It’s been a long day at work or a totally fun night out, and you’re finally home to your Chicago apartment. You reach into your purse or pocket to find your keys, only to find out they’re not there. You desperately search for a few more seconds, but come up empty-handed. Time to face the facts — you’re locked out of your apartment. No need to panic, though. There are plenty of things you can do to get yourself out of this pickle.
What do I do if I get locked out of my apartment?
Locking yourself out of your house is one of the most discouraging feelings, especially when you can envision exactly where your keys are — inside the apartment. The best reaction is to already have a plan in place, but since not all of us think about it beforehand, here’s how you can handle the situation when you’re in the moment.
1. Get in touch with management or maintenance
If you’re locked out of your apartment during your management or leasing office’s business hours — and there’s an office on the premises — walk over and ask for help. Property managers or your landlord will always have a spare key on hand for things like maintenance emergencies, so it’s a pretty safe bet they can let you into your place within a few minutes. If they don’t have a key, they’ll likely have the number of a local locksmith they can call for an emergency visit. If it’s after business hours and your complex has an emergency maintenance number, try that.
Going this route is sure to produce quick results since you know they already have a copy of your key, but it may come with a fee. Asking the leasing office or maintenance staff to help you when you’re stuck outside of your apartment can cost you anywhere from $25 to several hundred dollars depending on the terms of your lease.
2. Reach out to your roommate
One of the perks of having a roommate is getting help in situations like these. Even if you have to wait for them to get home, at least you won’t have to take more dramatic measures to gain entry. Contact them to let them know what happened and see when you can expect them home.
If you have to wait a while, ask if you can come to them and grab their key. Make sure to promise to return the favor if ever needed. If you have to wait, try to relocate to a coffee shop or restaurant where you can hang out safely for a few hours until help arrives.
3. Look for another way in
You may have locked the front door, but what about the windows? Or, if the apartments in your building have back doors, do you have one you can use? If you want to avoid tracking down a spare key, you can always try to find another way to get into your apartment. This won’t work if you live in a high-rise or otherwise difficult-to-access unit, but some have the right design to give you a chance. For example, if you live on the first floor and have a balcony, you might be able to get in through that door if it’s unlocked.
4. Call a locksmith to unlock the door
When all else fails, you may want to call a locksmith. Make this your last resort because you’re going to have to pay for professional locksmith service. You might also be charged a fee if the lock gets damaged or needs replacing after you’re inside.
In theory, locksmiths can unlock apartments without doing any damage, but there’s no guarantee it will happen seamlessly. They may even have to install a new lock to let you in, resulting in an inconvenience for your property manager or landlord. They’ll most likely charge you for that.
How to avoid getting locked out of your apartment
Locking yourself out of your apartment the first time is one time too many. It can be incredibly inconvenient and a little embarrassing. The best solution is to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.
1. Upgrade to a smart lock for your front door
One way to prevent yourself from getting locked out is to upgrade your lock or doorknob that allows for keyless entry. There are a variety of smart locks that guarantee entry into your home with just an app — you pretty much can unlock the door by just getting near it.
By downloading the appropriate app and logging in, you can remotely control your lock. Smart locks let you control the doors from wherever you are, which is especially handy if you have young children that may try to escape. This even allows you to let in the pet sitter or overnight guest without you being at home. Most have monitors, too, so you can see who’s at your door and a logging system that lets you track each time someone locks or unlocks the door. It’s added security coupled with convenience. It’s also a significant upgrade.
Adding smart locks isn’t something you can do without the landlord or property manager’s permission. Make sure to check with them before purchasing the technology. They may even like your idea so much that they’ll pay for the installation and offer the upgrade to the rest of the tenants in your complex.
2. Give a spare key to a friend
If you don’t have a roommate, never underestimate the power of giving a spare key to someone else. This can save you on more than one occasion. It will not only be there waiting if you lock yourself out, but if you ever need someone to come into your apartment when you’re not there, you’re set. The trick is finding the right person to hold on to your spare, so when you give them a call, they’ll be available to hand it over.
3. Do a double-check for your apartment key
Another way to prevent getting locked out of your apartment is to work a key check into your routine before you even leave. Everyone has a routine before walking out the door. You may check that your stove is off, set the thermostat and turn off all the lights. This routine can include a check that you’ve got your wallet, cell phone and house keys.
If routines aren’t your thing, try giving yourself a permanent reminder. A sign on or near your door in a bright, bold color telling you to grab them is sure to catch your eye on your way out. Having a designated spot for your keys can also help.
4. Carry spare keys
This is only a helpful strategy if you can put a spare key in something you always carry. If you change out your wallet or purse often or forgo them altogether, it’s harder to keep a spare with you. The best trick is to make a spare and store it between your cell phone and the case. It’s one way to ensure you always have a key with you, unless you lose your phone.
Locked out of your apartment? It’s not the end of the world
It might feel like the absolute worst at the moment, but getting locked out of your apartment is only a minor inconvenience. Thankfully, there are people out there who are able to help and ways to make sure you don’t make this same mistake again.
Here is the new list of the Pay Yourself Back categories on the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, valid through January 31, 2025:
Utilities 1.25 cents per point
Insurance 1.25 cents per point
Fitness Clubs and Gym Memberships 1.25 cents per point
Also available, as before: Gas Stations 1.25 cents per point
Also available, as before: Annual Fee 1.25 cents per point
(They’ve removed Wholesale Clubs and Pet Stores as options)
(I’m not seeing anything above 1% on the INK cards, other than the select charities with 25% bump.)
A lot of people won’t be happy given the removal of Wholesale Clubs. On the other hand, I think utilities and insurance are actually easy categories to use and find these more easily useful.
Chase Aeroplan PYB is 1.25 cents per point on Travel purchases through 12/31/24.
If anyone can verify the Chase Southwest PYB 1 cent per point toward cover the annual fee and .8 cents per points to cover Grocery or Gas (up to $300 in statement credits), please let us know. Same for the Chase United PYB for the Annual Fee (between 1.5 and 1.75 cents per point, depending on the card version), please let us know.
Are you looking for the best stay-at-home dad jobs? Being a stay-at-home dad can be rewarding, but it can also be tough on your budget. If you’re a dad who wants to contribute financially while still being there for your kids, the good news is that there are lots of job options that let you…
Are you looking for the best stay-at-home dad jobs?
Being a stay-at-home dad can be rewarding, but it can also be tough on your budget. If you’re a dad who wants to contribute financially while still being there for your kids, the good news is that there are lots of job options that let you earn money from home.
You can find jobs as a stay-at-home dad that fit your skills and schedule too. Some dads become freelance writers or photographers. Others do online tutoring or virtual assistant work. There are even jobs in fields like web design and data entry that you can do from your home office.
Plus, the ideas I’m sharing in today’s article aren’t just for stay-at-home dads. These are jobs for moms, aunts, uncles, grandparents, caregivers, and anyone else who wants a flexible job that lets them work from home.
Best Stay at Home Dad Jobs
Below are the best stay-at-home dad jobs.
1. Blogger
Blogging can be a great job for stay-at-home dads.
It’s also what I do working from home while raising my daughter.
For me, blogging lets me travel as much as I want, have a flexible work schedule, make a great income, and write about topics I enjoy. I really love running a blogging business.
I started Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and since then, I’ve made over $5,000,000 with my blog. When I began, I didn’t know it would turn into one of the best jobs for stay-at-home parents, but now it gives me the freedom to work on my own schedule and spend lots of time with my daughter.
As your blog grows, you can make money from ads, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing. Some bloggers earn thousands of dollars per month. But it takes time and effort to build an audience.
The best part is you can work on your blog whenever you have free time. This flexibility is perfect for busy dads. You can write while the kids nap or after they go to bed.
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
2. Sell printables on Etsy
Selling printables on Etsy can be a great job for stay-at-home dads. Printables are digital files that customers can download and print at home. They can include things like planners, wall art, or game sheets.
You don’t need to be an expert to start, either, and many successful sellers have started with no special skills.
To get started, think about what you’re good at. Maybe you’re organized and can make planners. Or you’re creative and can design wall art. Game printables are also popular for parties.
I recommend reading about this further at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy to learn more about one of the best jobs for stay-at-home dads.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Proofreader
Proofreading can be a great job for stay-at-home dads. You can work from home and set your own schedule. This job lets you use your eye for detail and language skills.
Proofreaders check written content for errors. This includes spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes in articles, books, websites, or business documents.
Many companies hire remote proofreaders. You can also find work on freelance websites. Some dads even start their own proofreading businesses.
The pay for proofreading varies. It depends on your experience and the type of work. Some proofreaders earn $20 to $50 per hour.
This job can fit well with your family life. You can work when the kids are asleep or at school, so it’s a flexible way to earn money while staying home with your children.
You can read more at 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
There is also a FREE 76-minute workshop where you will learn more about how to become a proofreader with Proofread Anywhere. You can sign up for free here.
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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.
4. Bookkeeper
Want to work from home and earn good money? Being a bookkeeper might be perfect for you! You don’t need a degree or special training to get started.
Bookkeepers help businesses manage their money by tracking sales and expenses and creating reports.
The best part? You can do this job from home! All you need is a computer and internet. This makes it great for stay-at-home parents or anyone who wants a flexible schedule.
You might work for one company or have several clients. Bookkeepers can earn $40,000 or more per year.
Please head to Online Bookkeeping Jobs: Learn How To Get Started Today to learn more about why bookkeeping is one of the best jobs for stay-at-home parents.
Also, I recommend signing up for this free training to learn more – How to start a virtual bookkeeping business (and who should do it).
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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.
5. Freecash
Freecash is a website where you can make extra money in your free time. You can earn by doing simple tasks like playing games, trying apps on your phone, and answering surveys.
When you sign up, you’ll see different offers to choose from. Each task gives you coins, which you can trade for real money or gift cards.
I have personally made $302 by playing one game on Freecash in just one week, so I know that this is a real way to make money from your phone!
Click here to sign up for Freecash.
6. Answer surveys in your free time
Many companies want to know what you think about their products and they’ll pay you for your opinions.
It’s easy to get started too. Survey sites will send you surveys that match your profile and you can do them whenever you have a few minutes free.
Most surveys take 5 to 20 minutes to finish. You might earn $0.50 to $5 per survey. Some special surveys pay even more. The money adds up over time. You could make an extra $50 to $100 a month just by sharing your thoughts.
Don’t expect to get rich from surveys. But they’re a simple way to earn some spending money. You can cash out your earnings for PayPal money or gift cards.
Remember to sign up for multiple survey sites. This gives you more chances to qualify for surveys. The more you do, the more you can earn!
Below are the companies I recommend signing up for:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Prime Opinion
Five Surveys
User Interviews
Freecash
KashKick
Pinecone Research
You can learn more about why online surveys are one of the best jobs for stay-at-home dads at 20 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month.
7. Freelance writer
Freelance writing can be a great job for stay-at-home dads. You can write articles, blog posts, and other content for websites and businesses.
I’ve been a freelance writer for years, and it’s a great job for anyone who wants to work from home.
As a freelance writer, you get to work from home and set your own schedule, so this means you can be there for your kids while still earning money.
Many freelance writers earn good money. Some make over $50,000 a year. As you gain experience, you can charge more for your work.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!)
8. Virtual assistant
Virtual assistant jobs are great for stay-at-home dads.
Virtual assistants work from home and help businesses with tasks they don’t have time for, such as with managing social media, scheduling appointments, editing a podcast, handling admin tasks, or answering emails.
Many virtual assistants earn $15 to $20 per hour when starting out. With experience, you could make even more. Some full-time virtual assistants earn over $10,000 a month.
Virtual assistant work is flexible. You can often set your own hours and choose your clients. This makes it perfect for dads who need to balance work and family time.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
9. Graphic designer
Graphic design is a great job for stay-at-home dads. You can use your creative skills to make money while being there for your kids.
Graphic designers create visual content for businesses and individuals, such as logos, websites, social media graphics, and more.
You don’t need a degree to start but having a portfolio of your work is important. You can learn graphic design skills through online courses or tutorials.
Many graphic designers work as freelancers. This means you can set your own hours and take on as much or as little work as you want.
10. Online tutor
Online tutors help students with subjects like math, science, or English.
Many websites connect tutors with students who need help. You can set your own schedule and work when it’s convenient for you, so the flexibility is great for balancing family time and work.
Pay for online tutoring varies, but some tutors make around $25 an hour or more. The more experience you have, the more you can charge. You might start with lower rates and increase them as you build a good reputation.
11. Social media manager
Social media managers are in high demand. This job is great for stay-at-home dads who like being online. They spend their day posting content, talking to followers, and growing social media accounts.
Many companies need help with their social media. You can work for one business or manage accounts for several clients. The pay is good too. Some managers make $300 to $3,000 a month when starting out.
12. Customer service representative
Customer service rep jobs are great for stay-at-home dads. You can work from home and help people with their questions or problems.
Many companies hire remote customer service reps. You might answer phone calls, respond to emails, or chat online with customers.
You’ll need good communication skills and patience. Being able to stay calm when dealing with upset customers is important too, of course.
Pay for these jobs can vary, and some pay hourly rates between $15 to $20 or more.
13. Web developer
Web development is a great job for stay-at-home dads. You can design and build websites from home while taking care of your kids.
Many companies hire remote web developers, giving you flexibility.
To get started, you’ll need to learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. There are lots of free online courses to teach you these skills. You can practice by making your own website or helping friends with theirs.
As a web developer, you might create new sites from scratch or update existing ones. You could specialize in front-end design, which is what visitors see. Or you might focus on back-end development, which handles how the site works behind the scenes.
Web developers can earn good money. Your pay will depend on your skills and experience. You might charge hourly rates or set project fees.
14. Craft seller
Selling crafts can be a great job for stay-at-home dads. You can make items like jewelry, wooden toys, knitted scarves, or painted signs.
There are many places to sell your crafts. Etsy is a popular website for handmade goods and you can also try local craft fairs or Facebook groups in your area.
15. Transcriptionist
As a stay-at-home dad, working as a transcriptionist can be a great job option. You’ll turn audio or video recordings into written documents.
This job lets you work from home and set your own hours, so it’s great if you need flexibility around your kids’ schedules.
To get started, you’ll need good typing skills and a quiet space to work. Most companies want you to type at least 60 words per minute.
You don’t need much experience for many transcription jobs. Some places will train you on the job.
Pay varies, but you can earn between $15 to $20 per hour as you gain experience.
You can find work on websites like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript. These sites often have jobs available for beginners.
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.
16. Data entry clerk
Data entry jobs can be a great fit for stay-at-home dads as you can work from home and often set your own hours.
Data entry clerks input information into computer systems. This might include customer details, financial records, or other types of data. You’ll need to be accurate and pay close attention to details.
Most data entry jobs require basic computer skills. You should be comfortable using programs like Microsoft Excel. Fast typing is also helpful.
Pay for data entry jobs can be wide, with some jobs paying hourly rates around $15 to $25.
Recommended reading: 15 Places To Find Data Entry Jobs From Home
17. Run Facebook ads for small businesses
Facebook ads can be a great way for stay-at-home dads to make money. Small businesses usually need help reaching new customers online, and you can learn to run these ads and help local stores and businesses grow.
Many business owners don’t have time to figure out Facebook advertising. That’s where you come in. You can set up and manage their ad campaigns from home.
This job lets you work flexible hours while the kids are busy or asleep. You might start with just one or two clients. As you get better, you could take on more businesses.
The best part? You could earn good money doing this. Some people make $1,000 or more per month from each client. That can add up fast if you have a few businesses you’re helping.
Facebook is a huge platform for ads. More and more companies want to advertise there. This means there’s lots of work for people who know how to run these ads.
There is a free webinar (you can sign up here – How To Start Your Very Own Facebook Ad Agency In 30 Days Even If You’ve Never Written An Ad Before!) that will teach you how to start this business even if you’re new.
18. Print-on-demand
Print-on-demand is a fun way for stay-at-home dads to make money. You can create custom designs for T-shirts, mugs, and other items without keeping any inventory.
Here’s how it works: You make a design and upload it to a website. When someone buys your product, the website prints your design and ships it to the customer.
You don’t need to be an artist to do this. Many successful designs are just words or simple graphics. You can start with basic ideas and see what sells well.
Popular items for print-on-demand include T-shirts, coffee mugs, phone cases, and tote bags. There are many more options too, like blankets, pet bowls, and even jigsaw puzzles.
I recommend signing up for the freebie 17 Hot-Selling Print-on-Demand Products That Can Pay for Your Next Vacation and More! to learn more.
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This freebie will teach you about print-on-demand as well as give you a list of 17 hot-selling products you can sell via print on demand.
19. Run a dog treat bakery
Starting a dog treat bakery can be a fun and rewarding job for stay-at-home dads. You can make tasty treats for furry friends right in your own kitchen.
You can sell your treats in many ways. Tell your friends and family about them. Set up a booth at local farmers markets. You could even sell online through sites like Etsy.
As a side job, you could make $500 to $1,000 a month baking dog treats. If you want to do it full-time, you could even earn several thousand dollars each month.
I also recommend reading How I Earned Up to $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!) if you are interested in baking dog treats.
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This free workshop will teach you how to start your own dog treat bakery business.
20. Stock photo photography
Stock photo photography can be a great job for stay-at-home dads who want to get paid to take pictures. You can take pictures while spending time with your kids at parks, playgrounds, or around the house.
Many websites and businesses need photos for their content. They usually buy these images from stock photo sites. As a photographer, you can upload your pictures to these sites and earn money when people buy them.
You don’t need fancy equipment to start. A good smartphone camera can work well for many types of stock photos. Try taking pictures of everyday objects, nature scenes, or people doing common activities.
It’s important to learn what kinds of photos sell best. Look at popular stock photo sites to see what’s in demand. You can also join online groups for stock photographers to get tips and advice.
This job gives you flexibility because you can take photos whenever it fits your schedule.
I buy stock photos all the time for my business, and so do many other people that I know. Finding quality pictures can be hard at times, so I think it would be a great business to get into.
21. Twitch streamer
Twitch is a website where you can live stream yourself playing games, cooking, or just talking with viewers.
To start, you’ll need a computer or gaming console and an internet connection. Set up your Twitch account and start streaming regularly. You’ll want to try to be fun and engaging with your audience.
Keep in mind, it’s not easy to make a lot of money on Twitch. Only a small number of streamers earn a good income. But if you enjoy gaming and interacting with people, it could be a fun way to earn some extra cash as a stay-at-home dad.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
22. YouTuber
Being a YouTuber can be a fun way for stay-at-home dads to make money. You can create videos about topics you love (like travel, family life, finance, food, and more) and share them with people all over the world.
To start a YouTube channel, you’ll need a camera, a microphone, and some basic video editing skills. Don’t worry if you’re not perfect at first – practice makes it better! I’ve watched so many amazing YouTube channels where they just learned as they went.
As your channel grows, you might start earning money from ads on your videos. You could also get paid to talk about products you like or sell your own merchandise.
Recommended reading: How Much Do YouTubers Make?
23. Manage short or long-term rentals
You can make money as a stay-at-home dad by managing short or long-term rentals that you own as a landlord. This job lets you work from home while helping property owners rent out their spaces.
Your tasks might include listing properties online, answering questions from potential renters, and scheduling bookings. You’ll also need to handle check-ins and checkouts, and make sure the rentals are clean and ready for guests.
You can start by managing a single property, like a vacation home or an apartment. As you gain experience, you might take on more rentals to increase your passive income.
I know many dads who have bought properties in order to rent them out. The income is fairly passive, which can be great for someone who wants to stay at home with their kids.
Recommended reading: How This 34 Year Old Owns 7 Rental Homes
24. Buy items to resell online
Buying items to resell online can be a fun way to make money as a stay-at-home dad.
You can search for deals at thrift stores, garage sales, or clearance sections like clothes, toys, electronics, or collectibles. You don’t need a lot of money to start and even $50 can get you going.
Once you find good deals, list the items on sites like eBay, Amazon, or Facebook Marketplace.
As you make sales, reinvest the money to buy more items. This can help your business grow over time.
It’s important to research prices before buying anything. This helps make sure you can sell for a profit. With practice, you’ll get better at spotting good deals.
One of my good friends when I was growing up had a stay-at-home dad who flipped items as a side hustle. She now does something very similar as her full-time business!
I recommend watching this helpful free webinar – Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days.
25. Food delivery
Food delivery for companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub is a great option for stay-at-home dads. You can work flexible hours and earn money while taking care of your kids.
You’ll pick up food from restaurants and bring it to customers’ homes. It’s easy to get started – just sign up with a company and download their app. You can choose when to work based on your family’s schedule.
Now, you won’t be able to bring your kids with you, but this may be a job that you do when someone else is watching your child, such as a spouse or another family member.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay-at-home dads have many ways to make money while caring for their kids. Here are answers to some common questions about stay-at-home dad jobs.
What should I do as a stay-at-home dad?
There are many ways to make extra income as a stay-at-home dad. This can include blogging, freelance writing, web development, mystery shopping, answering surveys, and bookkeeping. You could even do things like become a recruiter, start an in-home daycare, or find part-time jobs in your area.
What are some remote job opportunities for stay-at-home dads?
Stay-at-home dads have lots of choices for remote work. You could be a virtual assistant, do data entry, tutor online, web design, writing, and social media management.
How to make $2,000 a month as a stay-at-home dad?
To make $2000 a month as a stay-at-home dad, try combining a few different jobs. You could blog, do some virtual assistant work, and sell items online.
What are some stay-at-home dad jobs with no experience?
Even without experience, you have options as a stay-at-home dad. You could try taking surveys or doing small tasks on sites like Freecash. You could start a blog about being a dad. Selling items you no longer need online is easy too.
Best Stay at Home Dad Jobs – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best stay-at-home dad jobs.
There are lots of jobs that let dads earn money while staying home with their kids. Popular choices include blogging, freelance writing, virtual assistant work, selling printables on Etsy, and proofreading.
Many of these stay-at-home jobs are flexible, so it’s easier to balance work and family. These jobs can also work for moms and other caregivers too.
Do you want to become a stay-at-home dad? What do you think are the best jobs for work-from-home dads?
Looking for unique things to do in Baton Rouge, Louisiana? The capital city is full of vibrant culture, rich history, and exciting experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots. From outdoor adventures along the Mississippi River to exploring local food joints and lively festivals, Baton Rouge has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to move into a new apartment in Baton Rouge, or buy a new house in the city, or you’re planning your next visit, dive into the city’s unique blend of Southern charm and modern flair with these must-try activities.
“The strength of Baton Rouge lies in its ability to feel like a small town or a bustling metropolis, depending on what you need at the time. Few places in the United States properly walk this line the way Baton Rouge can. Whether it’s a Saturday night in Tiger Stadium, or a Wednesday get-together at Pizza Art Wine, Baton Rouge delivers!” – Bradley King, a Baton Rouge local and owner of Second Line Photography
Photo by Bradley King – Second Line Photography
1. Baton Rouge Gallery
“If you’re trying to find the cultural side of Baton Rouge, First Wednesday Openings at Baton Rouge Gallery (which are always free) or the monthly ARTiculate Artist Talks (also free) are a great way to get to know some of the best living artists Louisiana has to offer.” – Jason Andreasen, President/CEO
2. The Brakes Bar
If you’re craving a cocktail experience that feels like stepping into another era, look no further than this hidden gem. “The Brakes Bar is tucked away in a vibrant urban setting, this speakeasy-style bar blends vintage charm with a funky twist. The atmosphere feels like a throwback to the 60s & 70s, with a modern edge that speaks to the city’s eclectic soul. The menu? A mixologist’s dream, featuring foraged botanicals and locally sourced ingredients that make every drink an adventure in itself. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just looking to sip something extraordinary, this spot delivers an unforgettable, uniquely urban escape.” – Kelly C. Culotta, Marketing Director – City Group Hospitality
3. Stop by Spoke & Hub for dinner
Right in front of The Brakes Bar is a southern dinner called Spoke & Hub.
“Casual concept, our version of the Contemporary Southern Diner, offering Americana fare with a southern twist. Here, you can find large outdoor patios, a courtyard patio to relax after a bike ride, drinking beer and great cocktails, eating some of the great contemporary diner fare, and brunching. Great family atmosphere with an amazing dessert bar for the children and of course we will be pet-friendly for all of our furry friends. Brunch served all day every day.” – Danielle Hampton, General Manager – City Group Hospitality
4. Redstick Adventures Private Tours
A great way to truly experience a city is by taking tours led by locals who know it inside and out. Redstick Adventures Tours offers city, food, and ghost tours that are perfect for those looking to explore different sides of New Orleans.
“If you’re getting to know the city’s origins we suggest taking a trio of tours that we offer. First, the City Tour, highlighting some of the original architecture, neighborhoods and history that helped shape what Baton Rouge is today. For the more adventurous, try tasting your way through the unique cuisine of our historic cultures on our Food Tour. Or, if you’re attracted to the macabre, try your hand at ghost hunting and learning about our dark past on our Haunted Tour. These are the trifecta of tours a person should take to learn about Baton Rouge whether the person is new to the area or lived here all of his/her life they are sure to enjoy these new and different experiences and perspectives.” – Susan of Redstick Adventures Tours
5. French Truck Coffee
No trip is complete without stopping by a local coffee shop. It’s one of the best ways to experience a new city and embrace the local charm, and who doesn’t love a delicious, freshly brewed cup?
“I recommend French Truck Coffee, located at the corner of Government St and Kenmore Ave. Grab your caffeine pick me up featuring freshly roasted coffee, and take a peek behind the scenes at the on-site roastery! They offer breakfast all day for those craving morning flavors anytime, as well as tasty lunch options to satisfy your midday hunger.” – Simone Reggie, Director of Sales & Marketing
6. Tend to your garden
Surrounding yourself with nature has countless benefits for both the mind and body. Whether you’re looking to cultivate a peaceful sanctuary or grow your own fresh produce, spending time in a local garden is one of the best unique things to do in Baton Rouge.
“Being outdoors is one of the best things you can do for yourself,” says Kathleen Pourciau of This Thyme Gardens “If you’re interested in spending some time outside thriving with vegetables and flowers in your own nourishing garden, This Thyme Gardens provides garden consulting as well as design and installation of raised bed kitchen gardens in the Baton Rouge area.”
7. DIG Baton Rouge Restaurant Week
“If you visit Baton Rouge, come during DIG’s Restaurant Week! Each spring and summer, the bi-annual “Baton Rouge Restaurant Week” is an opportunity for restaurants in the area to come together and positively impact the community. This delicious event allows restaurants to showcase their outstanding cuisines, promote their fan favorites, and introduce specials to customers. Local chefs have the opportunity to offer a menu the average diner wouldn’t be able to try. What better way to experience Baton Rouge than with a week full of food?” – Emilee Calametti – DIG Magazine
8. Explore the Mid-City neighborhood
Mid City in Baton Rouge is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood known for its artsy vibe, historic homes, and local culture. It’s one of the most popular areas in the city, blending old charm with new energy. The area features a variety of locally-owned shops, galleries, and restaurants, making it a hub for creativity and small businesses.
“I suggest everyone checks out Mid-City when visiting Baton Rouge. I love all the local shops that are an eclectic mix of arts, great food, live music, and shopping. I really love the Pink Elephant Antique Store. They have some great finds from the local area. Fluerty Girl has a store in Mid-City now with fun gifts that showcase humor from South Louisiana. There’s a lot to do!” – Natalie Wilson – Lily Magnolia Rose Photography
9. Ride a bike around the city
If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Baton Rouge and an active and scenic way to explore the city, there’s no better way than by bike.This adventure offers a perfect mix of outdoor fun, fitness, and a chance to see the vibrant spirit of Baton Rouge up close.
“A great way to get to know Baton Rouge is to get on a bike and ride from Downtown, down the levee bike path along River Road and the Mississippi River towards LSU. Finish your journey by riding around the LSU Lakes. You might get lucky and get to experience tailgating on a Saturday before a LSU game.” – Saskia Spanhoff – Cocha
“I recommend riding bikes in the downtown area, going around the Capitol lakes and gardens, and then parking at the State Capitol, and going to the top! You can see Tiger Stadium and so much of Baton Rouge and the Mississippi from there! Then get dressed up and go to dinner at Tsunami – either downtown or the HIghland location! – Amber Elworth, Owner – Light House Coffee
10. Enjoy divine flavor at La Divina Italian Café
Visit locally owned La Divina Italian Café to sample flavors of gelato and sorbet for free! “If you enjoy live music, make sure to catch the Live local songwriters on Thursday nights at 6pm. On Fridays, “Original Music Group” features two original songs from the many local musicians who sign up to play. You are welcome to sign up to play your own music or simply enjoy and meet other locals. La Divina Italian Cafe is open at 7am everyday with breakfast and the best espresso beverages in town!” – Mary of La Divina Italian Café
11. BREC Park Organization
Baton Rouge offers so many enriching experiences for people of all ages, especially for those seeking educational and fun activities. “As a homeschooling mom, some of my favorite highlights of Baton Rouge come from the amazing BREC park organization. The zoo, Knock Knock children’s museum and the USSKidd ship and science and arts museum are wonderful resources for our family. We also enjoy the many festivals and holiday parades year round. The Memorial Day flags at the state capitol are very meaningful to us.” – Meagan Stone Photography
12. Go to a LSU tailgate and get some barbecue
Saturdays were made for tailgating in Death Valley. Rain or shine, LSU’s fans gather to celebrate their Tigers with a passion that rivals any team in the nation. You’ll hear “Geaux Tigers!” everywhere you turn on tailgate days.
“As the Official Catering Partner of LSU Athletics, BRQ Seafood and BBQ is proud to fuel the game day excitement and make your tailgate an unforgettable one. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a fun-filled day, tailgating in Death Valley is an experience not to be missed.” – Charlie – BRQ Seafood and Barbeque
13. Join Live After 5 to live like the locals
Live After 5 is a vibrant celebration of culture and community in the heart of Baton Rouge, showcasing the city’s rich musical heritage and diverse local talents. This free outdoor concert series invites residents and visitors alike to unwind after a busy week, enjoy live performances, and savor delicious food from local vendors. With its lively atmosphere, Live After 5 encapsulates the spirit of Baton Rouge, fostering connections and creating cherished memories under the stars. It’s more than just music; it’s a testament to the city’s warmth and sense of belonging. – Audriane Williams, Owner of Young Chefs Academy Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge is a city that offers far more than meets the eye, with a unique mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities that cater to every interest. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant food scene, enjoying its scenic parks, or soaking in local traditions, there’s always something new and exciting to experience. So, the next time you’re in Baton Rouge, step off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems that make this city truly one-of-a-kind!
Do you want to get paid to give advice? A few years ago, I never would have thought that giving advice could turn into a way to make extra money. But after starting my website and sharing what I knew about personal finance, I quickly realized that I could make extra income. It’s amazing how…
Do you want to get paid to give advice?
A few years ago, I never would have thought that giving advice could turn into a way to make extra money. But after starting my website and sharing what I knew about personal finance, I quickly realized that I could make extra income.
It’s amazing how your skills, whether they’re in medicine, cars, law, tech, relationships, or anything else, can become a profitable business. I love helping others and, at the same time, earning money from what I enjoy!
In this article, I’ll go over:
Ways to get paid to give advice
Type of professionals that get paid to give advice
How to get paid giving advice online
How To Get Paid To Give Advice
Here’s a list of 16 ways to get paid to give advice.
1. JustAnswer
JustAnswer is a site that pays people to give advice and answer questions in different fields such as legal, tech, medical, veterinary, antique appraisers, and more.
If you’re an expert in a field that people usually have questions in, you can monetize your expertise on JustAnswer by sharing your expert opinion.
You may be wondering what kind of questions are asked on JustAnswer. Here are a few examples:
How much is my antique worth?
How can I lower my business taxes this year?
What can I do if a sinus infection won’t go away?
How do I fix my car’s alternator?
To get started on JustAnswer, you need to go through an application process (with a background check) and get verified that you’re an expert by providing proof of qualifications like degrees, certifications, or other relevant experience.
Recommended reading: 21 Ways To Get Paid To Answer Questions
2. Start a blog
I run a personal finance blog and share advice all the time (and I get paid for it!). Starting a blog is one of the best ways to share your expertise while creating a reliable source of income.
Sharing your expertise and knowledge with a blog is a great way to diversify your income. You can make money blogging by:
Affiliate marketing (where you get a commission when people make purchases through your links)
Advertising revenue
Sponsored content
Selling services like coaching
Selling products like books or courses
One of the keys to successful blogging is choosing a niche or topic that you’re both passionate about and that has an audience who wants to learn more.
Here are some popular blog niches you can try, depending on your expertise:
Education and career – If you have experience in teaching or career coaching, this niche can focus on helping others with their career goals, job interviews, or study techniques.
Personal finance – Share tips on budgeting, saving, investing, and side hustles. Many people are looking for ways to improve their finances.
Health – Topics like fitness, nutrition, mental health, and self-care are helpful.
Travel – If you love traveling, you can start a travel blog, sharing tips on budget travel, destination guides, family travel, or even remote work opportunities.
Parenting – This niche covers a wide range of topics, from newborn care and toddler tips to advice for teenagers. You can also write about balancing parenting and work or homeschooling.
DIY and crafts – Whether it’s home improvement, crafting, or upcycling projects, this niche is popular among creative individuals looking for inspiration and guidance.
Lifestyle – A lifestyle blog covers several areas like home decor, fashion, personal growth, and productivity.
Tech – If you’re knowledgeable about tech, you can give advice on the latest gadgets, software, app reviews, and even tutorials for beginners.
Beauty – This is a highly popular niche where you can share makeup tips, skincare routines, and product reviews.
Relationships – Help readers improve their relationships or personal growth by sharing advice on communication, self-improvement, or career development.
You can learn how to start a blog in the free How To Start a Blog Course.
3. Create an online course
If you’re looking for a passive way to make money by giving advice, creating an online course is a great way to do so.
My sister runs a popular online course and has done very well with it. Over the years, she has helped thousands of people with her business advice for website owners.
You can create a course on topics such as:
Meal planning and prep – Teach people how to plan meals, prep ingredients, and create healthy, budget-friendly meals.
Parenting tips – Help with topics like raising toddlers, managing screen time, or improving sleep.
Home organization – Help people declutter, organize their homes, and create better living spaces.
Fitness and wellness – Share workouts, stretching routines, or mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga.
Photography basics – Teach people how to use their camera or phone to take better photos. I recently saw a course teaching parents how to take better family photos with their phone, and it looked so helpful!
Gardening for beginners – Guide people through starting a garden, caring for plants, and growing their own fruits and veggies.
DIY home projects – Sell lessons on simple home improvement or crafting projects, like building furniture or making home decor.
Travel planning – Share tips on planning budget-friendly vacations, packing efficiently, and finding fun destinations.
Pet care – Teach new pet owners how to care for their animals, including training, nutrition, and grooming tips.
You can sell your online course on your website or course websites like Udemy, Skillshare, or Teachable (Teachable is my favorite course platform).
4. Answer surveys
You won’t get rich by answering surveys, but it’s an easy way to make money by giving your opinion.
Market research companies pay survey sites to find users to complete surveys for them. These paid online surveys help companies make better products and services.
Here are some of the recommended survey companies to sign up for:
American Consumer Opinion
Swagbucks
Survey Junkie
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Recommended reading: 12 Best Online Surveys For Gift Cards
5. User Interviews
User Interviews stands out from most market research companies because, rather than paying for typical online surveys, it specializes in focus groups.
This means they seek more detailed feedback from participants on different products and companies. Their studies are usually conducted via phone or video interviews, with the average study paying over $65.
Large companies like Spotify, Pinterest, GoPro, and Amazon use User Interviews to collect market insights. The platform runs over 2,000 studies each month, and last year alone, more than 77,000 participants were paid.
Michelle (my sister as well as the owner of this blog) participated in a focus group through User Interviews and earned $400 for just one hour of work. She said it was simple, and the entire process was completed online through a video call.
You can click here to sign up for free with User Interviews.
6. Financial advisor
Financial advisors are trained professionals who give financial advice to clients. You can make money as a financial advisor by charging fees for your services, receiving commissions on financial products, or both.
A financial advisor may help with financial planning, retirement, wealth management, insurance, investments, savings, and more.
To become a financial advisor, you need a combination of education and certifications. To get started, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or related field. You’ll also need an internship or entry-level job in finance, banking, or financial planning to get hands-on experience. Most importantly, you’ll need to get certified as a Certified Financial Planner and pass the licensing exams.
As of this writing, the average Certified Financial Planner’s salary is between $66,000-$122,000 a year.
7. Business consultant
One way to make money by giving advice is to start a consulting business and become a freelance consultant.
A business consultant is someone who uses their expertise to help companies improve their business, income strategy, and profitability.
Consultants get paid either by hourly rate, project-based fees, or retainer agreements. Business consultants can also make money by conducting training sessions and workshops for more money.
Business consultants are in high demand as businesses are always looking for ways to improve and make more money.
8. Personal trainer
If you love fitness and working with people, you can try making money as a personal trainer.
Getting a NASM personal trainer certification, which is one of the top certifications in the field is helpful. This is where you’ll dial in form, workout routines, and many other important fitness-related skills.
As a personal trainer, you can make money with one-on-one sessions, group classes, and even online training programs. Trainers typically charge per session or have package deals for multiple sessions. You can also make money by creating workout programs that people can purchase online.
9. Online coach
You can make money working as an online coach through digital platforms.
Some areas that you could coach on include:
Life coaching
Relationship coaching
Business coaching
Fitness coaching
Career coaching
As an online coach, you can make money with one-on-one coaching sessions, group coaching, or self-paced courses that people can buy directly from you. You can charge people one-time fees, package deals, or ongoing membership subscriptions for continued access to your guidance.
To grow your income, you can use social media platforms to build your brand and get people to trust you, such as by sharing helpful free tips in graphics or captions.
10. HelpOwl
HelpOwl is a platform where you can get paid to give advice online to individuals seeking help with different topics.
To get started with HelpOwl, register on the website and set up your profile. Your profile should showcase your expertise, skills, qualifications, and areas of advice.
You can also determine your fee structure for providing advice whether it’s per session or question.
11. Quora
You’ve likely heard of Quora since it’s a goldmine for getting any kind of question answered, but did you know you can make money with Quora?
Yes, it is possible to make money on Quora through a few different strategies.
Quora has a partner program that lets you make money by asking questions that generate high traffic and engagement to their website. You can get paid based on the ad revenue generated from the questions you ask.
Quora’s partner program is great for anyone who wants to become an online advice giver as you can share your honest opinion or answer a question in a simple comment.
12. Start a podcast
You can make money selling advice through a podcast.
This method of selling advice takes a lot of work but can be worthwhile if successful.
If you want to start a podcast to give advice, there are many great topics to choose from. You could talk about personal finance, relationship advice, or career coaching. Health and wellness podcasts are popular too, where you can cover fitness, mental health, and self-care. Parenting tips for new parents, small business advice, or life coaching are also good ideas. You could even share tech help, home improvement tips, or legal advice.
Whatever you pick, your podcast can help people improve their lives.
Once you build up your following, you can make money with ads and different sponsorships on your podcast episodes, along with affiliate links.
13. Start a YouTube channel
Starting a YouTube channel is another great way to get paid for giving advice, especially if you enjoy talking on camera.
I turn to YouTube all the time when I’m looking for answers and advice. It’s a helpful resource where I can find detailed explanations on just about any topic. Whether I need tips on personal finance, blogging, or even tech solutions, there’s usually a video that walks me through the steps. I love how I can watch experts in action, and it’s a great way to learn something new quickly and visually.
With YouTube, you can create videos in your area of expertise and build an audience of subscribers who value your knowledge. Whether you’re skilled in personal finance, cooking, fitness, or any other niche, there’s probably an audience looking for advice in a YouTube video.
To make money on YouTube, you can monetize your channel through:
Ads: Once you reach YouTube’s eligibility requirements, you can earn money from ads that play during your videos.
Sponsorships: Brands may pay you to promote their products or services in your videos.
Affiliate marketing: Include affiliate links in your video descriptions, earning a commission when viewers make purchases through your links.
Selling products or services: You can also use YouTube to promote your own products, courses, or consulting services.
Consistency is key on YouTube, so creating valuable, engaging content that resonates with your audience will help grow your channel and income over time.
14. Share advice on Fiverr
Fiverr is a great spot to sell your advice if you’re looking for an online job.
I searched on Fiverr and found 2,200 listings where people were offering to give advice. The topics included things like relationship advice, tax advice, fantasy football advice, blog advice, business advice, and more.
You simply create a profile and a listing where you share the type of advice you specialize in.
15. Website testing (such as with UserTesting)
Website testing is a simple way to make money by sharing your advice and providing feedback on the website user experience.
There are several well-known website testing sites including UserTesting, TryMyUI, and Userlytics. These sites connect you with people looking for user feedback on their websites and apps.
By using website testing platforms, selling expert advice, and building a strong reputation, you can successfully make money through website testing and sharing your insights.
16. Mystery shopping
Mystery shopping is a fun way to give your advice and feedback on a customer service experience, product, or store operations.
As a mystery shopper, your feedback tells companies how well their employees are treating customers, if customers are happy, and if any operational problems need fixing.
There are three different ways to make money mystery shopping including:
Cash and reimbursement (you’ll get paid to do the mystery shop, plus get the service/product for free).
Cash payment (an example would be a phone call mystery shop when you don’t buy anything).
Reimbursement (an example would be a restaurant secret shop – these typically don’t pay any money except for receiving free food).
BestMark is one of the biggest mystery shopping companies with a great reputation, and they have many different kinds of mystery shopping jobs available. Ath Power Consulting is another well-known mystery shopping company that has over 500,000 secret shoppers. They complete over 10,000 mystery shops each month, and they work with many popular companies.
Recommended reading: Want To Make An Extra $100 A Month? Learn How To Become A Mystery Shopper
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to get paid to give advice.
Can you get paid for giving advice?
Yes, you can get paid for advising in many ways such as consulting (people pay for advice on specific topics), coaching (people paying for expertise in a certain area, like business, relationships, career, and life), and content creation (monetize your advice through blogs, podcasts, social media).
What type of professionals make money by giving advice?
The kinds of professionals getting paid to give advice include:
Consultants
Coaches
Financial advisors
Legal advisors
Counselors
Health experts
Tutors
Real estate agents
Educators
Creative professionals
Entrepreneurs
Public speakers
As you can see, the list is endless. By using the skills and knowledge you have, you can likely get paid to provide practical and personalized advice to people.
Can I sell life advice?
You can sell life advice if you have valuable life experiences that other people find helpful to learn from. People tend to hire life coaches, mentors, and advisors to help them with life challenges, achieve goals, and find purpose in their lives.
You can make money selling life advice in several ways including:
One-on-one coaching sessions
Online courses
Books
Blogs
Podcasts
Social media accounts
It’s important to identify your niche and who you want to help. For example, your target audience may be women looking for a career change or people who need help with relationship advice. Focusing on a specific niche will help you stand out from others and market your services more efficiently.
How can you get paid to give advice online?
There are many ways to get paid to give advice from your laptop. JustAnswer is a great way to get started getting paid to give advice and connect you to people seeking help in your field.
If you’re looking for a passive way to make money giving advice, create an eBook, course, blog, or podcast. You can make money by selling your products, advertising, using affiliate links, or creating sponsored content.
Can you get paid to give relationship advice online?
You can get paid to give relationship advice and dating advice by working as a relationship coach through platforms like BetterHelp (as a therapist) or via your own website. You’ll need specific credentials to work on sites like BetterHelp and Talkspace, whereas having a relationship blog doesn’t require certifications, but may be harder to make money at the beginning of starting your business.
How To Get To Give Advice – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to get paid to give advice.
If you have knowledge in a specific area, you can turn that into a business by giving advice. Whether it’s in fields like medical, legal, tech, personal finance, or relationships, there are many ways to get paid for your skills.
Plus, you can do this either part-time or full-time, so you can choose what kind of hours you want to work.
Do you want to learn how to make $400 fast? Making extra money can be really helpful for unexpected expenses or saving up. You might need it for rent, a car repair, or a medical bill. Or maybe you’re saving for something special and just want to earn a little more. Sometimes, you need quick…
Do you want to learn how to make $400 fast?
Making extra money can be really helpful for unexpected expenses or saving up. You might need it for rent, a car repair, or a medical bill. Or maybe you’re saving for something special and just want to earn a little more.
Sometimes, you need quick cash, and $400 can make a big difference. Finding ways to make money fast doesn’t have to be hard and can be done in many different ways that fit your skills and schedule.
Best Ways To Make $400 Fast
Below are the best ways to make $400 fast.
1. Sell printables
Selling printables can be a great way to earn money quickly. Printables are digital products that buyers download and print at home. These can be anything from planners to party decorations to holiday cards.
The best part is you only need to create them once, and they can be sold many times.
After creating your printable, you’ll need a platform to sell it. Etsy is a popular choice because it’s easy to set up and lots of people shop there for printables. When listing your product, make sure to use good photos and detailed descriptions because this helps buyers find your printables.
I have several friends who make over $1,000 each month by selling printables, and they do it all from home! It’s a side hustle that I frequently think about starting.
You can learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
2. Start a blog
Starting a blog can be a great way to make $400. It may not always be fast, but once you get your blog started, you may be able to make money and create new income streams.
To make money, you can place ads on your blog. You can also write sponsored posts or review products. Another way to earn is by promoting products you like through affiliate links. When someone buys a product through your link, you get a commission.
For me, I love blogging and I make over $400 a day online with my blog. I also get to work from home and have a flexible schedule, and I love it!
You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
3. Answer online surveys
Taking online surveys is a simple way to make extra money. Many companies pay for your opinions to help improve their products. You can do this from home and on your own schedule.
It would take some time to make $400 by answering surveys, but it is easy and very flexible. Or, you could combine many of the side hustles on this list to reach your $400 goal faster.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for and the best paying survey sites include:
Freecash – This is one of my favorite rewards sites right now! You can get paid to take surveys, play games on your phone, and more.
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
Branded Surveys
Prime Opinion
Five Surveys
User Interviews
KashKick
Pinecone Research
Many of the survey sites above give a sign-up bonus to new members and pay via free gift cards or cash to your PayPal account.
I have taken many, many surveys over the years, and I like how flexible they are to answer because you can answer them in your free time (such as when watching a TV show).
4. Sell your old phones
Got an old phone lying around? You can turn it into quick cash, many times up to (or over) $400. Many people don’t realize how much money is just sitting in their junk drawer. Phones, even ones that aren’t the latest model, can be worth quite a bit.
You can sell your old phone on:
Decluttr
eBay
Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist
And more!
You’ll want to remember to erase all your personal data before selling your phone. This is very easy, though, so don’t let it stop you from selling your phone.
5. Join Freecash
Freecash is a website where you can make money by doing fun and easy tasks on your computer or phone. When you join Freecash, you can get paid to test apps, play games, and complete surveys.
I have personally earned $722 from this site, and I have received $720 in free Amazon gift cards. $302 of that was from playing Bingo on my phone through Freecash in just one week!
Click here to sign up for Freecash for free.
6. Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping can be a way to make money from home. You don’t need a college degree to start, and many online courses offer the training needed to get going.
Bookkeepers help businesses manage their finances. This includes tracking income, expenses, and creating reports.
Many businesses, big and small, need bookkeepers. As a result, there’s always a demand for this service. With hard work and dedication, you might earn around $40,000 a year or more.
I recommend signing up for the free training – How to start a profitable bookkeeping side hustle, that can generate $2,000 to $16,000 a month (part-time)!
You can also learn more at How I Made $10,000+ Monthly With A Bookkeeping Business Online.
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This free training will show you how to start a profitable bookkeeping side-hustle in the next 30 days—even if you have no prior experience!
7. Proofread
Proofreading is a great way to make money quickly. Many writers need an extra set of eyes to catch mistakes in their work. As a proofreader, you’ll look for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. This job can be done from home, and you get to choose your own hours.
You can proofread all kinds of content. This includes articles, blog posts, books, student papers, and even advertising copy.
Due to the high demand for written content, there’s always a need for proofreaders. This makes it a stable way to earn money.
You can learn more at How To Start A Proofreading Business And Make $4,000+ Monthly.
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This free training teaches you how to start a proofreading side hustle (and how to earn $1,000+ per month!), even if you are brand new and don’t have any previous proofreading experience.
8. Sell jewelry online
Selling your jewelry online can be a way to make $400 fast. If you have items like engagement rings, luxury watches, or necklaces you no longer wear, you can turn them into cash.
Start by choosing a reliable place to sell your jewelry. For example, websites like Worthy can help you sell jewelry like rings and necklaces.
You can learn more at Where To Sell Jewelry: 12 Best Places For Extra Money.
9. Affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a great way to make money online and it’s one of my favorite online business ideas. You can earn commissions by promoting products and services. When someone buys through your referral link, you get a percentage of the sale.
This is my favorite way to make money, as it can all be done online. I can make money while on a vacation or sleeping, and it’s easy to share links to products that you already use and believe in.
My favorite way to do affiliate marketing is by sharing links to products on a blog. You can learn more about this at Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook.
10. Freelance on Fiverr
Fiverr is a great way to make $400 fast by selling your skills online. You can sell services like writing, graphic design, or even voice-overs.
You can easily start freelancing by creating a free account on Fiverr. You’ll choose a username and set up your seller profile where you highlight your skills and what you can sell to clients.
Next, create your first gig. A gig is a service you provide. You can start small, with gigs priced at $5, and then increase your rates as you gain experience (yes, this means that you can earn more than $5 per service that you sell on Fiverr!).
Also, another site to look into if you want to freelance online is Upwork!
11. Pet sitting services
Pet sitting is a great way to make extra money if you love animals. Many people need help taking care of their pets when they’re at work or on vacation. This job usually involves feeding, playing with, and sometimes walking the pets.
You can start by signing up on dog walking websites and apps like Rover or Wag. These platforms connect pet sitters with pet owners. You can choose your working hours and set your rates.
We used to have a dog sitter (back when we had dogs), and we paid her $35 to watch each dog each night (she watched them in her own home). That means she was making $70 a night and we typically had her watching our dogs for 7 days or longer.
12. Sell handmade crafts on Etsy
Selling handmade crafts on Etsy is a great way to make $400 fast. You can set up your own shop and start selling right away. People love unique, handmade items, and Etsy is the place to find them.
You can sell all kinds of things on Etsy, like jewelry, woodwork, soap, and knitted items.
Etsy charges a fee for each listing and a transaction fee when you make a sale, so you’ll want to make sure to price your items to cover these costs and still make a profit.
13. Sell lawn care services
Selling lawn care services is a great way to make $400 quickly. If you have a lawn mower and some basic tools, you can sell your services to neighbors or people in your community.
Start by mowing lawns. You can charge around $30 to $50+ per lawn, depending on the size. If you mow just 8 to 10 lawns, you’ll reach $400 fast.
14. Babysit for neighbors
Babysitting is a way to make money fast. Many parents need someone to watch their kids for a few hours, so you can sell your help during weekends or evenings.
Tell your neighbors and friends that you are available to babysit, or even post in local parent Facebook groups. Let them know your rates and how they can reach you. You might be surprised by how many opportunities you get.
Babysitting rates can vary, but you can charge around $15 to $25 per hour, depending on where you live.
15. Drive for a rideshare service
One of the fastest ways to make $400 is to drive for a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber. You get paid for each trip you complete, and you can work as much or as little as you want.
To make the most money, you can focus on driving during peak hours. These are the times when people need rides the most, like mornings and evenings, making it easier for you to get more trips.
Another tip is to drive during special events or on weekends. People usually need rides for events, and requests increase, which means more money for you.
16. Sell clothes
Whenever I needed money fast, I would go through my closet and find clothes to sell. I did this a lot, especially when I was younger (and had more clothing, haha).
Selling clothes is a quick and easy way to make extra money. You probably have clothes in your closet that you don’t wear anymore. These might be items that don’t fit, are out of style, or just don’t suit you anymore. Instead of letting them take up space, you can sell them online.
There are many websites and apps where you can sell your clothes. Poshmark and ThredUp are popular choices. On Poshmark, you can create listings with photos and descriptions of your clothing. Once your item sells, you ship it to the buyer. ThredUp is more hands-off. You send your clothes to them, and they handle the selling process.
If you prefer selling in person, you can look for local consignment shops or secondhand stores. These places buy gently used clothes and resell them. You might not make as much money as selling online, but it’s fast and super easy.
You can learn more at 16 Best Places To Sell Clothes For Cash.
17. Become a virtual assistant
Becoming a virtual assistant (VA) is a great way to make $400 fast.
Virtual assistants help businesses with tasks they don’t have time for. This can include managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling social media accounts.
You can set your own hours and work from home, which is one of the best parts of this job. Whether you want to work part-time or full-time, being a VA can give you flexibility.
As you gain experience, you can increase your rates. New VAs might start at $15 to $20 per hour, but experienced VAs can earn much more. You could make up to $50 per hour if you specialize in certain areas, for example.
You can learn more at Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs.
18. Rent out your extra space
Renting out your extra space is a great way to make extra money.
If you have a spare room in your house, you can list it on Airbnb. Many people need short-term rentals; you can charge by the night and this can add up quickly. Another way to make money with a spare room is to find a long-term renter. Back when I had spare bedrooms, I would actually rent out each room for $400.
You can even rent out your storage space, a parking spot, and more. A site to start with for this is Neighbor.
19. Donate plasma
Donating plasma is a quick way to make some extra money. You can make around $200 a month by donating regularly. Some centers even have bonuses that can boost your earnings to $400 in your first month.
You can learn more at How To Make Money Donating Plasma.
20. Sell unwanted gift cards
Have gift cards you don’t plan to use? You can turn them into cash quickly. Many places will buy them from you and pay real money. This is an easy way to make some quick cash.
Some ways to sell gift cards include:
Raise
CardCash
CardSell
Gameflip
GiftCash
21. Join a focus group
Joining a focus group can be a great way to make money quickly. Focus groups pay you for your opinion on products, services, or ads. These groups can be either online or in person. This makes them super flexible for any schedule.
Payment varies a lot, with some focus groups paying around $20 for a quick session, while others can pay up to $400 for more detailed feedback. The amount usually depends on the length and type of study. Even a one-hour session can earn you between $50 and $100.
I once did a focus group that paid me about $400 for just 75 minutes. That’s more than what most focus groups pay, but usually, you can expect to earn between $50 to over $100 per hour. The amount you get paid depends on how long the study is and what it’s about, but there are some studies that pay more.
One focus group company that I recommend is User Interviews. User Interviews recruits participants to answer surveys and share their feedback.
22. Sell video games
Selling video games can be a quick way to make money. If you have games you no longer play, why not turn them into cash?
You can sell your old video games in ways such as:
Decluttr
eBay
Amazon Trade-In
OfferUp
Facebook Marketplace
23. Sell power washing services
Selling power washing services can help you make $400 fast. Many people need their driveways, sidewalks, and houses cleaned.
You’ll need a power washer to get started. You can buy one or rent it from a local store.
You can advertise your services on social media or in your neighborhood and create flyers and business cards to hand out.
You can charge by the hour or by the job. Typical rates can be between $50 and $100 an hour. You can clean a driveway in just a couple of hours, so you can probably easily make $400 in one weekend.
24. Tutor
Tutoring students can be a quick way to make $400. You can help kids with their homework, teach a language, or explain tough subjects like math and science. Many parents are willing to pay good money for someone who can help their children do better in school.
Online tutoring is flexible too because you can set your own hours and work from home. Websites like Tutor.com, Wyzant, and Preply are great places to start.
Tutoring can pay well too. Rates can range from $15 to $60 or more per hour, depending on the subject and your experience (for example, advanced subjects like calculus or test prep can pay even higher rates).
25. Become a freelance writer
Freelance writing is a great way to make $400 fast with an online business. You can write for blogs, websites, magazines, and companies. Since you work for yourself, you get to choose which projects to take on.
Freelance writing pays well and beginners can earn around $50 per article, but as you gain experience, you can charge more. Some experienced writers make over $1,000 per 1000-word article.
I have been a freelance writer for years and I have definitely enjoyed it. It’s a fun online job where you can work from home and choose the subjects you want to write about.
26. Sell stock photos
If you love taking pictures, you can turn that hobby into cash by selling stock photos. Many websites let you upload your images for sale.
Some popular ones include Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Depositphotos. People such as businesses, bloggers, and marketers buy these photos for their own use. You can earn money each time someone downloads your photo.
You might not make $400 overnight, but your earnings can add up quickly with enough photos in your portfolio.
You can learn more at 18 Ways To Get Paid To Take Pictures.
27. Rent out your car
Renting out your car can be a simple way to make extra cash. There are many platforms like Turo that let you rent your car to others.
You don’t have to do much. Just list your car, set the price, and wait for renters. These platforms handle insurance and payments, making it easier for you.
I have rented a car while on vacation on Turo several times, and I enjoyed it each time. It is an easy-to-use site!
28. Wash cars
Washing cars is a great way to make quick money.
You can start by selling your car washing services to neighbors, friends, and family. You can also make flyers and put them up around your community to let people know about your business.
29. Participate in a medical study
Participating in a medical study can be a quick way to make $400. Many research studies pay volunteers for medical research.
You can find opportunities in local hospitals, universities, and clinics.
When my husband was younger, he took part in a few medical research studies to help us make extra money. He usually earned about $1,000 for a weekend of his time. These were very in-depth, though, with lots of blood work and needles (so you may want to ask about this if that makes you squeamish).
Recommended reading: 19 Best Places To Find Paid Research Studies
30. Sell furniture
If you have any old furniture lying around, like a couch, coffee table, dresser, or dining set, then you can make quick cash by selling it.
You can start by listing your items or selling to places such as:
Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist
eBay
AptDeco
1stDibs
Consignment shops
OfferUp
Etsy
You can learn more at 15 Best Places To Sell Used Furniture For Cash.
31. Help people move
You can make $400 fast by selling moving services. People always need help moving, whether it’s across town or to a new apartment.
You can start by advertising your services on social media and local websites like Craigslist and by letting your friends and family know you are available too.
You can charge by the hour or by the job. Some movers charge $50 an hour, so you could reach your goal quickly. Make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment, such as a dolly and packing supplies.
32. Drive for a delivery service
Driving for a delivery service is a great way to make some quick cash. There are many gig economy apps like DoorDash, Instacart, Uber Eats, and Grubhub that hire drivers to deliver food and groceries. You can sign up easily and start working in a few days.
You get to pick your own hours, making it a flexible job. This means you can work in the mornings, evenings, or weekends. Plus, you can make between $12 and $20 per hour and often get tips on top of that.
33. Transcribe audio files
Transcribing audio files into text is a good way to make extra money. As a transcriptionist, you listen to audio recordings and type what you hear. This job requires good listening and typing skills.
You don’t need a lot to get started. Just a computer, internet access, and a pair of headphones will do.
Many companies pay per audio hour, not the time it takes you to transcribe. Rates can range from $15 to $30 per audio hour. Once you get the hang of it, you might earn $400 a month.
You can learn more at 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly.
10
In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
34. Clean houses
Cleaning houses is a way to make $400 quickly.
People are always looking for help to keep their homes tidy. You can sell your cleaning services to friends, neighbors, or find clients online (you can post an ad on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist).
You don’t need much to start. Basic cleaning supplies like sponges, sprays, and rags will do, which is great.
You can charge per hour or per job. So, if you charge around $20 to $25 an hour, you can make $400 in just 2 days of work.
35. Sell your wedding dress
One quick way to make some cash is by selling your wedding dress.
You can get a good amount of money, especially if your dress is from a popular designer or in great condition.
There are several websites and stores that buy used wedding dresses. Or, if you want to sell locally, try visiting consignment shops. These stores may take your dress on consignment and pay you when it sells. Or, they might buy it outright, giving you money up front.
36. Do junk removal
Junk removal can be a quick way to make $400. Many people need help getting rid of old furniture, appliances, or just clutter. You don’t need special skills, just some muscle and a vehicle to carry the junk.
You can find work by advertising on websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Local community boards are also good places to post your services.
You can charge by the hour or by the job. Many junk removal services charge a minimum fee of around $100 to $150 per load (and go up from there depending on weight and size). With some hard work, it’s possible to reach the $400 mark in a day or two.
37. Host a garage sale
Hosting a garage sale is one of the quickest ways to make $400, especially if you have items you no longer use.
You can start by decluttering your home and picking out things like clothes, toys, furniture, kitchen items, and electronics that are just taking up space. The average household has hundreds of thousands of things (yes, that’s not a typo!), so there’s probably something you can sell.
Once you’ve gathered your items, pick a weekend to host your sale, preferably when the weather is nice. To attract more buyers, advertise your sale on social media, local community boards, and garage sale websites.
You can even team up with neighbors or friends to increase foot traffic. By the end of the weekend, you can easily reach your $400 goal while also clearing out clutter from your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about how to make $400 fast.
How to make $400 dollars in one day?
You can make $400 in one day by selling more expensive items like old phones, laptops, or collectibles. If you have time to build a business, then you may want to try becoming a freelancer, such as with writing or graphic design.
How to make $400 dollars as a kid?
For kids who want to make $400, you may want to try selling handmade crafts or old toys. Yard work, pet sitting, or babysitting are great ways to earn money quickly too.
Are there any fun ways to earn $400 as an 11-year-old?
Yes, there are fun ways for an 11-year-old to make $400 fast! You can walk dogs, set up a lemonade stand, or sell baked goods. You might also like creating and selling crafts or printables with help from a parent.
How to make $400 a day online?
If you want to learn how to make $400 fast online, then selling items online is usually the fastest. You could list items from around your home, like furniture or old electronics, on Facebook Marketplace and possibly get paid the same day if you find a buyer quickly. If you want to eventually in the future make $400 in a single day online, then you could do things like blogging, freelance writing, and virtual assisting.
How to make $400 in a week?
You can make $400 in a week by selling items on sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. You can also look for quick gig jobs (such as on the Craigslist gigs section where they list random odd jobs like handyman gigs), do freelance work, or sell services like tutoring or lawn care.
What can I sell for $400?
You can sell old phones, laptops, furniture, jewelry, or clothes to make $400.
How To Make $400 Fast – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make $400 fast.
Making $400 quickly is possible if you have the right plan. You can sell things you don’t need, sell your skills as a freelancer, take online surveys, and more.
There are lots of ways to reach your goal, and it’s important to pick something that works with your schedule and skills.
What do you think is the best way to make $400 fast?
With the introduction of new bonus categories, eligible Chase Freedom cardholders have several ways to earn 5% cash back in the last quarter of 2024.
From Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, Chase Freedom Flex® cardholders can get 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined quarterly spending at the following merchants:
McDonald’s.
Pet shops and vet services.
Select charities.
All non-bonus-category purchases earn 1% back, as do purchases made after hitting the $1,500 combined quarterly cap in the categories above. Cardholders must activate the bonus categories by Dec. 14, 2024, to earn the 5% rate. Activation applies retroactively to all qualifying purchases made since Oct. 1, 2024.
Here are some tips for making the most of Chase’s bonus categories in the last quarter of 2024.
Chase Freedom® and Chase Freedom Flex® bonus rewards categories for 2024
Q1 (Jan. 1-March 31)
Grocery stores.
Fitness clubs and gym memberships.
Self-care and spa services.
Q2 (April 1-June 30)
Select hotel bookings.*
Restaurants.
Amazon.com.
Q3 (July 1-Sept. 30)
Gas stations and EV charging.
Select live entertainment.
Movie theaters.
Q4 (Oct. 1-Dec. 31)
McDonald’s.
Pet shops and vet services.
Select charities.
*Includes bookings made directly with the hotel and prepaid bookings through Chase’s travel portal.
McDonald’s, pet services debut as bonus categories
For the first time, McDonald’s, pet shops and vet services are bonus categories for Chase Freedom cardholders.
The Golden Arches category is pretty self-explanatory. But “pet shops” is a pretty broad category that includes stores that sell pet supplies, services and animals. Note that pet day cares, pet insurance and groomers are ineligible to earn 5% back. Nevertheless, now is an ideal time to stock up on food, medicine and other supplies, and to finally schedule your pet for its annual checkup.
🤓Nerdy Tip
The original Chase Freedom® card is no longer accepting applications, but existing cardholders still earn 5% cash back based on the same bonus calendar and terms for the Chase Freedom Flex®.
Get rewards for giving back
Chase Freedom cardholders will be rewarded bonus cash back for their generosity this holiday season, as long as they donate to one of 17 eligible charities. Charities that qualify this quarter include the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity and United Way. Come Giving Tuesday, remember to pay for charitable contributions with your Chase Freedom card.
Pay with PayPal online and in-store
To ensure you get 5% back on purchases made via PayPal, add your Chase Freedom card as the default payment method. If you haven’t already, download the PayPal app, too. You’ll need it in order to use PayPal for in-store purchases.
Information about the Chase Freedom® has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
Chase has released the 5%/5x categories on their Freedom and Freedom Flex cards for the fourth quarter of 2024, up to $1,500 in purchases:
PayPal
McDonald’s – this should be 7x on the Freedom Flex card since that card always gets 2x bonus points at Restaurants
Pet Shops and Vet Services
Select Charities
Paypal is an easy win. Some people might find the other categories useful as well. Remember that you can use Paypal to pay taxes; give charity; pay at millions of businesses like Walmart.com, Bestbuy.com etc; and even possibly pay in-store at some locations. It should also be possible to send money to a friend using the Family & Friends option for a 2.9% fee.
It’s been mentioned the possibility of using Paypal at CVS stores to get 7x on the Freedom Flex card since that card also earns 2x extra points at Drugstores.
It’s now possible to activate all 5% category credit cards for the fourth quarter of 2024, including the Chase Freedom, Chase Freedom Flex, Discover IT, Citi Dividend, US Bank Cash+ and some smaller cards. In this post we’ll provide the activation link for each card and links to track your spend, along with strategies to help increase spend in these categories.
Dates: October 1st – December 31, 2024. Store purchases can usually be done until the last minute while online purchases should be given a buffer zone since the charge typically posts on the shipping date.
Chase Freedom – Paypal, Pet, McDonald’s
Activation Link / FAQ / Sample Stores & Exclusions / Our original post
With the Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex cards, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in spend at Paypal, McDonald’s, Pet Shops and Vet Services, Select Charities.
PayPal – Super useful category. Remember that you can use Paypal to pay taxes; give charity; pay at millions of businesses like Walmart.com, Bestbuy.com etc; and even possibly pay in-store at some locations. It’s been mentioned the possibility of using Paypal at CVS stores to get 7x on the Freedom Flex card since that card also earns 2x extra points at Drugstores. It should also be possible to send money to a friend using the Family & Friends option for a 2.9% fee.
McDonald’s – this should be 7x on the Freedom Flex card since that card always gets 2x bonus points at Restaurants
Pet Shops and Vet Services
Select Charities
Tip: Click this link (login required) to check how far you are along the $1,500.
Discover – Amazon, Target
Activation Link / Our original post
With your Discover card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases at Amazon.com and Target.
Target and Target.com – not very useful for those who have REDcard which always earns 5%. Could be useful for buying Target gift cards since those do not earn 5% on the REDcard, but will earn 5% with Discover in Q4. Target usually runs a 10% off deal on their gift cards during the Q4 holiday season.
Amazon.com – also not too useful for those with the Amazon Prime 5% card
Activate to earn 5% Cashback Bonus at Amazon.com and Target from 10/1/24 (or the date on which you activate 5%, whichever is later) through 12/31/24, on up to $1,500 in purchases. Amazon.com purchases include those made through the Amazon.com checkout, like digital downloads, Amazon Fresh orders, Amazon Local Deals, Amazon Prime subscriptions, and items sold by third party merchants through Amazon.com’s marketplace. This also includes purchases in-store at Amazon Go and Amazon Fresh. Purchases made online and in-store with Whole Foods Market are not included in the promotion. Amazon, the Amazon.com logo, the smile logo, and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Target purchases include those made in-store at Target, Target.com, or through the Target app. Purchases from individual merchants and stand-alone stores within physical Target locations may not be eligible for this promotion. Purchases made online or through the Target app from Target affiliates, individual merchants, or stand-alone stores may not be eligible for this promotion, including, but not limited to, targetoptical.com and targetphoto.com. Target and the Bullseye Design are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. Listed merchants are in no way sponsoring or affiliated with this program.
Tip: Login, then click this link to see you how far along the $1,500 you are.
Citi Dividend – Restaurants, Citi Travel
Landing Page | Our Original Post
With your Dividend card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter at Restaurants and on Citi Travel. Citi is different than the other cards in that you have a $6,000 annual cap rather than a $1,500 quarterly cap. You can get 5% back on up to $6,000 in this quarter, you can save the entire amount for a different quarter, or you can use part up each quarter.
Restaurants – always a useful category
Citi Travel – hotels, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked through the Citi Travel site at CitiTravel.com or by calling 1-833-737-1288
U.S. Bank Cash+/Elan – Select your Categories
Activation link | Merchant List | Our Original Post
U.S. Bank Cash+ and Elan Max offer 5% cash back in two categories, up to $2,000 combined total per quarter. Keep in mind that Car Rentals was recently replaced with TV, Internet, and Streaming Services.
Here are the current options:
TV, Internet, and Streaming Services
Home utilities
Select clothing stores
Cell phone providers
Electronic Stores
Gyms/Fitness
Fast food
Ground Transportation
Sporting goods
Department Stores
Furniture Stores
Movie theaters
Tip: Login here, then scroll down and click on the red “View Your Cash+ History” button.
U.S. Bank Shopper – Select your Categories
Our Original Post
The U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards comes with a $95 annual fee and offers 6% cashback on your first $1,500 in combined eligible purchases each quarter with two retailers you choose. Options include Amazon, Apple, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, Target, and many more. You must enroll each quarter for two retailers.
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards
Our Original Post
The Cash Rewards card from Bank of America offers 3% back on one selected category, up to $2,500 per quarter. If you don’t select anything it defaults to gas. Once you selected a category for one quarter, that remains your category in the future unless you change it. Each calendar month you can change it if you’d like, but you’re always limited to $2,500 for the entire quarter.
Gas and EV charging stations (default category)
Online Shopping; this category also includes cable, streaming, internet, and phone plan
Dining
Travel
Drug Stores
Home Improvement/Furnishings
This category is especially lucrative for those who have Preferred Rewards status with Bank of America which can get you 5.25% back on one of these categories at the higher relationship level.
Lots of useful categories here. Important note: the Cash Rewards card also offers 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs up to $2,500 per quarter, and that $2,500 limit combines with the Category Selection limit. After spending $2,500, you’ll earn 1% back on everything.
Other Cards with 5% Category
Nusenda FCU – Retail, Restaurants
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Earn 5% this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases on Retail Stores, Online Retail Purchases, Restaurants
This is on top of the regular 1% for a total earn of 6% back. (apparently no longer the case)
Langley FCU – Walmart/Target, Grocery, Department
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Langley Federal Credit Union offers 5% back each month in one selected category, on up to $100 cash back total ($2,000 spend).
The category options at time of this writing: Target & Walmart, Groceries, Department Stores.
Vantage West [AZ] – Select your Category
the 5% program is ending on October 1st.
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Safe Credit Union [CA] – Various
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Safe Credit Union Cash Rewards Visa card offers 5% this quarter on your choice of one category each quarter (with no apparent limit). This quarter the categories are:
Perhaps the idea of home ownership sounds appealing, but the thought of all the maintenance involved — inside and out — doesn’t sound so great. Dealing with snow removal or tending to your lawn might be the last thing you want to add to your already full plate.
If that resonates, buying a home that has a homeowners association, or HOA, might be the right move. Whether you’re shopping for a condo or a 3-bedroom house in a new development, an HOA could be a valuable thing. These organizations, funded by dues, take care of many of those maintenance responsibilities, run shared facilities (like a pool), and create guidelines (and enforce them) for the community of homeowners.
That said, interacting with an HOA and following its guidelines may not be for everyone. Read on to learn:
• What is an HOA, or homeowners association
• How do HOAs work
• How much are HOA dues
• What are the pros and cons of HOAs
• How will HOA fees impact your costs as a homeowner
What Is an HOA (Homeowners Association)?
An HOA is typically a non-profit volunteer group that manages aspects of homeownership in certain planned unit developments (PUDs), condos, and other housing communities. The HOA collects fees from each member of the community and uses them to handle maintenance duties and amenities. These may include:
• Landscaping and maintenance of walkways and the like
• Pest control
• Maintenance and utilities of shared spaces, such as lounges and pool areas
• Garbage pickup
• Parking
• Security
Another answer to “What is an HOA?” should mention that these associations typically make enforceable rules about the look and feel of the community. There may be guidelines about, say, the size of pets one may own, or the color schemes permissible for a townhome’s exterior. The existence of an HOA will be an important consideration when you are shopping for a place to live and HOA fees need to be built into a homebuyer’s financial plan, just like home loan payments.
Recommended: Condo vs. Townhouse: 9 Major Differences
How Does an HOA Work?
HOAs can be staffed in different ways. They can be run by people owning property within its boundaries, run by a board of directors, or through a similar arrangement, with board designees elected to oversee and enforce HOA rules.
Many HOAs are incorporated, which makes them subject to the laws of the state and may require them to file annual reports with the corporation commission, in order to remain in good standing.
People who purchase properties within an HOA jurisdiction become members of that organization, and they must abide by the rules contained within that organization’s bylaws and Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).
HOA rules, fees and restrictions vary. Some bylaws and CC&Rs are strict, while others are looser, typically focusing on how residents must keep properties maintained according to stated specifications. In a planned unit subdivision of single-family homes, for example, rules may include what types of landscaping are permitted, or exterior colors of paint, what kinds of fencing is allowed, and more.
They can include usage rules for common property, such as a pool, and typically outline penalties for rule violations, ranging from forcing a homeowner to comply to fees and, sometimes, litigation.
How Common Are HOAs?
Here are some recent statistics that will help you get an idea of how common HOAs currently are in the U.S.:
• Approximately 75.5 million Americans live in HOAs, cooperatives, or condominium units.
• 30% of all U.S. homeowners live in HOA communities.
• 28.2 million housing units in America are part of HOA communities.
As you see, HOAs are quite popular.
What Is an HOA Fee?
Now that you know a bit about what is a homeowners association, let’s look at those fees they charge. People who buy property in an HOA-governed condo or community usually must pay dues — also known as HOA fees — typically due monthly. These fees help to maintain common areas of buildings, such as lobbies and patios, and perhaps community clubhouses. These fees can cover maintenance on elevators or swimming pools, if applicable, or could be used for landscaping expenses, and so forth. Additional special assessments may be charged for major repairs, such as roof repairs.
Some studies suggest that average HOA fees range from $200 to $400 per month, although they can be as low as $50 and as high as $2,500 or more. It depends on the HOA complex, where it is, what amenities the project maintains, and sometimes on how the individual HOA is managed.
What’s most important when shopping for a new home is that you are clear about what fees would be assessed on your individual unit and whether that fits your budget.
First-time homebuyers can prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan, with as little as 3% down.
When Considering an HOA Property
When considering whether or not to buy a property within a homeowners association, it makes sense to understand what you’d be committing to if you bought this property.
To get an understanding of how the organization operates, you can ask the board of directors if you could read minutes from meetings — if you have a real estate agent, they should be able to help you access records. This may give you a good overview of any challenges the organization is facing, and insights into how solutions are brainstormed and implemented.
Questions to investigate can include:
• What are the HOA fees each month? What do they cover?
• If the fees seem low, does it appear as though enough funds are collected to maintain general areas? What about meeting rooms, the gym, pool area, and so forth?
• If the HOA fees are higher than expected, do they seem excessive for what you’d get in return?
• Are homeowners also being charged special assessments to cover other costs? If so, how often and what are they?
• How many units are not paying their HOA fees? What are the consequences for that? Are penalties being imposed?
• If certain units don’t pay their HOA fees, can these unpaid costs be imposed upon other owners to make up the difference?
• If desired, will you be allowed to sublet your unit? Over what term and with what restrictions?
• Are you allowed to have a pet? If so, what restrictions exist? Ask to read a copy of the CC&Rs which is recorded public information.
• Does pending litigation exist against the HOA? If so, of what type? Does it involve, say, damage to one unit, or does it affect the entire organization?
If you have friends or family members who are part of this HOA, consider asking them what they like about living there, and what they don’t. If you have a friend or family member who owns housing under a different HOA, chat with them as well. Their insights can be valuable in regards to what questions to ask and issues to explore before buying.
You can also review the bylaws, which usually share voting rights of members, budget and assessment rules, meeting requirements, and so forth. Check to see what actions can be taken without a member vote — if they include raising assessments or creating rules, this could have an impact on your buying decision.
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Pros vs Cons of HOAs
There are several benefits of buying a property that’s part of an HOA. Consider these upsides:
• Guidelines to help maintain the look of the community, settle issues, and create harmony among residents.
• Enhanced quality of life and property values.
• Maintenance services so homeowners don’t need to do the work themselves or hire freelance help.
That said, there are also possible drawbacks to being part of an HOA. These can include:
• The cost of the HOAs fees can be prohibitively expensive, and the possibility of assessments can be financially challenging.
• Potentially restrictive guidelines that inhibit your freedom over your property (that is, you may not be allowed to have a certain kind of pet or put in solar panels).
• Those who run the HOA may be volunteers vs. skilled real estate professionals, which could lead to inefficiencies.
Can You Afford to Buy into an HOA?
When shopping for a new home or condo, one key consideration is how much you can afford for a house — with the true cost being more than just principal, interest, and homeowners insurance. If you are considering properties that have HOA charges, it’s vital to factor those in to make sure your budget is manageable.
You’ll need a down payment on the home. There are also property taxes, insurance, closing costs (which can run from 3% to 5% of the home’s cost, paid by the buyer and/or seller according to the contract). And there are expenses other than closing costs such as moving expenses, furniture costs, and more that should be considered as you grapple with how much you can afford.
Plus, you might want to have an emergency fund established for unexpected expenses, whether unanticipated housing repairs, or medical expenses, or something else entirely.
To help you figure out that affordable house payment number, you could check out our mortgage calculator.
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What to Know About Mortgages and HOAs
There’s one more wrinkle to the topic of what is a homeowners association and should you buy into one: the impact it may have on securing your mortgage.
When you buy a property that is part of an HOA, you may need additional documentation for your lender. If your bid is accepted, the lender will likely request a homeowners association certification, called an HOA cert for short. This document provides your lender with a snapshot of how the HOA is being run, and may provide information such as:
• How old the project is
• Whether a condominium development was converted from an apartment building or specifically built as condo units
• How many units exist in the project
• How many units are occupied
• How many occupied units are owner occupied and how many are rented to someone else
• How much HOA fees are
• The amount of insurance on the project
If this information is requested, it will likely be reviewed to confirm that this property meets the lender’s loan eligibility guidelines. Because guidelines can vary from lender to lender and loan program to loan program, it makes sense to check with your lender of choice as soon as possible to determine if this financial institution considers your condo to be eligible for financing.
The HOA cert may also be obtained by the escrow/title company and provided to your lender, along with the relevant CC&Rs. This provides insight into any property restrictions and other aspects that may affect a home’s lendability and marketability.
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The Takeaway
Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% – 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It’s online, with access to one-on-one help.
SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.
FAQ
Why do HOAs exist?
Homeowners associations exist to manage and maintain common areas, to enforce community rules, and to collect and manage the finances used for community upkeep. Many people who participate in HOAs expect the association to help enhance their property values.
How much are HOA fees?
HOA fees vary widely based on the amenities offered by the development but most people can expect to pay at least $200 to $300 per month.
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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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