When a Budget Isn’t Enough: Eleven Ways to Boost Your Income Quickly

Today’s guest post is from Greg Johnson.  Greg is a personal finance and frugal travel expert who leveraged his online business to quit his 9-5 job, spend more time with his family, and travel the world. He is the co-owner of the popular blog Club Thrifty, where he teaches others how to spend less and travel more.

Who wouldn’t like a few extra bucks to help reach their goals?

Many of us have too much month left at the end of the money and are barely scraping by. In fact, it’s possible to follow every frugal tip in the book but still struggle to get ahead financially. So, what do you do when trimming the budget just isn’t enough to change your financial situation?

If you’ve got your spending well in check, it’s definitely time to look at the other side of the equation: income.

The world is getting smaller, and – with all the opportunity provided by the internet, smart phones, and more – there are a bazillion ways to make a few extra bucks. In the new “gig economy,” it’s no secret that many people are utilizing side hustles to get ahead.

And no, you don’t have to join a multi-level marketing (MLM) company to be successful.

Roll up your sleeves and use your skills to make extra money that can help you pay off debt, cover your bills, and save more for your future! Here are eleven simple ways to boost your income quickly.

Traditional Part-Time Jobs

One way to increase your income quickly is to take on a traditional part-time job. Waiting tables or delivering pizzas can be great avenues for supplementing your income. If you have the time, these kinds of jobs will bolster your bank account quickly.

Be-Your-Own-Boss Side Hustles

Then there are a ton of possibilities to make money on the side (or full-time) as an entrepreneur. Start by considering some legitimate work from home jobs. It doesn’t even have to be that complicated. Just look at your skills and think of where you could serve people through those skills.

House Cleaning

If you love making your home sparkle, why not use that drive for cleanliness to help reach your savings goals? All you need are a few cleaning supplies and a couple of hours to spare. If you’ve got that, you may be able to gain the extra breathing room in your budget you’ve been looking for.

Childcare

Every parent needs someone to watch their kids once in a while. If you love kids, childcare is a terrific work-from-home option, whether you’re a parent or not. You can watch children during typical work hours, allowing you to stay home with your own kids as well.

You might also consider offering childcare on weekends or special occasions. Tons of parents would welcome the opportunity for a long-awaited date night. Plus, you can charge a premium during these times.

Pet Care

In the same vein as child care, if you have proper space to house dogs or other pets, consider starting a pet-sitting service. As an animal lover, you can provide a safe and fun place for pets while boosting your bank account at the same time.

This can be a really simple way to earn cash, especially if you’re home a lot anyway and have kennels or fenced areas for dogs. Another option is dog-walking, which can be incredibly valuable to pet owners who work long hours.

Lawn Care

What’s the last thing hard-working people want to do the moment the weekend begins? Yard work! Plenty of folks are willing to outsource lawn care for the right price. If you have some neighbors that need their lawns mowed or landscaping cultivated, use your green thumb to make some green for your bank account! Bonus: You’ll enjoy fresh air while doing it!

Driver for Uber/Lyft

Rideshare businesses like Uber and Lyft offer money-making opportunities for anyone with a car and a valid license. You’re able to set your own hours and earn some cash doing pretty straightforward work. You might even earn tips from customers for exceptional driving service.

Home Bakery Business

Do you have a knack for whipping up magic in the kitchen? Perhaps you should explore starting your own home baking enterprise and selling your confectionary creations. Delicious wedding cakes, special-occasion cookies, and candies can bring in fantastic profits.

Not so hot at the decorating aspect of baked goods? Don’t immediately dismiss this idea. Many would-be bakers have learned a new skill like cookie decorating through YouTube videos!

Etsy Shop

If you’re a creative sort of person, why not try tapping into the Etsy marketplace? As long as you’re making a product yourself or it’s vintage, it’s permitted on Etsy. More and more, consumers want to buy unique items from individuals rather than supporting giant retailers. It might be the perfect time to start marketing your hand-sewn scarves or personalized string art.

Photography

Professional photography training isn’t necessary to be able to produce amazing, high-quality photos. People appreciate having someone to take those special-occasion photos that really pop!

Pull in some extra cash by doing family or newborn sessions during the evenings or on the weekends. Photo sessions can fit into little pockets of time and be really flexible. What a fun way to earn some extra money!

Musician/DJ

Passionate about rhythm and music? A talented musician or DJ is always in demand for special events. You’ll likely need quite a few nights and weekends free to make this work. Start off by offering some free or discounted performances that lead to paying gigs, and you’re on your way.

Freelance Writing

For those who enjoy the craft of putting words on paper (or screen), freelance writing is a natural fit. More and more talented writers are building lucrative freelance writing businesses, and there are tons of opportunities for anyone with a flair for the written word.

Watch Your Income Grow

Whether you just need some additional cash to get through a rough patch or you’re looking to replace your full-time job with something more fun, there are plenty of legitimate ways you can boost your income today. These are only a handful of the many opportunities for making extra money you might explore.

Although they require effort, taking the plunge with one of these side jobs is well worth it. Just imagine what you could do with the extra money from your new side hustle!