by Heather Kindberg

Created on: April 20, 2008

There are innumerable methods for making money, but what if you find yourself in a situation where you need cash immediately? Here are 10 ways to bring in cash today. Most of these pursuits can also be parlayed into ongoing side-jobs, or undertaken on an as-you're-available basis:

1. Classifieds sites:
Find a couple of items that you own but use infrequently and really don't need. Then create an ad for them on Craig's List or another selling site. If you advertise items at reasonable prices, you can generate near-immediate responses.

Tip: Giving a small discount, resell any gift certificates that you're not likely to use.
$ Possibilities: $10 and up based on what you sell.
Time investment including prep: Low.

2. Recycling:
Save those bottles and cans in a separate garbage bag and turn them in for cash.
Tip: Look on-line for types of recyclable items and/or check the labels.
$ Possibilities: 80 to 100 plastic bottles can buy you a fast food meal and drink.
Time investment including prep: Low to medium.

3. Refurbish furniture:
Pick up furniture or items that have been "thrown away" on the street, and resell them at home or on-line as is.
Tip: Spending just a bit more time to tighten screws or apply a coat of paint will bring you more money per item.
$ Possibilities: $10 and up per item.
Time investment including prep: Low to medium.

4. Manual labor:
Answer a manual labor ad for moving, digging, painting, etc.
Tip: Make sure you are up to the labor requested.
$ Possibilities: $8 per hour and up.
Time investment including prep: Medium to high.

5. Garage sale:
You'll be cleaning house and clearing space in your home too.
Tip: Advertise on-line and put up many signs to get the most customers for your work.
$ Possibilities: $25-$200 for the day.
Time investment including prep: Medium to high.

6. Tutor:
Pass on what you know and get a good hourly wage for that knowledge.
Tip: Besides on-line advertising, put homemade business cards at the library, local coffee shops, etc.
$ Possibilities: $30-$50 per hour.
Time investment including prep: Medium.

7. Prune and vend:
Sell fruit from your yard (or your friends' and neighbors' yards).
Tip: This is something you can share doing with your kids and their lemonade stand.
$ Possibilities: $2-$5 per bag.
Time investment including prep: Medium.

8. Babysitting/Kid-sitting:
No matter your age, gender, or education level, this is a great job for extra cash. A big plus: Some of that work may be while children are sleeping, allowing you to get paid for relaxing with a book or a movie.
Tip: You likely already have a contact list of friends and family members who might really appreciate your services.
$ Possibilities: $7-$10 per hour (and up for more children).
Time investment including prep: Low to medium.

9. Change:
Look for coins and turn that change into dollars.
Tip: Grab your change jar if you already have one going and check the following places: Sofas and chairs, car(s), catch-all drawers, the washing machine, purses not currently in use, and coat pockets.
$ Possibilities: Likely enough for a gallon of milk, and more if you already keep a change jar.
Time investment including prep: Low.

10. Neighborhood services:
Offer temporary services in your neighborhood for dog walking, house sitting, and grocery/pick-up runs.
Tip: Keep it to your immediate neighborhood so you don't spend any time or money on travel or gas.
$ Possibilities: $10 per hour or flat fee.
Time investment including prep: Low.

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