It can be tricky figuring out how to make extra money online. There are so many options, and it’s hard to know where to start.
You might be looking to replace your day job, or just to have some extra cash each month. Luckily, there are many legitimate ways to earn extra money online.
This article will explore a wide variety of online money-making ideas. From quick and easy surveys to more involved freelance work, there’s something for everyone.
We’ll delve into how to use your phone to make money, or how to turn your skills into an income stream from home.
These methods can lead to sustainable earnings and even career growth. Get ready to explore how you can take control of your finances and earn extra income in today’s digital world.
What do I need to get started?
Usually, you’ll need a computer, a decent internet connection, and sometimes a mobile phone. Many of these options don’t require special skills. You can get started without any prior experience.
How much time you spend and how much you can earn varies a lot. Some gigs are quick and easy, while others take more time and effort.
For example, taking surveys may earn you a few dollars here and there. However, starting a blog, or YouTube channel will take more time but can earn you a lot more in the long run.
Some ways to make money online can bring in quick cash, while others are designed to help you build a long-term, scalable income.
Now, it’s important to be careful. There are some scams out there. Always do your research before jumping into any money-making opportunity. If something sounds “too good to be true,” it probably is. Check out reviews from real people on websites such as Reddit or the Better Business Bureau.
Also, be aware that if you’re working as an independent contractor, you’ll be responsible for paying your self-employment taxes. Make sure you take care of that.
Read: 30 Easy Online Side Hustles To Boost Your Income
Ways To Make Extra Money Online
1. Participate in Market Research

Companies need your opinions! They use market research companies to conduct surveys. When you take surveys, you’re basically sharing your thoughts on products or services.
You can sign up with sites such as Branded Surveys, FreeCash, Surveoo, SurveyLama, and Prime Opinion. These sites pay you in cash or gift cards for taking surveys. You won’t get rich, but it’s a super easy way to make a little extra money.
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2. Proofreading and Editing
Do you have a good eye for mistakes? Then you might want to be a proofreader or editor. You’ll check written content for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.
This can be a good option if you love to read and pay attention to detail. You can find job opportunities on platforms like Scribendi and Proofreading Pal.

Here’s a free Proofreading workshop to get you started. It’s the same program that helped me become a freelance proofreader, earning thousands of dollars in the process.
3. Play Games Online
Who says you can’t get paid to play games? There are apps like FreeCash and KashKick that will reward you for playing games on your phone. These platforms are often funded by advertisers and they pass on some of that money to you.
Some sites will pay you to test new games or to give feedback. Playing games can be a way to make some extra cash, though it is not likely to make you rich. You can often do this in your spare time.
4. Get Paid to Test Apps and Websites
Developers want to know if their apps and websites are easy to use. That’s where you come in! As a website tester, you give your feedback on how the site looks and how easy it is to use.
You record your screen while you talk about your experience and answer questions. Check out platforms like UserTesting and Trymata to get paid for this type of work.
5. Freelance Microtasks
Freelance microtasks are small, quick jobs that can be completed online, such as data entry, content moderation, or tagging images. Platforms like JumpTask offer various tasks, allowing users to generate income on their own schedule. These tasks are often beginner-friendly and can be completed in less than an hour.
To begin, all you need is a computer and internet access. While some tasks may benefit from basic digital skills, most require no prior experience. Payment for these tasks can range from immediate payouts to a few days after completion.
6. Get Paid to Search the Web
Did you know that you can earn cash by just doing what you already do online? You can! With sites like Swagbucks or InboxDollars, you get paid for searching the web using their search engine. It is that easy.

By installing a simple browser extension, sponsored results will appear alongside your normal search results. This is generally a slow method for earning cash, with payouts usually ranging from 7p to 15p per click. You can also complete surveys on the apps to increase your earnings.
7. Get Paid to Review Music
Do you love music? Then this could be for you. There are platforms such as Slice the Pie that pay users to listen to and rate music. It’s fun, it’s easy, and you can get paid for it.
You can also rate fashion items, accessories, or adverts. You can earn more as you build up a reputation on the site. It’s recommended that you read the site’s tutorials before you get started.
The amount you earn from each review depends on the quality of your review and your overall ‘Star Rating’. The money you earn is paid in US dollars and is paid via PayPal, but anyone can sign up and review. Typically, a person willing to put in a couple of hours each night could expect to earn about $30 per month.
8. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistants (VAs) help business owners with all sorts of tasks such as scheduling appointments or managing social media. If you’re organized and good at multitasking, you can make some extra cash as a VA.
Check out sites like Upwork and Zirtual to find VA work. You can also contact businesses and entrepreneurs directly.
You can work full-time or part-time, depending on your schedule. As a virtual assistant, you have the power to choose what you do and set your own rates.
You don’t need a degree. You just need to know what you’re good at. You can literally work from anywhere with just your phone.
9. Transcription Services
If you’re a fast typer with great listening skills, you could get paid to transcribe audio or video files into text. You will listen to audio and then type out everything you hear.
It’s all about having fast typing skills, a good ear, and great attention to detail. You might be transcribing anything from interviews and lectures to creating subtitles for videos. It can be a great way to earn money on your own schedule.
To get started, you’ll need a computer and a decent internet connection. Some companies will ask you to use a transcription foot pedal, headphones, and special software. You don’t need any prior experience, which makes this a good side hustle.
You can find transcription jobs on platforms like Rev, GoTranscript and Scribie. The amount you earn depends on how complex and long the audio files are. For example, one source claims the average transcriptionist earns $20 per hour. Some transcribers make a full-time income with this kind of work.
10. Translation Work
If you’re fluent in more than one language, translation work could be a good choice. There are plenty of businesses that need help translating documents, website content, and more. You can offer your language skills to clients who need your help.
You’ll be converting written or spoken material from one language to another. This kind of work is flexible and you can do it from the comfort of your own home.
To get started, you’ll need a computer, a reliable internet connection, and, obviously, to be fluent in at least two languages. Some companies might require you to take a test to prove you can translate accurately without relying on translation software. You can find translation gigs on platforms like Gengo.
11. Data Entry
Are you good at typing and paying attention to details? Then data entry might be a good option. You might be transferring information from paper documents into spreadsheets, or scanning documents into a computer.
Many data entry jobs are beginner-friendly and can be completed in your spare time. It can be tedious work, but you can do it from home and get paid for it.
To get started, you’ll need a computer and a reliable internet connection. You can find data entry jobs on platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk and Microworkers. You don’t usually need any prior experience, and you can often set your own hours, which is great for people with busy schedules.
While the pay for data entry work isn’t usually very high, you can earn a decent amount if you’re fast and accurate. You can earn upwards of $13 per hour depending on your experience. Some people use this as a stepping stone to other work-from-home jobs.
12. Voice-Over Artist
If you have a clear, engaging, or unique voice, then you might be interested in working as a voice-over artist. You might do voice work for commercials, e-learning courses, podcasts, or audiobooks.
You can find voice-over work on freelance platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork, or on niche sites like Voices.com. You’ll need to invest in some sound equipment, but most of what you need can be found on Amazon.
As a voice-over artist, you’ll need to be organized, professional, and punctual. You can enhance your visibility by creating a personal website where you can upload samples of your work, and by joining relevant social media groups.
13. Odd Jobs/Local Services
You can make some extra cash by helping people in your area with tasks they don’t have time for. Think about doing odd jobs such as moving furniture or cleaning.
You can advertise your services on platforms like TaskRabbit and Craigslist. You can also offer services such as babysitting and pet sitting. These types of jobs can pay you immediately.
14. Mystery Shopping
Mystery shopping is a fun way to make extra cash. You get to act like a regular customer. But you’re secretly evaluating the business. This could be anything from a store to a restaurant. Your mission? Check on things like customer service or product displays. You’ll be reporting back on your experiences.
To get started, you’ll sign up with a mystery shopping company. Some companies have apps that you can use to find tasks. You’ll be assigned tasks and will need to do them on time. Payment varies, but you might get free products or meals as part of the deal. Some sites will pay you cash too. If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy evaluating, this side hustle could be great for you. Check out sites like BestMark, IntelliShop, or Field Agent.
15. Call Reviewing
Companies use call reviewers to listen to recorded phone calls and tag them according to specific criteria. If you are looking for a simple way to make money at home, then you may want to check out a site like Humanatic.
16. Freelance Writing
You can get paid to write articles, blog posts, and all sorts of web content. There are lots of websites looking for freelance writers.
If you’re a good writer and can create content that people like, you can make some decent money. If you can write in a way that helps businesses get found on search engines (SEO skills), that’s even better.
Check out sites like Upwork, Fiverr, ProBlogger, and Freelance Writing to find writing gigs. Be sure to build a portfolio of your work to impress clients.
17. Freelance Digital Marketing
Do you know your way around social media? Are you good at SEO or pay-per-click advertising? Businesses need skilled marketers to help them get leads and turn them into customers. You could offer your digital marketing skills to help businesses grow and get paid well.
18. Online Tutoring
Do you have expertise in a particular subject? If so, you can become an online tutor. Many students need help with everything from math to language learning.
If you’re patient and good at explaining things, you could help students succeed while making extra money. Check out platforms like Tutor.com, Skooli and Studypool.
19. Online Coaching and Consulting
If you have a lot of knowledge in a certain area, you could become an online coach or consultant.
You’ll work one-on-one with people to help them reach their goals. Whether it’s fitness, business, or personal growth, there are people out there who need your expertise.
It can be a very rewarding way to make a difference while earning an income. To get started, build a personal brand and promote your services.
20. Start a Blog
If you enjoy writing, starting a blog is a great way to share your thoughts and build a community of readers.
You can make money with your blog in different ways. For example, you could run ads, get sponsored, sell digital products, or use affiliate marketing, which we’ll talk about later.
Blogging takes some time and effort, but it can be a great source of income and creativity.
21. Start a YouTube Channel
YouTube is a fantastic way to share your videos, build an audience, and make money. If you’re good at video editing and producing engaging content, you can earn money through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Start by creating consistent, high-quality content that people enjoy.
22. Social Media Management
Businesses need help with their social media accounts. If you know how to use platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Pinterest, you can get paid to manage social media accounts for businesses.
23. Become an Influencer
If you have a large following on social media, you can become an influencer. You can get paid to promote products or services in your posts. It takes time and effort to build a large following, but it can be a great way to make money online.
24. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a popular way to earn extra income because you do not need to manage or ship products.
You set up an online store using platforms such as Shopify. Then, you source products from suppliers, list them on your store, and when a customer orders, the supplier ships the product directly. You never handle the inventory.
This business model allows you to start an online business without needing a large initial investment. By selling higher-priced items, you can increase your potential profit.
25. Print on Demand
To make extra money online through print on demand (POD), you create designs for products like t-shirts, and mugs, and a POD service prints and ships them to customers. You don’t need to manage stock.
You can use platforms like Printify or Printful, which integrate with eCommerce platforms such as Shopify. You create designs, set prices, and then market your items. POD has a low initial investment and is easy to set up.
26. Sell on Marketplaces
You can also make extra money by selling on online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. These are popular places where people buy and sell items.
Consider selling smaller items such as photos or designs on sites like Teespring or Etsy. This is a super simple way to make some extra cash.
27. Create and Sell Digital Products
To make extra money online by creating and selling digital products, you design something once and then sell it repeatedly. Examples include e-books, online courses, templates, or stock photos.
You can list your products on platforms like Etsy. This method allows you to generate passive income without managing physical inventory or shipping.
Creating online courses can also be a way to generate income. After you have invested the time into making the course, you can have multiple students enroll without extra cost, making it very profitable.
28. Affiliate Marketing
If you have a website, a blog, or a big social media following, you can make money with affiliate marketing.
You’ll recommend products or services to your audience, and if they buy something through your special link, you’ll earn a commission.
It takes time to build a strong online presence, but it can become a steady source of income. You can join popular affiliate networks like Amazon Associates and ShareASale.
29. Self-Publishing on Amazon
If you want to write a book, you don’t have to go through a traditional publisher. You can use Amazon to self-publish your e-books. It is a simple process. Be sure to have a professional cover design and get some good reviews to make your book stand out.
30. Create and Sell an App
Another way to make extra money online is by selling apps. You could develop the app yourself, or hire someone to build it for you.
Platforms like Build Fire or Appy Pie allow you to create an app even without coding skills. Once your app is live, you can make money by displaying in-app advertisements, offering a premium version, or selling the app to a larger company.
Creating an app can be a good way to earn extra cash or to build a full-time business. You do not need to be a software engineer to create an app—you can outsource the development process.
31. Matched Betting
Matched betting is a method of profiting from the free bets and promotions offered by betting sites. It involves placing a bet for an outcome and then placing another bet against the same outcome on a betting exchange, effectively canceling out the risk. By using this technique, you can extract the value of the free bets as cash.
This method is considered legal and tax-free in countries like the UK for individuals over 18. Many have made hundreds of pounds using this method. It requires careful use of calculations and is not necessarily a quick way to make money.
Tips To Maximize Your Earnings
Now that you know all the different ways to make some extra cash online, here are some extra tips to help you succeed.
- Build a Personal Brand: If you are a coach, consultant, or content creator, it’s crucial that you build a personal brand. This can help people understand who you are and what you offer.
- The Importance of a Website: If you want to seriously get into some of the side hustles mentioned in this article, you need a website. This is where you can show off your skills, or services, or sell your products.
- Manage Your Time Wisely: When you start making extra money online, it’s important to use your time wisely. Set goals and create a schedule that works for you.
- Leverage Social Media: You can use social media to promote your business or content and connect with your audience.
- Keep Learning: Always keep learning and try to stay on top of new trends and changes to the online world.
Final Thoughts
Well, that’s it! There are so many amazing ways to make extra money online. From surveys to blogging to selling your own products, you can find something that fits your skills and interests.
Take a look at some of the options and start earning some extra cash! You can take charge of your financial goals, improve your financial security, and even build a business.
Getting started with an online business can open doors to financial freedom. The opportunities are endless. Go get ’em!