How to make money offline
There's online and at-home ways to make extra money — and then there's a third alternative: offline. This version of the gig economy may require a little more legwork, but the upside can be substantial. Here are offline ways to make money:
14. Sell your gently used clothes
Selling clothes you no longer wear is a quick way to make some money. Start with local consignment shops to make money quicker or use sites like ThredUp and Poshmark to find buyers. If you go the online route, be sure to take clear, well-lit photos of your pieces and research similar items to set competitive prices. Get tips on how to sell your clothing.
Total time: Varies by sales channel. Setup: Easy and fast. You can simply go to a consignment shop or fill a box with clothes and send it in. How easy to start: Easy. Cleaning out the closet may be the hardest part. Age threshold: Any. How fast you'll get paid: Varies by sales channel.
15. Trade in old phones, electronics for cash
Have an old phone, iPad or gaming system lying around? Sell it on a site like Swappa or Gazelle. Check out Amazon’s trade-in program, which pays participants in Amazon gift cards — and eBay, too. If you’re in a rush, try an ecoATM kiosk, which offers cash on the spot for your device.
Total time: Lots of options, so your time spent will vary. Setup: A breeze. How easy to start: Easy. Have phone, sell phone. Age threshold: Any. How fast you'll get paid: Varies by where you sell.
16. Get a babysitting gig
Everyone from college students to recent retirees can make money by watching other people’s children. Word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family are still a great way to get started, but you can also create a profile for free on Care.com or Sittercity to expand your reach. Note any specialized skills, such as CPR certifications, to make yourself more marketable.
Total time: Online setup takes minutes; neighborhood referrals may take a while. Setup: Just minutes. How easy to start: Getting the word out is the main thing. Age threshold: Very young if you're using referrals. 18+ online. How fast you'll get paid: When the parents come home.
17. Rent out your car
City-dwellers often don’t use their cars for days or weeks at a time. That idle time can translate to extra money with services like Getaround and Turo, which let you rent out your car by the hour or day. You take home the majority of those earnings, while Getaround or Turo takes a cut for protecting your car while it’s being rented.
Total time: Demand for your car will depend on the local market. Setup: It takes about a half hour to set up an account. How easy to start: With an appropriate vehicle, it's easy. Age threshold: A valid driver's license and 21+. How fast you'll get paid: Varies by site.
18. Sign up for TaskRabbit
If you actually enjoy putting together Ikea furniture or standing in long lines, you may be cut out for doing tasks for others. Websites like TaskRabbit can connect you with people who need help with a variety of things, such as moving, cleaning, delivery and handyman services. The site also offers several virtual and online tasks, such as helping with a research project or data entry. Read about how to get started on TaskRabbit.
Total time: Local demand for your skills will determine the time you spend. Setup: A couple of hours, then some time for approval. How easy to start: Easy, though you'll need to do some research. Age threshold: 18+. How fast you'll get paid: A few days after a job.