by Kate Manning

Created on: July 01, 2010

Whether you are currently out of work and trying to make some money to tide you by, or if you are working and wish to make a little extra, there are a number of different and unique ways that you can start earning some extra cash, both on and offline!

Mystery shopping.

To become a mystery shopper you have to be willing to commit to some work, usually a survey or report afterwards, occasionally accompanied by some photos depending on the shop. However, it is easy to sign up on websites such as

mysteryshops.com or mysteryshoppersamerica.com, and best of all, anyone can do it! Most mystery shopping companies offer reimbursement for any out of pocket expenses as well as a commission for your work. Most shops will require ‘training’ - instructions to read through and a small test - in order to do them, as well as a good deal of secrecy, so you don’t let on to shop staff that you are a mystery shopper, or else it defeats the object. You can do these shops when and where you like, thus enabling you to participate and earn as your own schedule permits.

Paid Surveys.

Online, there are hundreds of companies that offer payment for filling out surveys. They are easy to find on a Google search, and again, these are easy to sign up for. These type of earning methods are better suited for people who have a lot of free time, or stay at home moms or students, as they can be time consuming. Some surveys will ask a few questions, then deem you as ineligible to take the survey, which means you will have to find another survey, but don’t worry, there are thousands! It may take some time to build up and significant earnings, but each site differs in their payments, so you may earn different amounts each time.

Bake sale.

While the idea may be nothing new, you can create your own unique bake sale, by branching out from the usual cookies and cupcakes, and trying more fancy recipes, such as profiteroles, tiramisu or Danish pastries. You can find many different recipes online and in books, and gathering the ingredients can be fairly inexpensive. However, once you have whipped together a batch of mouth-watering goodies, you can charge just a little more for them… but not so much that people cant afford them! Before you know it, you will be the most popular baker in the neighborhood, and along with a good reputation, you’ll be earning some extra money as well.

Online writing / Ad revenue.

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