Blog

There are so many ways to make money online in this day and age. The internet has opened up a lot of new doors to generating income.

Whether it is an eCommerce store, affiliate marketing or a blog, you can start getting your own piece of the big cash pie of the world wide web!

Starting an online business has never been more accessible or practical than it is right now.

One of the advantages of starting an online business vs. a brick and mortar one is it can be WAY less expensive to start.

You may not need capital money up-front, or a warehouse for inventory, or retail store.You can create a virtual business space online pretty easily.

You don’t need a large budget or years of experience to get started. 

With the right online business idea, you can work from home and build a profitable side hustle or even a full-time income. 

Online sales continue to grow each year, showing that people are ready to buy what you have to offer.

The key is choosing a business model that fits your skills and interests. Some online businesses require almost no money to start, like dropshipping or freelancing.

Others might need more effort up front but can create steady income over time, like teaching courses or selling digital products.

Each type of business has different ways to make money and different challenges to work through.

This guide walks you through proven online business ideas across different categories. You’ll learn about ecommerce options, content creation, teaching and coaching, service businesses, and the tools that make running these businesses easier.

Whether you’re looking for a small side project or planning to build something bigger, you can find the perfect online business idea for you!

1. eCommerce

When you think of an online business, eCommerce is probably the first idea that pops to mind.

You can start an online store selling products of pretty much any type and start making money. Beardbrand which sells beard care products pulls in over $7 million a year!

You can sell pet supplies, baked goods, or even find crafts to sell. With a traditional eCommerce store, you will need to handle the logistics, shipping and have a place to handle inventory.

Starting a store on a selling platform like Shopify or  Etsy is very easy though! You start by choosing a niche and choosing products to sell.

Success requires good product research and a solid marketing plan. You need to drive traffic to your store through ads, social media, or search engines.

Your store design and customer service also matter for building trust with buyers.

If this sounds like too much, check our next online business of drop shipping which is a much less-involved eCommerce option.

Learn how to set up a Shopify store here.

2. Dropshipping Businesses

When Cole Turner learned about dropshipping at the age of 18 he learned everything he could. And in just 4 years, built an online store that made $2 million in sales!

There are many dropshipping success stories like his.

Dropshipping is an easier eCommerce option for selling products. Dropshipping lets you run an online store without buying or storing inventory upfront.

When a customer orders from your ecommerce website, the supplier ships the product directly to them. You only pay for items after they sell.

This business model works well if you want low startup costs. You can set up a store on Shopify or WooCommerce and connect it to dropshipping apps that link you with suppliers. 

Popular products to dropship include coffee, books, and home goods.

Product sourcing matters for your success. Look for suppliers with good reviews and fast shipping times.

Apps like DropCommerce focus on North American suppliers, while others offer global options.

The main challenge is lower profit margins since suppliers take a cut. You also have less control over product quality and shipping times.

Research your niche carefully and test products before promoting them heavily to your audience.

3. Print-on-Demand Stores

Did you know you can start a clothing brand without buying inventory upfront?

Print-on-demand lets you sell custom t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel that only get made when someone orders them.

Print-on-demand services like Printful handle production and shipping after customers place orders.

You upload your designs to products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and posters. Companies like Printful then print, pack, and ship each item when someone buys it.

This model works well if you have design skills or a social media following. You can start a clothing brand or sell merchandise without minimum orders or inventory costs.

Although even if you don’t have design skills, you can simply hire a designer off a site like Fiverr to create designs for you! Print on demand is a business idea for beginners that is easy to start.

Many creators use Etsy alongside their own Shopify store to reach more buyers.

Your designs determine your success. Create unique graphics, slogans, or artwork that appeal to specific groups.

The nice thing about print on demand is that you can test different products to see what your audience prefers without investing money in it.

You just create new designs or products with designs and see if they sell!

Print-on-demand typically offers better profit margins than dropshipping.

You control the designs and branding completely. The downside is that shipping takes longer than warehoused products, and production costs per item run higher than bulk manufacturing.

More reading:

4. Subscription Box Services

Subscription boxes generate recurring revenue by charging customers monthly for curated products.

Popular categories include food and beverages, personal care items, household products, and hobby supplies.

The key is finding products people need to replenish regularly. Fresh Patch sells grass patches for indoor pet toilets and earns over 80% of sales from subscriptions.

This model works because pet owners need replacements consistently.

You can curate subscription boxes using products from suppliers or create your own items.

Start by finding a specific niche with repeat purchase needs. Calculate your costs carefully to ensure each box stays profitable after shipping and packaging.

Building a subscriber base takes time though. Offer incentives for first-time customers and focus on retention.

Even small monthly fees add up when you keep customers for many months. Most subscription businesses use Shopify or WooCommerce to manage recurring billing and customer accounts.

More reading: Small Business Ideas

5. Sell Handmade and Digital Goods

Handmade products let you turn creative skills into income. Trending crafts to sell include jewelry, candles, bath bombs, enamel pins, and woodworking projects.

You can sell handmade goods on your own ecommerce website or marketplaces like Etsy.

Using both platforms gives you advantages. Etsy provides built-in traffic from shoppers looking for handmade items, while your own store keeps your profit margins higher.

You control your brand and customer relationships better with your own site.

Digital products offer high profit margins since you create them once and sell unlimited copies.

These include printables, ebooks, courses, templates, and photography. Digital downloads require no shipping or inventory management.

Popular digital products:

• Printable planners and organizers
• Stock photos and graphics
• Educational courses and tutorials
• Website templates and themes
• Music and audio files

Both handmade and digital goods require upfront work to create products. However, you maintain complete creative control and can charge premium prices for unique items.

Focus on quality and build a recognizable brand to stand out from competitors.

6. Selling Online Courses

Online courses let you teach once and sell repeatedly. You create video lessons, worksheets, and other materials that students access on their own schedule.

It is an ideal business that runs itself. You can turn your skills into a way to earn money online by creating and selling specialized courses. 

Platforms like Teachable, Udemy, Thinkific, and Kajabi make it easy to host and sell your courses.

These tools handle payments, student access, and course delivery. Udemy gives you a built-in audience but takes a cut of sales.

Teachable and Thinkific let you keep more profit and build your own brand while earning online income.

Popular course topics include business skills, creative hobbies, tech training, and personal development.

You need real experience in what you teach. Students can tell when course creators lack depth.

Creating a quality course takes time upfront. You’ll record videos, write materials, and set up your platform.

The key to success is teaching something specific and valuable. Generic courses on broad topics struggle to compete. Instead, focus on solving particular problems or teaching specialized skills that your target students need right now.

But once it’s done, you earn money while you sleep, otherwise known as passive income.

Digital downloads like templates, workbooks, or guides work the same way and take less time to create.

7. Affiliate niche blog (product review and comparison)

An affiliate niche blog focuses on reviewing and comparing products in a specific market. You earn commissions when readers click your links and make purchases.

It is called affiliate marketing and you can make a lot of money online with it.

This business model works well because people search for product reviews before buying. Starting a blog is pretty easy as well.

You create content that helps them make informed decisions. When they trust your recommendations, they use your affiliate links to complete their purchases.

You need to pick a niche that interests you and has buying potential. Popular options include electronics, home improvement, beauty products, and outdoor gear.

The key is choosing something with enough product variety to review regularly.

Your content should include honest product reviews, comparison articles, and buying guides. You want to build trust with your audience by being transparent about both pros and cons.

Most affiliate programs pay you a percentage of each sale, typically ranging from 3% to 50% depending on the product type.

Starting costs are low. You need a domain name, hosting, and time to create content. You don’t handle inventory or customer service.

The companies you promote manage those aspects while you focus on creating helpful content.

8. Sell Digital Products

Want to make money over and over again without much work? Start a digital products business.

It requires minimal upfront costs and allows you to sell the same items repeatedly. Forever if you want!

Templates, presets, and planners are among the most profitable options because buyers want ready-made solutions that save them time.

Templates work well for many niches. You can create social media designs, email layouts, or business documents that people customize for their needs.

Canva makes this easy to do even without design experience.

Lightroom presets sell for $10-$35 and attract photographers who want consistent editing styles.

Wedding planners, business owners, and content creators regularly buy these products.

Digital planners appeal to people focused on productivity, fitness, budgeting, or wedding planning. You create these once and sell them on platforms like Etsy or your own website.

The business model creates passive income. After you upload your products, they sell automatically while you focus on marketing or creating new items.

Popular creators price templates between $5-$50 depending on complexity.

You don’t need technical skills to start. Begin with 5-10 products in one niche, then expand based on what sells.

Focus your titles and descriptions on what buyers search for to increase visibility.

9. Launch a YouTube Channel

Another fun idea of an online business is to start your own YouTube channel. There are people making a TON of money out there on YouTube.

Of course, you do probably need to be comfortable in front of a camera!

A YouTube channel requires consistent video content that solves problems or entertains your audience.

You earn money through ad revenue once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. You can also make money through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and product sales.

Pick a specific niche where you have expertise or passion. Tech reviews, cooking tutorials, personal finance, and educational content perform well.

Your first 10 videos help you find your style and audience.

Things you need to start:

• Camera or smartphone with good video quality
• Basic editing software like DaVinci Resolve (free) or Adobe Premiere Pro
• Lighting equipment ($50-200)
• Microphone for clear audio ($30-150)

Successful YouTubers upload on consistent schedules. Weekly uploads work better than sporadic posting.

Your video titles and thumbnails determine if people click, so spend time making them clear and compelling.

10. Start a Podcast

If being in front of a camera doesn’t make you feel super comfortable, then podcasting might be your jam!

Podcasting lets you build an audience through audio content. You can launch a podcast with basic equipment and distribute it through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms at no cost.

Podcast equipment needed:

• USB microphone ($50-200)
• Headphones for monitoring
• Recording software like Audacity (free) or GarageBand
• Quiet recording space

Interview formats work well because guests bring their own audiences. Solo commentary requires strong expertise or personality.

Although there have been a lot of successful crime-narrative podcasts like Up and Vanished that are more informational in style.

Co-hosted shows split the workload but need clear role definition.

Monetization comes from sponsorships, affiliate marketing, premium content, and listener donations.

Most podcasts need 5,000-10,000 downloads per episode before sponsors show interest.

Platforms like Patreon let you offer bonus episodes and ad-free content to paying subscribers.

11. Blogs, Newsletters, and Subscriptions

It may sound simple, but written content blogs and email newsletters is still a highly lucrative online business.

You can start a blog for under $100 per year with hosting and a domain name. Platforms like Substack let you launch free and paid newsletters without technical setup.

Blogs generate income through display ads, affiliate links, sponsored posts, and selling your own products.

A food blog might earn from recipe ads and cookbook sales. A marketing blog could sell courses and consulting services. There are many profitable blog niches you can choose from.

Email newsletters build direct relationships with readers. You own your email list, unlike social media followers.

Paid newsletter subscriptions on Substack or Beehiiv work when you provide unique insights, analysis, or entertainment people can’t get elsewhere.

Newsletter monetization strategies:

• Paid subscriptions ($5-50 per month)
• Sponsored content from relevant brands
• Affiliate product recommendations
• Premium content tiers

Consistency matters more than frequency. Publishing quality content weekly beats publishing mediocre content daily.

12. Self-Publishing and Ebooks

Self-publishing lets you publish your own book without traditional publishers.

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Apple Books, and other platforms give you 35-70% royalties on ebook sales.

Ebooks work well for how-to guides, niche expertise, fiction, and educational content.

A 10,000-20,000 word ebook provides enough value without requiring months of writing. You set your own price, typically $2.99-9.99 for optimal sales.

Production costs stay low. You need writing software, editing help ($100-500 for a short book), and cover design ($50-300).

Many self-published authors use tools like Canva for covers or hire designers on Fiverr.

Marketing determines success more than writing quality. Build an email list before launch.

Share sample chapters on your blog or social media. Run Amazon ads targeting relevant keywords. Authors who treat publishing as a business make consistent income.

Print-on-demand services like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark let you offer paperbacks without inventory costs. They print books as orders come in.

13. Online Coaching and Consulting

Online coaching means working directly with clients to help them reach specific goals. You might coach people one-on-one or in small groups through video calls.

One-on-one coaching brings in the most money per client. You give each person your full attention during sessions.

An online fitness trainer might charge $200-500 per month for personalized workout plans and weekly check-ins.

Group coaching costs clients less but lets you serve more people at once. You run live video sessions where multiple clients learn together.

You can still add some individual support through messaging or occasional private calls.

Consulting differs from coaching because you tell clients what to do instead of guiding them to find answers.

Consultants need deep expertise in areas like marketing, business operations, or technical skills.

Both coaching and consulting work well as online job because you only need a video platform and scheduling tool.

14. Membership and Community Sites

Membership sites charge a monthly fee for ongoing access to content and community. Members might get new training each month, live Q&A sessions, or access to a private forum.

This model creates steady income you can predict. Ten members paying $50 monthly gives you $500 in reliable revenue.

As you add members, your income grows without much extra work. Successful paid communities focus on specific niches.

You might create a space for startup founders, digital nomads, or professionals in a particular industry. The key is bringing together people who share common goals or challenges.

You need to keep creating value to stop members from canceling. This might mean posting new lessons, hosting live calls, or staying active in community discussions.

Some membership sites focus more on community than content. Members pay to connect with others who share their interests or goals.

Successful memberships solve ongoing problems rather than one-time issues. A membership teaching social media marketing works well because platforms constantly change. Members need continuous learning to keep up.

15. Freelancing and Gig Platforms

Another money-making online business idea basically revolves around freelancing services.

Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr connect you with clients who need specific skills. You can work as a freelance writer, graphic designer, or web developer.

These marketplaces handle payment processing and give you access to potential clients.

You can even make money on Fiverr with no skills.

Freelance writing offers multiple paths. You can create blog posts, website copy, or technical documentation.

Rates vary from $0.10 per word for beginners to $1+ per word for specialized expertise.

Common freelance services include:

• Translation services for business documents
• Graphic design services for logos and marketing materials
• Website design and development
• Video editing and production

The key to success on gig platforms is building strong customer relationships through quality work and reliable communication. Y

our reviews and completed projects become your portfolio. Start with competitive pricing to gain your first clients, then increase rates as you build reputation.

16. Virtual Assistant Services

You can become a virtual assistant by offering administrative support to busy entrepreneurs and small businesses.

This service-based business typically involves email management, calendar scheduling, data entry, and customer service tasks.

Virtual assistants often specialize in specific areas. Some focus on bookkeeping and accounting services. Others handle social media posting or customer relationship management. Your specialization affects your earning potential.

Entry-level virtual assistants earn $15-25 per hour. Specialized roles like executive assistants or those with technical skills command $40-75+ per hour.

You need reliable internet, a quiet workspace, and proficiency with common business tools.

Many virtual assistants start part-time while maintaining other income sources. You can gradually build your client base and transition to full-time work.

Long-term contracts with multiple clients provide steady income.

17. Marketing and Social Media Management

Businesses need consistent online presence but lack time or expertise to manage it themselves.

As a social media manager, you create content calendars, schedule posts, and engage with followers across platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Social media management includes tracking analytics and adjusting strategies based on performance data.

You might charge $500-2,000 per month per client depending on the number of platforms and posting frequency.

Related opportunities include working as an ad consultant for paid campaigns or building influencer marketing partnerships.

Some businesses prefer hiring a full marketing agency, but many small companies want individual contractors who cost less.

18. Professional Services Online

Tax preparation and accounting services have moved largely online.

If you have financial expertise, you can serve clients remotely during tax season and offer year-round bookkeeping. Licensed accountants can charge $200-500+ per tax return.

Other professional services translate well to digital delivery. Consultants offer business strategy, legal advice, or career coaching through video calls.

You bring specialized knowledge that clients cannot easily find elsewhere.

Private chef services now include virtual cooking classes and meal planning consultations. You can teach techniques through video sessions or create customized meal plans based on dietary needs and preferences.

Professional services typically require certifications or proven expertise. Clients pay premium rates because they value your specialized knowledge.

You protect yourself with contracts, liability insurance, and clear service agreements that define deliverables and timelines.

19. Web and App Development

Web development remains one of the most profitable online business paths.

You can build websites for clients, create web applications, or develop mobile apps that solve specific problems.

WordPress powers over 40% of websites globally, making it a strong platform for freelance developers who want steady client work.

The demand for custom web solutions continues to grow. Businesses need landing pages, booking systems, member portals, and ecommerce sites.

If you know HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, you can charge $50 to $150 per hour for development work.

You can also build and sell website templates or WordPress plugins. These digital products generate income repeatedly after you create them once.

Focus on solving common business problems like appointment scheduling, invoice generation, or inventory management.

Mobile app development offers similar opportunities. Small businesses need apps for customer loyalty programs, service booking, or product catalogs.

You don’t need to build everything from scratch since frameworks like React Native let you create apps for both iOS and Android simultaneously.

20. SaaS microbusiness (single-feature web app)

A SaaS microbusiness focuses on solving one specific problem really well.

You build a simple web app that does one thing instead of trying to create a complex platform with many features.

This business model works because people pay monthly subscriptions for tools that save them time or solve annoying problems.

You can run this type of business by yourself or with a small team.

Good examples include apps that schedule social media posts, convert file formats, or manage testimonials.

Some solo founders have built these simple tools into businesses earning between $1,000 and $100,000 per month.

You don’t need a huge budget to start. Many founders use low-code tools to build their first version quickly.

The key is finding a specific group of people with a clear problem they’ll pay to solve.

The best micro SaaS ideas target niche markets that bigger companies ignore. You might build a tool for podcast editors, freelance writers, or small e-commerce stores.

These focused solutions often face less competition than broad products.

You can start small and grow as you get customers. Many successful micro SaaS businesses began as side projects before becoming full-time income sources.

Launching and Growing Your Online Business

Starting an online business requires careful planning across four key areas:

• Validating your market opportunity
• Creating a structured business plan,
• Establishing your digital presence
• Setting up proper financial systems

Market Research and Validation

You need to understand your target customers before investing time and money into your business.

Start by defining who your customers are based on age, location, income, and the problems they need solved.

Research where your potential customers look for products like yours. Check competitor websites and read customer reviews to find gaps in the market.

Use interviews or surveys to ask direct questions about what people need and how much they’re willing to pay.

Test your business idea on a small scale first. You might sell a few products through social media or create a simple landing page to measure interest.

This validation step helps you avoid launching something nobody wants.

Look at both online and brick-and-mortar competitors. Note their pricing, customer service approach, and marketing tactics. This research shows you what works and where you can do better.

Creating a Business Plan

Your business plan serves as a roadmap for how to start an online business and guides your decisions as you grow.

Write a one-page executive summary that explains what you offer and why customers will choose you.

Include these sections in your plan:

• Product description with specific features and benefits
• Target market details and size estimates
• Marketing strategies for reaching customers
• Financial projections showing expected revenue and costs
• Funding needs if you plan to seek investors

Your business plan should outline how you’ll handle customer relationships and build trust.

Describe your approach to customer service and how you’ll gather feedback.

Include specific goals with deadlines, such as reaching 100 customers in three months or generating $10,000 in monthly revenue within six months.

Update your plan as you learn what works. A sustainable online business adapts based on real results, not just original assumptions.

Branding, Domains, and Online Presence

Choose a memorable domain name that matches your business name or clearly describes what you do.

Register it through providers like GoDaddy or Namecheap for $10-20 per year. Avoid domain flipping schemes where people buy domains just to resell them at higher prices.

Select a platform that fits your needs. Shopify works well for product-based businesses with built-in payment processing and inventory management. 

WooCommerce runs on WordPress and gives you more customization options but requires more technical knowledge.

Create consistent branding across your website, social media, and marketing materials.

Pick 2-3 colors, one main font, and a simple logo. Your website should load quickly on mobile devices since many customers shop on their phones.

Set up business email addresses using your domain name rather than free services. This looks more professional and builds customer trust.

Fundamentals of Payment, Finance, and Compliance

Open a business bank account to separate personal and business finances. This makes taxes easier and protects your personal assets.

Most banks require your business registration documents and tax ID number.

Choose payment processing services that work with your platform.

Shopify includes payment processing, while other platforms integrate with PayPal, Stripe, or Square. Compare transaction fees, which typically range from 2.5% to 3.5% per sale.

Register your business structure with your state. A sole proprietorship is simplest but doesn’t protect personal assets. An LLC costs $50-500 to form and provides liability protection.

Get necessary licenses and permits for your industry. Check federal, state, and local requirements.

Collect sales tax where required and file quarterly tax payments as your business grows.

Set up basic accounting from day one. Track income, expenses, and inventory using software like QuickBooks or simple spreadsheets.

Start email marketing to build your customer list using tools like Mailchimp. Consider search engine optimization and Google Ads once you understand your customer acquisition costs.

These marketing strategies help you scale your business profitably as you reinvest earnings into growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Starting an online business raises practical questions about costs, time commitment, and realistic expectations.

These answers address common concerns about getting started, choosing the right path, and setting yourself up for success.

What are the best ways to start earning online from home with minimal setup?

Blogging requires only a domain name and web hosting to get started.

You can launch a WordPress blog for under $50 and begin creating content immediately.

Once you build an audience, you can monetize through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored content.

Affiliate marketing is another low-setup option. You promote existing products through unique links and earn commissions on sales. This approach requires no inventory or product creation.

Freelance services let you start with skills you already have. If you can write, design, or code, you can begin offering services through platforms like Upwork or directly to clients. Your computer and internet connection are the only tools you need.

Print-on-demand services handle production and shipping for you. You create designs for t-shirts or other products, and the platform prints and ships items when customers order. You pay nothing upfront and earn the difference between the sale price and the base cost.

Which online ventures are most suitable for beginners with no prior experience?

Selling digital products works well for beginners because you create the product once and sell it repeatedly. Plus, if you have no design skills you can pay a freelancer to create them for you.

Ebooks, templates, or guides based on knowledge you already have require no special technical skills. Platforms like Easy Digital Downloads handle the payment and delivery process.

Dropshipping eliminates the need to manage inventory. You list products from suppliers on your online store, and they ship directly to customers when orders come in. This model lets you run a store without handling physical products.

Creating content on YouTube or through podcasts requires only basic recording equipment. A smartphone camera or simple microphone is enough to start.

You learn video editing and audio production as you go, and these platforms provide built-in audiences.

Teaching online classes through membership sites allows you to share existing expertise. If you know yoga, cooking, or any other skill, you can create video lessons and charge for access. Plugins like MemberPress make setting up a membership site straightforward.

How can someone start an online income stream without upfront investment?

Affiliate marketing requires zero initial investment. You join affiliate programs for free and promote products through content you create.

Your earnings come from commissions when people purchase through your links.

Social media platforms provide free access to large audiences. You can build a following on Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter by sharing valuable content.

Once you establish an audience, brands may pay you for promotions or you can direct followers to affiliate offers.

Freelancing services require no startup costs if you already have a computer. Writing, graphic design, virtual assistance, and consulting all let you earn money using skills you possess. You keep 100% of what you earn minus any platform fees.

Renting equipment you already own generates income without buying anything new. Lawnmowers, tools, or electronics sitting unused can become rental items for your local community. You create a simple listing and collect rental fees.

How do you identify and validate a unique niche before launching a digital Business?

Research existing content in your potential niche by searching Google and social media platforms.

Look for gaps where questions go unanswered or topics receive shallow coverage. These gaps represent opportunities for you to provide better information.

Test your niche idea by creating free content first. Write blog posts, make videos, or post on social media about your topic.

Monitor engagement through comments, shares, and questions to gauge genuine interest.

Analyze search volume using free tools like Google Trends or keyword research tools. This shows whether people actively search for information in your niche.

Consistent search volume indicates sustained interest rather than a temporary trend.

Join online communities related to your niche. Forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit threads reveal what problems people actually face.

When you see the same questions repeated, you’ve found pain points your business can address.

Check if people already spend money in this niche. Look for existing products, courses, or services being sold. Competition proves that a paying market exists. Your goal is finding an underserved angle rather than an untouched market.

Final Thoughts on an online Business

There are so many options for earning online income. You can have your dream of owning your own business starting today!

Just start!

We will receive a commission if you make a purchase through our affiliate link at no extra cost to you. Please read our disclosure policy for more information.

Do you also feel that your paycheck from a regular 9-to-5 vanishes faster than chocolate chip cookies at an office potluck? Believe it or not, building a dream life on a single income source is even harder now. Many of us are looking for ways to boost our income without signing up for a second full-time job that drains our sanity. Thankfully, many side hustles won’t eat up your evenings or weekends but still fatten your bank balance.

Whether you’re an IT veteran or a self-taught techie, there are several practical and low-cost ways to make money with tech skills. These side hustles for IT professionals aren’t some hyped-up schemes that need you to quit your job or make an upfront investment. On the contrary, they are smart, doable work-from-home jobs that can be done right from the couch. So, grab a cup of coffee and settle in.

 

PIN THIS: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page and learn about the best tech side hustles to make extra money.

 

 

1. Web Development

If slow, clunky websites make your eyes twitch and you know how to do better, you might be sitting on a goldmine. In today’s digital first-world, a business’s digital presence matters the most, and websites are the new bread and butter. But building a website isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. To that end, local restaurants, small businesses, and solo entrepreneurs often hire freelancers to build or fix their sites, and this is where you step in.

Web development is one of the best remote tech jobs to make money online, where you help design landing pages or full e-commerce websites. Plus, with tools like WordPress, you can wow your customers without breaking a sweat. They eliminate the need to code entirely.

However, if you know how to code HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, you’ll be able to get better-paying, long-term projects from Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal.

 

2. Home Network Setup & Troubleshooting

You’ve probably already fixed your aunt’s Wi-Fi or set up your cousin’s smart TV countless times. So, what better way to build a hustle than by getting paid for something you’re already doing for free?

You don’t need to be a full-blown IT engineer to pull this off. In most cases, you will be simply helping people’s Zoom stop glitching during meetings or teaching them how to turn their webcam on and off. It might sound techy, but it’s mostly plug and play.

Moreover, you get to choose your own hours — start it as a weekend side hustle or go all in and build a steady clientele through TaskRabbit and Facebook Marketplace. The choice is yours. Plus, there are more than enough YouTube videos about home network setup and troubleshooting, if you ever find yourself stuck.

 

3. App Development

You don’t need to build the next TikTok to make money building apps. Something simple like using Glide or Thunkable to create budget trackers, habit checklists, or appointment calendars can also be a great online business idea. These easy-to-use platforms have a drag-and-drop interface that eliminates coding headaches. You just need your creativity and a clear use case.

Building an app based on a use case helps solve specific problems. For example, you could build an appointment booking app for barbershops or coaches and monetize the app with ads. You earn from both the client and through ads. Talk about double-dipping!

 

4. Tech Support Services

We all had someone in our family who tried installing Zoom, panicking mid-download, and calling us in a frenzy at least once in our lives. Many non-tech-savvy people often need assistance with removing malware, installing software, and performing relatively simple tasks. But what if you start helping people with those 30-minute tasks professionally and get paid for it?

Like Uncle Ben said, “with great power comes great responsibility,” and as an IT-savvy individual, your powers may be in need. To become the friendly neighborhood tech-support man, start by joining JustAnswer or TaskRabbit. They regularly list remote gigs ranging from part-time jobs at tech support companies to small businesses or the elderly looking for one-time help.

 

5. Automation with No-Code Tools

No one enjoys repetitive tasks, but not everyone knows how to automate them. Picture a small-town baker juggling baking, deliveries, pre-orders, and finances single-handedly. On top of that, they write a baking blog, which must be shared on their Instagram page for better reach.

That can be a lot for anyone, especially if they don’t know how to use tools like Zapier or Make (Integromat). These tools can auto-post on Instagram, save leads to Google Sheets, or even send reminder emails – all without typing a single formula.

Leverage Fiverr and local Facebook business groups to showcase how you can help small businesses by automating their tasks. Focus on how these micro-automations save business owners hours each week, and they’ll be more than happy to pay for the time saved. It is one of the best IT side hustles from home, and you won’t need to write a single line of code.

 

6. UX/UI Design

UX/UI design is one of the best freelance jobs for developers with a creative side. As a UX/UI designer, you only focus on how a website or an app appears to a customer and its ease of use.

The best part is that you don’t need to be a full-stack developer to create fresh and intuitive interfaces for businesses. Adobe XD and Figma let you design slick interfaces – just drag, drop, and dazzle, no code needed.

You can also design creative templates and sell them on Gumroad or freelance sites like 99designs. Plus, it pairs beautifully with passive income ideas like selling digital products on Etsy.

 

7. Data Entry & Data Cleanup

If color-coded spreadsheets and sorting data feel oddly satisfying, this one’s perfect for you. Tons of businesses have cluttered customer lists, outdated inventory sheets, and messy CRM exports that need a little TLC. This is where you come in to make sense of the chaos with Excel or Google Sheets as your tools.

You don’t even have to learn how to code. You just need to be patient and have a sixth sense for spotting typos. Think of it like digital spring cleaning. The only difference is that you work alone and can make over $300 in a weekend just by cleaning the books of small businesses like a dentist. Besides local businesses, Freelancer.com, PeoplePerHour, and Fiverr are good places to find clients.

 

8. Cybersecurity Audits (Freelance)

Think of cybersecurity auditors as digital locksmiths who, instead of breaking in, keep the bad guys out. Having a cybersecurity background is a valuable skill set. It gives you the freedom to work freelance or full-time, helping small businesses.

As a cybersecurity auditor, your job is to run basic vulnerability scans, spot phishing traps, and review weak login setups. For example, you can help a bakery secure its payment gateway to avoid sketchy login attempts and make more than $100K a year.

That’s not all. A cybersecurity background pays off in more ways than one. You could participate in bounty programs for bug hunting on platforms like HackerOne. It’s a smart, high-paying way to turn your security skills into side income.

 

9. Coding Tutoring

Want to pass your tech knowledge to the next generation? Then why not try your hand at coding tutoring? It is a fun and rewarding job where you teach live sessions or simply upload recorded classes on Qyzant or Superprof. While the first method needs more commitment from your end, it also pays better. On the other hand, the second one doesn’t pay as much but makes money while you sleep. Win-win either way.

Plus, you don’t need to be a Silicon Valley prodigy to teach someone how to use loops. However, being good at teaching Python, JavaScript, or even HTML will undoubtedly help you earn more. After all, it pays to be a genius.

 

10. WordPress Maintenance Services

I once read that WordPress is like owning a car – people love driving it, but hate maintaining it. While that’s undoubtedly true, it also presents a great opportunity for you. You could become the go-to fixer for bloggers and small business owners who love their site but hate the backend mess.

The job in itself is simple enough and can be a steady income source. You’ll be helping with easy tasks like plugin updates, malware removal, site speed fixes, and backups. These tasks don’t take a lot of time or effort, but they are important for keeping the blog running smoothly and the client happy.

Bonus tip – Set up monthly retainers and take on 2-3 clients simultaneously to turn this side income into a steady full-time gig.

 

Enjoyed this post? Don’t forget to pin the image below! Also, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest over here! 🙂

How to create better circumstances in life

“…I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can’t find them, make them.”

– George Bernard Shaw, Mrs. Warren’s Profession

So here is a quick tip on how to get out in life and start creating a better one instead of complaining about the one you have!  Like I use to do when I was a young lad…

Need some in depth help with manifesting? Drop on by our directories choc full of Law of Attraction coaches and NLP coaches, and start bringing your visualisations to life! Or click here to have us match you to the best.

First, let’s talk about the problem

The problem is that the people who don’t reach their goals are usually the ones who complain about it. 

They blame other things or other people for not being able to achieve their goals.

How can you be successful if your failures are always somebody else’s fault or something beyond what is reasonable to control yourself?  

So here is the toughest lesson I ever had in life prior to my heart attack.

You need to take responsibility for yourself and stop blaming others.

The problem with this mindset of blame, however, seems that the more often it’s used as an excuse not just by individuals but organizations themselves in general across all industries around the world – governments included. But I digress.

• You need to take responsibility for your own actions. It is not good to blame others for your failures because it will not make you successful.
• It’s hard to be successful if you’re always blaming others or circumstances for your failures.

Why would you want to hand over so much power to a person or a circumstance anyway?

I should know because I spent a large part of my life locked up due to being bitter, mad, frustrated, and just angry at the world because of what I thought my parents did or didn’t do for me!

I use to spend my time with an angry look on my face. Using it as a defense mechanism!

My thought process back then was “If my own parents could do me harm, then what’s to stop a complete stranger from doing the same thing?”

I bought into the fear factor! I used my energy to create what I DID NOT WANT instead of creating a better version using the power of my mind.

I soon realized that one of the worst things I could do is to focus on what’s not working in my life and playing the victim role thinking I had nothing to do with how I got to this station in life.

Boy, was I oh so wrong about that!

After years of soul searching and now learning how to shift my focus from what I FEAR or don’t want in my life to focusing on what I can create despite current circumstances, I was finally ready to do the work.

Focus on the positives

So let’s switch gears and place our focus on how we can create a better life instead of wait on one!

I can promise you this.  If you are willing to put in the work and do just one thing daily, you too can begin to create the life of your dreams and be happy for the journey.

It’s not as much about the destination anyway as much as it should be about the ride!

Lets focus on solutions you can take action on so you can create a better life.

Make a Control Map Before You Make a Move

Before you can create better circumstances, you need to stop treating every problem like it belongs in the same pile.
Some things are yours to change.
Some things are yours to influence.
Some things are yours to release because staring at them all day will only drain the energy you need for action.
A simple way to sort this out is to make a Control Map.
Take one situation you keep complaining about and divide it into three columns:

1. What I control
These are the actions, decisions, habits, words, and follow-through that belong to you.

2. What I can influence
These are people, conversations, systems, or outcomes you may affect, but cannot fully command.

3. What I need to release
These are things you cannot change by obsessing, replaying, blaming, or waiting.
Let’s say you hate your job.
You may not control the company culture, your boss’s personality, or whether a promotion opens this month.
But you do control whether you update your resume, apply to three roles this week, ask for clearer expectations, track your wins, or have a direct conversation about your future.
That is where your power is.
Not in pretending the situation is perfect.
In finding the part you can actually move.
A career coach might help you sort this quickly, especially if you keep mixing together facts, fears, and old stories. The work is not just “think positive.” It is looking at the circumstance and asking, What is the next responsible move I can make from here?
Try this with one real problem.
Write the complaint at the top of a page.

Then ask:

What do I directly control here?
Who or what can I influence with a clear action?
What am I giving attention to that is not giving me power back?

That third question can sting a little.
Good.
That means it is probably telling the truth.

Turn the Complaint Into a Clear Request

A lot of complaining is really an unmade request.
Not always.
Sometimes you need to vent, process, or name what is happening.
But if the same complaint keeps coming back, there is a good chance your next step is not more thinking.
It is a cleaner request.

“I never get any help around here” is a complaint.

“Can you handle dinner on Tuesday and Thursday so I can finish this course?” is a request.

“My boss never notices what I do” is a complaint.

“Can we schedule 15 minutes this week to review what I have completed and what I need to do to be considered for the next opportunity?” is a request.

“My partner does not support my goals” is a complaint.

“I need two hours on Saturday morning to work on this, and I need you not to interrupt me unless it is urgent” is a request.

See the difference?

A complaint throws frustration into the air.
A request gives someone a specific action to respond to.
The cleaner the request, the harder it is to hide behind the old story.
Use this simple pattern:

Name the situation: “I have been trying to finish my certification.”

Say what you need: “I need two quiet blocks of time this week.”

Make the ask specific: “Can you take the kids to practice on Wednesday and handle bedtime on Friday?”

Give the reason without over-explaining: “That would let me finish the next module and stay on track.”

That is not begging.
That is leadership over your own life.

A communication coach, relationship coach, or leadership coach might help you practice this if direct requests feel awkward. Sometimes the skill is not knowing what you want. It is learning how to say it without attacking, apologizing, or shrinking.

And yes, people can still say no.

That is useful information too.

A no gives you reality.

A complaint gives you a loop.

Responsibility Is Not the Same as Self-Blame

Taking responsibility does not mean pretending every bad thing that happened was your fault.
That is not strength.
That is just another trap.
You may not have chosen the layoff.
You may not have chosen the family you were born into.
You may not have chosen the illness, the breakup, the betrayal, the recession, the missed opportunity, or the person who let you down.
But you still get to choose what you do next.
That is the difference.

Self-blame says: “This is all my fault, so I should feel ashamed.”

Responsibility says: “This happened. Now what can I do with the power I still have?”

Those are not the same thing.
One keeps you stuck in punishment.
The other moves you into action.

If you lost your job, responsibility might look like filing for benefits, updating your resume, calling three contacts, cutting one expense, and applying for roles before noon each day.

If your relationship is struggling, responsibility might look like asking for one honest conversation, naming the pattern clearly, booking counseling or coaching, and deciding what behavior you will no longer participate in.

If your health has slipped, responsibility might look like scheduling the appointment, walking for 15 minutes after lunch, planning breakfast before bed, and tracking what actually changes your energy.

No drama required.

Just clean ownership.

A life coach can be helpful here because they can keep bringing you back to the line between what happened to you and what is now yours to handle. That line matters.

You do not need to carry blame that does not belong to you.
But you do need to carry the next right action.
That is how you stop handing your future over to the past.

Try This 7-Day Create Better Circumstances Challenge

If you want to make this real, give yourself seven days.
Not seven days to fix your whole life.
Seven days to prove you can stop feeding the old circumstance and start building the new one.

Pick one area only.

Your career.

Your relationship.

Your health.

Your money.

Your confidence.

Your home.

Do not pick five areas and turn this into another reason to quit.

Pick one.

Day 1: Name the circumstance you keep complaining about
Write it plainly.

“I am tired of being broke.”

“I hate how disconnected my marriage feels.”

“I feel stuck in this job.”

“I keep saying I want to get healthy, but I do not follow through.”

Do not dress it up.
Name the thing.

Day 2: Make your Control Map
Draw three columns:

What I control

What I can influence

What I need to release

Fill them in with real actions, people, decisions, and facts.
If you write “my whole life” under what you need to fix, you are being too vague.
Get specific.

Day 3: Turn one complaint into one request
Choose a complaint you have repeated more than once.

Then make a direct request from it.

Ask your boss for a meeting.

Ask your partner for a specific kind of help.

Ask a friend to walk with you twice this week.

Ask a mentor to review your resume.

Ask yourself for one hour without your phone.

Make it something someone could actually say yes or no to.

Day 4: Remove one habit feeding the old circumstance
If you complain about money but keep avoiding your bank account, open it today.

If you complain about your health but keep buying food that makes you feel worse, remove one item from your regular routine.

If you complain about your relationship but keep making sarcastic comments instead of honest requests, stop the sarcasm for one day and say the real thing.

Tiny removal.

Real consequence.

That is the game.

Day 5: Take one visible action toward the new circumstance

Visible means you can prove it happened.

You sent the email.

You made the call.

You walked the mile.

You booked the appointment.

You applied for the job.

You cleaned the drawer.

You wrote the page.

You practiced the conversation out loud.

No imaginary progress.

A real action.

Day 6: Track what changed
Do not only track the outcome.
Track your behavior.

Ask:

What did I do that I usually avoid?

What felt uncomfortable but useful?

What changed because I acted instead of complained?

What did I learn about the situation once I moved?

Sometimes the first win is not the result.
Sometimes the first win is realizing you are not as powerless as you thought.

Day 7: Share the result or ask for accountability
Tell someone what you did.
Not as a performance.
As a way to make the new pattern stronger.

You might say:

“I applied for three jobs this week and I am going to keep going.”

“I asked for help instead of silently resenting everyone.”

“I looked at my finances and made one change.”

“I booked the appointment I have been avoiding.”

“I started walking again, and I want you to check in with me next Friday.”

A coach can help you turn this seven-day challenge into a longer plan with practice, feedback, and accountability. But the first proof can start right here.

One circumstance.

One map.

One request.

One action.

Then another.

That is how you start creating a life instead of waiting for one to arrive.

Know this

Go-getters will always reach what they are striving towards. They never let circumstances get in the way.

They create their own success by getting up and looking for what they want in life, instead of complaining about what they can’t have.

If you want to be a go-getter then you’ll want to know about how important it is to set clear goals and take action on them every day until you’ve reached your dreams!

Let’s break it down into six focus points

1. Identify the circumstances you want in life.
2. Set goals for your desired circumstances.
3. Create habits that will help you achieve your desired circumstance. 
4. Get rid of bad habits that will get in the way of achieving the desired circumstance 
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until you have achieved your desired circumstances or new, better ones!
6. Share what has changed with others who might be interested in making their own changes!

A quick note about your focus

• You will get what you pay close attention to
• The law of attraction suggests that “like attracts like”
• Find greater happiness in your life by focusing on the things you want instead of the things you don’t want

But what if I need more help?

When I first got serious about changing my own life instead of blaming others, the practice was HARD! 

Notice I used the word PRACTICE because all of life is but a practice right and it’s always going to be hard at first until you get enough practice. 

Besides, think about it this way. There is NO ONE on earth who came out of the womb running full sprints right? 

NO!

We all had to learn how to walk through practice and now we all take that granted too!

So let me give you more ammunition for your voyage to your best life!

DO THIS

• Worry less about what you don’t want to happen and think more about your desired outcomes
• Clear up self-doubt, limiting beliefs, procrastination, and other mental blocks that prevent success
• Focus on where you want to go in life; set goals; meet them; feel good
• Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment

Everything I have listed in this article has come by way of 17 years of self-examination and insight into my own life.  The lessons I have learned have been life-changing.  

Now that you know how to create habits for the life you want, it’s time to take action.

• Make sure your goals are specific and measurable so they can be tracked more easily.
• If something doesn’t seem like a good idea or isn’t working out as planned, let go of it and try again with another approach until you find what works best for you!
• Remember, there is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to changing habits; we’re all different in some way.

But if I’ve helped one person change their habit successfully then this article was worth writing.

So have fun creating those new habits and remember – now is always better than later! 

Need some in depth help with manifesting? Drop on by our directories choc full of Law of Attraction coaches and NLP coaches, and start bringing your visualizations to life! Or click here to have us match you to the best.

You might be leaving money on the table every day!

If you aren’t taking advantage of all the coupon sites and cash back apps available ow.

There are so many coupon sites and websites that give you access to promo codes, cashback offers, and deals that can cut your costs without extra effort.

Whether you’re buying groceries, shopping online, or looking for local experiences, these platforms help you find discounts you might otherwise miss.

Plus, a lot of these coupon sites do the hard work of hunting down discounts so you don’t have to search through multiple websites or miss out on savings.

Some even use browser extensions that work while you shop!

We’ve put together some information below on how these sites work, which platforms offer the best deals and discounts, and proven strategies to stack savings.

You’ll learn which tools work best for specific needs, from cashback on big purchases to weekly grocery savings.

Most Popular Coupon Sites and Apps of 2026

Coupon sites and apps have become digital tools that work easily online, and in any place you shop!

From browser extensions, to cash back apps, below are the top choices for coupon sites to help you save money!

More reading: When’s the Latest You Can Use a Coupon?

Rakuten (formerly Ebates)

Rakuten stands out as one of the largest cashback platforms available today.

The site was previously known as Ebates before rebranding. Since 1999, it has paid members over $4.6 billion in cash back rewards.

Don’t leave this major savings resource untapped! You can earn cashback when shopping at more than 3,500 stores through their platform.

Make a $50 bonus with this link (once you spend your first $50)

The site also offers traditional coupons and promo codes that you can use alongside cashback offers. This means you can stack savings for better deals.

Rakuten works through a browser extension or their main portal. When you shop through Rakuten, you earn a percentage of your purchase back as cash. So it is constantly keeping track while you shop.

You can withdraw this money once it reaches a certain threshold. The best thing about it is, you can use it buy everyday purchases you already get but earn cash back on them.

Rakuten covers hundreds of major retailers across different categories. You’ll find stores for clothing, electronics, home goods, travel, and food. 

You don’t need to sacrifice convenience to save money with Rakuten. The browser extension automatically alerts you when cashback is available at stores you’re already shopping at online!

Rakuten’s mobile app mirrors the desktop experience with cashback rewards and coupon codes.

More reading: Rakuten vs. Ibotta

Our Favorite Cash Back App

Rakuten: Make cash back on all your online shopping. Get a $50 bonus with your first shopping cart!

Honey

Honey is a free browser extension owned by PayPal that helps you save money when you shop online. The tool works on over 30,000 websites and has more than 17 million users.

When you’re ready to check out, Honey automatically searches for coupon codes and applies them to your cart with one click.

You don’t need to hunt for codes yourself or test them manually.

The extension also offers a rewards program called Honey Gold. You can earn points when you shop at certain stores, which you can later redeem for gift cards.

Honey works with popular browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Edge.

You simply download the extension and it runs in the background while you shop. The interface is straightforward and easy to use.

The tool is most helpful if you shop online frequently at major retailers. However, it won’t always find working codes for every store or purchase. Results vary depending on what deals are available at the time.

RetailMeNot

RetailMeNot helps you find coupons and promo codes for thousands of stores. You can search for deals from over 10,000 brands in one place.

The site offers three main ways to save money. You can find coupon codes to use at checkout.

You can earn cash back on your purchases. You can also discover exclusive offers that aren’t available anywhere else.

RetailMeNot works for both online and in-store shopping. This makes it useful whether you shop from home or at physical stores.

RetailMeNot’s mobile app shows you nearby stores with active deals based on your location.

The platform covers many shopping categories including retail, travel, food delivery, and clothing.

Users report finding working coupon codes about 75% of the time. This success rate is higher than many other coupon sites.

You can also combine RetailMeNot codes with cash back programs like Rakuten for extra savings.

The site is free to use. You don’t need to pay for a membership or subscription. Simply visit the website, search for the store you want, and browse available offers.

Capital One Shopping

Another cash-back site for saving money is Capital One Shopping. It is easy to add to your Chrome browser and it will automatically do all the money saving for you!

You can get coupons automatically added to your shopping cart, price drop notifications, shopping rewards and more!

It will actually test coupon codes during checkout. The extension also tracks price history and alerts you to better deals at other retailers.

You don’t need a Capital One account to use it. What is so great is you go to your favorite store, put all the things you want to buy in your cart and then click the Capital One Shopping tool.

It will find any available coupon codes out there and save you money immediately!

Groupon

Groupon stands out as one of the most popular coupon sites for finding local deals in your area.

You can save money on restaurants, entertainment, beauty services, and spa treatments with Groupon.

The site works by offering discounted vouchers for experiences and services near you. You’ll find deals on everything from date night dinners to weekend activities.

Many users appreciate Groupon for making entertainment more affordable.

Beyond local deals, you can also use Groupon for travel savings. The platform offers discounts on hotels, vacation packages, and tours at destinations around the world.

You won’t find grocery coupons on Groupon. The site focuses on experiences and services rather than retail products.

If you’re looking to save on fun activities and local businesses, Groupon provides real value.

The platform regularly updates its deals, so you can check back often for new offers. You might find discounts ranging from small percentages to significant savings on premium experiences.

The Krazy Coupon Lady

The Krazy Coupon Lady helps you find deals, coupons, and freebies for everyday purchases.

Founded by Heather Wheeler and Joanie Demer, the site collects discounts from major retailers like Target, Amazon, Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens.

You can access their deals through their website or mobile app. The platform organizes promotions by store and category, making it simple to find what you need.

The site covers groceries, household items, electronics, clothing, and beauty products. You’ll find coupon codes, clearance alerts, cash back offers, and sale notifications.

They also highlight trending deals and limited-time freebies.

The Krazy Coupon Lady updates their deals daily. Their team searches for the best prices so you don’t have to spend hours looking yourself.

You don’t need to pay to use the service. The platform is free and includes deals for over 50 stores.

Whether you shop online or in-store, you can find applicable discounts for your needs.

Slickdeals

Slickdeals stands out as one of the most popular deal platforms online.

The site offers coupons, promo codes, discounts, and bargains on nearly every type of product you can imagine.

What makes Slickdeals different is its community-driven approach. Members find and share deals, then vote on the best ones.

The most popular deals rise to the top, so you see what other shoppers think is worth buying.

You can browse deals by category or search for specific products. Slickdeals covers everything from electronics and clothing to home goods and travel.

When members spot a great price, they post it for others to see.

The site’s Popular Deals section shows you the top-rated bargains chosen by the community. These deals have been vetted by real users who know how to spot genuine savings.

You can trust that these offers have caught the attention of experienced deal hunters.

Slickdeals works well if you like seeing what others recommend. The community aspect means you benefit from thousands of people searching for the best prices every day.

Coupons.com

Coupons.com offers verified coupon codes and promo codes you can use for online shopping.

The site also provides printable grocery coupons to help you save money on food and cashback offers on purchases.

You can browse deals across many different stores and product categories. The platform works by collecting current promotions and discount codes in one place.

This saves you time since you don’t need to visit multiple websites to find savings.

The site verifies its coupon codes to help ensure they actually work when you try to use them.

You can search for specific stores or products to find deals. Coupons.com also has a mobile app if you prefer to search for savings on your phone.

When you find a coupon you want to use, you can clip it digitally or print it out for in-store purchases.

The cashback feature lets you earn money back on qualifying purchases. You’ll need to create an account to access all the features and save your favorite coupons.

The site updates its offers regularly as new deals become available and old ones expire.

Brad’s Deals

Brad’s Deals helps you find discounts and coupons from hundreds of online stores.

The site brings together deals from your favorite retailers in one place so you don’t have to search multiple websites.

The platform has a team that searches for the best prices on products. They surface deals, coupons, and exclusive discounts from brands and stores you already shop at.

You can browse deals by category or store. The site gets around 2 million visitors each month, which shows many people use it to save money on their purchases.

Brad’s Deals focuses on finding legitimate discounts rather than just listing every possible coupon code.

This means you spend less time sorting through expired or fake offers. The site covers everything from groceries to electronics and household items.

You don’t need to create an account to view deals, though signing up may give you access to additional offers.

Brad’s Deals is free to use and makes money through affiliate relationships with retailers.

Don’t Pay Full

Don’t Pay Full is a coupon site that helps you find discount codes and deals from thousands of online stores.

The site adds new coupon codes every day to keep its offerings fresh and up to date.

You can search for specific stores or browse through different categories to find savings. The site organizes coupons by retailer, making it easy to locate what you need quickly.

Don’t Pay Full provides promo codes, discount offers, and other promotional deals.

You don’t need to create an account to access the coupons. Simply visit the site, find your store, and copy the code you want to use.

The platform covers a wide range of retailers across different shopping categories. You can find deals for clothing, electronics, home goods, and more.

Before you make a purchase online, checking Don’t Pay Full might help you save money on your order.

Keep in mind that coupon codes can expire or have specific terms attached to them. It’s worth trying multiple codes if the first one doesn’t work at checkout.

Hip2Save

Hip2Save is a website that just groups all the best deals and coupons for the day together for you in one place.

What’s great about it is they uncover deals you may not know about. Sometimes the deals are for a limited time, but they can be really great!

It gives you detailed posts about current promotions. They include printable coupons from Coupons.com and manufacturer websites.

Deals are organized by category, making it easy to find discounts on groceries, household items, or clothing.

DealCatcher

DealCatcher has been helping shoppers find savings since 1999. The site brings together deals from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target in one place.

You’ll find discounts across multiple shopping categories. These include electronics, clothing, and home goods. The platform features expert-curated deals that are updated daily.

The site works by collecting sales and promotional offers from different stores.

You can browse deals by category or search for specific products you need. This saves you time compared to checking each retailer’s website separately.

DealCatcher focuses on quality over quantity. The team reviews deals before posting them to make sure they offer real value.

You won’t have to sort through countless low-quality offers to find something worth buying.

The platform is free to use. You don’t need to sign up for an account to see the deals, though creating one may give you access to additional features.

You can visit the site whenever you’re planning to make a purchase to check for current savings opportunities.

Mobile Apps and Instant Deal Alerts

Mobile coupon apps let you access deals while shopping in stores.

Ibotta gives you cashback on grocery purchases after you scan your receipt. You can earn rewards on specific products from brands like Coca-Cola, General Mills, and Kraft.

RetailMeNot’s mobile app shows you nearby stores with active deals based on your location.

CouponCabin’s app includes both online codes and in-store offers. Rakuten’s mobile app mirrors the desktop experience with cashback rewards and coupon codes.

Popular mobile-first features:

• Receipt scanning for grocery rebates
• Location-based store deals
• Push notifications for time-sensitive offers
• Digital coupon organization

Swagbucks combines coupons with other earning activities like surveys and cash back shopping.

Gift card deals appear regularly in these apps, letting you stack savings on top of regular discounts.

Best Platforms for Online Shopping and Cashback

The top cashback platforms like Rakuten and CouponCabin partner with thousands of stores to offer real money back on purchases, while browser extensions automatically find savings at checkout.

Coverage varies widely between sites, with some offering access to over 50,000 merchants while others focus on higher rates at fewer stores.

Top Sites for Earning Cashback and Rewards

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) leads the cashback industry with partnerships across thousands of stores and cashback rates that typically range from 1% to 10%.

You earn cash back on qualifying purchases and can choose payment through PayPal or check every quarter.

CouponCabin offers similar cashback opportunities plus exclusive coupon codes at over 3,400 retailers.

Their Sidekick browser extension applies codes automatically and tracks your cashback earnings in real time.

Swagbucks takes a different approach by offering multiple ways to earn rewards beyond shopping.

You collect points for purchases, surveys, and watching videos, then redeem them for gift cards or cash.

BeFrugal provides competitive cashback rates and a price comparison tool that helps you find the lowest prices before you buy.

They also offer a unique feature where they’ll match higher cashback rates from competitors.

Platforms With the Widest Store Coverage

RetailMeNot partners with over 19,000 merchants, giving you access to the broadest selection of stores. Their Deal Finder extension works across nearly any online retailer you visit.

CouponBirds maintains over 96,000 coupon pages with verified codes across tens of thousands of stores. Their SmartCoupon Finder extension has a 95% success rate for finding valid codes.

Slickdeals connects you to deals from over 9,000 stores through both their website and mobile app. Their community actively shares and verifies deals in real time.

Wethrift features over 51,000 merchants with a focus on small and medium-sized online stores. While they don’t offer cashback, their extensive coverage helps you find working codes for niche retailers.

Coupon Extensions and Price Comparison Tools

Browser extensions save you time by automatically testing coupon codes at checkout.

Cently by CouponFollow, Honey, and Sidekick by CouponCabin are the most reliable options that work across major retailers.

Honey Gold operates differently from traditional cashback offers. You earn Honey Gold points on purchases at participating stores, then redeem them for gift cards. The extension also includes a price comparison tool that shows price history.

Price comparison tools help you time your purchases by tracking price drops. These features alert you when items on your wishlist go on sale, ensuring you never pay full price.

Most extensions combine multiple features into one tool. You get automatic coupon application, cashback tracking, and price alerts without switching between different platforms or apps.

Saving on Groceries: Printable and Digital Coupon Options

Grocery bills add up fast, but printable coupons and digital savings tools can cut costs significantly.

Coupons.com leads the printable coupon space, while store apps and strategic stacking methods help maximize your grocery budget.

Coupons.com and the Rise of Printable Grocery Coupons

Coupons.com serves as the largest platform for printable grocery coupons in 2026. You can search their coupon database by brand or product category to find manufacturer’s coupons for items you already buy.

The site updates daily with new offers for groceries, household products, and personal care items.

You print coupons directly from your computer and present them at checkout just like traditional paper coupons.

Popular printable coupon sources include:

• Coupons.com
• PGGoodEveryday.com
• Colgate.com
• BettyCrocker.com
• Pillsbury.com

Most printable coupons have a limit of two prints per computer. You redeem them at supermarkets, drugstores, and big-box retailers that accept manufacturer’s coupons. The coupons work alongside store sales to increase your savings.

Top Apps and Sites for Grocery Savings

Grocery store apps now offer digital coupons you can clip directly to your loyalty card. These work automatically at checkout when you scan your rewards number.

Best grocery loyalty programs for digital coupons:

• Target Circle
• CVS ExtraCare
• myWalgreens
• Kroger Shopper’s Plus
• Club Publix

Target Circle provides weekly manufacturer’s coupons and store-specific discounts. Kroger’s app features high-value digital coupons that you load once and use at checkout.

CVS and Walgreens give you store rewards called ExtraBucks and Walgreens Cash on top of coupon savings.

Download your preferred store’s app to access exclusive digital offers not available in print. Many stores let you combine digital store coupons with manufacturer’s coupons for bigger discounts.

Extreme Couponing Strategies for Everyday Shoppers

Coupon stacking combines multiple coupon types on a single item for maximum savings.

You use one manufacturer’s coupon plus one store coupon, then add cash back apps or rebate offers.

Start by matching coupons to items already on sale. A sale price of 50% off paired with a $1 manufacturer’s coupon can make products nearly free.

Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens run promotions that reward you with store credit when you buy certain items.

Stock up during these sales on non-perishable goods like laundry detergent, toothpaste, and canned foods. Target often offers gift cards when you spend a set amount on specific brands, and you can still use coupons to lower your out-of-pocket cost.

Check your store’s coupon policy before shopping. Some retailers limit the number of identical coupons you can use in one transaction.

Plan your trips around sale cycles to maintain a stockpile of essentials at the lowest prices.

Final Thoughts

The bottom line is, you can improve your bottom line daily by taking advantage of coupon sites!

Don’t miss out on all the money you could make from cash back apps and sites, coupon and deal websites like the ones in this list!

Struggling to find the secret sauce to happy?

Follow this recipe to boost your happiness quotient

Have you ever tried to follow a recipe but it doesn’t seem to matter if you have all the right ingredients in the right quantities added in the right order, you still can’t make it like your auntie used to? She just had a way with it. You can still see her dancing in the kitchen, humming to herself as she adds, mixes, tastes and simmers but no one can cook like she did.

You can create a lot of great things in life. You can put all the right ingredients together, in the right amounts at the right time, but still not be happy. You can have an excellent job, fall in love, get married, have kids, drive a nice car, have a summer house, go on vacations, have a sharp wardrobe, be fit and look great, but what is any of that worth if you don’t like yourself? It’s like cooking with all the correct ingredients but still not pulling a masterpiece out of the oven. Something is missing.

If this sounds like you or maybe you find yourself saying things like “I’ll be happy when…” or “If only I could have this, then I’d be happy” or “I’ve just got to lose weight, stop smoking, get up earlier…” you might want to read on.

The missing sauce problem: You’re too hard on yourself

What if you go to all the trouble to create a beautiful life but every time you see yourself in the mirror you find fault with how you look? If you make a mistake, what does the voice in your head say? What happens if you don’t get the raise, the promotion, the award, the recognition or the compliment? What if your kids turn out to be something completely different from what you’d hoped for them? What if your partner cheats? What if your stocks crash and you lose everything you worked so hard for? Who will you Be then? What if you could like yourself no matter what happened or what it looked like to other people?

When you discover the gift of liking yourself, really liking who you get to Be, then you will have the most precious thing in your possession and nothing can take that away from you. You’ll be able to have a great day even when your hair is a disaster. You’ll be able to laugh when you mess up, cry when people are watching, crack a lame joke and be the only one laughing…and then laugh about that.

Liking yourself doesn’t mean you’ll be happy about everything, but it does mean you get to be easier on yourself when things fall apart or when life gets messy. It means you get to say “yes” to the things you may have put on the shelf and it means you get to say “no” to the stuff you once tolerated but despised doing. When that happens, you’ll be able to cook like auntie! The ingredients of your life will take on a whole new flavour and you will discover your own secret sauce.

Secret sauce development is a process: Be your own best friend

Everyone has their own process known only to them and you will become your own expert too. My journey is something I had to work at for a long time. It took a lot of trial and error. I was a super shy kid with very few friends or social ties. I didn’t dislike myself but I definitely was not comfortable being seen and that really limited the choices I could make.

Luckily what I did have was an insatiable appetite for learning about spirituality, healing and personal growth. Those fascinations saved me and helped me make sense of my world and got me to where I am today.

I’m grateful for the journey and I’m relieved to not have to live the way I did for nearly 40yrs. This is why I’m sharing what I’ve learned with you. Here’s what I’ve discovered:

I really like myself. I enjoy my own company, I laugh at my own jokes, I love how I live my life and the person I get to be. I also appreciate how I deal with difficulties, how I address things as they come up, and they do come up. I’m much more comfortable in my body, more comfortable with the sound of my voice and the things it says. I like how I care for others, I like how I continue to learn new things all the time and that it’s ok if I don’t always know what I’m doing and I’m less and less concerned with the opinions of others. I’m also ok with not having “it all together”. That’s part of the process of life! That’s the whole point, and it’s wonderful.

Let’s get cookin’: Talk to yourself like someone you love

Getting to this point was a process for me but it was worth every step of the journey and I’m certain that it isn’t over yet. I know you can go from where you are now to loving your uniqueness and the person you get to be.

Here are a few things that might help you discover more ways of liking yourself:

1. Start by getting comfortable with the idea that one day this will be normal and natural for you. It’s ok if its awkward and clumsy for now.
2. Get curious about what you don’t like about yourself. How would a kind and loving person respond to those things? What would they say? I know this can be a difficult thing to do, but we have to learn to be the person we’ve always wanted someone else to be for us. You already have a sense of how to respond and start shifting these things. Do what makes sense to you. There is no right/wrong way.
3. Appreciate your warm heart. Take note of the things you do like about you, what you’re pleased with. Notice when you handle a situation well. Where are you honouring the values that are really important to you? Are you kind? Do you do your best to make people feel welcomed? Maybe you bring your friends coffee or send them songs they might enjoy. I know you’ve got a list you could start making.
4. Respond to yourself as though you are your own best friend. Laugh about your shortcomings. Speak with kindness and encouragement. Give yourself time and space when you need it.
5. Take some risks, try new things and give yourself the opportunity to have a learning curve. No one knows how to do things without a few bumps or growing pains.
6. Try not to compare yourself to others. You can like you and your choices without having to be better than someone else. And, you get to be your own version of an awesome human with your own flare and style without measuring up to anyone else’s standards.
7. If you do find yourself comparing yourself to others or beating yourself up about something…find a way to laugh about it. It’s a hilarious thing we all do from time to time. We are adorable that way!
8. Develop a zero tolerance policy for negative self-talk. It doesn’t mean you don’t recognize your mistakes or repeated patterns. It allows you to acknowledge that you’re a work in progress. You are allowed to take however long you need to do what you’re doing. You’ll get there.
9. Do the difficult things. Challenge yourself to try things outside your comfort zone. Get some bumps and bruises along the way, that’s how we get where we want to go.
10. Celebrate every little “win”. Start with the itty-bitty insignificant things if you have to. There is always something. This will put fuel in your tank.
11. Enjoy the process…because enjoying it is an option.

Snack size portion: Simple ways to be your own pal

If this all seems like a bit much at the beginning…that’s ok too and I have something really simple you can do to ease in or support an ongoing practice.

• Take a quiet moment alone to do this. You can do it in the bathroom, in the car, outside in the park or even in a sunny window.
• Stand or sit
• Close your eyes
• Place a hand gently on your heart (the other one can go on your tummy or solar plexus just below the ribs)
• Make the intention of just holding your beautiful heart in a nurturing way.
• Acknowledge that it’s been through a lot. It’s been hurt, disappointed, rejected, betrayed, abandoned and broken. It needs your tenderness right now. Just hold it.
• Allow a little smile and tell your heart you love it. Say, “I’m here for you. We’re going to get through this. There is a way and we’ll figure it out.”
• Do this for as long as you like. It can be a long or short connection.

Let it simmer: Happiness is a journey

• You are allowed to take as long as you like in this journey.
• You already have an idea how to do it. These are just some suggestions to get you going.
• There isn’t actually anything wrong with you.
• There is nothing you need to fix.
• You will figure it out and discover all kinds of wonderful things along the way.
• Trust your instincts and don’t make yourself wrong for trying whatever makes sense at the time. That is your wisdom in action.
• The things that work you can keep doing, the things that don’t work, you can let go of and move on.
• You have a great big warm heart.
• You are naturally creative in your own way.
• You’ve had a unique set of experiences and circumstances that make you unlike any other person and that makes your path suitable for only you.
• You can learn from others, be inspired and get ideas, but you have to figure out what works for you alone.
• You are beautiful, you matter, and whatever you’re feeling is totally ok and makes complete sense in this moment. You will have a new moment, and then another, and you will feel other things.

Too many cooks in the kitchen: A Cluttered Mind Leads to Confusion

You can’t believe everything you think or the criticisms of others. That’s what gets us into trouble. It’s like we believe the movie we’re watching is real! “Omg, did you see that?” …It’s not real. It was a movie projection, green screen, animation, loads of make-up and expensive set design. Our thoughts are just like that. They’re so realistic but there’s a big price to pay in believing them to be true so be selective with what thoughts you allow to run your show.

Master chef: Be loving, nurturing and kind to yourself

Instead…make choices that are kinder. To me the “love yourself” thing is the verby action component that goes with liking yourself. It’s about the things that you do or don’t do to take care of yourself. Your choices matter. Make sure they are loving, nurturing, kind and fun.

You’ve got the sauce: Own it!

We’ve looked at what liking yourself might be for you, and we’ve looked at some ways you can help that process along, but we haven’t discussed why. Why is it important to like yourself? What is the value in that? Why does it matter? What’s the point?

Here’s my take on it.

First of all, liking yourself doesn’t make you arrogant or egotistical. It makes you kinder to you and eventually to others as well.

You like yourself because that’s the whole point of being an individual. You get to be a unique expression, unlike any other. That’s amazing, what’s not to like?

Embracing and enjoying all of you feels good. There’s a sense of ease that comes from forgiving yourself and letting go of trying to get things right according to others. It brings a lightness and a relief that comes from healing and releasing the abuse we self-inflict through our criticism. It also brings possibilities that open up when we stop depriving ourselves of things that bring us joy and no longer force ourselves to do things that don’t feel good.

Do you want to know one of the biggest reasons why? It’s because, when you really like yourself and WHO YOU GET TO BE, you start to like other people even more! Their foibles and idiosyncrasies don’t bother you as much. You become less judgy, more accepting, more loving and way more fun to be around. Your whole life improves. You’ll feel freer and things will naturally start to flow.

The icing on the cake is that when you like yourself, the universe likes you too. The sun is sunnier and life is way more fun. Your life becomes a place for miracles. That’s a great thing and it’s why learning to like yourself is THE SECRET SAUCE.

Maybe you need a car repair. Or new shoes for one of your littles. Sometimes you just need extra income and you need it fast!

And, thanks to rising inflation and the cost of living increasing, more and more of us need to look at additional ways to make money.

Thankfully, there are a lot of fast ways to make money in this day and age. From rideshare like Uber, to a giant garage sale or even a creative side hustle freelancing.

A recent report released by Lending Club indicates that 63% of Americans live from paycheck to paycheck. Having a regular 9 to 5 job is no longer enough to keep up with the rising cost of living.

What can you do when your paycheck no longer meets all your expenses? Check out the following ideas and tips of fast ways to make money.

More Reading: 20 Part Time Jobs

26 Quick Things to do to Make Money

Try any of the items in this list if you need extra cash fast!

1. Rent out your spare room

Depending on the appeal of your location, your spare room or condo unit standing empty can be prime rental space for tourists and out-of-towners.

You may need to do a bit of work to make the space comfortable for guests to live in but this method can be a worthy income-earner for you by advertising on apps like AirBnb

It goes without saying that you will need to earn good reviews from your visitors to see a constant flow of business.

You can learn about how I made $8,500 a month from my AirBnb passive income side hustle here.

2. Sell things you no longer need

Look around your home and there are sure to be items you no longer use taking up valuable space. Clear out the clutter and earn a bit of extra cash from things that are just lying around.

This may be one of the quickest ways you can make money in one hour. And you can actually make as much as a few hundred dollars.

There is a demand for unwanted goods like clothes, jewelry, toys, and collectable items. Plus, household furniture in good condition and appliances, tools and equipment just to name a few.

Here is a list of the best apps to sell your used furniture on.

The market for unwanted items can be sold on online market sites and apps as well as to pawn shops, thrift stores, garage sales and flea market stalls.

More Reading: 16 Sites Like OfferUp Where You Can Sell Items

3. Try out a side hustle

There is a vast array of online platforms advertising side hustle opportunities that earn you extra cash. From blogging and proofreading, to transcription and virtual assistant services, there are many side hustles that can help you make money in an hour.

Check out marketplace platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk, Fiverr and Upwork where dozens of to-do ads are placed daily. You can easily create a profile and start working freelance projects.

You can also start your own business like Amazon by Fulfillment or selling products on sites like Etsy.

If you have your own vehicle, you could boost your earning potential from delivery side hustles.

Apps like Doordash and Instacart pay good money for delivering things like groceries to people. Check out this guide to driving on DoorDash.

There is no limit to the money you can make from deliveries when you factor in the rate of pay and tips. And, making money in one hour is easy to do with these.

More Reading:  Small Business Ideas

4. Sign up to a consumer research study app

Paid survey sites have been around for decades offering consumers money for their opinions. Completing consumer surveys is a convenient and easy way to earn quick cash in your spare time and in the comfort of your own home.

There are many consumer survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys that pay for you for watching videos and completing surveys.

Respondent works slightly different to other consumer research apps and pays a higher than average rate as it specifically targets bona-fide professionals for their opinions. You can actually make as much as $100 in an hour with Respondent.

Another high-paying site for interviews is User Interviews.

Make up to $100 an hour for consumer interviews

Click this link to get signed up with Respondent and quickly earn money for an hour of work!

---

---

5. Earn money by pet-sitting

If you are an animal lover then this can be a great way to spend time with animals and get paid for it.

Look after the pets of those in your neighborhood and get paid for it. Sites like Rover help you connect with pet owners looking for pet-sitting services.

Pet-sitting offers a flexible, income-earning opportunity that you can do in your spare time and according to your schedule.

It is a great way to make money in one day if you need it!

6. Drive For Uber or Lyft

Rideshare services are an easy way to make money in an hour. I’ve done Lyft myself and love the way you can just click one button on the app and suddenly you are making extra cash!

It is super easy and very flexible since you can do it anytime that you want to. You can also drive as little or as much as you want with Uber or Lyft. 

Lyft frequently offers bonuses to amp up your earnings.

7. Get Paid for Odd Jobs

There are so may odd jobs you can quickly earn money for these days. Handymen make as much as $75 an hour now!

You can make fast cash with odd jobs like painting, lawn mowing, handyman, or even helping someone organize or pack for a move.

Advertise your services on NextDoor or sites like Task Rabbit. You can even use Craigslist to advertise your services.

8. Become a plasma donor

Believe it or not, donating your plasma for cash is a legit way of earning extra money in the U.S.

Plasma donors can earn as much as $50 for each donation. If you are desperate for extra cash and are looking for a way to make money in an hour, selling your plasma is a quick-hit.

As blood plasma is utilized in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products, you will need to pass a medical screening process before you can become a donor. To get started, find a plasma donor center near you.

9. Open up a new bank account

There are a number of banks that offer a sign up cash bonus. This is earning easy money the simple way.

However, it can take a while to actually get the bonus so this may not be the fastest way to raise cash in our list. It is certainly an easy way to make money!

SoFi Checking and Savings, Aos Bank and Alliant are just a handful of the many banks that offer a welcome bonus when you sign up for a new account.

You can actually get $275 bonus to open and account with this link on SoFi.

You can make money in one day, or even one hour with a bank account bonus simply by opening a new checking or savings account. Bank account bonuses require certain things like setting up direct deposit though.

Earn Interest on Your Money

CIT Bank: Make money while you sleep with a high yield Platinum Savings account. *

*For complete list of account details and fees, see our Personal Account disclosures

10. Sign up to passive income apps

Another underutilized method of making extra money is through passive income apps.

Why wouldn’t you want to make money by hardly doing anything at all? Sound intriguing? So, how can you earn money through passive income apps?

Different passive income apps work differently. On some apps like Nielsen Panel you will earn points just by using their platform to browse and shop online.

These points can be exchanged for cash that you can use for whatever it is you want.

11. Free up cash by spending less on bills

If only you could spend less on bills to save. Now you can with apps like Rocket Money.

Granted, Rocket Money will not strictly speaking earn you money but by using the app, you can find ways to save on your monthly bill spend which is almost as good as earning money.

The app focuses on lowering your bill spend by negotiating with your service providers. You get to spend less on your phone bill and data plans and Rocket Money will also cancel subscriptions you no longer use.

You can make money by saving money!

12. Make money by shopping

There are shopping apps that let you earn cash by doing your weekly grocery shopping.

Many of these apps give you cash back for buying pre-identified items or for shopping at selected stores.

iBotta, BerryCart, Checkout 51, NCPMobile, Cash Crate and Rakuten are some of the well-known apps to try out.

Our Favorite Cash Back App

Rakuten: Make cash back on all your online shopping. Get a $50 bonus!

13. Deliver Food

Another way to make money in one hour is by delivering food. There are so many companies now that offer food delivery, it is a great way for you to make quick cash.

Here are some companies that will pay you to drive and deliver food:

14. Flip Items

Another good idea for making money is to flip items. This just means you buy something super cheap at a garage sale or your local Goodwill, and then resell it.

You can sell items online in places like Ebay, Facebook and Craigslist or OfferUp. You can actually find free items sometimes on sites like NextDoor and resell those.

If you are good with paint, you can buy used furniture and refinish it and resell it for a profit.

15. Borrow Money

Of course don’t forget about the option of borrowing money! When it comes to quick ways to generate cash this one works, while not ideal.

You can hit up your family and friends. Or, you can take out a personal loan from sites like PersonalLoans or Lending Tree.

There are also cash advance apps that will let you quickly borrow small amounts of cash like these:

• Dave: The Dave banking app lets you get up to $500 in 5 minutes or less
• Albert: You can get up to $250 cash advance with no fees on your first time
• Brigit: This financial app helps you get on track and you can get up to $250 quickly

16. Trade Stocks

This one may be a bit riskier! And, it requires that you already have some money you can play with. But you can definitely make money in an hour by trading stocks on the stock market.

Just be careful! Try Robinhood which is super easy to use. Depending on how much you put into your account, you can get a bonus.

Tools you need to get started investing in the stock market:

Motley Fool will give you insider information and tips on what stocks to buy.

VectorVest: Stock analysis to help you know what to buy and what to sell!

17. Babysit

You may have forgotten this easy way to make money from your teenage years. Babysitting is a legitimate way to make money in one hour. (Or usually several hours!)

The rates these days for babysitting are really good. You can offer to watch your neighbor’s kids or advertise on a site like care.com.

You can even start a small daycare in your home and watch kids everyday for income.

18. Start Freelancing

Freelancers can make a lot of money per hour. And in this digital age, there is a lot of demand for freelancers.

You can work online or in-person with clients. There are many types of freelance work, you can do it just depends on your skills and interests.

You can work as a freelance graphic designer if you have skills and experience in that field. Just make sure to have a good reputation when starting out which is key.

You could even look into the best reputation management services to help you boost your reputation so prospective clients know that you’re the real deal.

If writing is your talent, then work as a freelance writer. There are many websites, blogs and businesses looking for freelance writers and freelance graphic designers.

Here are some sites where you can advertise your freelance services:

19.  Sell unused gift cards

Another easy way to earn cash fast is by selling unused gift cards.

Why let unwanted gift cards go to waste when you can turn them into cash by selling them on dedicated apps like Cardpool, Gameflip, GiftCash and GiftCardBin?

20. Become an affiliate partner on social media

Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are not just for connecting with others, you can make money from them too.

You may need to put in a bit of effort to set up as an affiliate marketer and build an audience but the earning potential from this source of income is unlimited.

21. Take advantage of referral programs

There are hundreds of apps and sites that pay for your referrals to friends and family. Invite others to sign up to these apps and you get paid for each new signing.

You can post your referral links on your social media accounts and invite your extended network to join. Some of the popular refer-a-friend programs are Inbox Dollars, Ibotta and Swagbucks.

22. Take Online SUrveys

There are several sites and apps out there that will pay you money fast for easy tasks like taking online surveys and watching videos.

They will even offer you money immediately in the form ofinstant sign up bonuses just for getting started. Our two favorites are Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys.

You can earn PayPal cash, gift cards or money deposited into your bank account.

Here are several survey sites:

Our Favorite Cash Back App

Rakuten: Make cash back on all your online shopping. Get a $50 bonus!

23. Take Advantage of Sign Up Bonuses

There are many apps and websites out there that will pay you an instant bonus just to register and sign up.

You can combine a few of these for some easy cash. Here are our favorites:

24. Play mobile games

Apps like Blast offer its users the opportunity to make extra cash by downloading and playing mobile games. 

Blast is paid by game developers to feature their games on the app. To encourage you to play the games, Blast offers you a monetary incentive every time you download a game and complete game missions.

You can increase your earning potential by improving your position in the higher tiers on the leader board and creating savings triggers.

You can even make money just for watching ads and videos, try this list.

25. Test Websites

There are companies out there that will pay you to test their websites. So, basically, you can make money in 1 hour for surfing the internet!

You will have to complete specific tasks and answer questions or maybe look for issues and bugs on a website.

You can earn as much as $15 for one 20 minute test. Here are some companies that will pay you for website testing:

Tips on Making Money Quickly

Here are some tips to keep in mind if you are trying to earn money in just an hour.

Try more than one idea: We always suggest combining more than one money-making idea. This will not only help you earn more, but discover what you like doing best.

Find the highest paying tactic: It’s always good to make as much as you can. Go through this list and figure out which one makes you the most money the quickest.

Focus on your goal: If you start to feel like you don’t want to do the extra work, just write down a goal and keep it in mind! Maybe a vacation, or money to invest.

Frequently Asked QUestions

How can I make $100 dollars in one hour?

If you are trying to make as much as 100 dollars in an hour, you may need to try some of these jobs as shown by Indeed.com:

• Day Trader of Stocks
• Physical Trainer
• Massage Therapist
• Freelance Photographer
• Consultant
• Interior Designer
• Software Engineering Manager
• Doctor
• Psychologist

How to Make QUick Money in ONe Day on My Phone

If you are looking for some fast ways to make money in an hour or day from your phone, here are some options:

Sign up with an app that pays you for simple tasks like Survey Junkie or Branded Surveys.

Become an affiliate marketer, making a commission from products you promote on your social media channel.

Create and sell an Non Fungible Token (NFT) on sites like OpenSea and Atomic Market.

What Fast Cash Options Should I Avoid?

Not everything that promises quick cash is good. Some things can be a scam, or end up costing you more money.

If you need money in an hour, or a hurry, avoid these money-traps:

Payday installment loans: Payday installment loans will try to entice you with fast money offers and make it sound good. But don’t opt for these as the interest charges can be extreme. You may end up unable to make the monthly payments.

Payday loans: Very similar to the installment loans, these carry super high interest rates and are just not worth it in the long run. A typical loan like this has a 400% apr! That is insane.

Auto title loans: You can get a short term loan that requires you to provide your vehicle title as collateral. Don’t do this! You could wind up losing your car and taking a big financial hit.

Final word

Why hassle for overtime when there are unlimited ways to earn money outside of your day job.

Between passive income apps, money-saving apps, refer-a-friend programs, mobile games, side hustles and plenty more, you can decide how much money you make. And, you can make the money you need in a short a time as one hour!

The best part is that you don’t need experience or qualifications to take advantage of many of these opportunities.

originally published 12/2022

NEXT MONEY-MAKING POSTS:

Best Books About Passive Income

How to Make $2,000 Fast

How to Double $10K Quickly

25 Work from Home Jobs for Housewives

Real Estate Side Hustles

How to Earn $300 Fast

Side Hustles for Women

How to Earn Money Online Without Investment in Mobile

Best Jobs for 11 Year Olds

What are the Best Products to Sell Online to Make Money?

Best Selling Products on Etsy

Shopify Store Set-up Guide

How to Make Money for Teens

How to Start a Lifestyle Blog and Make Money

80 Trending Crafts that Sell Best

Creative Ways to Make $100 in a Day

HERE ARE MY FAVORITE MONEY APPS:

Rakuten for cash back on shopping. Use this link to make a $30 welcome bonus.

Acorns which takes your spare change from purchases and invests it for you to help you make even more money.

Empower (Formerly Personal Capital) for money management. Get a money dashboard, free analysis and personalized wealth advice.

Is Acorns worth it? Is it a good investing app to download and start?

We’ve put together an in-depth guide on the Acorns investing app, including my personal experience with it. And yes, I can honestly say it is worth it!

Acorns is a micro-investing app designed to make investing simple and easy for beginners.

It is also an app that helps you save money by automating it. By rounding up your spare change from everyday purchases, the platform helps you start saving and investing without feeling overwhelmed. You can start investing even with small account balances.

This innovative approach to investing has grabbed attention and praise for its user-friendly interface, automatic savings features, and risk-appropriate portfolio options.

However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of Acorns to determine if it’s the right fit for your financial goals. In this Acorns review, you will learn everything you need to know.

What is Acorns Investing?

Overview of Acorns App

Acorns is an investing app designed to help you start investing with minimal effort. In addition, it also helps you save money.

By connecting your bank checking account, the app tracks your spending and rounds up transactions to the nearest dollar.

It then moves that money into your Acorns saving account where it invests that “spare change” into a diversified portfolio based on your preferences and financial goals.

You can also set your Acorns personal account to withdraw a set amount of money from your bank account daily, weekly or monthly and add it to your Acorns accounts. These recurring deposits can help your account grow even more.

Our Favorite Money App

Acorns: Set up your savings to automatic and get it invested to grow at the same time! Get a $10 bonus!

Acorns as a Robo-Advisor

As a robo-advisor, Acorns creates and manages your investment portfolio using algorithms and automation.

You are asked a series of questions when you sign up, so the app can determine your risk tolerance and investment goals. Based on this data, Acorns will build a customized portfolio that aligns with your goals.

So basically you are still driving how risky or not risky the investments are. If you want to be more conservative with your investments, you just let the Acorns app know that. It will invest your money accordingly.

More Reading:

Micro-Investing and Spare Change

One of the great things about Acorns is that you don’t have to have a bunch of extra money laying around in order to invest.

Acorns’ micro-investing approach makes it easy for you to start investing even if you don’t have a significant amount of money to deposit initially. It does all the work for you with your linked checking account.

By rounding up your everyday transactions, the app accumulates small amounts of money that are invested in your portfolio. It moves these small amounts from your checking account into your acorns invest account.

This “spare change” method allows you to gradually build up your investments and get comfortable with the idea of investing in the market. Plus, since it is a robo-advisors app, you don’t have to make the actual purchasing choices.

My Experience with Acorns

My Acorns investment review is that I’ve been using the Acorns App for several years now and highly recommend it. First of all, it makes it easier to contribute money each month to a savings account.

It can be hard to make sure you set aside money to put in savings. But with the Acorns app, it is automatic, so you basically can’t mess that up!

Once you link it to your bank’s debit card, it will automatically round up any purchases you make to the next dollar, and take that spare change and save it for you.

But, it is even better than a regular savings account because it pushes that spare change to an investment account. So, not only are you saving money every week, you are investing that money. And that means you can turn it into more money!

And, since Acorns allows you to choose what risk level you want, you can be as conservative as you want. That way, you can make sure the money in your Acorns account will grow at least a little. Or, you can choose to be a little braver and make your money grow more quickly.

My official Acorns review is that it has been easy for me to use, has automated my savings and investing, and I think Acorns is worth it!

More Reading: Best Websites for Freebies

Acorns Investment Portfolios

Investment Options

With Acorns, you have access to a variety of investment options that include stocks, bonds, and other asset classes.

By using a passive investment strategy, Acorns helps you grow your wealth without needing to make constant adjustments to your portfolio. This approach is ideal for new investors looking for simplicity and ease of management.

You don’t have to spend time studying or even worrying about what to buy or not to buy. Acorns makes it easy for you by doing the work in investment accounts.

—–> Try Acorns with this link and receive a $5 immediate investment

Diversification and Risk Tolerance

An essential aspect of any investment strategy is diversification, and Acorns provides this through its carefully constructed portfolios.

These portfolios adhere to your risk tolerance, so that your investments match your goals and overall comfort level.

Whether you are a conservative or an aggressive investor, Acorns offers a mix of assets to help you achieve long-term growth. You choose how your investment funds are allocated.

More Reading: The 60-30-10 Rule of Budgeting

ETFs and Expense Ratios

The funds in Acorns investment portfolios primarily consist of low-cost index ETFs from reputable providers such as Vanguard.

These ETFs represent various asset classes, including domestic and international stocks, bonds, and even more specialized investments like a Bitcoin-linked ETF. This diverse selection gives you broad market exposure, which can contribute to the stability of your investments over time.

One advantage of investing in ETFs is their low expense ratios compared to other investment products. Lower expense ratios result in lower overall fees. Which, in turn, means more of your money goes to actual investments.

With Acorns, the ETFs included in the portfolios often have expense ratios well below industry averages, ensuring that your investments remain as cost-effective as possible.

To summarize, Acorns offers an accessible and diversified investment solution that caters to various risk tolerances. And, it still lets you invest even with smaller account balances.

By investing in low-cost ETFs from respected providers, you can start making money from investments without risking too much.

More reading: YNAB vs. Personal Capital

Account Types and Features

Acorns Core, Later, and Spend

Acorns offers a variety of investment accounts designed to meet different goals.

The Acorns Core account is a basic investment account that helps you invest your spare change through its round-up feature. You simply link your bank debit card to Acorns and it does the rest!

This account offers you the choice of investment accounts and portfolios such as conservative, moderate, moderately aggressive, and aggressive.

Acorns Later is tailored for retirement planning, providing Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and SEP IRA options based on your needs. By contributing to Acorns Later, which is essentially a retirement account, you can work towards a more secured retirement.

Meanwhile, Acorns Spend is an Acorns checking account that includes a debit card for daily use. This account offers various features such as:

• No minimum balance requirements for your checking account
• Cash back on your purchases
• Efficient money management with the Acorns app

Related reading: How Much is 5 Figures?

Acorns Early and Family Plan

For those looking to invest on behalf of a child, Acorns offers Acorns Early, which are custodial accounts under UGMA/UTMA regulations.

These accounts allow you to create an investment plan for your child’s future. This makes it super easy to start a college account for your kids while they are still young.

The Family Plan combines Acorns Core, Later, and Spend accounts along with Acorns Early, making it the most comprehensive option for families who want to manage their finances in one place.

Money Tools to Help You

• Acorns – Automatically saves and invests money for you. Get a $5 bonus.
• Empower (Personal Capital) – Dashboard for money management.
• CIT Bank – Put your money in a high yield savings account that earns

Retirement and IRAs

As mentioned earlier, Acorns provides retirement-focused investment options through Acorns Later. You can choose between the following types of IRAs:

• Traditional IRA: Allows you to contribute pre-tax income, so your contributions may be tax-deductible. Taxes are deferred until you withdraw the funds during retirement.
• Roth IRA: Contributions are made off your post-tax income, meaning you won’t receive a tax deduction upfront, but your withdrawals during retirement are tax-free.
• SEP IRA: A retirement plan designed for self-employed individuals and small business owners. Contributions are tax-deductible, and taxes are deferred until retirement.

Keep in mind that for each of these IRAs, there are specific contribution limits and rules that apply. Be sure to consult a financial advisor or do your research to determine the best option for your circumstances.

Acorns Fees and Costs

Membership Tiers and Pricing

You do have to pay management fees to use Acorns. The program offers three membership tiers, each with a monthly subscription fee:

1. Lite – $1/month: Provides basic savings, investing, and earned money features.
2. Personal – $3/month: Adds an individual retirement account (IRA), checking account, and recurring investments.
3. Family – $5/month: Extends all the benefits of the Personal tier and adds Acorns Early, which allows you to open custodial accounts for your children.

Management and Account Fees

Despite its straightforward subscription models, there are some management and account fees you should be aware of within each tier.

Lite

Acorns invests your spare change, and the $1/month fee may seem reasonable, but it can accumulate as a high percentage if your investment balance starts low.

For example, with just $100 invested, a $1 monthly fee amounts to a significant 12% annual fee. Ensure that over time, your positions grow to optimize your Acorns fees. Of course, you are also getting the added benefit of Acorns automating your savings for you with its round up feature.

Personal

For $3/month, you receive access to an IRA and checking accounts. However, keep in mind that this tier also requires you to maintain higher account balances to mitigate the impact of fees on your investments.

Family

The Family tier, at $5/month, could be of value for those looking to set up custodial accounts for their children. However, you will have to pay account fees. Make sure your investments grow at a pace that balances the fees, regardless of the tier.

Closing Accounts: Be aware that if you decide to close your investment account, Acorns may charge you a non-negotiable closing fee based on the specific scenario and the tier you belong to.

Keep these fees in mind when considering Acorns as an investment platform. Evaluating the cost structure is important before committing to a financial application. Make sure you understand how fees apply to your specific situation to benefit from the platform.

Extra Features and Benefits of Acorns Investment

Round-Ups and Found Money

Acorns offers Round-Ups, a feature that allows you to invest your spare change automatically.

When you make purchases using a linked credit or debit card, Acorns rounds up the transaction amount to the nearest dollar and invests the difference in your Acorns investment account.

This feature can be a great way to start investing without feeling the pinch of setting aside large lump sums. Plus, if you have a hard time getting yourself to save money, this makes it happen for you automatically.

Acorns Found Money is another unique feature that helps you earn cash back from participating retailers and Acorns partners.

When you shop with companies like Walmart or other Acorns partners, a percentage of your purchase amount is deposited into your Acorns investing account as a cash back reward. This way, you can grow your investment portfolio while shopping at your favorite retailers.

Cash Management and Debit Card Rewards

Acorns also offers cash management options through their Acorns Spend account, which is a checking account that comes with a debit card.

This account has no overdraft fees, no minimum balance requirements, and allows you to withdraw money from more than 55,000 ATMs without incurring fees.

The Acorns debit card also offers a unique rewards program. When you use this card for purchases, you’ll automatically benefit from Round-Ups and Found Money features. This feature helps you accumulate cash back and grow your investments effortlessly.

Partnerships and Retailers

Acorns has partnered with various retailers and investment firms to provide an optimal investing experience for its users.

The platform includes a diverse range of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) from world-renowned firms such as BlackRock and Vanguard. These strategic partnerships work together to create diversified portfolios tailored to your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Plus, since Acorns investing is using trusted ETFs, you can trust the app with your money a little more.

By collaborating with different retailers for the Found Money feature, Acorns enables you to earn extra cash for your investment account while shopping at popular stores.

The more partners Acorns adds, the more opportunities you’ll have to grow your investments and maximize your savings.

Acorns Investment Performance and Returns

Historical Returns and Portfolio Performance

When investing with Acorns, your money is allocated in ETFs within diversified portfolios created by experts. This is one thing that makes Acorns investment app such a great choice.

These portfolios will maximize your potential return while minimizing risk. It is important to remember that past performance does not guarantee future results. And, of course if you opt for one of the more aggressive portfolios, your gains will be more.

However, Acorns has generally delivered competitive returns compared to other robo-advisors and investment platforms. So, it is one of the best investment apps and platforms you can choose.

You can track your account performance, including your contributions, returns, and net worth, through the Acorns app.

This allows you to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments in your investment strategy.

Additionally, if you have a 401(k) from a previous employer, you can roll it into an Acorns account to take advantage of their professionally managed portfolios.

Tax Strategies and Tax-Loss Harvesting

While Acorns does not currently offer tax-loss harvesting, they do focus on tax-efficient strategies for their portfolios. This includes utilizing ETFs, which are generally more tax-efficient than mutual funds due to their unique structure.

It’s also important for you to consider the potential tax implications of your Acorns portfolio, particularly as it relates to your income and overall financial goals.

For example, if you are in a higher income bracket, you may want to explore other tax-advantaged investment opportunities, like 401(k)s or IRAs, to minimize your tax liability.

On the other hand, if your primary goal is building a long-term investment portfolio, focusing on capital appreciation and returns may be more important than pursuing tax-loss harvesting.

As with any investment strategy, it is important for you to regularly review your portfolio performance and consider your specific financial goals, risk level, and tax situation.

By staying informed and actively managing your Acorns investment account, you can work towards achieving your investment objectives.

Pros and Cons of Acorns

Advantages of Acorns Investing

Acorns is a great platform for those with specific investment goals in mind. One of the platform’s main strengths is that it’s designed for hands-off investors who want a simple and automated investing experience.

Diversified Portfolio: Acorns offers risk-appropriate, low-cost investment portfolio options. These options are built by experts and include exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that provide a diversified investment experience.

This ensures your money is spread across various assets to minimize risk and maximize returns. Plus, they give you the control of choosing how risky or not risky you want to be.

Automatic Savings Features: Acorns’ round-up feature helps you save more by automatically investing your spare change from everyday transactions. This makes it easier for you to build your investment portfolio without noticing the impact on your daily spending.

Ease of Use: Acorns’ easy-to-navigate interface makes it simple for beginners to start investing in a diversified portfolio without feeling overwhelmed.

Customer Support: Acorns offers reliable customer support through Facebook and other channels, ensuring you get help when you need it.

Disadvantages and Concerns

While Acorns offers many advantages for beginner investors, there are some drawbacks to consider.

Fees: One of the main concerns for Acorns’ users is the relatively high fees, particularly when compared to other fintech investing platforms like Robinhood or Vanguard S&P 500 ETF.

Acorns charges a flat rate of $3/month for personal accounts, which can be expensive if you have a small balance. For example, a $100 balance on the Personal tier would result in a 36% management fee, while Betterment by contrast only charges 0.25% per year.

Limited Investment Options: Acorns does not offer the option to invest in individual stocks, small-cap stocks, or other specific investments that you might find on platforms like Robinhood.

Because it is a custodial investment account, it limits your ability to customize your portfolio in your investing account based on your individual preferences. Acorns also does not offer tax loss harvesting.

Returns: Since Acorn portfolios are primarily built around diversified ETFs, your returns may not be as high as those potentially achievable by investing in individual high-growth stocks or other options.

As a result, your returns could be more conservative than other investment strategies. However, this makes the Acorns App a good fit for beginner investors.

In summary, when considering Acorns as an investing platform, be sure to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it’s the right fit for you.

Acorns Reviews

When it comes to a full Acorns review, you might be wondering how other people rate and review Acorns. According to the Consumer Affairs site, it has a 3.3 out of 5 rating. Not exceptional, but decent. They have had over 10 million people sign up, which is a ton of customers!

There are some general complaints online however regarding poor customer service and slow or poor responses to cancellation requests in particular.

So, they do have some clear issues to correct. Another negative we wanted to include in this Acorns review is that they are not an accredited BBB company as of now.

Alternatives and Competitors to Acorns

Wealthfront and Betterment

Wealthfront and Betterment are two popular robo-advisors that offer a more comprehensive investing experience compared to Acorns.

Both of these platforms provide diversified portfolios, an easy-to-use interface, and automated investment management.

Their fees are generally lower for larger account balances, so they may be more suitable if your investment objectives extend beyond the spare-change-centric approach of Acorns.

Specifically, Wealthfront offers tax-loss harvesting for taxable accounts which can increase after-tax returns.

Betterment, on the other hand, focuses on personalized goal-based planning. Plus, they have an option for upgrading to their premium service for access to CFP professionals’ advice.

Robinhood and SoFi

If you’re interested in active investing or trading individual stocks and ETFs, Robinhood and SoFi might be better alternatives.

Both platforms offer commission-free trades for stocks and ETFs, with Robinhood known for its easy-to-use interface and sleek design.

And, SoFi offers a more holistic approach to personal finance, including lending services and mobile check deposit.

Robinhood also gives its users access to options and cryptocurrency trading, expanding the potential investment opportunities available. In comparison, SoFi recently introduced fractional shares and integrated cryptocurrency tradinginto their platform.

How Acorns Compares with Competitors

Fee structure: Acorns invest charges a flat fee for its services, starting at $1 per month for the Lite plan. This can be an attractive option for smaller accounts, but it could become less competitive as your account balance grows.

Competitors like Wealthfront and Betterment charge fees as a percentage of assets under management instead. They do make payment easy by directly withdrawing it from your linked bank account.

Investment approach: Acorns focuses on micro-investing, rounding up your everyday purchases and investing the difference. This makes it an easy and approachable way for beginners to start their investing journey. Wealthfront, Betterment, Robinhood, and SoFi cater to more experienced investors with broader investment options.

Account types: Acorns primarily focuses on taxable accounts and individual retirement accounts. In contrast, Wealthfront and Betterment offer a wider range of account types, including joint accounts and 529 college savings plans. Robinhood and SoFi focus on individual taxable accounts.

To summarize, your choice of investment platform will largely depend on your personal finance goals, available investment options, fees, and account types. Evaluate each platform and determine which one best aligns with your needs.

Can You Actually Make Money from Acorns?

I can personally attest that yes, you can make money from Acorns investing. The money that pushed to my Acorns account has grown for sure. So, it is worth signing up with Acorns investing.

What is the Downside of Acorns?

One of the downsides of Acorns is they do not have a tax strategy. Another downside is that their fees are a little on the high side.

And, if you want to purchase individual stocks instead of ETFs, you will not be able to do so. In addition, there are some online complaints regarding customer service response issues and slowness.

Does Acorns Have a Monthly Fee?

Yes, as we’ve mentioned Acorns does have a monthly fee. The amount of the fee depends on which type of account you opt for. But, the most affordable and basic plan is $1 per month which is debited from your bank account.

Is Acorns Safe?

Our Acorns review 2023 has determined that yes, Acorns is a safe app to use with your checking account. You can easily link it to your debit card and checking account.

Your direct deposit money that is transferred to the Acorns app is safe. But, the riskier choice of portfolio you make, could increase the chance of your money decreasing if the stock market falls. You can choose a more conservative portfolio to keep your money even safer.

Final Thoughts on Acorns Investment Accounts

Overall, if you are looking for an easy and safe way to get started investing with a minimum investment, Acorns is a best bet.

Or, even if you just want to automate your savings, download the app and get started today!

NEXT SMART MONEY POSTS:

Frugal Grocery Shopping Tips

How to Save Money for a House

Motivation to Save Money

Recession Proof Jobs

How to Save Money From Your Salary

The 30 30 30 10 Budget

21 Free Printable Budget Worksheets

How Much a Year Do You Make From $18 an Hour?

How Much is $15 an Hour Per Year?

Thrifty Living Tips

Is CardCash Legit?

$18 an Hour is How Much Per Year?

Lexington Law Review

25 Money Saving Hacks

7 Best Credit Repair Companies

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House

How Much is $30 an Hour Per Year?

Why You Should Avoid the 100 Envelope Challenge and What to Do Instead

How to Eat Out on a Budget

---

Here are my favorite budgeting and saving apps:

Rakuten for cash back on shopping. Use this link to make a $30 welcome bonus.

Acorns which takes your spare change from purchases and invests it for you to help you make even more money.

Personal Capital for money management. Get a money dashboard, free analysis and personalized wealth advice.

In today’s busy world, who wouldn’t want to earn rewards and gift cards simply by using their smartphone?

If you’re interested in discovering ways to make the most out of your spare time, free gift card apps might be exactly what you’re looking for.

With a multitude of options available, there’s definitely something for everyone. From taking online surveys to playing games and even shopping online, these apps provide a variety of ways to earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards.

By choosing the right app, you can make the most of your downtime with your mobile phone and enjoy some extra perks along the way.

So, get ready to explore some of the best apps that give gift cards in 2023, and find the perfect way to earn free money with your leisure time.

BEST APPS to EARN FREE GIFT CARDS

SURVEY JUNKIE

At Survey Junkie you’ll earn points for each survey you complete, which can then be redeemed for gift cards or cash.

Surveys usually pay between $1 and $50 in some cases, and you can cash out once you’ve reached 500 points ($5). It is one of the highest paying survey sites.

Survey Junkie is an easy way to earn cash in your free time for easy tasks. You can watch videos, answer online surveys and more to earn free gift cards.

Plus, you can get a $10 sign up bonus.

An Easy Online Earner

Survey Junkie: Get an instant $10 sign up bonus and earn cash for simple online tasks.

BRANDED SURVEYS

Branded Surveys partners with Fortune 500 companies to gather consumer insights, and rewards you for participating in their surveys.

As stated in the search result, you’ll earn points for each survey you complete, which can be exchanged for gift cards or cash rewards.

They also offer a $1 sign-up bonus to get you started and are one of the most popular survey sites out there.

An Easy Online Earner

Branded Surveys: Make money fast for simple surveys. $10 sign up bonus!

INBOXDOLLARS

InboxDollars is a popular site where you can earn gift cards by completing surveys, watching videos, and shopping online.

By joining, you’ll receive a $5 sign-up bonus. Surveys typically pay between $0.50 and $5, with higher-paying opportunities available for longer, more involved surveys.

How much you can earn will show before you complete surveys to maximize your earnings. You can even earn free gift cards and cash just for reading email.

If you want Amazon gift cards as your payout method, simply select that when you cash out. You can certainly use those for just about anything.

Related:

SWAGBUCKS

Swagbucks is one of the most versatile free gift card apps that offers multiple ways to earn points, called SB. They have millions of members and are one of the most well-known and legit apps that will let you earn free gift cards and cash.

You can participate in online surveys, watch videos, shop online, and search the web to collect SB points. You are already on surfing the internet, might as well make money while you do it!

Once you’ve accumulated enough points, you can redeem them for popular gift cards or cash through PayPal.

To maximize your earnings, remember to check for daily tasks and take advantage of Swagbucks’ bonus offers.

Who doesn’t want to earn money just for watching videos and surfing the internet on their mobile phone? You can also earn bonus points and money for referring friends.

Related reading: KashKick Review: Is is Legit?

Top Online Earners

• Survey Junkie: Get an instant $10 sign up bonus and earn cash for simple online tasks.
• Branded Surveys – Quickly earn extra money for completing easy surveys

LifePoints

LifePoints is another survey app that will let you earn free gift cards. You earn points called LP for the surveys you complete.

You can redeem the points for instant e-gift cards or PayPal cash direct deposit. There are over 5 million members of LifePoints showing it is a legit app.

Most of the surveys take anywhere from 10-20 minutes to complete.

Related reading: Highest Paying Apps

TOLUNA

Toluna offers a platform where you can get rewarded when you complete surveys or share your thoughts on products and services.

You’ll rack up points that can be redeemed for a variety of gift cards or cash through PayPal. Typical surveys pay between 1,000 and 30,000 points, with 3,000 points being equivalent to $1.

You actually sign up to be a Toluna influencer. As an influencer, you are paid to share your thoughts and insights about any products you try out.

Related: 15 Ways to Make Money in One Hour

GOOGLE OPINION REWARDS APP

Google Opinion Rewards is a mobile rewards app that allows you to earn Google Play store credits by answering short surveys.

Surveys are usually simple and take only a few minutes to complete. For each survey, you’ll earn up to $1 in Google Play credits, which can be used on apps, games, and other digital content.

MYPOINTS

MyPoints offers many ways to earn gift cards and they have been around forever.

Here are some tasks that you can earn points and free gift cards for:

• Watching videos
• playing games
• Reading email
• Answer surveys
• Shopping online

Certain tasks pay more points than others though.

Surveys typically pay between $0.50 and $1.25. Once you’ve accumulated enough points, you can redeem them for gift cards to popular retailers or even PayPal cash.

Make a $275 Bonus! Open a checking or savings account with SoFi and receive a cash bonus. Click here.

Try SoFi Investing if you for up to $1,000 depending on your deposit if you are ready to start investing in stocks.

FEATUREPOINTS

FeaturePoints is another rewards app that will pay you in gift cards or cash to do simple tasks like answer surveys. You can earn for answering surveys, participating in contests, trying out games and apps and even shopping online.

They have one of the best refferal programs out there. If you refer a friend, you will actually make up to 50% of their points for rest of the time they earn on the app! That can add up if you multiple that by several friends.

You can redeem points for gift cards instantly on Amazon, Bitcoin and many more.

Related: How to Earn $300 Fast

PINECONE RESEARCH

Another excellent survey site for earning is Pinecone Research. You can make money for giving your opinion and even trying products.

They pay more than many of the other apps and sites out there. However, they are invite only. They will extend invitations only a few times a year and usually in the form of a banner ad so you can sign up.

If you see an invitation, jump on it!

I-SAY

I-Say is a survey platform by Ipsos, one of the largest market research companies in the world. Here, you can earn points by taking surveys and participating in polls.

Points can be redeemed for gift cards or cash through PayPal, making it a great way to earn extra rewards in your spare time.

By participating in these survey platforms, you can build up points and earn gift cards for sharing your opinions and insights. Make sure to explore each one to figure out which one you like the most, and start earning rewards today.

Related: How to Earn Money Online Without Investment in Mobile

Cash Back Shopping Apps to Earn Gift Cards

RAKUTEN

Formerly known as Ebates, Rakuten is primarily known for its cash-back shopping platform.

By shopping through Rakuten’s links or with the browser extension, you can earn a percentage of cash back on your purchases at many popular retailers.

Rakuten also offers exclusive deals and coupons to enhance your savings and how you earn cash. Your cash back can be redeemed via PayPal or by check, while free gift cards can be redeemed at select retailers.

Rakuten is an excellent way to save money in general! Don’t shop online without it.

CAPITAL ONE SHOPPING

Capital One Shopping is another money-back app that will reward you.

This is an easy way to save money and get cash back on your shopping. You just add it to your Chrome extension and it does all the work for you automatically in the background while you shop!

It will do all the work for you. As you shop on the internet, it will show you any available coupons or money off deals from across the online world.

It will also actually link to your email and then monitor purchases you have made for any price drops. It will then work to get you a refund.

IBOTTA

For those who enjoy shopping (ummm, all of us!), Ibotta is a fantastic app to earn cash back on everyday purchases.

Before hitting the store, browse through the app and add offers to your account. After shopping online or in store, simply scan your receipt and watch your earnings grow.

The app offers cash back on groceries, clothing, and even services like hotel bookings. You can redeem your earnings for free gift cards or cash via PayPal or Venmo.

Related: Side Hustles for Women

SHOPKICK

Shopkick is another rewards app that allows you to earn points, known as “kicks,” just by walking into participating stores or scanning in-store items.

Additionally, you can earn kicks when you shop online through the app, watch videos of products, and browse deals.

As your kicks accumulate, you can exchange them for gift cards to popular retailers like Amazon, Starbucks, or Target.

FETCH REWARDS

Fetch Rewards is a grocery receipt scanning app that offers points for a wide variety of products.

After shopping, simply snap a photo of your receipt using the app, and you’ll receive points for eligible items.

The app also has bonus offers to help you earn points more quickly. You can redeem your points from the app and earn free gift cards to popular stores like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.

Cut Your Cell Phone Bill by More than Half!

Consumer Cellular provides the same cell service as the big guys but with no contract, no activation fee and you can keep your phone number when you switch!

GAMING APPS FOR GIFT CARD REWARDS

There are several gaming apps available that offer gift cards as rewards, making it possible to enjoy playing games while also earning some extra perks.

In this section, we will explore five popular apps that let you earn while you play games: Mistplay, App Station, Coinpop, Quiz Rewards, and Lucktastic.

MISTPLAY

Mistplay lets you discover new games while earning rewards. The longer you play games, the more points you accumulate, which can be redeemed for various gift cards.

Mistplay tailors its game recommendations to your preferences, ensuring that you’ll always find something fun and engaging to play.

Check out these other gaming apps like Mistplay.

APP STATION

App Station is another gaming app where you can earn gift cards by playing games. It offers a selection of mobile games to choose from, allowing you to collect coins as you play.

These coins can then be redeemed for gift card options, or even cashed out via PayPal. App Station makes it easy to rack up rewards and earn gift cards while you play games.

COINPOP

Coinpop is a free app offering a variety of mobile games to suit your taste. By playing these games, you can collect coins that can later be exchanged for gift cards or PayPal cash.

Coinpop offers regular bonus opportunities to earn cash and allows you to earn additional rewards by inviting friends to join the app, increasing your earning potential.

Related: Work From Home Jobs Without Investment

QUIZ REWARDS

As the name implies, Quiz Rewards focuses on quiz games that test your knowledge across many topics. By participating and answering questions correctly, you can earn points for cash and money.

Whether you prefer general trivia or specialized categories, Quiz Rewards offers a fun and educational way to earn rewards.

LUCKTASTIC

Lucktastic combines elements of gaming with a chance to win real gift cards and prizes. Featuring scratch card games and various other contests, you can accumulate tokens by playing daily.

These tokens can then be redeemed for gift cards, or even cash through check or Visa gift cards. With new opportunities to play and win every day, Lucktastic keeps things fresh and exciting while giving you chances to earn rewards.

Money Tools to Help You

• Acorns – Automatically saves and invests money for you. Get a $5 bonus.
• Empower (Personal Capital) – Dashboard for money management.
• CIT Bank – Put your money in a high yield savings account that earns

OTHER WAYS TO EARN GIFT CARDS

In addition to popular survey apps, there are other ways you can earn gift cards. These different methods cater to your habits and preferences. Let’s dive into the available options.

RECEIPT HOG AND RECEIPT PAL

Receipt Hog and Receipt Pal are two apps that reward you for uploading receipts from your purchases. By scanning your receipts into the app, you can accumulate points which can be redeemed for gift cards to various stores.

Receipt Hog offers additional ways to earn points, like completing surveys and participating in sweepstakes. In contrast, Receipt Pal only focuses on collecting receipts and requires fewer points to earn rewards.

DROP

Drop is a shopping app that connects to your debit or credit card and tracks your purchases. It rewards you with points based on a percentage of your spending at partnered stores.

You can redeem these points for gift cards to your favorite retailers. Remember to always double-check the participating stores to maximize your earning potential.

Drop often offers promotions and offers specific to certain retailers, giving you an opportunity to earn even more points.

HONEY

Honey is another way to earn gift cards while shopping. Instead of earning points for every purchase, Honey searches for discount codes and applies them automatically at checkout to save you money.

There’s a bonus, though – for every eligible purchase made using Honey, you will earn Honey Gold, which can be redeemed for gift cards. This versatile app turns saving money and earning gift cards into an effortless process.

MICROSOFT REWARDS

Microsoft Rewards will appeal to those who frequently use Microsoft products. By simply performing searches on Bing, purchasing items from the Microsoft Store, or taking Microsoft quizzes and polls, you can earn points.

Once you collect enough points, you can redeem them for various gift cards. This loyalty program not only rewards users for engaging with Microsoft products but also educates users on the latest features and releases.

By exploring these apps and tailoring your engagement to your lifestyle, you can more effectively earn gift cards and save money. Don’t hesitate to try out new apps and keep an eye out for promotions or bonus opportunities to increase your earnings.

Related: What do Pawn Shops Buy?

DIGITAL AND ELECTRONIC GIFT CARD OPTIONS

AMAZON PRIME

As an Amazon Prime member, you can benefit from the convenience of electronic gift cards. They’re easy to purchase, and you can send them to anyone with an email address.

These digital gift cards can be used on millions of items available at Amazon, offering endless shopping options for your recipients.

You can simply choose the denomination, design your card, and enter the recipient’s email address. The gift cards instantly arrive or can be scheduled for delivery at a specific date.

With Amazon’s large selection, it is easy to find something you or your loved ones will want.

GOOGLE PLAY GIFT CARDS

Google Play gift cards provide access to a world of entertainment. They can be used for purchasing apps, games, movies, music, and books on the Google Play store.

They’re an excellent choice for Android users or anyone who frequently browses the Google Play store.

Here’s what you can do with a Google Play gift card:

• Buy Apps & Games: Treat yourself or someone else to popular and paid apps or games.
• Enjoy Movies & TV Shows: Choose from a vast library of the latest releases or old-time favorites.
• Stream Music & Podcasts: Enjoy millions of songs and discover new podcasts, all ad-free.
• Read e-Books & Audiobooks: Explore a vast collection of e-books and audiobooks, from bestsellers to classics.

Both Amazon and Google Play gift cards offer a fast, convenient way to gift digitally, and they cater to a wide range of interests.

Whether you’re shopping for a tech-savvy individual or someone who enjoys the small moments of entertainment, these options have got you covered.

Related reading: Mercari vs Poshmark

TOP MERCHANTS AND RETAILERS WITH FREE GIFT CARD APPS

In this section, we will discuss some of the top merchants and retailers that offer gift card apps to make your shopping experience more rewarding. We’ll explore the features of these apps from Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and REI.

TARGET

Target offers gift cards through its app, making it convenient for you to purchase, send, and manage your gift cards. With the app, you can:

• Browse and select various gift card designs
• Choose digital or physical gift cards
• Manage your gift card balance
• Use your gift card for online or in-store purchases

The Target app also allows you to include a personalized message when sending a gift card, making it a thoughtful gift for any occasion.

WALMART

The Walmart app allows you to purchase and send digital gift cards with ease. With their app, you can:

• Choose from a range of gift card designs
• Schedule digital gift cards to be sent at a specific date and time
• Check your gift card balance
• Redeem your gift card online or in-store

Walmart’s app also offers a convenient way to redeem gift cards during in-store checkout using Walmart Pay.

BEST BUY

Best Buy’s gift card options are accessible through their app, providing an effortless way to purchase and send gift cards. With the Best Buy app, you can:

• Choose from various gift card designs
• Send digital or physical gift cards directly to the recipient
• Check gift card balances
• Redeem your gift card online or in-store

Best Buy also offers corporate gift cards, making it ideal for businesses looking to reward employees or clients.

REI

The REI app makes it simple to purchase and send gift cards to fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s what you can do with REI’s gift card app:

• Select from multiple gift card designs
• Opt for digital or physical cards
• Manage your gift card balance
• Redeem your gift card online or in-store

Whether it’s for a birthday or outdoor adventure, REI’s gift cards are perfect for anyone passionate about exploring the outdoors.

With these top merchants and retailers providing gift card apps, finding the perfect gift has never been easier. Be sure to explore each of their apps to discover which one best fits your needs and preferences.

HOW TO REDEEM GIFT CARDS ONLINE

Gift cards are a popular choice for those looking to treat friends, family, or even themselves. Redeeming these gift cards is an easy process and can be done from the comfort of your home, using your smartphone or computer.

Make sure you have the needed information, such as the gift card claim code, your recipient’s email or phone number, and your personal PayPal account details if applicable.

To redeem a gift card online, visit the merchant’s website or app, sign in to your account, and look for a link or button that says “Redeem Gift Card” or something similar.

You may need to navigate to the account settings or checkout page to access the redemption option.

Once there, follow the prompt and input the gift card claim code, which is usually found on the back of the card or in the email you received.

If you’re asked for your recipient’s information, enter their email or phone number, and then click “submit” or “redeem.”

Some online retailers and apps also allow you to add your gift card balance to your account, enabling you to shop easily using the available funds.

For instance, How to Redeem an Amazon Gift Card explains that Amazon adds the full value of your gift card to your account upon redemption.

If you prefer to redeem the gift card in-store, bring the gift card to the specific merchant, select your desired items, and present the card to the cashier during checkout. Be sure to have your phone number handy, as some stores may require it for verification purposes.

In cases where the gift card is redeemable for cash, visit the issuing bank or merchant’s physical location with the card and your valid identification.

The representative will verify the card details and either provide you with cash or transfer the funds to your bank account, depending on the issuing company’s policies.

Should you want to redeem the gift card for PayPal credits, log in to your PayPal account, navigate to the “Wallet” section, and click on “Link a card or bank.” Choose “Add a Gift Card” and enter the gift card information.

Once the card is linked, your available balance can be used to make purchases through PayPal or transferred to your bank account as needed.

Remember that gift cards come with specific terms and conditions, so make sure you know these rules.

Keep an eye on the expiration date, too, as some gift cards have a limited validity period, and you don’t want to miss out on enjoying your hard-earned rewards.

Related reading: 11 Businesses that Run Themselves

TIPS FOR MAXIMIZING EARNINGS

To make the most out of apps that give you gift cards, follow these tips to maximize your earnings:

• Choose the right apps: Look for legit apps known for providing free gift cards and offering high earning opportunities. Examples include Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Branded Surveys.
• Complete various tasks: Earning free gift cards often involves completing tasks like taking surveys, watching ads or videos, reading emails, or even participating in mystery shopping. Try several different activities to earn more points.
• Stay consistent: Dedicate time daily to working on these apps. Consistency increases the chances of earning higher rewards.
• Earn while you shop: Take advantage of shopping apps like Rakuten for earning rewards on both physical shopping trips and online purchases. Also, look for special cashback offers, discounts, and deals to save even more.
• Utilize gaming for rewards: Some apps like GameTame offer gift cards for playing games. Utilize your free time by playing games to earn gift cards for your preferred entertainment or food outlets.
• Keep an eye on bonus points and events: Periodically, apps may introduce special events, tasks, or promotions with bonus points. Don’t miss these opportunities to increase your earnings.
• Refer friends: Many apps allow you to earn points by referring friends. Take advantage of your social network to boost your earnings.
• Cash-out strategy: Familiarize yourself with the cash-out process, payout methods, and thresholds. This will help you plan when to redeem your rewards, ensuring you stay motivated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Gift Card Apps Actually Work?

Yes! As long as you are using a reputable gift card app like the ones in our list, they do work. You can earn rewards points, cash or free gift cards for completing simple tasks.

What are the Best Apps for Gift Cards?

We think the best apps for gift cards are these:

• Survey Junkie
• Branded Surveys
• InBoxDollars

Are Free Gift Card Apps Legit?

Believe it or not, you can actually earn free gift cards and earn coins and reward points from apps. There are some scams out there of course, so you need to make sure you are doing your research.

Just sign up with legitimate apps and sites like the ones in our list and you will be safe!

What is the Fastest App to Get Free Gift Cards?

Pretty much the same answer here! These apps will help you quickly earn free gift cards:

• Survey Junkie
• Branded Surveys
• InBoxDollars
• Swagbucks is also a good one!

How Can I Get a Free Amazon Gift Cards?

To get free Amazon gift cards you just need to review the website of any rewards program you are interested in and see if they include the Amazon logo or name in their list of gift card options.

Same goes for Walmart gift cards or Target or any other specific retailer.

Final Thoughts On Apps For Free Gift cArds

Remember that patience is key. Your earnings may start slow, but with dedication and strategic action, you can earn free gift cards for travel, food, entertainment, and shopping on various platforms like Amazon.

Just make sure you follow any rules and terms associated with the apps, and enjoy a steady stream of rewarding earnings from your smartphone or other devices.

Next posts:

How to Start a Lifestyle Blog and Make Money

Best Apps to Get Cash for Your Furniture

16 Sites and Apps like OfferUp

How to Get 2000 Dollars Fast

What are the Best Products to Sell Online to Make Money?

How to Double $10K Quickly

25 Jobs for Housewives at Home

What do Pawn Shops Buy?

How to Make an Extra $1,000 a Month

Shopify Launch Checklist

How to Make Money for Teens

Best Things to Sell on Etsy

How to Start a Lifestyle Blog and Make Money

Creative Ways to Make $100 in a Day

Rewardia Review: Is it Legit?