertainment, or shopping.
Cut back on subscriptions and memberships – Assess each subscription and determine the must-haves and those you can temporarily suspend or cancel.
Batch cook freezer meals before the baby comes – This is where you make a bunch of meals before the baby is born and freeze them. This can give you an easy meal to pop in the oven before the baby comes.
Cook at home – Getting food delivered can be convenient, but it’s usually more expensive than making your meals at home. Plus, cooking allows you to control ingredients and portion sizes.
Buy in bulk – When possible, get the items you use most frequently in bulk. Items like diapers, baby wipes, and nonperishable foods have a longer shelf life, and buying them in larger quantities can offer considerable savings.
Get secondhand and borrowed items – Instead of buying new baby gear and clothing, try borrowing from friends or family, or shopping at thrift stores like Once Upon A Child. Babies grow quickly, and they often outgrow items before they wear out.
Negotiate medical costs – If you have medical bills, you can try to negotiate them. Medical providers may be open to setting up payment plans or giving discounts for paying up front.
Short-term disability insurance
You may want to look into short-term disability insurance options before your maternity leave starts to help cover lost wages during your time off.
In some cases, your employer may provide this benefit, or you can purchase a policy separately. These policies typically cover around 60% to 80% of your regular income and may have a waiting period before benefits start (so, you will need to have the policy before you get pregnant).
Government assistance programs
There are government assistance programs that could help you during your maternity leave. For example, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthy food benefits for eligible families.
You can also check to see if you qualify for financial assistance from your state or other programs related to maternity and family support.
Find charities for help
During maternity leave, managing money might be tricky, but there are places that can help, like charities and groups that want to support new parents. You can find them online or at local community centers. Libraries, online parent groups, and special organizations are also great places to get help.
Remember, asking for help is a strong and smart thing to do, and there are lots of resources out there to help parents during this special time.
I recommend reading:
Know your state and federal law rights
I recommend learning about relevant state and federal laws governing maternity and family leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for the birth or adoption of a child. The law also says that you cannot be replaced or overlooked for pay raises and other promotions during your leave.
However, paid maternity leave policies differ by state and company. Some employers may offer a certain amount of paid leave, while others may offer none. Make sure to review your state’s laws and your employer’s policies to understand your rights during your maternity leave.
By knowing your rights, insurance options, and the benefits available to you, you can better plan your financial strategy during your maternity leave.
Frequently Asked Questions About How To Make Money on Maternity Leave
Below are commonly asked questions about how to make money while on maternity leave.
Can I make money while on maternity leave? Are you allowed to make money while on maternity leave?
If you are in the U.S., then yes, you should be able to make money on maternity leave. If you are unsure, check your employment contract or talk to your employer’s human resources department to be positive.
Before starting any side income streams, if you’re worried about whether or not you are allowed to make extra money while on maternity leave, then double-check your company’s policies and your leave agreement to make sure that earning money during your time off is permissible. Some employers may have restrictions on outside work or income during your leave.
How do I survive financially during maternity leave?
To survive financially during your maternity leave, you may need to find ways to cut your budget as well as learn how to make money on maternity leave.
Does unpaid maternity leave qualify for unemployment? Can you collect unemployment after having a baby?
This depends on why you are no longer working at your job. If you simply stopped working because of your pregnancy, then you may not be able to receive unemployment pay.
However, if you are pregnant or recently had a baby and were fired or laid off, then you may qualify for unemployment pay.
What are some ways to make money while on maternity leave? How can I make money while taking care of my baby?
There are many ways to make money while on parental leave, such as by working online, selling photography, renting out storage space or an RV, and more.
How can new mothers use their time efficiently while working from home?
Time management is important for new moms working from home. I recommend creating a routine, setting realistic goals (if you are working and watching your baby, it won’t always go perfectly), and designating work hours during the baby’s nap time to help manage work alongside childcare responsibilities. It’s also important to take regular breaks to avoid burnout and feeling stressed. Working while also taking care of a child can be very tiring.
How to Make Money on Maternity Leave – Summary
Federal law, specifically the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), does not require employers to give paid maternity leave. Eligible employees are allowed to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, and because of this, you might be worried about money during your maternity leave or feel like you can’t afford to take the full 12 weeks.
There are many ways to make money while on maternity leave, which may help you to pay your bills without sacrificing quality time with your new baby.
For example, you can sell handmade items or even sell consulting services. Remote jobs and work-from-home jobs are also an option (and my favorite), allowing you to use skills like graphic design or writing to make money.
Remember, it is possible to make money while on maternity leave. Yes, it will most likely be very hard at times and even feel impossible. But, you do have many options to try and make it work.
Do you want to learn how to make money on maternity leave?
Whether you’re selling your home to begin a new adventure or refinancing your existing home, getting an appraisal with the value you want is an important hurdle to clear. You may feel that the appraisal process is out of your control, but there are many easy and inexpensive ways to get both yourself and your home ready.
We put together a checklist of our top tips below. But first, let’s quickly cover the basics of home appraisals.
What Is a Home Appraisal and Why Is It Important?
A home appraisal is an unbiased report on the value of your home performed by a trained and state-licensed individual. Appraisals are an essential part of the home financing process, ensuring the homebuyer, seller and mortgage lender each have an impartial, consistent and accurate assessment of the value of the property under consideration.
The lender is responsible for ensuring that your home provides adequate collateral for the mortgage. For most loans, the lender obtains a signed and completed appraisal report that accurately reflects the market value, condition and marketability of the property.
It’s the appraiser’s job to provide a factual, unbiased and detailed description of the property and the neighborhood. They must take into account all factors that influence a home’s value when developing the market value opinion in the appraisal report.
Home Appraisal Cost
While home appraisal costs can vary by state and property size, the fee can range between $300 and $1,200. Most fall somewhere around $600-$1,000, with costs based primarily on the geographical area of the home.
How Long Does a Home Appraisal Take?
From start to finish, the home appraisal process usually takes approximately 7-10 days to complete.
The required in-person visit by a home appraiser can take over an hour, depending on the size of your home. However, several other steps are involved in making an unbiased and professional assessment of your home’s value. Your appraiser will research trends, local county records and recently closed comparable homes in your area, known in the industry as “comps.”
Once your appraiser compiles and analyzes all the information and data, they will present a final report of your home’s value.
What Do Home Appraisers Look For?
A home appraiser uses several sources of information to determine a property’s value. As part of the assessment, the appraiser will visit the property in person and review recently completed sales of comparable homes. Common factors examined during home appraisals include:
Property size. In real estate appraisals, size significantly affects the final number. In general, the higher the square footage of a home, the higher its value. An appraiser will also look at the kitchen, number of bedrooms, bathrooms and closets.
Exterior condition. When assigning a value to your property, the appraiser will consider not only the exterior appearance of your home but also its condition. They will check the following:
The condition of the roof, foundation, siding, gutters, chimney and walls, looking for signs of leaks, mold and other safety hazards
Lot size, including front and backyard square footage
Pool, outdoor kitchen, deck, porch and other amenities
Interior condition. Again, this refers not only to the appearance of the interior but also to the working condition of standard household assets such as:
Plumbing
Electrical and HVAC systems
Doors and windows
Light fixtures
Any kitchen appliances to be included in the sale
Attic, basement and foundation. A finished basement or attic may impact a home’s value, but these areas must meet specific requirements to be considered part of the Gross Living Area (GLA). An appraiser will also evaluate your home’s foundation and its condition.
Home improvements and renovations. Tell your appraiser about any work or upgrades you have done to spruce up your home. This can include anything from the central air system you installed 10 years ago to the kitchen flooring and countertops you just renovated (along with the new oven and fridge to match, of course).
What Hurts a Home Appraisal?
If an appraisal is in your future, it’s essential to understand the factors that could negatively impact it, such as the following:
Low-value comps and decreasing neighborhood property values
Poorly maintained interior or exterior
Age of the home
Location, such as a flood zone or busy road
Signs of mold, insect infestation, leaks or other safety concerns
Issues with the home’s systems, such as plumbing, electric or HVAC
Lack of parking
Hazardous construction materials like lead paint or asbestos tile
Outdated or faulty plumbing, electrical and heating systems
Some issues are in your control and some may not be. Whether you choose to address the correctable concerns or not, being aware of crucial appraisal criteria can help you avoid the potential unwelcome surprise of a lower-than-expected home value.
Top 7 Tips Home Appraisal Checklist
How does one best prepare for a home appraisal? We put together a checklist of common (and not-so-common) tips to help you get a high valuation from your appraiser.
1. Do Your Own Appraisal
Imagine that you are the appraiser. Walk around your home’s interior and exterior and really scrutinize it as if you were going to complete the appraisal report yourself. Take note of any obvious damage or deferred maintenance that needs your attention. Leaks, broken systems and damaged surfaces should all go on your list of things to repair.
Thoroughly inspect safety equipment like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and home security systems. Are they all functioning, or do parts or entire systems need to be replaced? Make a plan to repair these issues and clean up any cosmetic issues that may have occurred as a result.
2. Investigate Comps
Check out recent home sales in your neighborhood. What has the price range been for homes with features and updates similar to yours? The values of these comparable homes should be similar to what your home will appraise for. This information can help you know where to focus your time, efforts and funds.
If you know a neighbor (or real estate agent) who recently sold a home in your area, contact them to find out if there were any appraisal issues or insights that they can share.
If you’re working with a real estate agent, you can request that they collect some comps for you and your appraiser to review. Particularly if your home has unique or uncommon features, your agent may need to get creative while staying within the guidelines for selecting comps.
A quick way to get a rough idea of how much your home is worth is to use a home value estimator calculator. Add some basic information to gauge your home’s current value and view recent home sales in your area.
3. Get Superficial
Clean your house from top to bottom and remove extra clutter. Once you’ve scrubbed and straightened up everything possible, consider making some easy, low-cost cosmetic updates that can have a big impact, like the following:
Paint or touch up existing paint
Hang updated window treatments
Replace worn faucets, doorknobs and cabinet hardware
If you’ve been planning to update your decor after you move, consider bringing in a few of the newer pieces to make the old house look fresh and modern. Downsizing or packing for a long-distance move? Ask your real estate agent if they have staging furnishings you can borrow or recommendations for a service you can use.
4. Make Your Outdoor Areas Truly Great
Now that your home’s interior looks fantastic, it’s time to pay attention to the exterior. Make sure that your landscaping is looking its best by doing the following:
Mow your lawn, trim your trees and bushes
Remove weeds and dead vegetation
Add color with inexpensive, seasonal flowers in the spring, summer or fall, and ensure that snow removal is neat and tidy in the winter
You’ll also want to:
Remove outdoor clutter, like yard tools and stray toys, from everywhere on the property
Consider staging any outdoor living spaces with new furniture or accessories
Power wash your home’s exterior, as well as your driveway and any deck or patio surfaces
Ensure your pool is well-maintained and in safe operating condition
Most of this can be accomplished in a weekend, and the increased curb appeal will be worth it.
Check out expert tips for outdoor home renovations — you may find just the right improvement to increase your value!
5. Be Sure To Share Your Upgrades
Tell your home appraiser about the improvements you’ve made to your home. Inform them of upgrades like the following that will positively impact your appraisal value:
New features that you have added, like a security system
Updated HVAC units
Exterior improvements like siding, gutters or a new roof
High-value room remodels like kitchens and bathrooms
An easy way to make sure that your appraiser remembers all of these improvements is to create and share a short, one-page list detailing each. You should have this list ready in advance and include any applicable permit information.
6. Know Your Neighborhood
Make your appraiser aware of any recent improvements in your overall neighborhood. It’s worth mentioning things like:
New or highly rated schools
Parks
Transportation enhancements
Shopping
Other beneficial amenities
These kinds of changes can add significant value to your home, and if your appraiser is not a local resident, they may not be aware of them. Appraisers are often familiar with the general area, but you probably know your specific neighborhood better than they do.
7. Stay Focused
While you are working your way through the tasks and updates listed above, it’s important to remember not to go overboard and take on too many projects. Invest your time, money and effort only on issues that clearly need attention. If you’re getting an appraisal for a home you’re selling, you most likely already have a buyer who liked your home enough in its current state to make an offer on it. Making unnecessary major changes could end up being a waste of your time and resources.
Your home’s selling price is affected by much more than just the appraisal! Find out how the time of year can increase your sale price.
Although it’s not possible to change your bungalow into a country estate overnight, taking the time to tackle a few strategic projects before your appraisal can help put you in a better position to get the outcome you want. If you’re ready to move or refinance the home you love living in, get a custom mortgage rate quote from Pennymac today. Our Loan Experts can answer your questions and help guide you through the mortgage loan process.
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