3 of 45

Write now Article Tools

We can all use a little extra money from time to time and there are plenty of ways to earn a bit extra to help get you through the tough times. They won't necessarily pay all of the bills, so don't quit your day job, but they sure can help.

Online surveys can be a great way to earn. Be aware however, any company that asks you to pay a fee is bad news. Don't ever pay to do surveys. The money that one earns from online surveys can be sparse, but every little bit helps. Once you get started with online surveys it becomes quite fun. It helps to know you are working with products that may be coming out on the market, and giving your input to companies so you do make a difference.

Many of the survey companies use a points system which you can redeem for cash or merchandise (some are merchandise only). A few reputable companies are Mysurvey.com (cash and merchandise), Lightspeedpanel.com (cash and merchandise), Zoompanel.com (merchandise), and Harrispollonline.com (merchandise). Even though some of these are only for merchandise, the prizes are pretty good.

Paid to read emails are a popular way to earn money these days. There are so many paid to reads out there that the possibilities are endless as long as you are willing to sit and go through the emails every day. This can get a bit boring and repetitious so it is not for everyone, but if you have the time and it sounds like a good thing for you, why not?

Mystery shopping is a fun way to earn extra money. Before choosing this, do your homework on the company you want to sign on with to make sure it is not a scam. There are so many of these companies, that you will want to choose carefully. Make sure to do your homework and check them out with the Better Business Bureau. Do some checking online also to see if other people have had any problems with any of the companies that you decide to sign up with.

Mystery shopping is a little more involved than surveys or paid to read emails. Usually you need to go to a store, possibly make a purchase and then report back. Often a refund is issued for your purchase, but make sure you read the details of what you are supposed to do and what kind of compensation you are getting before you sign on to each job.

Donating blood plasma is a fairly common method of earning money, especially among college students. It can potentially add up to a couple of hundred extra dollars a month depending on where you have it done. Check the requirements before you go in. Usually a blood test is required and a person can only donate every so often.

If you have some extra time, offer a service to your neighbors such as dog walking, baby sitting, or car cleaning and detailing. These services can be invaluable to people who lead busy lives and don't have the extra time do them. These are just a few suggestions on ways to earn extra money. Do a little research and use a little creativity and you will be well on your way!

Learn more about this author, G. A. Sylverston.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Ideas for earning extra money in your spare time?
We want to hear your view. Write now!