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3 Online Affiliate Programs That Can Make You Extra Cash

Nick Wharton — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 09:30:06 +0000

The web is awash with deceptive stories and clickbait ads claiming you can make millions online with little or no effort. So it's no wonder people think earning money via the internet is a shady and fruitless endeavor. However, there are plenty of legitimate methods of making money online, and affiliate marketing is one of them.

There are thousands of reputable companies looking to work with publishers to help promote their products and services. Whether you're looking to earn a full-time salary or supplement your income with a few extra dollars each month, affiliate marketing is a great option to explore. Here are three affiliate programs that can earn you money online.

What is an affiliate program?

Affiliate programs are a form of online marketing employed by advertisers seeking referrals from a wide range of sources. They usually offer a commission, which reflects a percentage of every sale made from the referral link. So if you have a website or a mailing list and you link to a product or retailer using a tracking link, the advertiser will know that that customer came from your link and if they buy, you will be paid commission.

It's beneficial for the company because it receives both advertising and sales leads that it wouldn't necessarily be able to access otherwise. It's also beneficial for you and their other affiliate publishers, who are able to make money from sales without actually having to get involved in handling the transaction. Since all you're doing is essentially connecting people with products, affiliate marketing can be one of the most time- and cost-effective methods to make money online. (See also: 5 Ways to Make Passive Income Online)

How to set up your affiliate program

If you have an established following, whether it's on your company website, a personal blog, or on social media, then it's easier to find an affiliate program you can implement. Some have requirements that you'll need to meet before being accepted as an affiliate, but many are open to anyone and have a very basic registration process.

Once you've signed up, you'll be able to create unique links that allow the company to track them back to you so you get credit for the referrals you provide. It's important to read the fine print to know the limitations of how and where you're allowed to include the links because it varies from program to program. You can then start dropping these links into places where readers are likely to click on them and buy whatever is being advertised. These places include blog posts, newsletters, and Twitter and Facebook posts. (See also: How to Earn Extra Income With Twitter)

One of the most effective ways of making money from affiliate programs is to link to the promoted products or services from your own website or email list. This allows you to build, analyze, and target your audience effectively. It's quick and easy to start a website if you don't already have your own, and it's possible to begin earning affiliate income within a matter of hours once the website is up and running. (See also: How to Turn Your Instagram Account Into a Paying Gig)

Booking.com

As one of the top accommodation booking sites on the internet, Booking.com offers more than a million properties for travelers, including everything from hostels to luxury apartments. The Booking.com affiliate program is also one of the foremost and well used programs around.

Commission is only paid when people book via your referrals and then complete their stay at their chosen property. Because of this, and the fact that customers sometimes cancel their bookings, the payment cycle is often slightly more complicated than those of other affiliate programs, but the platform allows you to easily track and analyze your earnings.

Thanks to the way the commission payments are structured, the more bookings that users make through your links, the higher the commission you'll receive. The rates start at 25 percent and go up to 40 percent once you've surpassed 501 bookings. To clarify, that means 25 percent to 40 percent of Booking.com's commission, so don't expect to get that percentage of the overall cost of the hotel stay.

Amazon

The Amazon affiliate program, Amazon Associates, is probably the best known program on the market. When it launched the program in 1996, Amazon was one of the pioneers of what was a new form of online marketing at the time. Many people attribute a large part of the company's resulting success to it.

One of the reasons that it's so successful is because the program is free and extremely simple to join. The interface is also easy to use. This means that you can start earning money right away once you've signed up. You earn money when a customer clicks on one of the links you're promoting and then buys something on the site. It doesn't even necessarily need to be the product you've recommended.

If they purchase anything within 24 hours, you'll get commission, and even if they just place items in their cart during that time, but purchase them within 90 days, you still earn. This is basically a 90-day cookie for any cart items, which is a very generous cookie duration.

Amazon's main site is renowned among affiliate partners for being a conversion machine, which means that just by providing links, the likelihood of the reader clicking and then buying something is relatively high. With Amazon Associates, you have various tools that allow you to implement the links in different ways such as banners, image links, and text links. You can earn up to 10 percent in fees.

ClickBank

Started in 1998, ClickBank is a go-between entity that connects vendors wishing to market their products and services, and publishers looking for relevant products to promote to their audiences. Whereas Amazon Associates is an affiliate program with a defined fee structure, ClickBank is an affiliate network that takes care of multiple vendors’ affiliate programs, so the commission structures vary. The vendors choose the commission rate, which is typically between 30 percent and 50 percent (though it can range from 1 percent to 75 percent). That’s significantly higher than Amazon rates of 1 percent to 10 percent, but of course, Amazon generates a much, much higher volume of sales.

ClickBank’s products and services, many of which are digital, are different from Amazon’s product line. So, many affiliate marketers will sign up for both ClickBank and Amazon to maximize their product portfolio and potential profits.

Signing up for ClickBank only takes a few moments, and it costs you nothing to join as an affiliate. There's no screening or approval process, and once you've joined, you can start making commission right away. There's a wide range of products for you to start marketing, so whatever niche you're in, you should find something relevant.

The great part about ClickBank is, your account is credited in real time, meaning you can keep close track of how your affiliate sales are performing.

Be sure to follow FTC endorsement guidelines

When promoting affiliate products online or within emails, it's important that you follow the guidelines from the Federal Trade Commission so that your readers and followers are well aware that they are clicking on affiliate links and you will be making money from their purchase. It's simply good business to be completely transparent about the nature of the transaction.

According to the FTC Website:

"If you disclose your relationship to the retailer clearly and conspicuously on your site, readers can decide how much weight to give your endorsement.

In some instances — like when the affiliate link is embedded in your product review — a single disclosure may be adequate. When the review has a clear and conspicuous disclosure of your relationship and the reader can see both the review containing that disclosure and the link at the same time, readers have the information they need. You could say something like, "I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post." But if the product review containing the disclosure and the link are separated, readers may not make the connection."

What to watch out for

Not all affiliate programs are created equal, so if you're trying to maximize your affiliate revenues, it's important that you know a few key things that will help you to ensure that you're getting paid for every referral.

Percentage of sale (commission rate)

Of course, the number one thing you want to look at is the commission rate. What percentage of the customer’s payment will you receive? In some cases, there is a flat fee for every sale made, and sometimes you will get a percentage of the total sale. Keep your eye out for "percentage of commission" sales, as this means that you're not taking a percentage of the total sale, but rather a percentage of the company's commission.

Average sale value

Once you know what the commission rate is, it's a good idea to check what the average sale is so that you know how much you can expect to earn (on average) from each sale.

Cookies

Affiliate marketers love cookies! Cookies are small pieces of data retained on computers by browsers that contain various pieces of information in regards to a specific website visit. In the case of affiliate programs, most of the good ones include a 30-day cookie or longer, meaning if someone clicks your link and visits the site, you'll still get paid as long as they return to the site and make a purchase within 30 days. Cookies that linger even longer are a bonus!

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

7 Ways to Make Money Off of Your New Year's Resolutions

Mikey Rox — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 09:00:08 +0000

You'll probably set several New Year's resolutions this year, but "Make More Moneeeeeeey!" should be at the top of that list. How can you do that? By hitting the ground running on January 1 with these cash-earning opportunities that sometimes kill two birds with one stone. Here's to a happier, healthier, flusher-with-cash you in 2018.

1. Get in shape by walking dogs

Combine your love of adorable dogs with your desire to get healthier by joining Rover or Wag!, two sites that will help you set up a dog-walking side gig. Rover is the nation's largest network of dog sitters and walkers, and it'll help connect you with those looking for occasional care of their pets. I'm a member of Rover myself, and I've made several thousand dollars this year pet-sitting and playing with local pups. It's the perfect side-hustle for people who want to get more exercise, get outside more, and save some extra money after the expensive holiday season. (See also: How to Make $400+ a Week as a Pet Sitter)

2. Help name startup businesses

There are several online services (like Upwork and Truelancer) that can help you advance your creative freelance career, but Squadhelp.com gamifies the brainstorming experience with a decent payoff.

"If your NYE resolution is about finding a more productive use of your time, you might want to consider Squadhelp.com," says the site's founder Darpan Munjal. "You can spend couple of hours every day helping startups find great names for their businesses. You not only channel your creativity in helping real companies find great names, you also win cash prizes (ranging from $100 to $500) every time your name is selected."

3. Declutter by selling your unwanted stuff

If your goal in the New Year is to cut the clutter and free up more usable space in your house, there are several options to do just that while pocketing some dough. I've had a lot of success listing my in-good-condition junk on the Letgo app, but I also have friends who swear by Facebook Marketplace, both of which help you promote your secondhand wares to local buyers. (See also: 9 Ways to Make Money From Holiday Gifts You Don't Want)

To maximize your selling efforts, heed this advice from Letgo's head of communications, Jonathan Lowe:

Take clear, quality photos

Taking a few seconds to dust your coffee table or iron a pair of pants will make them much more attractive to buyers. Choose an angle and spot with good lighting and an uncluttered background. Put smaller items like headphones or jewelry on a solid color surface and take a photo from 45 to 90 degree angles. Make sure the item's in focus, and post a few shots from different angles.

Be transparent

Tell buyers upfront and include photos of any wear and tear on your item. Most buyers won't be concerned with a small scratch or frayed hem, especially if the price is right, but no one wants to feel like they've been misled.

Do your homework

Check out what other sellers are asking for similar items and price your items competitively.

Reply quickly

Turn on push notifications so you can reply as soon as buyers message you. Be courteous and answer any questions they might have.

Offer a package deal

Things like video games, vinyl records, art supplies, toys, and even jewelry often attract more interest as a set. (See also: Make Money and Declutter by Selling These 5 Unlikely Treasures)

4. Self-publish your book

I'm currently writing a book about how to be a successful Airbnb host, and I haven't considered reaching out to a major publisher because self-publishing seems more attractive to me. Here's why: Self-publishing gets your book in the hands of readers quickly. In fact, you may want to pursue this avenue as a way to extend your audience for a book you've already published. Self-publishing can award you with about 70 percent royalty (depending on the price you charge readers for your book), which could provide you with passive income for years to come. Something to investigate at least. (See also: 3 Real Costs of Self-Publishing a Kids' Book)

5. Use technology to fine-tune your personal finance

I've sung the praises of my well-used cash-back apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51 over the past few years (I've made several hundred dollars using them), but there are other ways keep your personal finance in check while earning money or rewards, like The Birch Finance app, which makes it easy to analyze your past transactions and actively monitor spending to recommend the best cards to use for max rewards.

I'm also into Paribus right now, which links to your accounts at retailers like Target and Amazon and helps you find money based on price drops on your recent purchases. It'll send you an email when there's money waiting for you so you can claim it. Easy-breezy. (See also: 7 Apps That Actually Pay You to Shop)

6. Achieve goals with monetary encouragement

I feel a little weird about Goal Goodies — which is like a GoFundMe campaign for your health goals — but it could be a helpful way to keep your resolutions on track while making money. Essentially, you create your page and set your health goal (losing weight, quitting smoking, etc.) and then invite family and friends to pledge money to help keep you motivated. (See also: 6 Apps That Pay You to Work Out)

7. Clean out your garage and rent out the space

You know all about Airbnb by now, but if you're not comfortable renting out your home to strangers, maybe you'll consider renting out your garage to strangers' vehicles. After you clean it out and make it all pretty, STOW IT will help connect you with users who need a place to store their vehicles for a monthly fee. Imagine getting paid to let a car sit in a space that was designed for cars and not all those piled-up cardboard boxes! I think it's an awesome idea, and I'm little miffed that I don't have a garage to offer myself. I'll just live vicariously through yours.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

9 Ways to Make Money From Holiday Gifts You Don't Want

Camilla Cheung — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 10:00:10 +0000

As well-intentioned as it may be, sometimes a holiday gift you receive just isn’t something you like. Instead of letting it sit around gathering dust, turn that holiday gift into cold hard cash — after thanking the gift giver for their thoughtfulness, of course!

1. Return it

The easiest way to get cash for unwanted holiday gifts, and to get the full value, is to return the item. Even if you don’t have a gift receipt, most big box stores will take items back as long as they have not been opened. Even if they have been opened, many will accept items if you let them know you were not satisfied with the product. You may have to take store credit instead of cash if you don't have the receipt, but if you get a gift card or store credit instead, you can then sell the gift card for cash.

2. Sell your gift cards

Gift card resellers like Cardpool and GiftCardGranny will buy your store gift cards and even merchandise credit (as long as it is on a gift card and never expires) and pay you back in cash. You can get up to 90 percent of the gift card’s value in cash, depending on which store the gift card comes from. To get a higher value back, some card resellers will give you an Amazon gift card instead.

3. Trade it in on Amazon

Amazon has a trade-in program for used goods that can allow you to recoup some of the value of your used items. Categories include phones, Kindles, video games, tablets, and books. You can get a decent amount of money back for unwanted gifts this way, without the hassle of selling it yourself. You’ll get paid out via an Amazon gift card. (See also: 7 Ways to Make Amazon Pay You!)

4. Sell electronics

There’s a thriving market for gently used and working electronic devices, so if you have gotten an unwanted tablet or other device (lucky you), you can sell it via sites like Gazelle and Nextworth, paid out via PayPal or a check. You can also trade in electronics at Best Buy in exchange for a store gift card.

5. Sell to online consignment sites

Sell your items to online consignment shops to make some money back. Sites like ThredUp and The RealReal make it easy to sell clothing and accessories — you just send the items to the store and get paid (in some cases, upfront, and in others once the item sells). No tedious listing of items and taking photos yourself.

Swap.com is another online consignment store that also accepts toys, games, and books. And that shade of lipstick you know you'll never wear? Glambot will buy your new or gently used makeup and makeup tools. (See also: Turn Old Clothes Into Money With These 4 Tools and Apps)

6. Swap clothes and accessories

Instead of getting a payout, sites like SwapStyle and RehashClothes allow you to trade your clothes and accessories for other items you find listed on the site. You can end up getting a better value this way by directly getting back an item of clothing that you’ll wear, instead of a cash payout. You’ll have to have something that will interest the other user in order to make a successful trade, but these sites also allow you to purchase the item for an agreed-upon price.

7. Resell clothing directly

Selling unwanted gifts yourself will allow you to get a higher value back than trading it in via third-party resellers. However, it does take a little more time and effort because you will have to take photos of the item, price it, post it, and respond to potential buyers.

Used clothing sites like Poshmark and Tradesy are popular for selling used clothing and accessories. They allow you to list your own items for sale quickly and easily, but also help you handle the shipping and return process.

8. Sell on eBay and other marketplaces

You can also sell gifts online on eBay and Amazon Marketplace. Vintage or handmade items (like that scratchy homemade sweater, as thoughtful as it was) can be sold on Etsy. For large items that would be cost-prohibitive to ship, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist allow you to sell to your local community.

To get the best value for your items, be sure to do a little price research to see what similar items are currently selling for (for example, on eBay, check the “sold listings” box in the sidebar when searching for similar items). Take well-lit, clear photos and provide as much detail as you can in the item’s description. (See also: How I Make $800 on Month on eBay Selling Used Clothes)

9. Donate it

Donating your unwanted gifts to a nonprofit organization is a great way to give back to those in need. You’ll also get a tax receipt so you can claim a deduction on your taxes (so long as you itemize your tax deductions when you file your taxes). Make your charitable donation before Dec 31 to claim the deduction on your taxes for that year. Not all charities are tax-exempt — so make sure the charity is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to claim a deduction.

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This article is from Camilla Cheung of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

4 Creative Remote Jobs That Can Supplement Your Retirement Income

Nick Wharton — Mon, 04 Dec 2017 09:30:06 +0000

For some, retirement is a welcome chance to quit working forever, but for others it can mark the beginning of a new and exciting venture. It could be out of necessity to supplement a smaller retirement income, or a desire to keep yourself busy with a foot in the working world.

Either way, earning money in retirement is an option that plenty of people take, and thanks to the internet, there are jobs that can be done from anywhere in the world. This is especially true for people who have a creative streak. If you're on the lookout for a way to pull in a few dollars using your word or design skills, without stepping foot in an office, here are four remote jobs that can bring in some extra cash.

Blogging

If you plan to travel more in retirement, then travel blogging could be a great option for you. Or if you have some other hobby you’re passionate about, that could be your blog topic. For people who are articulate, skilled at photography, and enjoy sharing information about their passion, blogging can be a creative and fun way to earn some extra dollars. Bloggers earn money in a variety of ways, and though it's by no means a quick path to plentiful riches, you can start to build an income within months. (See also: 5 Easy Ways to Make Extra Money Blogging)

It takes minutes to set up a blog, and once you have the basics in place, you can begin creating your very own online kingdom. Start out with your friends and family and ask them to share your content with their friends and family to give your blog a boost.

The top bloggers on the internet earn six-figure salaries, though clearly not everyone will reach this level. It's not unrealistic to be able to rake in a few hundred dollars per month once your site is established.

Editing

Virtually any written text has the potential to require editing, and these days it's far more likely to be done online than with a pen and paper. If you're a stickler for grammar, efficient at fact checking, and can quickly and accurately knock a piece of text into shape, then you could try your hand at editing. To become a good editor, you should be able to provide objective and useful feedback to help writers improve their work, without being condescending or unnecessarily critical.

There are many places to find editing work online, which will vary depending on the type of content you're working on. Online job marketplaces such as Upwork and Freelancer are good places to start, and allow you to search for and submit proposals for jobs that appeal to you. There are also sites commonly referred to as "content mills" that might not offer high-paying projects, but can be relatively easy to get regular work from as a beginner. Sites such as CopyPress, allow you to go through their training program and earn a certification with them for copy editing, which you can then use to get jobs through the site.

Freelance writing

If you have a way with words and love to share your experiences, freelance writing can provide a great way to supplement your income. There are countless forms of freelance writing, from copywriting to technical writing, so the first step is to find one that suits you. This is different from blogging, in that you'll be writing for other publications, and some assignments may be in print, as opposed to exclusively writing for the web (though there are still endless opportunities to find work creating digital content). It's best to start off with an existing area of expertise that you possess, or something you're passionate about, and then you can expand your repertoire from there.

Many online publications have sections that detail how to make submissions directly to them, as well as information on exactly what they are looking for and how they want it presented. As with freelance writing, online job sites are often a good place to start your search. If you have publications in mind that you'd like to write for, then you can also approach them directly with a pitch.

Earnings vary wildly for freelance writing, and you may be paid per word, per article, or sometimes per hour. Your skill level and the client will determine what you can bill. But in my experience, you can expect to earn anything from a couple of cents per word, up to a few hundred dollars per article. (See also: 22 websites That Will Pay You to Write for Them)

Designing websites

I recently met a retired woman from the U.S. who had been working her way around South and Central America for over seven years. She told me that though her retirement income was enough to support a basic lifestyle, she liked to supplement it by doing extra work along the way. Her part-time hustle was designing websites, a skill she'd taught herself in her free time when she retired.

Whenever she turned up in a new location, she would head out to the local hotels to canvas for work designing or redesigning their sites. Over the time she'd been traveling, she'd built up a good portfolio and found it quite easy to pick up new clients.

Because it's all done online, you can find plenty of web design work that can be done remotely. Web designers can earn up to around $100 per hour, though the average stands at about $59 and it could be $40 at the lower end.

Most websites, particularly for physical businesses, are small and uncomplicated, so even with lower end web design skills, it's possible to create great sites that clients will be happy with. If this is an area you have expertise in, then you can also branch out into bigger projects, but it is still possible to be self-taught and find work.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Make Money by Creating YouTube Videos

Nick Wharton — Wed, 22 Nov 2017 09:30:10 +0000

If you’ve ever lost an afternoon to watching videos on YouTube, you know how easy it is to find videos on just about anything you can imagine. This wildly successful video platform has revolutionized the way people consume media, and has provided people who have no previous media connections the opportunity to make money by creating and uploading their own content.

Sure, you’ve probably heard of YouTube megastars who have vast numbers of subscribers and are making millions of dollars each year through their channels. But did you know that there are also people out there who aren’t well-known, but are still making a solid living via YouTube? (See also: 5 Social Media Stars Who Earn Way More Than You)

Though it’s unlikely you’ll make it into the upper echelons of YouTube superstardom, it’s good to have an idea of just how lucrative this platform can be. In 2016, YouTube’s top 10 earners all made over $5 million. The top earner, controversial Swedish online gamer and prankster, PewDiePie, single-handedly raked in over $15 million. Here’s how you, too, can earn money by creating YouTube videos.

1. Choose a niche

This is possibly the single most important step to making money from YouTube videos because it’s going to determine your audience. It will have a huge bearing on your earnings as it’s your audience who will ultimately attract paying advertisers. It’s essential that you pick a niche that’s narrow enough for you to be able to make an impact in. A small niche is easier to target and monetize, and they’re more likely to be engaged. Yet, you want a niche that’s popular enough that lots of people search for it.

The best place to start when you’re trying to find your niche is with your own interests and pastimes. If you’re not passionate about the subject you choose, then you’ll soon lose interest and it will come across to your audience in your videos. Choosing something that you’re knowledgeable about and have a real interest in will make creating videos far easier and more enjoyable for you.

Popular niches that some of the most successful YouTubers are active in include gaming, comedy, beauty and fashion, pets and animals, and music. Keep in mind that it’s possible to pick a niche within a niche — so, rather than starting a general fitness channel, you could make videos on weight loss through running for beginners. It’s still about running, but your audience is far more targeted within that subject. The more well-defined your niche, the better. (See also: 5 Surprising Ways Social Media Stars Make Money)

2. Create great content

Initially, setting up your channel is a simple process of providing your personal details and deciding your channel name. From here, it’s time to get the camera out and start making great content, because the ultimate aim is to get the most views possible. You’ve probably heard the phrase “content is king,” and nowhere is that more relevant than on YouTube. The only way to get lots of eyes on your videos is to make them informative, engaging, and on subjects that people will find interesting.

3. Grow your audience

Once you have created a few videos, you should start trying to grow your audience. Though this will happen organically if your videos are on searchable subjects, there are some easy ways to give it a kick-start. Try doing a shoutout on social media to tap into your existing contacts there, asking them to check out your channel. Also, ask people to subscribe to your channel in your videos. The more subscribers you have, the more likely they are to return and watch more.

Another great way to grow your channel is to be consistent and post your videos at regular intervals. This will teach your audience to know when to expect your latest video, and potentially even encourage them to look forward to and follow it like a regular TV show. Check out more ideas for growing your audience on YouTube’s Creator Academy.

4. Monetize your channel

There are two main forms of advertising that will allow you to make money directly from YouTube’s platform. These are display ads along the bottom of the video, and the video ads that play at the beginning of a video and can be skipped by clicking “Skip Video” after a few seconds. To be able to have your videos display these, you’ll need to apply to the YouTube Partner Program. For your application to be reviewed, your channel needs to have already had 10,000 public channel views, so it may be a while before you can actually apply. And if you don't get approved, you can reapply after 30 days.

To access your payments once they start coming in, you’ll need to have an AdSense account. AdSense is Google’s advertising program across its whole network of content sites. If you already have an AdSense account, you can use that. The AdSense account is where all of your payments will be processed, so it’s an absolute necessity.

Next, you need to set your monetization preferences by selecting the type of ads you want shown, and on which videos they should appear. To maximize your earnings, it’s best to set them to be shown on all videos that have already been uploaded, plus future videos you upload. Alternatively, you can choose videos individually on which to display ads.

The amount that people make through YouTube varies greatly. It all depends on your audience and value of ads shown on your videos. Luckily, Social Blade has a useful tool to help you estimate what you may be able to earn from your own channel. (See also: 5 Ways to Make Passive Income Online)

5. Expand your reach

Ads are not the only way of making money on YouTube. There are also indirect ways to make money from your videos. Once you have an established audience and a high number of views for your content, lots of other doors may open up. Brands love to work with popular YouTube creators to help show off their products in sponsored campaigns, and if you’ve chosen your niche well, you don’t necessarily need millions of subscribers. Companies are eager to speak directly to their target audience. (See also: How to Turn Your Instagram Account Into a Paying Gig)

In addition, lots of creators use merchandise as a way to earn extra cash by selling anything from T-shirts to posters. YouTube makes it possible for you to link directly to external sites in your videos, so viewers can easily purchase the products you promote.

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This article is from Nick Wharton of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

11 Ways to Make Money on Thanksgiving

Carrie Kirby — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 08:00:06 +0000

In recent years, as the hours of Black Friday shopping have expanded, the topic of work on Thanksgiving has been somewhat controversial. But whether you think malls should be open on Turkey Day or not, the fact is that some of us want and need to earn money on this holiday. If you're not employed somewhere that's paying you to punch a clock, but you still want to make a buck on Thanksgiving, here are some ideas for turning other folks' family day into your payday.

1. Creating homemade invitations

People who are organizing large, elegant gatherings might appreciate having a custom-made invitation to send out. And if you want to be full-service, offer to address and mail out those invites as well. You could also offer custom place cards that match the invite.

You can design the cards on DIY sites such as Vistaprint or Zazzle, or use graphic design software and have them printed at a professional print shop. Make sure to charge enough to cover the printing costs and to have some profit to pay for your time. (See also: 5 Ways to Make Passive Income Online)

2. Event planning

If you're a great host but don't plan on hosting your own Thanksgiving feast, and you're skilled at keeping an organized to-do list, offer your services to overwhelmed, inexperienced hosts who don't have time to put in the prep work. Social media and local family network sites would be good places to advertise.

3. Home organizing

Getting ready to host dinner guests or even take in out-of-town family overnight is when people look around their homes and realize they need to declutter. If you've ever toyed with offering your services as a professional organizer, now's a good time to try it. Organizers can charge between $30 and $80 per hour, according to CostHelper.

4. Deep cleaning

A week or more before the big day, hosts may want to have someone in to get dust bunnies out from under guest beds, clean ovens and stovetops, and wash windows. You can find cleaning jobs through TaskRabbit, which estimates you can charge about $22 per hour for cleaning (although the site will keep a cut), or advertise locally or through family and friends.

Thanksgiving hosts will also want day-of cleaning so that end tables shine and carpets are freshly vacuumed when the doorbell rings for the first guests' arrival. Don't want to rise early? Hire yourself out to wash the dinner dishes in the evening instead.

5. Grocery shopping

Those potatoes and yams aren't going to jump off the shelves and deliver themselves, and some folks get hives from shopping amongst holiday crowds. Sign up with InstaCart or Shipt to pick up and deliver groceries using your own car. Both services say grocery delivery can pay up to $25 per hour, plus tips.

6. Baking

Bakeries are overwhelmed by pre-orders for pumpkin pies around the holidays. If you are a pie expert, you can turn your home kitchen into a baking station for a day or two, and offer Thanksgiving Day delivery to set yourself apart. Homemade breads and rolls are another idea for oven entrepreneurs. Visit a local high-end bakery or patisserie to find out what you can charge.

If you are baking for more than just friends and relatives, check your local laws about selling homemade products. California, for instance, has a "cottage food" law that allows the sale of home-produced baked goods and certain other foods.

7. Renting out your space

A lot of people host out-of-town guests for the holiday weekend, but not everyone has someone to put them up. This is a great time to try listing your spare bedroom on Airbnb, especially if you live in a residential area that doesn't have many hotels. The beauty of this is that you can make money even if you have Thanksgiving travel plans yourself, by renting out your vacant home. I've done the same over the Christmas holiday and had great results. (See also: 5 Easy Ways to Make Good Money From Airbnb)

8. Driving for Uber or Lyft

If you've ever considered driving for Uber or Lyft, the airport crowds on the day before Thanksgiving offer plenty of opportunities to make good money. You can set your own hours in the days leading up to the holiday and will probably have busy shifts taking travelers to their destinations. (See also: How to Earn Extra Money Driving for Uber or Lyft)

9. Pet-sitting

For people who are out of town for the whole holiday weekend, you could visit their home and feed, water, and walk pets, or take pets into your own home. Some hosts will want to send out noisy, excitable, or allergy-causing pets for the day, or even simply pay to have them taken on a long walk. Care.com and Rover are sites you could sign up with to find pet-sitting gigs. Expect to make around $25 a night for hosting a dog. Sign up in advance, because you may have to pass a background check before you can start pet sitting. (See also: How to Make $400+ a Week as a Pet Sitter)

10. Serving and photographing

Hosts with big crowds will also hire waiters, bartenders, even photographers for the big day. These roles will take the pressure off of them so they can focus more on hosting and enjoying time with their guests, rather than running around refilling drinks and taking selfies. Find local opportunities on GigSalad.

11. Place holding

With stores offering big sales opening on Thanksgiving Day instead of on Black Friday, some folks will leave their families to go wait in line. Others will pay someone on TaskRabbit to wait for them. Bring a book!

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This article is from Carrie Kirby of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Ways to Make Money on Halloween

Mikey Rox — Mon, 25 Sep 2017 08:30:10 +0000

Most people balk at signs of the impending fall holidays because they fear what's coming — or rather, going: their money. But this year, instead of removing all the bills from your wallet for Halloween this-and-that, stuff it to the gills with fresh cash using these ways to turn October 31 on its paycheck-draining pumpkin head.

1. Attach business cards to trick-or-treaters' candy

Have a business you want to promote? Get in front of a lot of customers this Halloween by attaching your business card to the candy you're handing out. When parents inspect the candy later, they'll find it and hopefully call you. If you own a restaurant or retail store in town or provide a service, try a 10 percent discount instead of a standard business card. You'll build brand awareness among neighbors that may not know about your business, and you'll spend just pennies on new customer acquisition. (Shout-out to my lovely aunt for this idea. Genius.)

2. Rent out your guest space to tourists

If you've been considering whether or not to rent out your home or spare room on Airbnb and other micro-subletting services, use Halloween as a test run. There's usually higher demand around holidays so you'll likely book with relative ease if you keep your accommodations comfortable, clean, and affordable. This is a great way to experience what hosting travelers is like (without committing to it as a full-time job) while pocketing a little extra income. (See also: 5 Easy Ways to Make Good Money From Airbnb)

3. Sell old costumes online

If you still have last year's kids' and adult costumes, and you don't plan to wear them again, try getting rid of them locally via Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or online selling apps like Letgo. You'll have the best chance of unloading your unwanted garb with great photos and reasonable prices. Start at about 60 percent off what you paid for the costume originally and haggle from there. (See also: Turn Old Clothes Into Money With These 4 Tools and Apps)

4. Charge your friends for a sweet fix

You probably won't have much luck at this as an adult, but if you're a high school or college student, tap into your entrepreneurial skills early and peddle Halloween candy for a price. Everyone is in the sweets-eating mood at the end of October, so seize this opportunity to turn your trick-or-treating stash or reduced-priced seasonal candy bags into a profit. Undercut the competition, i.e. vending machines, and you've got a mini-business on your hands.

5. Sit for parents of children or pets

Many adults like to enjoy the Halloween festivities as much as the kids do, so if you know any parents or pet owners, offer your sitting services to allow them to enjoy the parties to which they were invited. There are several popular services that will help you market yourself, like Care.com for child care and Rover.com for pet care. Each will help you build a profile, tap into the local market, and share your services on social media. (See also: How to Make $400+ a Week as a Pet Sitter)

6. Drive revelers around in your car

I've been a Lyft and Uber driver for a couple years now, and I can tell you firsthand that there's major demand surrounding Halloween. I've made a few hundred bucks on Halloween night alone, and that's only driving from about 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Demand, of course, will depend on the area in which you live, but if there's not a lot to do where you are, drive to another, more popular area where you know people will be partying and therefore need a safe ride home. (See also: How to Earn Extra Money Driving for Uber or Lyft)

7. Host a haunted house

A friend of mine told me that his family charged 25 cents for admission to the amateur haunted house they put together in their own home, but this was back in the 1960s. The inflation rate today would be $2.07, and nobody's going to pay that hefty fee to enter your dungeon of terror, but you could probably squeeze out $1-$2 per family if you create an interesting/scary enough attraction.

8. Set up a trick-or-treating yard sale

Have a pile of junk you'd like to sell? Take advantage of the built-in Halloween-night foot traffic by setting up a small yard sale while you're handing out candy. Provide bags for smaller items, and be flexible enough to allow next-day pickup for larger items that chaperones won't want to carry around all night.

9. Offer your face painting or hair and makeup skills

A quick post on social media about your hair and makeup prowess will likely fill up your Halloween weekend schedule. Expand your reach with a post on Craigslist. Everybody wants to look their best for the festivities, and they'll pay a pretty penny for it.

10. Tailor costumes

Holes in costumes may need mending, or someone might need an old costume taken in, and if you're handy with a needle and thread or a sewing machine, you can pocket a few crisp ones for your work.

11. Pick up a seasonal job as a haunted house actor

Enjoy scaring the bejesus out of people? Local haunted houses and corn mazes are hiring actors to spook guests this time of year, as are amusement parks that host seasonal events, like Six Flags' Fright Fest.

12. DJ a Halloween party

Spin "Monster Mash" and other macabre music by DJing Halloween parties. It doesn't have to be a major affair, so look for kids' shindigs, neighborhood parties, and community center events.

13. Make themed baked goods for last-minuters

I have a friend who makes the most incredible, perfectly decorated cookies, for which she's paid top dollar on custom orders. If you're a whiz in the kitchen, offer your baked goods to neighbors for their parties and maybe even pop into your local restaurants and cafes to ask if they might be willing to put your treats in their cases for a cut of the profits. These are the baby steps to a small business.

14. Chaperone children for trick-or-treating

Sort of like baby-sitting; you'll get paid in cash plus a few candy bars. Parents or guardians working late and therefore unable to take their kids trick-or-treating will be interested in this service.

15. Sell water to thirsty parents

Walking children around for hours on end can really take it out of you. Help adults rehydrate by offering bottled water for $1 a pop, or set up a lemonade/Kool-Aid stand to sell small cups of the sweet stuff for 50 cents to a dollar.

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This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Legally Sell Your Body for Money

Max Wong — Fri, 25 Aug 2017 09:00:05 +0000

Have you ever been so desperate for cash that you've wished that you could sell a kidney on the black market just to make your financial problems go away? While selling organs is illegal in the United States, (thank goodness) you can still part yourself out for money in less permanent, and dangerous ways.

1. Sell your hair

If you've ever considered channeling your inner Rapunzel and letting your hair work for you, there are a now a number of online specialty markets for human hair. As with any niche product, hair buyers are a picky bunch, so if you want to monetize your crowning glory, you need to grow, wash, cut, and ship your tresses to specification. But be sure to do your research before you chop your mane in exchange for moola. (See also: How to Sell Your Hair for Cash)

2. Sell your cells

The federal government prohibits the use of blood collected from paid donors for transfusions in hospitals. However, you can sell plasma, platelets, or whole blood to pharmaceutical companies and medical researchers.

The limits on payment for blood products vary from state to state and from lab to lab. For example, I donate platelets to a university research lab. While this lab is forbidden to pay donors in cash, they will give me $60 in gift cards for movies or groceries, or pay up to $60 of one of my utility bills for each donation.

3. Donate breast milk

Healthy moms can sell their surplus breast milk for an average of $2.50 per ounce. Nursing mothers can use Craigslist to find local breast milk buyers or post free classified ads on sites like onlythebreast.com to market their milk or wet nursing services to a national audience. (See also: 5 Bodily Fluids You Can Exchange for Cash)

4. Poop for pay

It sounds like a joke, but fecal transplants are real. In fact, 30,000 people die every year from causes related to C. difficile infection. C. diff is the most common hospital-acquired infection in the U.S. Unfortunately, some cases of C. diff bacterium result in repeat infections and are resistant to antibiotics. Fortunately, fecal microbiota transplants made from donor stool have an 90 percent cure rate for the infection.

If you live near Medford or Somerville, Massachusetts, can make daily trips to the Open Biome labs, and have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30, you could make $40 for every stool you donate.

5. Participate in clinical trials

Robert Rodriguez financed his first film using money that he made by participating in clinical research trials. You can make thousands of dollars by turning yourself into a human lab rat.

In addition to cash, if you can find a clinical trial that matches up with a personal health problem, you might get the benefit of receiving cutting edge medical assistance for free.

The downside of clinical research is obvious: you are part of the experiment, and sometimes experiments fail. New treatments are not always better than existing treatments and can come with unexpected risks or side effects. (See also: Making Money From Clinical Trials: Worth the Risk?)

6. Donate sperm

In order to be considered as a viable sperm donor, you need to fit some pretty narrow parameters. First, most labs are looking for healthy men between the ages of 18 and 35. If you have ever donated blood, the application is similar. Be prepared to share your most gruesome secrets about your sex life and open up your family's medical history, going back four generations, to intense scrutiny. Something as minor as a food allergy can get you kicked out of the eligible pool of candidates. Also, if you have ever had an STD, even if you are 100 percent cured, you will be disqualified.

Another disqualification is no college education. Parents want to give their children a competitive edge in school. Sperm banks will pay extra for donors from Ivy League schools and donors with Doctorate degrees.

If you make it through the paperwork, you will be required to show up at your local clinic where you will submit to an HIV test, an in-person interview, and provide a sperm sample. Your sperm sample will then be tested for sperm count and motility (swimming ability). If your sperm makes the cut, you will advance to the next round of testing that includes a renal ultrasound and blood tests for a host of diseases.

Admitted donors are then required to supply, in addition to weekly sperm deposits, baby photos, personal essays, and audio interviews to aid future parents in their sperm shopping.

While top donors can earn as much as $1,500 per month for their sperm, this is not a way to make quick cash if you are short on rent. All donors are required to sign, at minimum, six-month contracts, and your earnings will be kept in escrow during that time, to ensure that you make weekly deposits.

Lastly, as a successful sperm donor, you may end up providing your genetics to dozens of children. If you sign up as an open donor, those children can find out who you are. If you sign up as a closed donor, though, your identity will remain anonymous.

7. Donate eggs

The audition for egg donors is similar to that of sperm donors. In addition to the paperwork, the interviews, and genetic, drug, and STD screenings, egg donors must also submit to a gynecological exam and psychological counseling.

Katie, an old co-worker of mine made $18,000 donating her eggs. She also got the priceless experience of helping another woman experience motherhood. According to her egg donor agency, Katie was the "high demand" egg donor. She looked like a J. Crew model and had been a cheerleader in college. She also had a kid of her own, which means her eggs were viable and her fertility reliable.

Because her own pregnancy had been as breezy as a pregnancy could be, Katie figured that egg donation would be a cinch. She quickly learned that you earn every penny as an egg donor. For starters, she had to inject herself twice daily with hormones to convince her body to overproduce eggs. These hormones made her crabby, crampy, and so bloated that people thought she was pregnant. Basically, she felt like she had PMS for two months straight. Also, it took her a week to recover from the egg retrieval procedure, a minor surgery that is done under general anesthesia.

Although she ultimately is happy with her choice to donate, Katie cautions potential donors to carefully research the entire egg donation process before they commit. While medical expenses related to the donation cycle are paid by the egg recipient, post-donation complications are not. The donor could be left with expensive medical care. Also, like lottery winnings, the money earned from egg donation counts as miscellaneous income to the IRS and is heavily taxed.

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This article is from Max Wong of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

5 Ways to Earn Extra Money With a Healthy Lifestyle

Damian Davila — Fri, 14 Jul 2017 08:31:05 +0000

Whether you made yourself a promise to eat better, exercise more, or become healthier, you'll dramatically increase your chances of success by earning some bucks every time you stick to your plan. Here's a list of apps and sites that can help you turn your healthy lifestyle into a decent side hustle.

1. Explore your neighborhood for job opportunities

Use the Job Spotter app from Indeed to explore your neighborhood in search of local help wanted ads.The app gives you five to 150 points per eligible shot of help wanted ads and allows you to convert points into Amazon gift card codes (one point = one cent in Amazon credit). A stroll through your nearest mall or marketplace could help you get a couple extra dollars. Yours truly made $42.37 in Amazon gift cards in 21 days.

2. Bet on your fitness goals

With StepBet, you can put your money where your mouth is. By placing around a $40 bet, you'll join other players in a competition to meet personalized step goals every week for the entire duration of the competition. If you hit all of your personalized goals, then you split the pot with all the others that did, as well. (See also: 6 Apps That Pay You to Workout)

3. Compete with friends on weight loss

With HealthyWage, you can make a bet to lose a certain amount of weight over a period of time and win cash prizes. For example, if you were to bet $50 per month that it would take you up to nine months to lose 30 pounds, you could win from $500 to $1,323.53 in cash prizes.

However, by joining forces with four more friends or relatives, you could compete for three top prizes of $10,000, $5,000, and $3,000! You just need to bet $25 per member per month for three months. To get at least your money back, you must lose at least 10 percent of your body weight within a nine-month period.

4. Track your weight loss goals

Every time you enter your weight into the Walgreens Balance Rewards program, you'll get 20 points. With these points, you can accumulate points for dollars off your purchases at Walgreens. Every 5,000 points are redeemable for a $5 discount, but once you hit 30,000 points, you'll get bonus points (30,000 points and 40,000 points are redeemable for a $35 and $50 discount, respectively).

5. Walk dogs

Companies like Wag and Rover are looking for individuals age 18 and over who are able to walk dogs for a few hours a day. If you're outgoing, eager to hang out with some cute pups, and looking to increase your daily step count, this is a great side gig. (See also: 8 Ways to Get Fit While Hanging Out With Animals)

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This article is from Damian Davila of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Surprising Things You Can Sell for Cash

Amy Lu — Tue, 11 Jul 2017 08:00:12 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found articles on surprising things you can turn into cash, things that car salesmen don’t want you to know, and how to prepare for the most important decade of your financial life.

7 Surprising Ways to Earn Money Online

Damian Davila — Mon, 12 Jun 2017 08:30:14 +0000

The internet isn't all about cats with attitude, hashtags on social media, and endless Reddit discussion threads. There are also plenty of ways — some a bit off the beaten path — to make money. Here are seven surprising ways you can earn money online.

1. Sell your photos

National Geographic estimated that every American took an average of 322 digital photos in 2015. If you can easily beat that number and have serious photog skills, you should consider uploading your photos to sites that pay you every time somebody wants to download and use your image. Sites such as SmugMug Pro, Shutterstock, Foap, Clashot, and iStockphoto allow you to submit your digital masterpieces for review or you can apply to become a paid contributor. (See also: Earn Extra Income With Your Smartphone Camera)

2. Complete microtasks

If you have some extra time on your hands, rather than scrolling through your Instagram feed, make a little money by writing 50-word product descriptions, transcribing audio, or making sure that uploaded photos don't contain sensitive material. Sites, such as CrowdFlower and Amazon's Mechanical Turk, allow you to find single, self-contained tasks that provide a monetary reward. Initial tasks usually pay just a few cents, but once you obtain higher qualifications you can earn much more. (See also: 6 Ways to Earn More Money — Without Working More Hours)

3. Create an online course

When you're really good at something and could teach it to anybody in your sleep, then you could earn passive income by creating a robust online course and receiving royalties every time that somebody watches your lessons or tutorials, or signs up to the service as a paid student. Some options to build on-demand courses are Skillshare and Udemy.

4. Tutor in real time

Since some students learn better by doing, you also have the option to deliver live tutoring through the web. Sites like Chegg Tutors and Tutor.com are constantly looking for experienced tutors on a wide range of subjects at the high school and college levels. (See also: The 3 Best Jobs for Expats and Travelers)

5. Become a beta tester

Some people wait in line for hours to get the latest smartphone model or video game platform. If you're one of those, ErliBird.com offers you the opportunity to get a sneak peek and provide feedback on upcoming apps, websites, and products. Some assignments require ownership of a Windows PC, Mac, or other specific devices. Depending on your set of demographics and the needs from clients, the site provides up to five assignments per month, each one paying $10.

6. Be a virtual jury member

If you just can't wait for the day to be called for jury duty, you can increase your chances of becoming a juror by signing up for eJury.com. Don't let the late '90s retro design fool you, this site is real and the Texas-based company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Assignments depend on location and demand from attorneys in that area, so it may take a while for you to land an assignment. But when you do, expect a $5 to $10 payment via PayPal. (See also: 13 Ways to Make Money Online That Aren't Scams)

7. Snap photos of help wanted signs

With the Job Spotter app from job search engine Indeed.com, you can accumulate points by taking photos of local job signs with your smartphone camera. For about 30 seconds of your time, you can win up to 150 points for submitting a local job sign. Once you hit 100 points, you can turn that into a $1 in Amazon.com credit. If you're a frequent Amazon shopper, this is a pretty good deal for the amount of time that you have to invest.

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12 Garage Sale Items That Sell Like Hotcakes

Marla Walters — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 08:30:09 +0000

Spring cleaning is in full swing, which means it's out with the old, and in with the new. So why not earn some extra cash by throwing a garage sale and ridding your home of your unwanted items? Here are 12 perennially popular items that are sure to sell like hot cakes. (See also: 10 Easiest Items to "Flip" for Cash)

1. Gently used clothing, in good condition

Everyone needs clothes, and savvy shoppers know you don't have to pay retail to look good. I once met a lumber "baroness" who confided in me that she bought all of her clothes at yard sales. Good quality holds up, and regular yard sale shoppers know that.

For women's and men's, hang clothes up on a rack, rather than folded on a table or in a box. It makes it much easier for people to go through it, as well as to examine it for stains or tears. For kids' clothing, folding it is fine, but it's nice if the sizes are noted and sorted. Many garage-sale shoppers are resellers, and they may take you up on a "$__ per bag" offer.

2. Tools

My husband is like a moth to a flame when it comes to a garage sale with tools. He not only likes power tools, but also older, vintage ones that are not only still useful, but fun to collect and display.

When selling your old tools, have a power strip nearby so power tools can be tested, or have them charged up if used with a battery.

3. Furniture

If you live in a college town, furniture is sure to go fast. Also, with DIY projects soaring in popularity, more people are looking for furniture that can be remade. Bookshelves will always sell — even old, beat up bookcases can be used for storage!

Make sure any furniture you sell is clean. Old leather furniture can be spiffed up using a mixture of vinegar, olive oil, and a little lemon juice. Vacuum upholstered furniture and treat any spots. Also, suggest a price, but be open to negotiation.

4. Vintage dishes, glassware, and casseroles

Any Pyrex collectors out there? How about milk glass, or Spode? You may have some items hidden away in your cupboards that are hot.

When you go to sell these items, advertise using the brand name (i.e., Pyrex, milk glass, Corningware, etc.); add photos to your ad, too. Collectors will flock to you. (See also: 10 Old Knick-Knacks You Can Flip for Easy Cash)

5. Garden tools

Spring fever also means that home gardeners are eager to start tilling, trimming, planting, and digging.

Be prepared to start up that old lawn mower, or be honest about what isn't working. Handy folks may be willing to take a chance that they can get a broken item running again. We just bought a garden tiller for $15. It wasn't running, but my husband knew how to fix it. Sometimes, a shovel blade or rake may be fine, but the wooden handles are rotting. You can purchase new handles at Home Depot or Lowe's. But price these items accordingly, if a replacement is going to be necessary.

6. Shoes and handbags

Think nobody would want to buy your old shoes? Guess again. Shoes, especially if in good condition and carrying a popular brand name, sell like hot cakes at garage sales. Kids grow out of shoes so fast that size doesn't matter. If they're too big now, they'll probably grow into them later. Handbags are also enormously popular — especially if it's a designer label.

When selling shoes or old purses, obviously, clean and odor-free are necessities. If you still have the original boxes, that's a plus. The key factor with shoes and bags is showcasing any designer brands. Put the designers in your garage sale ad, and place them front and center during the sale. Then watch the flock of shoppers arrive.

7. Costume jewelry

If your jewelry box is overflowing with costume jewelry and statement pieces you know you'll never wear, a garage sale is the perfect place to unload them.

Find a rack of some sort to hang necklaces on (a coat hanger will do, in a pinch). Bracelets can go on a dowel. Just make sure to keep costume jewelry close to your cashier area because sadly, some folks will try to pocket it.

8. Games, toys, and bicycles

Have too many toys and games cluttering up the house? Give them a new home by selling them at your garage sale. Vintage games being popular at the moment, you should be able to easily sell Monopoly or Life. Before you sell these, make sure you have all the game pieces. "Lil' Tykes" plastic furniture is always popular, too. Pump up bike tires for bikes you're looking to unload, and give them a wash.

9. Books

It doesn't matter how fancy or state-of-the-art e-readers become — actual books will always be easy to sell. Make the ones you no longer want super cheap — $1–$3 each — and they'll fly off your shelves.

10. Appliances

I know, you just had to have a Magic Bullet, or a bread-maker, or a hand blender. And now they're sitting on your kitchen counter, collecting dust. I'm guilty of this, too. Luckily, people love appliances, and you can probably unload them.

When you sell them, it's a good idea to have a power strip handy so folks can make sure they work. They should also be spotlessly clean. Check eBay to see what they're going for before pricing.

11. Camping gear

Purchasing new camping gear gets a little pricey. However, used gear is usually still in decent condition, since it only usually gets used a few times each year. Yard and garage sales are the best places to get it, and smart shoppers will snap it up.

Make sure to mention the items in your ad and include pictures. Open up tents so people can see the size.

12. Exercise equipment

So, you bought that trendy elliptical machine when you were still clutching the remains of your fitness resolutions. If you didn't use it, that's OK! time to get it out of your garage and into someone else's.

Specify what you have, and put pictures in your ad. Basic exercise equipment, like weights, will usually go quickly, but older treadmills or exercise bikes may linger, depending on how you price them and how quickly you want to get rid of them.

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This article is from Marla Walters of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Easiest Items to "Flip" for Cash

Kentin Waits — Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:30:29 +0000

As a devoted thrift store shopper, auction-goer, and yard sale junkie, I always joke that my hobby is also my part-time job. Since roughly 95% of everything I buy is intended for resale, I'm constantly looking for items I can flip without a huge time investment. If you know what to look for, there's money to be made around every corner — maybe even in the stacks of stuff collecting dust in your basement or garage. Here are 10 of the easiest items you can flip for fast cash.

1. Solid Wood Furniture

One of the five best deals in every thrift store, quality furniture is an easy flip. Usually, a light sanding and application of a one-step stain/sealer is all you need to bring a worn piece back to life.

Stick to small, versatile pieces that will appeal to apartment-dwellers and look for forms that can be creatively upcycled (an old roll-top desk becomes a bar or an antique steamer trunk gets a second life as a coffee table). Reduce prep time by avoiding items with heavy ornamentation. Also, when buying dining room or office chairs, steer clear of oddly-shaped seats — they're twice as hard to reupholster.

2. Brand-Name Clothing

With the retail price of clothing hovering near the stratosphere, gently-used, seasonally-appropriate brand-name clothing is an easy sell. Look for well-made items with no missing buttons, damaged zippers, extreme alterations, stains, or weird smells. Just last week, I bought a pair of nearly-new Sperry Top Sider leather shoes for $3.99 and flipped them online for $32. (See also: 9 Qualities to Look for in Well-Made Clothing).

3. Vintage Clothing

Its own unique category, vintage clothing can include a quirky shirt made 10 years ago or a classic hat made 80 years ago. Get a feel for what's in-demand by researching completed sales on eBay. Remember, as with all other clothing, condition is everything. Several weeks ago, I paid $2.99 for a '90s-era Levi's denim cap in mint condition. Three hours after I listed it online, it sold for a cool $105.

4. Retro Barware Sets

Cocktail shakers, tumblers, swizzle sticks, ice buckets, and related items appeal to the hip and well-heeled everywhere. Matching sets are the most coveted, but mismatched or harlequin sets sell well, too. Just make sure each piece is from the same general era. Recently, a 1960s set of six lowball glasses with matching decanter sold on eBay for $69.99.

5. Power Tools

When people are moving or otherwise motivated to declutter, buyers can often score power tools at bargain-basement prices. Test each item before you buy, give it a light cleaning, grease what needs greasing, and flip it for quick cash. A few summers ago, I bought a portable, gas-powered generator for $40 at a yard sale. I sold it the very next day for $125.

6. Old Canning Jars

Vintage canning jars manufactured by Mason, Ball, and Atlas have transcended their utilitarian origins to become decorative items. Unusually large jars and the green or blue glass variety sell for a premium — especially if they retain their original zinc or glass lids. If you have any of these packed away in the basement, clean with a mixture of white vinegar and water and sell them for $8-$15 each. (See also: 9 Easy Mason Jar Gifts You Can Make).

7. Mid-Century Anything

Anything from the '50s and '60s is red hot right now. Look for authentic pieces that are in relatively good shape. Dinnerware, flatware, coffee tables, chairs, and lamps are all home runs in the resale market. Last month, I snagged an iconic "starburst" wall clock at poorly-attended auction for $1. After giving it a 10-minute cleaning, I sold it on eBay for $70.

8. Basic Lawn Tools

Old metal rakes, spades, hoes, and other basic lawn care tools are well-made and easy to rehabilitate. Clean them well, use a grinder with a brush attachment to remove rust quickly, and then flip 'em for $10-$20 apiece. The best part? Anyone with a yard is a potential buyer!

9. Bicycles

A good friend of mine in Austin, Texas has created a cottage industry buying, cleaning, repairing, and reselling bicycles to feed that city's thriving biking culture. Every weekend you can find him scouring local thrift stores, yard sales, and Craigslist ads for retro models from the '70s and '80s. Though some bikes do need significant repair (which requires a basic level of mechanical skill), most just need a little cosmetic TLC.

10. Vintage Lawn Furniture

They don't make lawn furniture they way they used to. Vintage aluminum, iron, and steel pieces are in demand for their durability and classic styling. Though complete sets are ideal, don't reject singles. Condo dwellers may only have room for one or two chairs, and other buyers prefer to mix and match. In July, a pair of untouched (read: slightly rusty) metal "clam shell" patio chairs sold on eBay for $85.

What treasures have you found and flipped for minimal effort and maximum cash? Share your story!

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

10 Smart Ways I'm Spending My Tax Refund

Mikey Rox — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 10:30:43 +0000

For the first time in what seems like ages — at least six years — I don't owe the IRS one red cent on my taxes. In fact, this year the government is going to pay me. I have grand plans for the extra influx of cash, mostly to tie up several financial loose ends. Take a look at this list of where my refund money is going, and make a plan to spend yours just as smartly.

1. Paying Off an Outstanding Medical Bill

Very annoyingly, I received a doctor's bill many weeks ago that was well above what I was expecting. I let it go for a while because I needed to call the doctor's office and cross-reference the fees with my insurance company to make sure everything was legitimate. Unfortunately, the charges were valid (not the outcome I was hoping for), so I have to pay up.

If you have outstanding medical bills, consider using all or part of your refund to tackle this debt. One bonus: Many hospitals and physicians will allow you to create interest-free payment plans to tackle your bills, making it unlikely you'll need to drop your entire tax refund on them.

2. Scheduling a Car Maintenance Appointment

The last time I had my oil changed, the mechanic told me that my car needed an alignment. It wasn't something I was prepared to pay for at the time, but I'll have it done now that I have the extra dough. While I'm there, I'll also have a few other issues taken care of, like a recently burnt-out headlight and the buffing of a dent that someone put in my car in the mall parking lot.

3. Pet Expenses

In the winter, I let my babe's fur grow a bit longer than I normally do throughout the rest of the year — cold weather and all. But spring is just around the corner, so it's time for a trim. And maybe a treat or two.

More importantly: Is your pet overdue for a trip to the vet? Spending some of your tax refund on your furry friend's health might be much appreciated — and save you from bigger vet bills in the long run.

4. Household Maintenance

It's not smart to let household maintenance go, and with your wallet is flush, now's the time to cross those to-dos off your list.

Stocking Up on Household Necessities

I host a lot of guests on a regular basis, so not only am I constantly cleaning the house — causing me to burn through cleaning supplies rather quickly — but I also go through a decent amount of kitchen and bathroom paper products. To cut costs and trips to the store, I buy these items in bulk and store them so I always have them on hand. And since they're not exactly cheap, now is the right time to stock up.

Having the Carpets Professionally Cleaned

I totally dread having to replace my upstairs carpeting (I wish I didn't have it at all!), so I'm keen to keep it in good shape. That means having it professionally cleaned (which isn't as expensive as you might think) to combat the wear-and-tear of constant human and animal traffic.

Hiring a Landscaper to Clean Up the Yard

I love the outdoors, but I hate doing yard work. Thus, a portion of my refund will go to my friendly neighborhood landscaper who will clean up the fall and winter gunk so the my property can shine when the weather gets warm again.

Making Minor Fixes Around the House

We all have those tiny things that we need to fix around the house, but sometimes they're so insignificant that they don't warrant a trip to the store for supplies just for that one little problem. Refund time is a perfect time to make a list of what's dead or not working — like light bulbs, remote batteries, and other easy, inexpensive fixes.

Completing Forgotten or Overlooked Home Projects

I plan to hire a handy person — likely a student looking to make a quick few bucks — from Craigslist to help me finish a few put-to-the-side projects, like fixing a hole in my bathroom wall, hanging shelves, and cleaning up the basement. Much cheaper than hiring a professional company at professional prices.

5. Paying for My Spring/Summer Sports Leagues and Gym in Full

I enjoy staying active physically and socially, so I participate in several leagues, including shuffleboard (don't laugh!), bowling, and trivia. While I have some extra padding in my pockets, I'm paying for all those upcoming fees in full, mostly so I don't have to stop by the ATM several times a week. The same goes for gym or fitness class expenses. Pay for those suckers in full for a year, and save big on membership costs.

6. Buying Gifts for Upcoming Events

Wedding and baby shower season is coming, and if you're not careful, these events can really hit you where it hurts — your wallet! I know I have a few coming up, so I'm buying the gifts in advance. That way I'm not caught off guard in a few months when I've forgotten that I need to buy yet another toaster oven or playpen.

7. Taking Dry Cleaning and Alterations to the Cleaners

All winter long I keep separate clothes hampers in which I put my wool and other dry-clean-only garments along with any items that need alterations or repairs (like missing buttons). Since the cold season is coming to an end, I plan to have it all cleaned/repaired in one fell swoop so I can put everything away in perfect condition so it's ready to go for next year. This prevents me from making unnecessary new clothing purchases by keeping my existing wardrobe in good repair, year after year.

8. Paying Off Upcoming Trip Expenses

I have a spring birthday, and since I'm not a fan of public displays of birthday affection, I try to travel by myself when it rolls around. This year, I'm headed to three previously unvisited Major League Baseball stadiums (my goal is to see a ballgame in all of them by age 40), for which I'll need airfare, lodging, and a rental car. While it's not a super expensive trip, it's not exactly a drop in the bucket either, so my tax refund is a good way to fund this excursion now, so I can relax when it's actually time to depart.

9. Settling Long Overdue Debts

Interestingly, I have a smallish tax bill from 2013 that keeps popping up every now and again, and until recently I didn't know what it was for. I called the IRS and figured it out, so I plan to pay it off with my refund. If you have any bills like this — perhaps a credit card bill — you should think about doing the same. Get it out of the way and off your back. You'll instantly feel better.

10. Putting the Rest in Savings

Whatever remains of my refund will go straight to savings. I've wrapped up a lot of items on my to-do list, so if there's any excess cash, I plan to save it for surprise expenses in the future or to continue building my fund for a future investment. You can never go wrong with putting some money away for a rainy day.

And of course, it goes without saying that if you don't have a rainy day fund, likely the best thing you can do with your refund money is to put most or all of it toward an emergency fund.

Are you receiving a refund this year? How do you plan to spend it smartly? Let me know in the comments below.

This article is from Mikey Rox of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Surprising Things You Can Turn Into Cash

Amy Lu — Mon, 15 Jun 2015 19:00:12 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on surprising things you can turn into cash, common foods you can easily grow in a small home, and how to save hundreds on your car loan.