A place for everything, and everything in its place.
Have you ever visited a friend and opened their pantry doors to find an extremely organized space? If so, you can attest that it’s almost breathtaking. They’ve aligned bottles of oils, and beautiful jars contain nuts and dried fruit. Clear, labeled containers hold pasta and grains. They may have even gone so far as to color-coordinate each shelf.
Of course, we can’t all be Marie Kondo in the pantry. That is to say, don’t feel bad if your pantry has become the place to store, well, everything, from food to mail and kitchen appliances. You are definitely not alone.
So, how do you get started sorting it out and regaining control of this important organizational space? Let’s take it step-by-step with these 10 pantry organization ideas. You can create a pantry that captivates you and your family and friends.
Fair warning: Once you’ve organized your pantry with these organization ideas, the rest of your kitchen is sure to follow.
1. Clean out and declutter
Albert Einstein said, “Out of clutter, find simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” So, consider this an opportunity to bring harmony to your home with unique pantry organization ideas. As most humans, you’ve probably thought about organizing your pantry a hundred times. You may have even started with a shelf only to find yourself waylaid by one of life’s many other demands.
There’s one way to ensure you create the pantry you’ve seen in Better Homes & Gardens and on Pinterest. Start by cleaning it out entirely. Not only do you have a clean slate to work with, but you also get to clean the shelves. A win-win! Consider making your own lemony-fresh pantry cleaner by combining 1 ½ cups of water with ¼ cup white vinegar and about 20 drops of lemon essential oil.
Another fresh pantry organization idea: Have a trash bag handy as you remove items, and toss those opened food items that have been gathering dust in the corners.
2. Decide what to keep, share and discard
This is the time to check for expiration dates and be brutally honest. While it was very nice of your friend to give you wagon-wheel-shaped pasta made out of lentils when you were on a legume craze, will you really ever use it? For items like this that are still good and unopened, consider putting a box together for the local food bank or homeless shelter.
This is also the time to think about what doesn’t belong. Is there a better place for your kitchen appliances, like next to the stove? Would you use your herbs and spices more if they were in a beautiful spice rack on the side of a cabinet? Can you make an organized space in your cabinets for your Tupperware? Do you have room on your bookshelves for the cookbooks?
3. Gather like-minded products
Yes, opposites attract, but creating order from chaos is key in decluttering. One of our best pantry organization ideas is also the simplest: Place similar products in separate piles so you can see what you have to work with and how big your storage containers (the organizer’s guru) will need to be. Condiments and sauces in one pile, grains and starches in another and unrefrigerated produce in its own little group.
4. Get in the zone
This is when it starts getting fun if you’re Marie Kondo. For us mere mortals, it may get slightly interesting. Zones are the areas in your pantry dedicated to the specific items you’ve grouped together. But it gets better. You can also group items based on your lifestyle and the unique way you use them in your everyday affairs.
Do you love baking? Consider a basket or bin that holds all your baking items. Now, you have everything you need from your pantry when it’s time for morning cinnamon rolls or banana bread.
Do you regularly entertain? Consider creating a basket designed for last-minute get-togethers. A bin with a few bottles of wine, bagel bits, water crackers, olives and napkins will go well with the triple creme brie and Italian dry salami you keep in the fridge.
Are you an organized chef who prepares meal plans and shops once a week for food items? Good for you. Consider separate bins that contain the things you need for each meal. You can even label them according to the day of the week.
5. Keep it simple
Sometimes, as Leonardo da Vinci said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” To keep things simple, organize by general categories based on what you have without getting too specific. An example of common categories includes the following:
Bread (Note: If you live in a humid, hot environment, it’s best to store bread in a well-ventilated area, i.e., not your pantry.)
6. Select your pantry organizers
Some people use clear bins for their transparency, allowing them to see items quickly. Others favor baskets with handles for their country-esque aesthetics. Chips find a great home in a rectangular basket, making them easy to grab and put back.
The extreme organizer may select different colored bins for various categories. And, if you’re eclectic in nature, you can enjoy the benefit of all different types of containers as long as they’re purposefully designed and implemented.
An important tip: If you’re low on space and high on dry goods, make sure the containers are stackable. You can also incorporate riser or stacking shelves that create extra space.
Turntables are a nice edition for regularly used items like sauces, oils and condiments. Placing them in the corners utilizes every inch of space. Glass mason jars add a country feel and are ideal for grains, pasta, nuts and beans. Larger jars can hold flour, sugar and pancake mix. Airtight, BPA-free plastic food canisters come in many sizes.
Before you make your selections, measure your shelves to ensure they’ll fit perfectly.
7. Labels are your new best friend
Labeling everything is critical to your pantry organizing success. Today, you can choose from Bluetooth options with corresponding apps or label makers with large keyboards and every font.
Of course, if you’re a scribe at heart, you can add a personal, handmade touch. Write directly on glass and plastic containers with wet-erase markers, or add some color by writing on decorative washi tape. You’ll also find reusable stickers and self-adhesive labels designed for pantry storage. You can label your baskets with reusable, dry-erase clip-on labels.
These labels identify major categories as well as individual items. Make sure to include the expiration date for items you’ve decanted, whether pasta, cereal or rice. Labels go a long way in ensuring your family can find the items they’re looking for and put them back in their correct location when they’re done.
8. Finding the right spot
Keep items you regularly use in easy reach and store occasionally used items on a higher shelf. Any things you’d like to keep away from the kids also go on the top shelf. Remember, nothing is set in stone. As you use your new-and-improved pantry, you’ll discover the perfect locations for your categories.
One of the most important considerations is making sure you buy for the space you have. In other words, a small pantry may limit your trips to Costco but will make you much happier whenever you open the doors.
9. Consider the little ones
If you have young children, take a look at your pantry from their vantage point. Then, set up a little basket just for them, maybe with their favorite cereals and snacks. Consider including a few spoons and plastic bowls. Little ones love the feeling of self-mastery that having some independence brings.
10. Quick touch-ups
Once you experience an organized pantry, there’s no going back. So it makes sense that one of the best pantry organization ideas is upkeep. A quick touch-up now and then ensures your hard work does not go wasted. A good time for a five-minute run-through is when you’re putting away your weekly groceries.
Create a pantry that makes you smile
Life gets busy. Creating an organized pantry with these pantry organization ideas makes finding what you’re looking for quick and easy. It also helps you remain mindful of what you have in stock and what to add to the grocery list. Not only do you save time, but you also save money.
“Still looking for that perfect kitchen where you’ll create culinary masterpieces and good memories? Find the perfect place in one of our available apartments for rent.“
Maintaining a spotless home is essential for your well-being and comfort, and to achieve this, you need the right cleaning gear. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top cleaning supplies and tips every young renter should have and why they are essential for maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. We broke our cleaning supplies list down by room to save you time, so scroll to a specific room if needed.
Why keeping a clean home is important
Keeping your house clean offers a multitude of physical and mental health benefits. On the physical front, a clean home reduces exposure to allergens, dust and harmful bacteria, which can help prevent respiratory issues and allergies — and not to mention, needless illness.
Regular cleaning also promotes physical activity, as tasks like vacuuming, mopping and decluttering engage your muscles and contribute to a more active lifestyle. Moreover, a tidy and organized living space minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries, such as slips and falls.
Mentally, a clean home can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. A clutter-free environment promotes mental clarity, allowing you to focus better and feel more in control of your surroundings. The act of cleaning itself can be therapeutic, providing a sense of accomplishment and order in your life. Additionally, living in a clean and organized space can boost your self-esteem and overall well-being, as it fosters a sense of pride and comfort in your home.
Essential cleaning supplies list for every room
Before we dive into room-specific cleaning essentials, let’s start with the basics that are indispensable for maintaining a clean home regardless of the room.
Cleaning gloves: A pair of durable cleaning gloves is your first line of defense against dirt and germs. They protect your hands from harsh chemicals and ensure you can tackle even the messiest cleaning tasks with confidence.
Cleaning caddy: Invest in a portable cleaning caddy or bucket to keep your cleaning supplies organized and easily accessible as you move from room to room.
Trash bags: Keep a stash of high-quality trash bags on hand. Regularly emptying the trash (think once per day) is key to maintaining a clean space.
Multi-purpose cleaner: Opt for a versatile, all-purpose cleaner that can be used on various surfaces. This will save you money and space compared to having specialized cleaners for every surface. If you want to go the natural route, we’ve provided some low-cost, DIY cleaning solution ideas below.
Kitchen cleaning essentials
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so keeping it clean is essential for both hygiene and aesthetics.
Dish soap and sponges: You’ll need these to hand wash dishes and clean countertops, sinks, and appliances.
Oven cleaner: To tackle baked-on grease and grime in your oven, a specialized oven cleaner is a must.
Refrigerator cleaner: Keep your fridge smelling fresh and bacteria-free with a dedicated refrigerator cleaner.
Dishwasher detergent: If your apartment comes with a dishwasher, make sure you have a good quality detergent to keep your dishes sparkling clean.
Bathroom cleaning supplies
The bathroom is another area that requires regular cleaning and sanitizing to prevent the buildup of mold, mildew and bacteria.
Toilet bowl cleaner and brush: A dedicated toilet bowl cleaner and brush are essential for maintaining a clean and hygienic toilet.
Tile and grout cleaner: To keep your bathroom tiles looking pristine, invest in a tile and grout cleaner.
Shower and tub cleaner: Prevent soap scum and grime buildup in the shower and bathtub with a specialized cleaner. Some of them have mold and mildew cleaning agents that keep buildup in check.
Glass cleaner: For mirrors and glass surfaces in the bathroom, a good glass cleaner is a must-have for streak-free surfaces.
Living room cleaning essentials
The living room is where you unwind and entertain guests, so make sure to keep it clean and inviting.
Furniture polish: Keep your furniture looking its best with a quality furniture polish.
Carpet cleaner: If your living room has carpeting, a carpet cleaner or stain remover is essential for tackling spills and stains.
Electronics cleaner: Safely clean your TV, computer screen and other electronics with an electronics-specific cleaning solution.
Bedroom cleaning necessities
Your bedroom is your sanctuary, so it’s important to keep it clean and comfortable.
Bed linens spray: A bed linen spray can freshen up your bedding between washes, creating a cozy sleeping environment.
Mattress protector: Protect your mattress from spills and stains with a waterproof mattress protector.
Dust cloths: Dusting regularly is essential for maintaining a clean bedroom. Microfiber dust cloths are effective at trapping dust and allergens.
Eco-friendly cleaning options
If you’re environmentally conscious, consider incorporating eco-friendly cleaning supplies into your arsenal.
Biodegradable cleaning products: Look for cleaning products that are biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Reusable cleaning cloths: Reduce waste by using washable and reusable cleaning cloths and sponges instead of disposable ones.
DIY cleaning solutions
For those on a budget, DIY cleaning solutions can be just as effective as store-bought products.
Distilled white vinegar and baking soda: These two household staples can clean and disinfect various surfaces.
Lemon juice: Lemon juice is a natural degreaser and can add a pleasant, energizing scent to your cleaning solutions.
These cleaning products keep your house clean and green
If you prefer store-bought green cleaning products, there are many options available.
Plant-based cleaners: Look for cleaning products that are made from plant-based ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals.
Certified Green products: Some cleaning products carry certifications like the Green Seal or EPA Safer Choice, indicating they meet specific environmental and safety standards.
Cleaning tools and accessories
To efficiently tackle cleaning tasks, you’ll need the right tools.
Mops and brooms: A good quality mop and broom are essential for keeping your floors clean. If you want an AI-powered version of either or both, there are now robot brooms and mops available for sparkling floors, but they’re pricey.
Microfiber cloths and sponges: Microfiber cloths are excellent at trapping dust and dirt, making them versatile cleaning tools.
Vacuum cleaners: If your apartment has carpets, invest in a vacuum cleaner that suits your space and needs. If you have more than one pet or a heavy shedder, consider a vacuum specifically geared toward eliminating pet hair concerns.
Organizing your cleaning supplies
Now that you have your cleaning supplies, it’s crucial to keep them organized for easy access.
Storage solutions
Shelving or cabinets: Consider adding shelving or a cabinet in a convenient location to store your cleaning supplies neatly.
Labels: Use labels on containers and shelves to ensure you can quickly locate the right cleaning product.
Time-saving techniques
No one has endless hours to devote to cleaning tasks. Here’s what you can do to stay on track and clean more efficiently so you can get back to what you actually enjoy at home.
But first, declutter
Before cleaning, declutter the space to make cleaning more manageable. Decluttering nearly automatically decreases mess because it’s one less item you have to clean — or an obstacle to clean around. Plus, a decluttered space is one that collects less dust.
Try a room-by-room approach
Clean one room at a time to stay focused and maximize efficiency. Some people have even suggested closing the door to the room until it’s clean to keep you from noticing things you might need to clean or tidy in surrounding areas.
Deep cleaning vs. routine cleaning
All of the products and techniques we outlined above apply to both deep cleaning and routine cleaning, but it’s important to know the difference between the two.
Routine cleaning for a healthy home
Regularly scheduled cleaning tasks are considered preventative because they help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Setting aside just 10-15 minutes per day to take care of routine cleaning tasks, like washing dishes, vacuuming, tidying or cleaning kitchen counters eliminates the need for a deep clean later. If it helps keep you on track, stick to one area at a time: Committing to clearing one counter will save minutes and hours later.
Deep cleaning for a spotless home
Not everything can be taken care of by the spot cleaning we mentioned above. Whether you’ve let cleaning tasks pile up for a while or you just want a total cleaning reset on your home, deep cleaning might be your best bet. Set aside time for deep cleaning sessions to tackle more thorough tasks like cleaning the oven or scrubbing tile grout.
Basic cleaning supplies checklist
To recap, here are all the house cleaning supplies and organization tools mentioned in this article, listed for your convenience. Next time you’re headed to the store, make sure you have all the supplies we discussed here.
What you need:
Cleaning gloves
Cleaning caddy or bucket
Trash bags
Multi-purpose cleaner
Dish soap and sponges
Oven cleaner
Refrigerator cleaner
Dishwasher detergent
Toilet bowl cleaner and brush
Tile and grout cleaner
Shower and tub cleaner
Glass cleaner
Furniture polish
Carpet cleaner
Electronics cleaner
Bed linens spray
Mattress protector
Dust cloths
Reusable cleaning cloths
Vinegar and baking soda
Lemon juice
Plant-based cleaners
Certified Green products
Mops and brooms
Microfiber cloths and sponges
Vacuum cleaners
Start your pre-spring clean today!
In conclusion, having the right cleaning solutions and supplies is essential for keeping your apartment clean and comfortable as a young renter. By investing in these essential cleaning supplies and following a cleaning schedule, you can maintain a spotless home that you’ll be proud to call your own. Whether you prefer eco-friendly options, DIY solutions or traditional cleaning products, there are plenty of choices on our cleaning supplies list above to suit your cleaning needs.
Home is where the cleaning happens, after all. Still looking for a place to call your own? Browse our available apartments for rent today.
Are you looking for the best side jobs for teachers? Teaching is a great career choice and teachers are very much needed in the world. Unfortunately, though, it is not the highest-paying job that exists. Due to that, you may be looking to find ways to make extra money as a teacher. Side hustles for…
Are you looking for the best side jobs for teachers?
Teaching is a great career choice and teachers are very much needed in the world. Unfortunately, though, it is not the highest-paying job that exists. Due to that, you may be looking to find ways to make extra money as a teacher.
Side hustles for teachers are great because they can help you make extra income, pay off debt, save for a vacation, and more.
Teachers have many useful skills, which make them a great fit for many different side hustles alongside their main teaching job.
Quick Summary on Side Jobs For Teachers:
Online tutoring and selling lesson plans are popular side jobs for teachers that use their existing skills
Selling crafts, selling printables, or teaching online courses can be a nice creative outlet
Short-term and seasonal side gigs like coaching sports or teaching summer school may be better for your schedule than year-round gigs
Best Side Jobs For Teachers
There are 36 side jobs for teachers listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Below are 36 side hustles for teachers.
1. Sell educational printables
Selling educational printables can be a great way for teachers to make extra income and it is great for anyone who wants to learn how to make passive income as a teacher.
An educational printable is a teaching resource, either digital or physical, that educators create to help with learning.
Other teachers buy these for their classes and so do parents.
Educational printables are things like math problems, vocabulary cards, and science experiments. They work for different grades and learning goals, making it an easy way to add to regular teaching or homeschooling. You can share these resources online or print them for in-person classes, making them a helpful tool for improving education.You can learn more at How I Make $400,000 Per Year Selling Educational Printables.
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. Tutor online or in person
Tutoring services or helping kids get ready for standardized tests either online or in person can be a great side hustle for teachers.
This option can be a natural fit, as you can use your teaching skills to tutor students.
To start, check out different online tutoring websites like Tutor.com or you can also do in-person tutoring sessions. For in-person tutoring sessions, you can contact local tutoring companies or promote your services on social media or in local Facebook parent groups for your area.
3. Sell your lesson plans
As a teacher, you already make lesson plans for your classes. You can actually sell your lesson plans, earn extra money, and help other teachers.
The most popular platform for this kind of side job is Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT). Here, you can upload your lesson plans, activities, assessments, and other educational resources. Each time someone purchases one of your items, you’ll earn some income.
Lesson plans need to be well-organized, easy to understand, and tailored to specific grade levels and subjects (such as fifth grade math). You should include clear objectives and step-by-step instructions to make your lesson plans more appealing to potential buyers.
4. Coach a school sport or other after-school program
Coaching a school sport is something that you can do within your own school district as many schools are in need of help with their sports teams.
Some sports and after-school programs that can be a teacher’s side hustle include soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track-and-field, as well as clubs such as yearbook, chess, choir, and more.
5. Start a dog bakery
Starting a dog bakery can be a fun side job for teachers who love both dogs and baking.
You can make an extra $500 to $1,000, or even more, each month by making treats for dogs. You can make dog treats like cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more.
You can learn more at How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
6. Sell crafts on Etsy
Selling crafts on Etsy can be a great way to make extra money by being creative.
Etsy is a website where people from all over can buy and sell handmade and digital products.
Some ideas for products you can create and sell on Etsy that are teaching-related include:
Classroom decor items
Educational games and activities
Customized planner pages and stickers
Flashcards and study materials
Of course, you can create things that aren’t related to teaching at all, such as knitwear, jewelry, and more.
7. Sell on Teachers Pay Teachers
Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) is a site specifically for educators to buy and sell educational materials, and this is a popular teacher side hustle. If you’ve developed lesson plans, worksheets, or other teaching tools for your classroom, you can share and earn from them on TPT.
I know I talked about selling education printables and lesson plans above, but I want to talk more about Teachers Pay Teachers in its own section because it is such a popular teacher side hustle.
You can sell:
Lesson plans and unit studies
Worksheets and printable activities
PowerPoint presentations and interactive notebooks
Posters, charts, and visual aids
For example, I looked on Teachers Pay Teachers and searched for third grade lesson plans. There, I found over 49,000 results such as math lesson plans about rounding, substitute teacher plans for third graders, reading comprehension lesson plans, and more. Here’s an example of one that you can look at.
The average teacher on Teachers Pay Teachers can make around $300 to $500 extra, but there are some teachers that make hundreds of thousands of dollars extra each year.
8. Babysit
As a teacher, you may find that babysitting is an easy side job to pick up, and, depending on where you live, you may be able to earn around $15 to $25 an hour. Parents love hiring teachers as babysitters because they have so much experience with children.
While babysitting, you’ll find that your existing skills from teaching make a difference in providing the best care possible.
9. Teach English as a second language online
Teaching English as a second language (ESL) online is a popular side job for teachers. As an online ESL teacher, you can help students learn English and work from home.
Most jobs require you to be a fluent English speaker with a bachelor’s degree.
10. Teach summer school
One of the obvious ways for teachers to make extra money in the summer is to teach summer school.
It’s a great way to make use of your teaching skills while earning extra income. Plus, summer school takes place during summer break, so it should fit well with your schedule of already being off from school.
11. Summer camp counselor
Another great option during the summer months is to become a summer camp counselor.
As a counselor, you’ll supervise children in activities such as sports, arts, and crafts. Camps are always looking for instructors with teaching experience, making this a good side job for educators.
12. Grade papers
Grading papers as a side job may appeal to you if you’re looking for a more flexible, at-home option.
Companies such as Measurement Inc. hire teachers to grade student work, such as essays and test answers.
They are hiring evaluators to score in the subjects of English, mathematics, science, and more and pay starts at $15 per hour.
13. Work at a restaurant
If you’re looking for something completely different from teaching, you could take a part-time job at a restaurant.
Working in restaurants can be a good fit for teachers because they often offer flexible hours that can align with your teaching schedule. You can choose jobs like being a server, host, and more.
14. Proofread
As a teacher, you are probably already a great proofreader and are able to spot mistakes easily. With these skills, proofreading can be a great side job. By proofreading, you can help authors, website owners, students, and more improve their writing while earning some extra income.
Even the most skilled writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be very helpful for pretty much anyone and everyone.
If you want to find online proofreading jobs, I recommend watching this free 76-minute workshop all about how to get started proofreading.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
15. Blog
Blogging can be a fun way for you, as a teacher, to make extra money from home. Many blogs are run by teachers, and I completely get why – you can blog in your spare time and you don’t have to stick to any formal schedule.
To start your own blog, first, choose a topic that you’re interested in writing about, maybe something related to your teaching field or a hobby you enjoy.
You can make money from your blog in ways such as:
Affiliate marketing – Share links to products or services related to the topic you are writing about, and earn a commission for sales generated from your referral links.
Advertising – Include display ads or sponsored posts on your blog.
Courses and ebooks – You can create courses or ebooks related to your area of expertise, and sell them through your blog.
Since I began Making Sense of Cents, I’ve made more than $5,000,000 from my blog, and it all started as a side job.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
Similar to blogging, a teacher could also start a YouTube channel, a TikTok, and more.
16. Freelance write
If you are looking for side jobs for teachers from home, then becoming a freelance writer can be a great choice.
Freelance writers write content for blogs, websites, magazines, newspapers, advertising companies, and so much more.
You can find different writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, or even find clients on your own, such as by reaching out to websites that you are interested in writing for.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!)
17. Transcribe
An online transcriptionist’s job is to listen to video or audio files and then type out everything that they are hearing. There are many different types of transcriptionists, such as legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job requires strong typing and listening skills, and you can work from home on your own schedule.
Transcriptionists earn around $15 to $30 per hour on average.
I recommend watching FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
18. Flip used items for resale
Flea market flippers find underpriced items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores, then resell them for a profit. This job requires a good eye for finding valuable items that you believe can be sold for a higher price.
As a teacher, you could find and sell items in the evening, on the weekends, over holiday breaks, and in the summer. You get to make your own schedule, and it can be however many or few hours as you want.
Some items that you can resell include:
Vintage furniture
Collectibles, such as toys, coins, stamps, books, and more
Sporting equipment
Clothing
Electronics
I recommend signing up for a helpful webinar on this topic, How To Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business.
19. Bookkeep
Bookkeepers are people who keep track of all the money-related things for businesses. Bookkeepers do tasks like:
Tracking income
Organizing expenses
Making financial reports
This is typically a flexible job that you can do from home on your own time.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
20. Sell Canva templates
Creating and selling Canva templates online allows you to work from home in your free time.
A Canva template is like a pre-designed layout that you can use for creating things like social media graphics, Pinterest pins, ebooks, or presentations. It is a helpful starting point if you’re not very skilled at designing from scratch. Business owners, marketing professionals, nonprofit organizations, educators, event planners, restaurants, and more buy templates all the time.
Canva templates come with blank spaces where buyers can add their own words or pictures, adjust colors and fonts, and more. They’re useful for people who want their graphics to look high quality without spending a lot of time in the process (or perhaps they don’t know how to do it so templates help them a lot!).
Making and selling Canva templates can be a great way to earn extra money as you only need to create them once, and then you can sell them as many times as you’d like.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
21. Rover (walk and watch pets)
Rover is a website that links pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can do this job on the weekends throughout the year, or simply only open up your schedule during the summer months. It is up to you.
Getting started is easy on Rover – you set up a profile that talks about your experience with pets and the services you can provide, like dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
Then, you will receive requests from customers and talk about pricing. Rover takes care of processing payments, and you’ll receive payments directly into your account.
You can sign up for Rover here.
22. Care.com
Another platform for finding pet and house sitting side jobs is Care.com. Care.com is not limited to pet care and includes other caregiving services, such as childcare and senior care.
You can browse available jobs in your area and apply to those that match your skills and interests. Care.com also allows clients to contact you directly for your services after you’ve created a profile. Once a job is completed, you’ll receive payment through the site.
23. Be a virtual assistant
A virtual assistant provides administrative, technical, or creative support to clients from home.
Some of the tasks you might do as a virtual assistant include managing schedules, responding to emails, making travel arrangements, handling social media accounts, and even writing articles or creating presentations.
If you want to become a virtual assistant, I recommend taking the free workshop called 5 Steps To Become a Virtual Assistant.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
24. Be a food photographer
Food photography can be a fun and creative way to earn extra income during your free time. Food photographers do just that – take pictures of food.
Whether you’re working directly for restaurants, magazines, or on a freelance basis, this job allows you to use your skills and interests to create beautiful images.
You can learn more at How To Become a Food Blog Photographer And Earn Over $50,000 Each Year.
25. House sit
As a teacher, you might be looking for ways to make some extra money during breaks or weekends. One option to consider is house sitting, and this is when you watch someone’s home (such as watering their plants and collecting mail) and sometimes take care of pets while their owners are away. People also hire house sitters so that their homes aren’t sitting empty because a visible presence can deter potential thefts.
To get started in house sitting, you can join house-sitting websites to find opportunities in your area, or ask friends and family for referrals (you might want to start by house sitting for people you know and then ask for references that you can use to broaden your job search).
26. Rent out an unused room in your home
If you have a room in your home that you are not using, then you may be able to rent it to someone on either a short-term (such as by becoming an Airbnb host) or long-term basis (getting a full-time roommate).
I have rented out rooms many times in the past, and it was a great way to make some extra income for space that I wasn’t using.
You can learn more at What You Need To Know About Renting A Room In Your House.
27. Rent your garage space
If you have empty storage space, such as a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic, you may be able to rent it out and make extra money. This can be a lucrative side hustle where you don’t have to use up much of your spare time.
You can use Neighbor to list your extra space for rent and make up to $15,000 per year by doing so. With Neighbor, you can rent out your garage, driveway, basement, or even a closet.
You can sign up at Neighbor for free here and list your space.
You can also learn more about Neighbor at Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space.
28. Rent out a photo booth
Renting a photo booth can be a fun side job for teachers.
To get started, you will need to buy a photo booth as well as things like backdrops and props for people to hold in the picture (such as hats, signs, fun things to hold, etc.).
On average, photo booth rentals can range from $500 to $1,000 per event, and in some cases, even more for specialized events or packages with additional features.
I have personally rented a photo booth for an event in the past, and it was a lot of fun!
29. Online surveys and focus groups
Taking online surveys and answering questions for focus groups is very part-time and can be a way to side hustle for teachers.
You share your thoughts plus answer questions and can earn cash or free gift cards.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for are:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Pinecone Research
PrizeRebel
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
30. Voice over act
A voice-over actor is the person whose voice you hear but don’t see in YouTube videos, radio ads, educational videos, and more.
Different companies need a wide variety of voices, and that’s where you come in.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor And Work From Anywhere
31. Mystery shop
I was a secret shopper in the past, and there were often mystery shops that gave me $100 to put toward a free dinner. I always looked forward to these, as I was living paycheck to paycheck, and I used these restaurant mystery shops to reward myself every now and then.
There were other mystery shops that paid me actual money, and some paid me in free items, such as makeup, movie theater tickets, and car oil changes.
Companies hire mystery shoppers to get an understanding of their customer’s experience. Companies want to know a real product opinion, how the customer felt they were treated at their business, how phone calls were handled, and more.
Basically, mystery shopping is a way to anonymously test the entire shopping experience.
You can learn more at How To Become A Mystery Shopper.
32. Fitness trainer
Fitness trainers help people reach their health goals through customized exercise plans and nutrition advice. This is typically a job where you can choose your schedule, so you can choose to work hours outside of your teaching job, such as in the evenings and on the weekends.
I actually know a few teachers who are fitness trainers on the side, so it must be a good fit!
Another positive is that you can even choose between in-person and online coaching. Online coaching can mean that you can work remotely, making it a more flexible side job for teachers looking to earn extra income.
33. Find random gigs on Craigslist
As a teacher looking for side jobs, you can look for random gigs on Craigslist to earn some extra income. To begin your search, simply go to the Craigslist website and select your city from the home page.
Here are some jobs I found through a quick search:
Cleaning a house
Help assembling furniture
Taking down a shed in a backyard
Garage cleanup
Mover
Handyman
Movie extra
Sign holder
You can even post your own services on Craigslist if you have a skill you’d like to share with others, such as giving music lessons or tutoring.
34. Deliver groceries with Instacart
Grocery delivery services are popular because there are more and more people who want someone to do their grocery shopping for them.
Services like Instacart need personal grocery shoppers, and the average shopper makes $15 to $20 an hour to deliver groceries. Drivers are paid per order, and you get to keep 100% of your tips. You also get to choose your schedule, so a teacher could choose to work in the evenings or on weekends. Or, you could choose to only deliver groceries during the summer.
You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.
You can also learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
There are many other gig ideas that you can try out too, such as Uber Eats and DoorDash.
35. Real estate agent
Some teachers are real estate agents on the side of their full-time job as a teacher. This is because you can list and sell homes on your weekends, during breaks, at night, and over the summer.
Selling homes can be more difficult, though, as your clients may want your full attention during the day occasionally and you would be busy teaching, so this is something to think about.
36. Driver’s ed teacher
A common side hustle for teachers is teaching driving lessons to teenagers and adults. As a teacher, you may be able to check if the high school near you is in need of a teacher for this subject. Or, you can reach out to a local driving school to see if they are hiring.
Driving instructors make around $20 an hour more or less, depending on where you live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about side hustles for teachers.
How can I make money on the side while teaching?
Some good side jobs for teachers include tutoring, freelancing, transcribing, blogging, selling lesson plans, and more.
What can teachers do to make extra money?
Teachers can do a lot of things to make extra money, such as jobs like tutoring, freelance writing, blogging, or creating educational printables.
What is a second career for teachers?
Second careers for teachers can include jobs such as educational consultants, curriculum developers, or even working in corporate training and development.
Do most teachers have 2 jobs?
Many teachers have two jobs. This is for many reasons, such as the typically low pay of a teacher as well as teachers wanting to make money while they are off in the summer.
How to make extra money on Teachers Pay Teachers?
Teachers can make extra money on Teachers Pay Teachers by selling lesson plans and printables.
How can teachers make money in the summer?
Teachers can make money when they’re off in the summer by teaching summer school, helping students with test prep, babysitting, selling lesson plans, working at a restaurant, working as a real estate agent, and more.
What to do after quitting teaching? How do you pivot out of teaching?
Quitting teaching and moving on to something else will take a few steps, and you can begin by thinking about your skills and interests. Then, start exploring different job options and connect with people in the field you’re interested in, attend industry events, and consider getting any certifications that you may need.
How can teachers earn extra income through online tutoring?
Sites like Tutor.com look for teachers to tutor students remotely, and you can even offer your services through social media.
How can a teacher make six figures by utilizing their skills?
While it’s not always easy for teachers to earn a six-figure salary, it is possible if you find ways to make extra income or by starting a business of your own.
What opportunities do music educators have for side income?
Side income ideas for music educators can include jobs like giving private music lessons or working as a weekend or evening instructor at a music school. Music educators can also sell lesson plans (I found some examples on Teachers Pay Teachers here).
What are some good side jobs for teachers?
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best side jobs for teachers.
Whether you are looking for side jobs for teachers from home, side jobs for teachers in the summer, or if you want to learn how to make passive income as a teacher, there are many ways to make extra money as a teacher.
Some of the best side hustles for teachers include:
Sell educational printables
Tutor online or in person
Sell your lesson plans
Coach a school sport
Start a dog treat bakery
Sell crafts on Etsy
Sell on Teachers Pay Teachers
Babysit
Teach English as a second language online
Teach summer school
Summer camp counselor
Grade papers
Work at a restaurant
Proofread
Blog
Freelance write
Transcribe
Flip used items for resale
Bookkeep
Sell Canva templates
Rover (walk and watch pets)
Virtual assistant
Food photographer
House sit
Rent out an unused room in your home
Rent your garage space
Rent a photo booth
Online surveys and focus groups
Voice over act
Mystery shop
Fitness trainer
Find random gigs on Craigslist
Deliver groceries
Real estate agent
Driver’s ed instructor
What do you think are the best ways for teachers to make extra money?
Regardless of how you celebrate, the right credit card can help you hold on to more of your cash this holiday season.
Chase Freedom Flex℠
Wholesale clubs.
Select charities.
Discover it® Cash Back and select Discover cards
Amazon.com.
Target (in store and online).
Both cards earn 1% back on all other non-bonus-category spending. You must activate the 5% categories to be eligible for bonus rewards.
Chase cardholders can activate bonus categories online or in the Chase app by Dec. 14, 2023, and bonus rewards can be earned retroactively. For eligible Discover cards, bonus rewards can be earned starting from the date cash-back categories are activated online.
Here are some tips to maximize your bonus categories this quarter:
Overall tip: Set your default payment method
Whether you’re earning cash back with Chase or Discover, you’ll want to set your card as the default payment method for each eligible bonus category. This will ensure you don’t miss out on bonus rewards when you pay.
PayPal is widely accepted by online merchants, and even by some brick-and-mortar stores. Regardless of where you use it, add the Chase Freedom Flex℠ to your PayPal account and set it as your primary payment method, if you haven’t already.
Shopping on Amazon or Target.com? Set your Discover it® Cash Back or other eligible Discover card as the default card in those accounts.
Optimizing the Chase Freedom Flex℠
Use PayPal, both in-store and online
Most people associate PayPal with online shopping — but did you know you can also use PayPal to checkout in-store at some major retailers like Best Buy and Walmart, and even for in-flight purchases with United Airlines? According to PayPal, the payment platform is now accepted at millions of small and large merchant locations globally. That huge acceptance footprint should make it even easier to maximize your rewards this holiday season. Just be sure to set your Chase Freedom Flex℠ as the preferred payment card in your PayPal app so you don’t miss out on that bonus cash back.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Rewards won’t “stack” if you make one transaction across multiple bonus categories. For example, if you make a qualifying charitable contribution through PayPal, you’ll only be eligible to earn up to 5% cash back on that transaction.
Buy in bulk at wholesale clubs
From cleaning supplies to bulk food items and beyond, wholesale clubs like Sam’s Club and BJ’s offer a great way to stock up on supplies you’ll use well after the holiday season. With some thoughtful spending, you can lock in that bonus cash back for items you won’t use until 2024. Just be aware of exclusions: You won’t earn bonus cash back on gas or other in-club services like cell phone plans, insurance or travel packages.
Another major caveat: Costco stores don’t accept Mastercard, meaning you can’t use the Chase Freedom Flex℠ (which runs on the Mastercard payment network) for in-club purchases. However, you can still earn bonus cash back by using your card through the Costco website. This works even for purchases you make online but pick up at your local store.
Make a charitable donation
The holidays are a perfect time to give back. If your personal budget allows for charitable giving, you can earn bonus cash back for using your Chase Freedom Flex℠ to make a donation to select charities (see below for a complete list). Be sure to account for any transaction fees you may incur for using a card before making the donation. If the fee is greater than the rewards you’ll earn, you’d be better off writing a check. Depending on your tax situation, donations to a qualifying charity may be tax-deductible, leading to additional savings.
List of eligible charities
American Red Cross.
Equal Justice Initiatives.
Feeding America.
Habitat for Humanity.
International Medical Corps.
International Rescue Committee.
Leadership Conference Education Fund.
NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
National Urban League.
Thurgood Marshall College Fund.
United Negro College Fund.
UNICEF USA.
United Way.
World Central Kitchen.
Out and Equal.
Chase Freedom® and Chase Freedom Flex℠ bonus rewards categories for 2023
Q1 (Jan. 1-March 31)
Grocery stores.
Fitness clubs and gym memberships.
Q2 (April 1-June 30)
Amazon.com.
Q3 (July 1-Sept. 30)
Gas stations and electric vehicle charging.
Select live entertainment.
Q4 (Oct. 1-Dec. 31)
Wholesale clubs.
Select charities.
Optimizing the Discover it® Cash Back
Earn cash back from your couch
In today’s busy world, Amazon has become synonymous with convenience. From electronics to pet food, you can shop from your couch for almost anything at the world’s largest retailer. And through the last quarter of 2023, paying with an eligible Discover card can earn you bonus cash back.
Qualifying purchases include those made on Amazon.com and through the Amazon app, including digital downloads, Amazon Fresh orders, Amazon Local Deals, Amazon Prime subscriptions and items sold through third-party merchants.
If you don’t need to make an immediate purchase, reload your Amazon gift card balance and grab that bonus cash back for a future purchase. Amazon also sells a selection of third-party gift cards. If you’re making a purchase at another retailer, first see whether Amazon sells a gift card to that retailer. You could earn bonus cash back on the gift card purchase, then use the gift card with the other merchant.
Target bonus cash back
Jeans? Groceries? A new flat-screen TV? Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a good chance Target sells it. And for the fourth quarter of 2023, purchases made in Target stores, at Target.com and on the Target app all qualify for bonus cash back with your eligible Discover card. If you’re shopping online or in the app, be sure to make your eligible Discover card the default payment method.
Gift cards make for a perfect stocking stuffer, and Target stores carry an extensive selection of third-party gift cards. Just head to the gift card rack and get rewarded for rewarding your friends, loved ones or colleagues.
Discover bonus rewards categories for 2023
Q1 (Jan. 1–March 31)
Grocery stores.*
Drugstores.
Select streaming services.
Q2 (April 1–June 30)
Restaurants.
Wholesale clubs.
Q3 (July 1–Sept. 30)
Gas stations.
Digital wallets.
Q4 (Oct. 1–Dec. 31)
Amazon.com.
Target, including Target.com and the Target app.
*The grocery stores category does not include grocery purchases at Walmart or Target or at other superstores or wholesale clubs.
Identity theft is a major problem. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there were more than 650,000 victims of identity theft in 2019, making ID theft the most-reported type of FTC complaint. Chances are good that you will encounter identity theft in your lifetime. That was the case for at least 1 in 10 Americans ages 16 and older in 2016, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
Protecting your identity and privacy should be a priority for you, and knowing what identity theft is can help you prepare. There are many different types of ID theft, which can make safeguarding your personal information even more important—and more difficult. Let’s look at some of the most common examples of identity theft and what you can do to manage the risks.
Defining Identity Theft
The term “identity theft” is used a lot, often interchangeably with “fraud.” Though many instances of identity theft are committed for fraudulent reasons, the two are slightly different. If you are a victim of identity theft, you want to catch it before it becomes fraud.
According to the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC), identity theft is “the knowing transfer or use, without lawful authority, of another person’s identity with the intent to commit, aid, or abet unlawful activity.” In simpler terms, ID theft is the act of stealing another person’s information, like through mail theft, phishing, card skimming, unsecure Wi-Fi or a data breach. Fraud is when a criminal illegally uses that information for their own gain.
The NCVC calls the latter “identity fraud,” which encompasses crimes like credit card fraud, medical fraud, and Social Security number theft. Identity fraud can be financially driven, but is also committed out of other motivations. Someone might try to steal your passport or driver’s license information to travel unnoticed by law enforcement, for example.
I just watched a documentary on the dark web, and I will never feel safe using my credit card again!
Luckily I don’t have to worry about that. I have ExtraCredit, so I get $1,000,000 ID protection and dark web scans.
I need that peace of mind in my life. What else do you get with ExtraCredit?
It’s basically everything my credit needs. I get 28 FICO® scores, rent and utility reporting, cash rewards and even a discount to one of the leaders in credit repair.
It’s settled; I’m getting ExtraCredit tonight. Totally unrelated, but any suggestions for my new fear of sharks? I watched that documentary too.
…we live in Oklahoma.
Whether an ID thief uses your credit card or medical insurance, the cost to you can be big. Javelin Research found that the 2018 out-of-pocket costs for victims of identity theft were $1.7 billion.
Different Types of Identity Fraud
As a popular saying goes, “Know your enemy.” Let’s take a closer look at identity fraud types and preventative measures you can take to prepare yourself and protect your finances.
1. Credit Cards
Credit card fraud is by far the most prevalent type of identity theft, according to FTC numbers.
You probably store your credit card information with different vendors or subscription services. If you used your card once at a retail store, they’ll still have your information on file. If a data breach occurs at one of those businesses, someone may gain access to your credit card number and begin to make fraudulent purchases.
While it may be easier to catch a fraudulent charge on a card you have, it could be harder to spot a new account in your name. In the meantime, hard inquiries and high credit utilization due to fraud could wreck your credit score.
What you can do: Requesting a chargeback might help you avoid paying for specific fraudulent transactions, but checking your credit report will show you if the problem is deeper. Sign up for ExtraCredit to keep an eye on your credit report and scores at the same time to make sure that fraudulent accounts aren’t being opened or used. You can also request your free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once a year to keep close control over your identity and credit profile. If you notice anything fishy, request a freeze immediately and file a report with the FTC.
Note: Due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, you can currently review your credit reports from each of the three credit bureaus for free each week, through April 2022.
2. Loans and Leases
Somebody with your personal information might try to apply for a loan online. Fraudsters may then be able to get financing to buy a car or real estate. The FTC has also reported fraud instances related to student loans and payday loans.
Loan application fraud is a challenge to track, but the impact is someone racking up debt in your name. When creditors come calling, it won’t be the thief who has to answer the phone.
What you can do: As with credit card fraud, regularly check your credit reports to watch for red flags. If you spot something, immediately contact the responsible financial institution. You may also want to file a police report or contact the office of the attorney general for your state. If you are the victim of loan/lease fraud, consider using credit repair services to help you recover.
3. Phones and Utilities
Mobile takeover fraud is a complicated scheme, but it’s a growing problem. Basically, it involves a fraudster using your information to access your smartphone and then lock you out. In the meantime, they can use your apps, read saved documents, or scam others by impersonating you. They might also harvest your personal and financial information that you have saved. The same might happen for an electricity or water account: A criminal finds a way in and consumes services that are ultimately billed to you.
The common theme with identity theft here is that if someone has your info, they can do just about anything with it. This includes opening up utility accounts in your name, getting free electricity, gas, water, internet or cable.
What you can do: Maintain strong passwords for all the accounts you have. If you need to, use a password manager to help you keep track of all the complex log-in credentials. Never, ever make your passwords using personally identifiable information, like a pet, birthdate, or home street. Should something happen, immediately contact your service provider.
4. Tax Fraud
Come tax time, a refund is a happy surprise for some Americans. Others may get a nasty shock when they’ve learned someone has claimed their return before they even file their taxes. Tax fraud typically occurs when someone has stolen your Social Security number, which they can then manipulate to falsely file a return and claim your refund.
What you can do: Under no circumstances should you give your SSN to anybody but trusted entities like the government, your bank, or your credit card company. Be wary of scammers posing as the IRS who will call or email you demanding your SSN information. This is a surefire sign of fraud. You can also opt to file your taxes early, thereby eliminating the opportunity for thieves to file for you and claim your return.
The IRS recommends watching out for various scams. If you believe you’ve been a victim, file a report on IdentityTheft.gov, call the IRS at 1-800-908-4490, and complete and submit the identity theft Affidavit.
Taking the Next Steps to Protect Your Identity
Identity theft is a constant threat, so you’ll always need to be on your toes.
Guard It from ExtraCredit provides you with proactive alerts, dark web monitoring, account monitoring, and $1 million in ID theft insurance. Sign up today or read more articles about identity theft and fraud.
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Summer has officially ended, and with it comes some of the best end-of-season sales on home decor. If you want to cozy up your space for the fall season, it’s a great time to shop for rugs.
That”s because right now you can find washable rugs for less. The the Boutique Rugs End of Summer Sale and get an additional 20% off at checkout with promo code SUMMER20.
best rugs in different patterns, sizes, and shapes, so you can easily find the best option for your space.
The Best Washable Rugs on Sale at Boutique Rugs
Bozkurt Distressed Washable Rug
Was $189-$729, now $87-$339 at Boutique Rugs If you have a bohemian or cottagecore style space, this gorgeous Bozkurt Distressed Washable Rug is a must. It’s low pile, machine washable, and comes in several sizes in both a rectangle area rug and a runner style, too. I love that it adds a subtle pop of color to the home while still feeling neutral enough to go with everything.
Cream Holi-2301 Washable Area Rug
Was $123-$968, now $69-$439 at Boutique Rugs This Cream Holi-2301 Washable Area Rug boasts a nice, neutral pattern in a beautiful distressed finish. It comes in a rectangle shape in five different sizes as well as a runner style in four sizes, is no pile, and is – of course – machine washable. Since the rug is no pile and so neutral, it would be a great top piece for a layered rug look.
Judy Solid White Washable Rug
Was $85-$631, now $39-$298 at Boutique Rugs As far as cleanup is concerned, all-white rugs are a tad terrifying. However, with a washable rug, you don’t have to worry about mess as much. This Judy Solid White Washable Rug features a high pile texture, a non slip backing, and is machine washable. Plus, it comes in several sizes in both rectangle and runner shapes. And, if white isn’t for you, the rug is also available in four additional colors, including brown, pink, dark gray, and light gray.
Moora Washable Area Rug
Was $89-$596, now $43-$329 at Boutique Rugs If you love the look of a traditional rug but want something a little easier to care for, consider this washable option from Boutique Rugs. Moora Washable Area Rug is pet-friendly, machine-washable, and comes in both a rectangle and runner style in several sizes. I love that it has a subtle mix of colors that allow you to pull in accent pieces to tie everything together.
Askeaton Washable Area Rug
Was $157-$657, now $73-$299 at Boutique Rugs The Askeaton Washable Area Rug is another top pick for the best washable rugs on sale as it features a chic pattern that adds some nice texture to a space and comes in rectangle, round, and runner shapes, giving you lots of variety. The machine washable rug also boasts a low pile texture and ships within 24 hours so it’s a great option if you need something fast.
Kuval Checkered Brown Rug
Was $85-$1,065, now $39-$489 at Boutique Rugs For an outdoor washable rug option, consider the Kuval Checkered Brown Rug. This indoor/outdoor rug is made from a polypropylene material and, while it’s not machine washable, it’s easy to hose down and keep clean when dust, dirt, and food spills come into play. The rug is available in rectangle and round shapes in several sizes and features a trendy checkered pattern that adds some nice print without feeling too busy, too.
Rugs are un utterly underrated part of your interior decor. A rug can make or break a space, either adding a little texture and interest and elevating a room or completely derailing a color scheme and mood. They can be a comfortable, soft base for a coffee table or a scratchy scrap of fabric detracting from the rest of your style. That’s why we put so much effort into covering the best rugs for every space. We’ve also covered the best outdoor rugs, because these have very different materials and needs than indoor rugs. If none of our choices work for you, we’ve also covered all of the best places to buy rugs so that you can shop around for yourself.
After you’ve debated the pros and cons of living with someone and decided to have a roommate, the next challenge is figuring out how to find one. If you don’t already have a potential roommate in mind, you’ll need to start looking for one, which is its own challenge. Here are tips on how to find a roommate who will be compatible with your lifestyle.
Ask around
You can ask your family, friends and other acquaintances if they know anyone looking for a place to live. At the very least, you can let others know you’re seeking a roommate, so they can pass along the word to their friends and family. There’s a good chance that your contacts know someone who needs a place to live.
Furthermore, you’ll have the benefit of a reference you know already. You can ask your friends and family about the potential roommates and what they think of them. If a friend says their old roommate is looking to move, you can get great insights on if the potential roommate is clean, easy to live with, etc., from your friend, rath
er than relying on unknown references provided to you by that potential roommate.
Leverage social media
This can be a farther-reaching method of asking friends and family if they know anyone looking for a place to live. You can make a post with details, such as the area you’ll be living in, how much rent will be and how many other people will be living in the apartment. Make sure that your post is shareable, then ask everyone to share your post to get the word out!
You can also do some searching on socials to see if others from your city are posting about looking for an apartment. Reach out to those individuals and let them know what your apartment and the living situation would offer!
Some social media platforms like Facebook have groups specifically for housing in certain cities or areas. You can post in these groups that you’re looking for a roommate and it will be seen by plenty of others.
Place ads and listings
There’s no shame in using platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to find a roommate. It’s easy and usually free to create a listing and it’s searchable by location, so those who are actively seeking to live in your area will quickly find your listing. Many local or state news networks will have a place for classified listings and rentals, so check to see if your city has one where you can post your apartment.
Try an app
Using apps is one of the best ways to find a roommate. There are plenty to choose from, but some of the most popular are Cirtu, Roomster, Roomi and SpareRoom. Such apps often allow for a more personalized search where you can specify what qualities you want in a roommate (quiet and keeps to themselves, extroverted and likes to socialize, clean, etc.). They also often require background checks or multi-step verification for users, so it can be safer for you to use.
You’ve found a roommate, now what?
As much as you want to find a roommate, your personal safety, credit history and even your reputation matter. So, make sure you research every potential roommate thoroughly.
1. Review references
Ask applicants for references from employers and previous landlords. Even notes from friends, clergy, professors and former roommates can help you get a sense of their character and habits.
Search each potential roommate’s social media pages to see if they’re respectful in their interactions with others and if they show good judgment in what they post publicly. If you see evidence of illegal activity, angry messages from friends or hostile, hateful, racist or sexist posts from your potential roommate, cross them off the list.
2. Check their criminal background
Search each applicant’s name and look for arrest records. Some states also have circuit court access websites available for your reference. People with common names are sometimes mixed up, so make sure you’re researching the right individual by cross-referencing details like photos and location.
If you find something questionable, you can reach out to the police department that made an arrest. They can offer clarification while still preserving privacy.
3. Do a financial check
Of all the questions to ask potential roommates, financial questions are among the most important. You’ll be paying bills with this person, so their bad credit and financial habits could affect you.
You can request a credit check from a potential roommate to make sure they have a solid payment history and ask about their job. Someone with a steady full-time job is likely more stable than someone who works sporadically or changes jobs frequently. You can ask for pay stubs as proof if you’re concerned.
Keep in mind that a potential roommate might have alternative sources of income, like alimony, savings, stipends and investments. Or, if they’re a student, they can typically get extra help via student loans or grants.
Other questions to ask potential roommates
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of candidates, it’s time to go a little deeper by discussing your personalities and habits to find the best fit.
Consider creating a rough outline of a roommate agreement and using it as a conversational guide. If you hit it off, you and your future roommate can edit it together before they move in.
1. Additional financial questions
You don’t have to be best friends to be successful roommates. But you do have to cooperate and be good financial partners.
Ask your roommate what they can spend on rent and utilities and how much they can contribute to the security deposit. Discuss how and when you’ll pay bills and what will happen if someone comes up short.
2. Chores and responsibilities
The bills aren’t the only thing you’ll be dividing — roommates need to split the chores, as well. Be honest about how often you plan to clean, which chores you’d like to handle and if you’re tidy or messy. If you’re on opposite sides of the spectrum, you could face an uphill battle.
Shopping, deep cleaning and other household management tasks like corresponding with your landlord also fall under this category. Hash out how you’ll allocate these tasks and figure out a system that will work for both of you.
3. Personalities and habits
An introvert and an extrovert can live together quite happily, as long as they establish ground rules. Figure out a communication style that works for both of you.
Little disagreements can cause big drama, so chat about seemingly insignificant things like how warm you like the apartment and what you consider a “normal” volume level before you move in. If your views on habits like drugs, alcohol and smoking don’t line up, that’s probably a deal-breaker.
4. Schedules
Get an idea of how often your potential roommate will be at home. A traveling sales rep has a very different schedule than someone who works and socializes on a laptop in their bedroom.
It’s also smart to talk about how they plan to use your joint living spaces. If they cook three-course dinners every evening, like to throw parties or plan movie marathons every weekend, find ways to make sure their activities don’t interfere with your at-home workout sessions or meditation time.
5. Personal relationships
How do you feel about friends and family members coming over or spending the night? What happens if you both want company at the same time? If they’re dating someone, discuss how often their partner will be in the apartment and expectations around what privacy will look like.
Pets are like family, so make sure you know the details about your potential roommate’s pets. Discuss how they’ll share the space with yours and brainstorm how you might split pet-related chores. If one of you is allergic to animals — or if pets aren’t allowed in the building — move on.
The best way to find a roommate
Once you’ve done your homework, it’s time to make your future roommate an offer. Eliminate anyone who gave you a bad feeling or people with whom you just didn’t click. Basic respect and good communication are the building blocks of a solid roommate partnership.
Figuring out how to find a roommate can be challenging. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Ask smart questions, leverage your personal networks and use tools available to help you find someone with similar goals who will be a good fit.
When you buy a pet insurance plan, coverage doesn’t begin immediately. Instead, a waiting period applies before you can make any claims. Pet insurance companies set their own waiting periods, so they’re not the same across the board.
In rare cases, you may be able to get pet insurance with no waiting period, but it still won’t be instant. You’ll have to wait a few days while the company reviews your pet’s medical records and makes a decision.
What are pet insurance waiting periods?
A pet insurance waiting period is the time between when you buy a policy and when coverage begins. If your pet needs to visit the vet during the waiting period, you’ll have to pay for those expenses out of pocket.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Waiting periods generally apply to new policies or those reinstated after a lapse in coverage. If you renew your policy continuously, you usually won’t have to go through another waiting period.
Do any pet insurance companies have no waiting periods?
Most pet insurance companies have waiting periods, but the best ones don’t make you wait long. For example, MetLife’s accident coverage begins immediately, and illness coverage starts after 14 days.
One of the only pet insurance companies without a waiting period is Companion Protect. But you’re eligible only if you adopt a pet from one of its partner shelters, and coverage isn’t instant. There’s usually a delay between sign-up and policy activation while the company reviews your pet’s medical records. Also, a vet visit may be required if your pet hasn’t had one in the past 12 months. This delay acts as an unofficial waiting period.
How long do waiting periods last?
Pet insurance waiting periods may vary depending on where you live and the plan you choose. Below are typical waiting periods for some of the best pet insurance companies.
Can you get pet insurance retroactively?
You can’t buy pet insurance retroactively. If your pet shows signs of an illness or injury before you buy the policy or during the waiting period, it’s considered a pre-existing condition and typically won’t be covered.
🤓Nerdy Tip
If your pet insurance policy lapses, anything your pet has been diagnosed with up until that point can be considered a pre-existing condition and be excluded from coverage. Keep your policy active by paying your premiums on time and renewing before the expiration date.
Types of waiting periods
Pet insurance policies often have different waiting periods for different types of coverage. Here are some common waiting periods.
Accident waiting periods
Accident waiting periods typically last one to 14 days. They apply to accidental injuries like broken bones, fractured teeth, swallowed objects or bites from other animals.
Illness waiting periods
Illness waiting periods tend to be longer than accident waiting periods and can last from 14 to 30 days. They apply to illnesses like cancer, stomach issues, ear infections, heart conditions or allergies.
Waiting periods for orthopedic conditions
Some pet insurance plans have separate waiting periods for orthopedic conditions like hip dysplasia, patella luxation or ligament injuries. These waiting periods sometimes apply to dogs only and can be from 14 days to six months or longer.
For example, Embrace pet insurance coverage for orthopedic conditions in dogs begins after six months, but you can reduce it to 14 days by having your vet do an orthopedic exam. Healthy Paws’ hip dysplasia coverage begins after a 12-month waiting period and is available only to pets enrolled before age six.
Waiting periods for pre-existing conditions
There are two common types of pre-existing conditions: curable and incurable. Most pet insurance companies will cover curable pre-existing conditions that have been symptom-free for at least 180 days to 12 months.
Curable pre-existing conditions are temporary health issues that were treated and resolved before you bought insurance. They can include things like respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, vomiting and diarrhea.
Most pet insurance companies won’t cover incurable pre-existing conditions, but AKC is one exception. Once you’ve had your policy for 365 days, AKC may cover pre-existing conditions other companies may consider incurable, like allergies and chronic ear infections. (This coverage isn’t available in all states.)
Wellness plan waiting periods
Some pet insurance companies offer optional wellness plans to help cover routine services like check-ups, vaccinations and flea and tick prevention. Wellness plans often have no waiting periods.
Why do pet insurance companies have waiting periods?
Waiting periods protect insurance companies from people who sign up for coverage only after their pet gets sick or injured. Without waiting periods, pet owners could sign up for insurance as soon as an emergency happens, file a claim, then cancel their policy once they get a payout. This would increase risk for the pet insurance company and drive up premiums for everyone else. Waiting periods help lower this risk.
How to handle waiting periods
Waiting periods can be frustrating, especially if your pet needs medical attention during that time. Here are some tips for handling waiting periods.
Get insurance early
One way to minimize waiting periods and avoid pre-existing condition exclusions is to get pet insurance early in your pet’s life. The younger and healthier your pet is when you sign up for insurance, the less likely they are to have pre-existing conditions that could limit coverage.
🤓Nerdy Tip
If your pet already has pre-existing conditions, pet insurance may not be worth it. Think about your vet bills over the past few years. If most of them are related to incurable or chronic conditions that a new policy won’t cover, you may be better off creating an emergency fund for your pet.
Look for ways to limit out-of-pocket costs
If you need emergency pet care during a waiting period, there are things you can do to manage costs. Some veterinary clinics offer payment plans through third-party lenders. You can also look into CareCredit, a credit card for medical expenses.
If your pet needs expensive medications, ask your vet about generic alternatives or look into pet prescription discount programs from GoodRx or AARP.
Located in “The Volunteer State,” Memphis is a city in Tennessee with approximately 633,000 residents. It’s is on the Mississippi River and is the second-largest city in the state, next to the capital city of Nashville.
Memphis is full of musical history. Influential soul, blues and rock-n-roll legends like B.B. King, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded at the famous Sun Studio, commonly called the “birthplace of rock and roll.” You can stroll Beale Street and take in the rich history of Memphis.
In addition to its musical history, Memphis has world-renowned barbecue. In fact, the annual World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest draws 100,000 visitors alone.
If you’re considering a move to Memphis and want to know a bit more about each of its neighborhoods, we’ve got you covered! We’ve done the research and highlighted the best neighborhoods in Memphis.
15 best neighborhoods in Memphis
Named after its Egyptian sister city on the Nile, Memphis means “established and beautiful” and it’s just that. Here are 15 of the best neighborhoods in Memphis. As you consider each one, keep in mind that all are within the city limits of Memphis, so you’ll get to experience all the culture that this great city has to offer.
Walk Score: 41/100
Looking for a slice of Hollywood but without the traffic? Welcome to Belle Meade, home to part of the set of the Hollywood hit “The Firm.” But don’t worry, the lawyers in this town will let you move if you want to. Only Tom Cruise was unlucky on that front.
This quiet suburban area is a great place for people looking to settle down near the downtown area. With many hiking trails and delicious restaurants, anyone would be happy living in Belle Meade. The neighborhood is very walkable and has an average commute time of 30 minutes to downtown Memphis.
Median 1-BR rent: $795
Median 2-BR rent: $950
Walk Score: 50/100
Founded in 1893 by an Irish immigrant named W.H. Bingham, the neighborhood of Binghampton has evolved immensely through the years. The city and residents of Binghamton have made a dedicated effort to grow the city, as it once was a more isolated part of Memphis.
Nowadays, the city has tree-lined streets, flower beds and art murals on prominent buildings and streets — like Broad Avenue —throughout to make it more appealing. The neighborhood has an annual art walk where street vendors and artists converge to play music, sell artisan crafts and food and mingle with the community. If you live in Binghampton, you definitely don’t want to miss this festive gathering. And if you’re a cyclist, the new two-way bike lane is underway! The neighborhood boasts of a walking score of 50 and an even better biking score of 63.
Source: Rent./Kimbrough Towers
Median 1-BR rent: $930
Median 2-BR rent: $1,210
Walk Score: 69/100
Another historic neighborhood in Memphis is Central Gardens, which was once home to upper-class families who moved during the cotton boom. Due to the historic nature and relevance of the homes in Central Gardens, the area is a historic conservation zone.
While Central Gardens is densely populated, it’s a great option for singles as most of the households in the neighborhood are without children. The commute is nothing to complain about either with commute times averaging about 25 minutes. This area is home to several dining options, too. Residents of this area look forward to the Garden and Home Show every September.
Median 1-BR rent: $695
Median 2-BR rent: $725
Walk Score: 33/100
Nestled on the north side of Memphis, Frayser is by the Wolf River, the Mississippi River and the Lossahatchie River. In the neighborhood alone, there are 10 parks you can frequent. Try Davy Crockett Park State Park, where you can camp, explore or visit a historic museum. This is a great neighborhood for those looking to bike, hike, dog walk and generally enjoy the outdoors.
Frayser gets its name from a prominent Memphis physician named Dr. J Frayser who summered at a home near the railroad, which is to the east of the neighborhood. While Dr. Frayser could afford a summer home here, don’t let that fool you on the cost of the rent.
Walk Score: 41/100
Harbor Town is known to its residents as a little oasis located just outside of downtown Memphis. This premiere neighborhood and urbanist town sits atop a large 132-acre sand bar known as Mud Island.
While Harbor Town is known as a more upscale area, it’s also very affordable for young professionals looking to settle down near the city center. The town itself is very walkable and easy to navigate as it feels more like a mini-city. Take a walk down the main strip and you’ll pass by everything you need from a quaint grocery store to unique boutiques.
Harbor Town is home to the iconic Paulette’s where you can stop in for a one-of-a-kind Sunday brunch.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,200
Walk Score: 48/100
The High Point Terrace neighborhood is in the eastern part of Memphis. It’s close to Downtown so residents can enjoy the perks of Memphis but it also has a suburban feel. High Point Terrace is on the federal government’s list — the National Register of Historic Places. The architecture, buildings and overall neighborhood were deemed important to preserve due to its history in greater Memphis. One memorable claim-to-fame is the famous playwright, Tennessee Williams, who wrote his infamous play-turned-movie “Period of Adjustment” in the neighborhood of High Point Terrace itself.
This neighborhood tends to have younger residents, with 40 percent of residents under the age of 45. If you’re looking to plant roots and start a family, this is a great neighborhood to consider. Full of shops, grocery stores, coffee shops and bars, High Point Terrace is a small community where you’ll be surrounded by kind, hard-working Tennesseeans.
Source: Rent./Love Tunica
Walk Score: 37/100
Another great area to live in on the north side of Memphis is Hyde Park. The main focal point of this neighborhood is Hollywood and Chelsea Streets. Here, you’ll find unique shops and yummy restaurants. Some of the top-rated restaurants are The Second Line and The Hollywood Fish Market. If you live in the south, you need to try their famous catfish and you can do just that at these two high-rated restaurants.
This community is highly engaged and you’ll find your neighbors strolling the local parks or meeting at the Shasta Central community center. If you’re looking for a neighborhood near Memphis itself but with a close-knit neighborhood feel, give Hyde Park a try.
Median 1-BR rent: $660
Median 2-BR rent: $795
Walk Score: 58/100
Known as a college neighborhood, Normal Station is home to part of the University of Memphis. Due to its close proximity to the university, this neighborhood is mainly composed of young college students. As you would find in any college town, Normal Station has several student rental homes, fraternities and small rental homes at affordable rates for students.
The neighborhood itself isn’t very walkable, so a lot of the residents bike or drive to get around. If you’re a student looking for a great place to live out your college years check out Normal Station as your next home.
Walk Score: 41/100
Pinch District is a historic area of Memphis located close to the Wolf River. Originally home to Irish, Russian and Jewish immigrants, Pinch District was the first commercial city in Memphis.
During the 1990s, the famous Pyramid Arena was built in hopes of bringing new life into the neighborhood. However, things took a turn when several of its large commercial sites moved locations. Pinch District is currently undergoing a billion-dollar expansion that will surely bring new, exciting business to the neighborhood.
While Pinch District is a quieter neighborhood in Memphis, it still has a lot of charm. There are some great coffee shops that recently opened such as Comeback Coffee or Alcenia’s. The commute from Pinch District to downtown Memphis is on average 15-30 minutes, so residents will likely need a car as the walk score is only 41.
Source: Rent./The Meadows
Median 1-BR rent: $731
Median 2-BR rent: $803
Walk Score: 26/100
Raleigh is a neighborhood in Memphis located on the northeast side of the city. It’s near the Wolf River and Frayser, another one of the best neighborhoods in Memphis.
Raleigh is a neighborhood full of hard-working, kind people. The main economy is retail, however, Nike has a distribution center in this area, too. Stage Road is a popular area in the neighborhood where you can go for a walk, window shop and grab a bite to eat. Locals enjoy good food and shops in this town and a crowd favorite is Moma’s Bar-B-Q or Dindie’s Soul Food.
Walk Score: 58/100
Steeped in folklore, Sherwood Forest is a neighborhood in east Memphis that has roots in the story of Robin Hood. While you probably won’t see Robin Hood’s merry men roaming around, you will see several streets named after the story like Robin Hood Lane, Maid Marion Lane and Little John Road.
Sherwood Forest neighborhood is known as a family-friendly suburb with good schools for children to attend. The neighborhood is about a mile away from the University of Memphis, so you’ll have a good blend of college-aged students and recent grads living here. The area has a nice blend of shops and bars plus a wonderful park to get in touch with nature. Sherwood Forest Park has trails, tennis courts, a golf course and even a botanical garden.
Median 1-BR rent: $1,579
Median 2-BR rent: $1,679
Walk Score: 19/100
Southwind is a neighborhood in Memphis on the southeast side of the city. This is an affluent neighborhood with several residents having bachelor’s degrees. The schools are highly recommended and it’s a good place for families.
If you like golf, this is a great neighborhood because the Southwind Golf Course is on the PGA tour and is a World Championship Golf Course. Other outdoor activities include walks, hikes and strolling around local parks.
Source: Rent./The Helix at the District
Median 1-BR rent: $880
Median 2-BR rent: $1,021
Walk Score: 72/100
Feel like stepping back in time? The Victorian Village neighborhood is the place for you. Once known as Millionaires Row, Victorian Village is a town rich with history due to its many homes built in the late 1800s. While the neighborhood is still home to these impressive homes, the suburban area is a great place for all types of people.
Victorian Village is home to many must-see museums such as the Woodruff-Fountaine House Museum. If you’re looking for a historic and walkable neighborhood in Memphis, then renting an apartment in Victorian Village is a great choice.
Median 1-BR rent: $904
Median 2-BR rent: $1,012
Walk Score: 41
Voillintine-Evergreen is close to downtown Memphis. One of the prominent features of this neighborhood is the layout of ranch-style 78 buildings surrounding the old synagogue. It’s part of the National Register of Historic Places, in fact.
People living in Voillintine-Evergreen like their history and fight to preserve it and its aesthetic. The residents are usually retired or empty-nesters, so it’s a great place for people looking for a more quiet lifestyle. That being said, you’ll still find plenty to do whether that’s eating at local eateries, sipping freshly brewed coffee or walking throughout one of the neighborhood parks.
Median 1-BR rent: $599
Median 2-BR rent: $835
Walk Score: 30/100
You can’t help falling in love with this neighborhood. Whitehaven is most famous for “Graceland.” More than a half-million people come to visit Elvis Presley’s home-turned-museum each year and pay their respects to the rock-n-roll legend.
While this landmark is cool for music lovers, residents of Whitehaven enjoy the suburban feel and parks like T.O. Suburban State Park. This neighborhood tends to attract empty-nesters, so it’s quieter compared to neighborhoods full of families.
Find the best Memphis neighborhood for you
Whether you choose a neighborhood in the heart of Memphis or elsewhere you can rest assured that you’ll find great people and apartments in any of the best neighborhoods in Memphis. Memphis is a city full of apartments for pet lovers, park lovers, nightlife lovers or even coffee lovers.
The rent information included in this article is based on a median calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Apartment Guide and Rent. as of November 2021 and is for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.
Your pet is part of the family, and you’d do anything to keep them healthy and happy. But what happens if they need surgery? Will your pet insurance cover the cost? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Here’s when pet insurance typically covers surgery and when it doesn’t.
Does pet insurance cover surgery?
Pet insurance can help pay for surgery if your pet gets hurt or sick. This could include surgeries for broken bones, cancer, objects stuck in their stomach, emergencies, ligament problems or some dental issues. If you buy a wellness plan, you may also have coverage for spaying or neutering.
But pet insurance almost never covers surgeries for preexisting conditions or elective procedures like tail docking or dew claw removal.
Surgical procedures that pet insurance typically covers
Pet insurance policies typically pay for surgical procedures needed to treat an accident or illness. Depending on your policy, this may include:
Cancer treatments like tumor removal.
Removing objects like rocks, toys or sticks that pets accidentally swallow.
Emergency surgeries for life-threatening situations like bloat or internal bleeding.
Dental surgeries like tooth extractions or root canals caused by an illness or accident.
Surgeries for ruptured knee ligaments or hip dysplasia.
Procedures to treat hereditary and congenital conditions such as luxating patellas.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Many pet insurance companies won’t cover certain orthopedic issues for the first several months of your policy. Also, if your pet had a bilateral issue like hip dysplasia on one side of their body before you bought their policy, it may be considered a preexisting condition if it happens on the other side of their body. Pet insurance generally won’t pay to treat preexisting conditions.
Surgical procedures that pet insurance typically won’t cover
Pet insurance plans usually have a wide range of exclusions and limitations. Accident and illness plans often won’t cover:
Surgeries to treat conditions your pet had before coverage began.
Cosmetic or elective procedures like ear cropping, tail docking, gastropexy (a surgery to prevent bloat), microchipping, declawing or dew claw removal.
Breeding-related procedures like cesarean sections, spaying or neutering.
Some pet insurance companies offer preventive care plans that will cover some of the procedures above (such as spaying, neutering, microchipping or gastropexy).
🤓Nerdy Tip
Many pet insurers will cover curable preexisting conditions like vomiting and gastrointestinal issues if your pet has been treatment- and symptom-free for a certain period of time. Check with your insurer to see if any of your pet’s previous conditions are considered curable.
Common pet surgical procedures
While pet insurance doesn’t cover every type of surgery, it can help you save money on many procedures caused by accidents or illnesses. Here’s a look at common pet surgical procedures and whether insurance generally covers them.
Pet surgery
Generally covered by insurance?
ACL or CCL repair
Amputation
Cancer surgery
Fractures and dislocation repair
Hip dysplasia
Intestinal obstruction due to foreign body
Mass or tumor removal
Skin lacerations
Spay or neuter
No, except with some wellness plans.
How does surgery coverage work?
Surgery coverage is usually a standard part of accident and illness coverage. So if your pet needs surgery for a broken leg, tumor or cataracts — and it’s not related to a preexisting condition — insurance will likely cover it.
However, having pet insurance doesn’t guarantee that all veterinary bills will be paid. These policies typically have a deductible, a reimbursement rate and a maximum coverage limit per year or per incident. Depending on your insurer, you may also be responsible for paying exam fees related to the surgery.
The deductible is the amount you must pay before your pet insurer will begin covering your vet bills. Most insurers charge an annual deductible, but some assess deductibles per condition.
The reimbursement rate is the percentage of your vet bills your pet insurer will cover once you’ve reached your deductible. The percentage you cover is known as a copayment.
The maximum coverage limit is the total amount your pet insurer will pay per year or per incident.
Say you have a pet insurance plan with a $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement rate and $10,000 annual limit. Your pet needs surgery to remove a tumor, which will cost $3,000.
First, you’ll need to pay the $500 deductible out of pocket. After that, your insurance will cover 80% of the remaining $2,500, which comes out to $2,000. You’ll be responsible for the remaining 20%, which comes out to $500.
So in total, you’ll pay $1,000 for the surgery ($500 deductible + $500 coinsurance), and your insurance will cover $2,000. If your pet needs follow-up care later in the year, you’ll have $8,000 left of your annual limit to cover any additional medical expenses.
How to file a claim for surgery costs
There are two ways to file a pet surgery claim.
The first way is with direct billing. With this option, you won’t have to pay your insurer’s part of the bill out of pocket. Instead, your pet insurance company will pay your vet directly.
Direct billing isn’t that common. Pets Best, Healthy Paws and Trupanion are some of the only pet insurance companies that will pay your vet directly. Your vet must also be willing to accept payments directly from providers.
The more traditional way to file a pet insurance claim for surgery is to pay the full amount upfront and then submit the claim to your insurance company for reimbursement. To do this, you’ll generally need to fill out your insurance company’s claim form and provide a copy of the itemized receipt or invoice from your vet.
Your insurance company will review your claim to make sure it meets the terms of your policy. If everything checks out, your insurer will reimburse you the covered amount, minus any deductible or copay.
Can you buy pet insurance before surgery?
Yes, you can buy pet insurance before your pet needs surgery, but that doesn’t mean your policy will pay for the procedure.
Pet insurance doesn’t cover preexisting conditions, so any medical condition your pet was diagnosed with before you bought the policy won’t be covered.
Pet insurance plans also have waiting periods, the length of time between when you buy your plan and when insurance will start covering eligible treatments. Common waiting periods are 14 days for illness coverage and 48 hours for accident coverage.
How top pet insurance companies cover surgery
To give you an idea of how different pet insurance companies cover surgery, we looked at three insurers from our list of the best pet insurance companies.
Embrace surgery coverage
Embrace‘s standard policy covers exams, treatment, hospitalization and surgery for injuries and illnesses, including cancer. But you’ll need to add a wellness plan to get coverage for spaying and neutering. Embrace won’t cover surgeries arising from preexisting conditions, fighting, racing or mistreatment.
Figo surgery coverage
Figo pet insurance covers surgeries, prescription medications and diagnostic testing for accidents and illnesses. But preexisting conditions aren’t covered unless they’ve been cured and the pet is symptom-free for at least 12 months. Figo has wellness plans for things like vaccines, routine exams, dental cleaning, and spay or neuter surgery.
Pets Best surgery coverage
Pets Best’s surgery coverage is included in its accident and illness plan. The policy can also cover pre- and post-surgical care like diagnostic tests, prescription medication and physical rehabilitation. Add a wellness plan if you want coverage for spay or neuter surgery.