part-time job

5 Ways Gig Economy Workers Can Save for Retirement

Emily Guy Birken — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 22:12:58 +0000

We are in the midst of a major economic shift. While workers in the past could expect to keep a stable job with a traditional employer for decades, workers of today have found they must either cobble together a career from a variety of gigs, or supplement a lackluster salary from a traditional job by doing freelance work in their spare time.

Though you can make a living (and possibly even a good one) in the gig economy, this kind of work does leave gig workers vulnerable in one very important way: retirement planning.

Without the backing of an employer-sponsored retirement account, many gig workers are not saving enough for their golden years. According to a recent report by Betterment, seven out of 10 full-time gig workers say they are unprepared to maintain their current lifestyle during retirement, while three out of 10 say they don't regularly set aside any money for retirement.

So what's a gig worker to do if they don't want to be driving for Uber and taking TaskRabbit jobs into their 70s and 80s? Here are five things you can do to save for retirement as a member of the gig economy. (See also: 15 Lucrative Side Hustles for City Dwellers)

1. Take stock of what you have

Many people don't have a clear idea of how much money they have. And it's impossible to plan your retirement if you don't know where you are today. So any retirement savings should start with a look at what you already have in the accounts in your name.

Add up how much is in your checking and savings accounts, any neglected retirement accounts you may have picked up from previous traditional jobs, cash on hand if your gig work relies on cash tips, or any other financial accounts. The sum total could add up to more than you realize if you haven't recently taken stock of where you are.

Even if you truly have nothing more than pocket lint and a couple quarters to your name, it's better to know where you are than proceed without a clear picture of your financial reality. (See also: These 13 Numbers Are Crucial to Understanding Your Finances)

2. Open an IRA

If you don't already have a retirement account that you can contribute to, then you need to set one up ASAP. You can't save for retirement if you don't have an account to put money in.

IRAs are specifically created for individual investors and you can easily get started with one online. If you have money from a 401(k) to roll over, you have more options available to you, as some IRAs have a minimum investment amount (typically $1,000). If you have less than that to open your account, you may want to choose a Roth IRA, since those often have no minimums.

The difference between the traditional IRA and the Roth IRA is how taxes are levied. With a traditional IRA, you can fund the account with pre-tax income. In other words, every dollar you put in an IRA is a dollar you do not have to claim as income. However, you will have to pay ordinary income tax on your IRA distributions once you reach retirement. Roth IRAs are funded with money that has already been taxed, so you can take distributions tax-free in retirement.

Many gig workers choose a Roth IRA because their current tax burden is low. If you anticipate earning more over the course of your career, using a Roth IRA for retirement investments can protect you from the taxman in retirement.

Whether you choose a Roth or a traditional IRA, the contribution limit per year, as of 2018, is $5,500 for workers under 50, and $6,500 for anyone who is 50+.

3. Avoid the bite of investment fees

While no investor wants to lose portfolio growth to fees, it's especially important for gig workers to choose asset allocations that will minimize investment fees. That's because gig workers are likely to have less money to invest, so every dollar needs to be working hard for them.

Investing in index funds is one good way to make sure investment fees don't suck the life out of your retirement account. Index funds are mutual funds that are constructed to mimic a specific market index, like the S&P 500. Since there is no portfolio manager who is choosing investments, there is no management fee for index funds. (See also: How to Start Investing With Just $100)

4. Embrace automation

One of the toughest challenges of being a gig worker is the fact that your income is variable — which makes it very difficult to plan on contributing the same amount each month. This is where technology comes in.

To start, set up an automatic transfer of an amount of money you will not miss. Whether you can spare $50 per week or $5 per month, having a small amount of money quietly moving into your IRA gives you a little cushion that you don't have to think about.

From there, consider using a savings app to handle retirement savings for you. For instance, Digit will analyze your checking account's inflow and outflow, and will determine an amount that is safe to save without triggering an overdraft, and automatically move that amount into a savings account. You can then transfer your Digit savings into your retirement account.

5. Invest found money

An excellent way to make sure you're maxing out your contributions each year is to change your view of "found money." For instance, if you receive a birthday check from your grandmother, only spend half of it and put the rest in your retirement account. Similarly, if you receive a tax refund (which is a little less likely if you're a gig worker paying quarterly estimated taxes), send at least half of the refund toward your retirement.

Any gig workers who often receive cash can also make their own rules about the cash they receive. For instance, you could decide that every $5 bill you get has to go into retirement savings. That will help you change your view of the money and give you a way to boost your retirement savings.

Like this article? Pin it!

This article is from Emily Guy Birken 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.

Like this article? Pin it!

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 Get a High Rating and Make More Money as an Uber Driver

Andrea Cannon — Mon, 16 Jan 2017 10:30:25 +0000

If you currently drive for Uber or Lyft, or have considered using your vehicle to make money, then there are some tips you can take advantage of to earn even more. The secret to making the most money out of these services is by getting a high rating. The higher the rating, the more opportunities you'll have. With Lyft, that may mean a larger tip. Uber offers incentive programs to highly rated drivers. Here are some easy ways to earn a high rating while driving for these services. (See also: How to Earn Extra Money Driving for Uber or Lyft)

Provide the Best Service

By offering service above and beyond, you'll ensure a high rating from your passengers. Open the passenger door and help put their luggage in the trunk. Have phone chargers handy for your guests and don't forget to give your riders a high rating so they are more inclined to do the same for you.

Know the Area Well

The best drivers know their area well. They won't make a wrong turn or take the wrong exit because they got confused with the directions on their driving app. They know how to bypass congested areas safely and navigate smoothly. If the passenger thinks you're uneasy with the neighborhood, it'll make them less confident about your ability.

Ignore Your Phone

Many drivers use a Bluetooth headset or check their texts while they're driving. But it's never appropriate if you're on the job. Not to mention it can be illegal to use your phone while driving. You surely won't get a 5 star rating if you get stopped for a ticket.

Keep Your Vehicle Clean

Give your car a regular washing, inside and out. It should also smell clean, so it's a good idea to have a suble air freshener and drive with the windows down when there aren't passengers to air out any lingering odors.

Dress and Act Professionally

One of Uber's highest rated drivers has a simple tip: If you're unhappy, don't come to work. The passengers aren't forcing you to work this job, in fact, they're paying you their hard earned money to provide a service. And just because you're not in an "office" it doesn't mean you should be dressed like you work from home. Dress in clean and neat clothes, and be polite and respectful.

Keep the Music Low

Keep the music at a reasonable volume. Soothing music like jazz or classical can put passengers in a relaxed mood. You can also ask whether they have a preference in music. Some might prefer to have no music at all.

Don't Be Overly Friendly

Your passengers want a positive experience in your vehicle. It's important that you are friendly and sociable, without going overboard. Don't push the conversation, as many riders prefer to be left alone or want to have a conversation with their fellow passenger.

Like this article? Pin it!

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

5 Great Retail Jobs for Working Parents

Amanda Meadows — Thu, 01 Dec 2016 11:30:11 +0000

'Tis the season, as in, the 4th quarter of the calendar year! That magical time when seasonal retail employees are needed the most, and hired en masse to meet the demand from Black Friday through January. If you have kids, try these five great retail gigs for working parents.

1. Patagonia

The best retailer for working parents could very well be Patagonia, the clothing and gear brand beloved by trekkers and puffy-vest fans everywhere. Why? They have free on-site child care for employees. You read that right! This also means that 100% of employees return to their post after their maternity leave.

So how do you climb your way into that gig? Well, it's not so much a seasonal gig as it is a job in their headquarters, which is in Ventura, CA. Not such a bad relocation, though.

2. Lands' End

In similar step with Patagonia, another purveyor of outdoorsy goods Lands' End also provides lots of benefits to workers. In addition to many citing its company culture as safe, fair, and open, they also boast some competitive benefits, including: health insurance, 401K, subsidized on-site food services, a wellness center –– all great benefits for parents. Time to apply for a position now!

3. Wegmans

That's right, the supermarket chain known across the East Coast for great food and service is also a great employer. Wegmans is number four on the Best Companies to Work For list in 2016.

Why are they so great? Wegmans covers 85%-100% of employees' and their dependents health insurance. Many employees are even offered dental insurance. Plus, if you're a college student, they help pay your tuition. If you live in the Northeast and are looking for a job, this would be a good one. Plus, they make really delicious doughnuts.

4. Staples

Need a chain store with more locations, and most likely to be near your home? Staples is a very good option.

Staples employees get an Aetna health insurance plan for a deduction of $30 per paycheck, or $60 for those with dependents. Workers also get short-term disability insurance, and access to a service that can pair them with financial services and child care. Not too shabby!

5. Costco

If it wasn't already hard to avoid spending money at Costco, everyone's favorite bulk-everything retailer is also famously good to its employees. Employee perks for America's second-largest retailer include: choosing your own health plan if you work over 24 hours per week, a 401K plan, an FSA account to use pretax income for child care, and an employee care program that includes access to mental health, and financial professionals.

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

How You Can Earn $18 to $25 an Hour With Amazon Flex

Kat Tretina — Wed, 17 Aug 2016 09:31:16 +0000

If you have ever wondered how your Amazon orders magically appear so fast, you have the workers behind Amazon Flex to thank. And if you're looking for extra income, or are thinking about making a jump into the gig economy, Amazon Flex can be a great side hustle. Paying $18-25 an hour, it's an excellent way to make money on your own schedule.

What Is Amazon Flex?

For Amazon Prime Now deliveries, the giant online retailer hires independent contractors to make deliveries. It's more cost-efficient for them than using major delivery companies like UPS, and allows them to guarantee delivery within just an hour or two.

Amazon Flex is only available in certain markets right now, including Arlington (VA), Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Miami, Milwaukee, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Nashville, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Raleigh, Richmond, Rockville (MD), San Antonio, Seattle, Springfield (VA), Tampa Bay, and Virginia Beach. However, Prime Now is growing in demand, so it's likely that Amazon will expand its services to new regions soon.

Amazon Flex drivers earn between $18 and $25 an hour, based on their per-delivery payment and on tips from customers. Drivers can pick up delivery blocks on the days they want to work, and they can schedule their availability for the future.

As a driver, you pick up items at the Amazon distribution center and deliver them directly to people's homes. Items can range from a blow dryer at 10:00 p.m. to a bag of dog food in the morning.

How Do I Become a Driver?

To become an Amazon Flex driver, you need an Amazon account. Then visit the Flex website and submit your information. If you're located in a participating city, you will get an email with a webinar link. The webinar will teach you how the program works and how to use the Flex app. After the webinar, you will be asked to submit your driver's license number and car details; a clean driving record and background check is required. Once you've completed this process, you're ready to start working. You can set up your availability and start picking up orders right away.

What Does a Regular Day Look Like?

When you show up to the distribution center, you will wait in a designated area for Amazon Flex drivers. An employee will call your name and give you the orders. Sometimes you will have just one package, and other days you will be handed several. Like Uber or Lyft, you use your smartphone to track orders and customer locations.

Each package will have special instructions, such as "deliver only if someone is home" or "check customer ID" — especially for liquor deliveries — and more. If you have any issues, Amazon does offer support to their drivers to help you navigate the process and any situations that arise. Once you are finished, you can head back and get back in line for more deliveries.

Benefits of Amazon Flex

With Amazon Flex, $18 an hour is the minimum pay rate; you are guaranteed that amount as long as you work. Additionally, customers can give tips online up to 48 hours after delivery and you receive 100% of the tipped amount.

Downsides of Amazon Flex

While the pay is excellent and the job is low-pressure, Amazon does not guarantee a minimum of hours. While one week you may be able to do 20 hours of deliveries, the next you may not get any. It can be a convenient way to make a decent side income, but it is not reliable enough to be a steady source of money.

Amazon Flex is another entry into the gig economy that allows you to use an app and pick up jobs when you have the time. An excellent supplement to your day job, you can take on orders and earn a good hourly wage when you have free time.

Would you consider working for Amazon Flex? Why or why not? Share with us!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

8 Ways to Turn Your Stress Into Money

Tim Lemke — Wed, 20 Jul 2016 09:00:07 +0000

Are you prone to stress and anxiety? Do you believe it's holding you back from being successful in your career and making money? It doesn't have to be this way. In fact, when your stress and anxiety are properly managed, there may be ways to turn them into positive things for you financially — like extra cash!

Let's take a look at these ways you can turn stress into financial freedom.

1. Channel Your Stress Into Hard Work

Employers don't want their employees to be stressed out, but they do want people who care. So if you have a little bit of anxiety about your work, that could be a good thing. If you can find a healthy way to channel that stress into being productive and conscientious, it will pay off in the workplace. The chemical produced by stress can, at certain levels, actually enhance alertness, memory, and attention.

Many managers even say that giving workers a small amount of anxiety can help them perform better overall.

"Without anxiety, little would be accomplished," David Barlow, founder of the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders at Boston University, told Fast Company.

2. Turn Your Stress Into Excitement

Stress can be debilitating. But excitement can help you reach new heights. There's a fine line between stress and excitement, but researchers say you can often find ways to frame stress in a positive way. In her paper, "Get Excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety as Excitement," Alison Woods Brooks of Harvard Business School argues that you can perform better in a situation simply by repeatedly telling yourself, "I am excited." And the more you do it, the more it helps.

"Highly skilled individuals may be more likely to say ‘I am excited’ before they tackle challenging tasks. In this way, emotional self-statements could operate in an upward spiral process in which successful individuals are more likely to express excitement, and saying ‘I am excited’ then improves subsequent performance," Brooks writes.

3. Get a Side Hustle or Second Job

For many people, stressful and anxious thoughts come during downtime. It's hard to worry about things when you're busy at work, and the stressful thoughts may only come when your brain has a chance to think. If this sounds like you, maybe a second job will help you stay busy and keep your mind from wandering into Stress Town. And if you're the type of person who gets stressed about never seeming to have enough money, a second job may be what you need. It doesn't have to be another full-time job. Maybe you can take up freelance writing or design, or a craft. Anything to stay busy, keep your mind off your troubles, and make a little extra money in the process.

4. Become a Good Leader

In his book, My Age of Anxiety, writer Scott Stossel argues that being anxious can be helpful to people in leadership roles. He said anxious people are more likely to be tuned into other people's emotions and social cues.

In their book, Wiser, researchers Cass Sunstein and Reid Hastie argue that groups can make the best decisions when they are led by an anxious and detail-oriented person. So who knows? Maybe your stress is your ticket to becoming CEO.

5. Save and Invest Like Crazy

If you are prone to anxiety, you worry about the future. That means you're probably good at preparing yourself financially for the days ahead. You may have cash set aside for every conceivable emergency, and are aggressive about saving for retirement because you stress about running out of cash as you age.

If this sounds like you, you're probably in great shape financially and may even become quite wealthy as your investments and savings grow over time.

6. Become a Pet Sitter

If you suffer from anxiety or high stress, there's a lot of evidence suggesting that time with a pet can help you. Studies show that pets can provide the kind of unconditional love that would benefit those with mental health conditions, and may even improve social interactions.

Pets can often be creatures of routine, demanding to be walked and fed at certain times. Being forced into that kind of routine may also be helpful to those with stress and and anxiety.

What's more, if you make money by walking pets, you'll be getting some exercise, which is also beneficial when battling stress.

7. Channel It Into Something Creative

Perhaps you've found that your stress goes away when you play the guitar, or paint, or make pottery. Maybe you feel better when you act or dance. You may think of these activities as mere outlets for your stress, but they can be moneymakers. Make some music and join a band. Sell your artwork. Join a theatre company. Take that stress and go make some dough.

8. Blog About Your Stress

About 40 million adults in the United States suffer from some sort of anxiety disorder, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health. That's a huge potential audience of people who may be looking to get advice, or simply connect with those who are going through similar challenges. Finding ways to write about your stress and anxiety may be therapeutic for you, and if the blog takes off, you can earn a little bit of cash in the process.

What other ways can you channel stress into money? Share with us!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

9 Side Jobs for Athletic Types

Mikey Rox — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 09:00:10 +0000

Want to stay active in your personal and professional life? Turn your sweat equity into actual equity with these nine side jobs for athletic types. (See also: 12 Great Side Jobs for Outdoorsy Types)

1. Writing Fitness Content

If you have decent writing skills, try your hand at writing fitness articles for print publications (credibility helps in this regard; a degree or certifications will get you further) or blogs. There's no shortage of fitness-based sites that publish editorial content, and if you add those to general lifestyle sites that push out content about fitness, you have a lot of resources to tap into to get started.

2. Local Coaching

Help shape a future generation of athletes by becoming a coach in your area. Some leagues run year-round — whether it's a kids' rec league or a social sports league for adults — and you can switch it up from season to season if you'd like, depending on your skills and availability.

"Coaching gives you the ability to build yourself up as the authority figure in your local niche and share the experience you have acquired over the course of your athletic career," says aspiring Olympian Sirena Alise, who has served as a coach in the past. "It's a great way to segue into a professional career after your athletic career comes to an end. It is also a great way to give back to your community and help build the athlete in someone else if you love sharing knowledge."

Janae Cardona is the owner of a cheering organization, and she says they're always on the lookout for great coaches.

"Depending upon their skill set and if they're good with children, being a cheer coach or a tumbling instructor in the afternoons/evenings and/or weekends is a great side job," she says. "Most of our coaches have a daytime job — many involve athletics, such as personal training — and work with us in the evenings and weekends."

3. Summer Camps

If you have the summers off for some lucky-duck reason, being a summer camp athletic director or coach might be up your alley. If you're hired at a sleepaway camp — which can run from four to eight weeks — you'll receive room and board, plus a decent wage. As an example, I was an art director at a summer camp in 2003, and I made about $3,000 for eight weeks while I lived and ate on campus for free. This may not be an ideal situation if you're trying to support a family of four at home, but if you're recently out of college it may be a legit solution.

"Athletic camps are a great way to make a lot of money, if done right, in a short amount of time," Alise suggests. "Similar to coaching, camps are a great way to segue out if your athletic career comes to end. With both, you can build your clientele up and earn a respectable amount of income once you take either coaching or camps full time."

4. Modeling Gigs

Do you put in serious work at the gym to have a smokin' hot bod? You might be able to turn that dedication into dollar bills by looking for modeling gigs. You don't have to be in New York or L.A. to make this dream come true, either. Businesses in your area may need a physical specimen for an upcoming campaign. Keep an eye on the "Gigs" section of Craigslist, or reach out to companies with which you identify to see if they could use your assets in the future.

5. Brand Ambassadorships

If you can't find any coveted modeling gigs, brand ambassadorships may be the next best thing. The way this works, essentially, is that a brand will pay you to represent it — either in cash or free product — on social media platforms like Instagram. You'll certainly have a better chance of scoring one of these plush gigs if you fill out clothing nicely and/or you've amassed an enviable following on social media.

"I think the best side/part-time job for athletic and fitness orientated people would be to seek a brand ambassador position with a health or sports brand," says Joshua Schall, a fitness business strategy consultant in Austin, Texas. "These types of positions get you access to great brands in the world you already love. A brand ambassador usually gets to pick his/her own hours and gets paid to attend sporting events, health fairs, or other events that are interesting to athletic people."

Schall provides a few pointers on how to get started:

Follow your favorite sports, health, and fitness brands on social media, because they usually post about needing help.
Visit local sports events that have vendor setups, health fairs, or sampling events at gyms and ask the brands if they need any help marketing.
Reach out to brands you love by email and let them know you would love to help them market their brand in your city.

"The main takeaway would be that a person is passionate, knowledgeable, and can express their value to a company that they love and enjoy already," he says.

6. Mowing Lawns

If you don't mind breaking a sweat — and then continuing to sweat all day long — lawn care is a money-making option that'll keep you on your feet. Signing up to mow lawns with companies like LawnStarter can help bring the customers to you without you worrying about advertising or spending extra time during the week. There are plenty of top-notch providers on the LawnStarter platform that mow lawns on the side, so it's a great fit for anyone, whether they are full-time or part-time.

7. Referee Sports

If you prefer to be in the middle of the action — and have a hawk-eye to make the right calls — consider refereeing sports instead of coaching. Nearly all kids' sports leagues have the need for refs, and it can net you some decent cash if you do more than one game a weekend. There is a small upfront fee for registration/classes and a uniform, but you can quickly make back the expenses in a weekend.

8. Dog Running

You've heard of dog walking, of course, but have you heard of dog running? It's totally a thing, and you add that title to your resume if you love dogs and running.

"I work in the pet industry, and one side job I've seen work for people is to advertise themselves as dog runners," explains Matt Holden of Furlocity.com. "Anyone with the time can walk their dog, but for those people with athletic breeds, not all of them are willing to expend the energy on those walks that the dog might need. Enter the dog runner!"

Holden says runners charge $20 a run and take a few dogs at a time. Not a bad way to stay in shape, and make some money while you do it.

9. Work at Your Gym

Are you always in the gym? Turn your time into money by asking what positions are available. They can likely use front desk help, but you may even segue into a career as a personal trainer as a result, if all goes well. Plus, you'll save money on your gym memberships since as an employee of the gym, you'll be granted access for free.

Are there other side jobs for athletic types that you'd like to add? Let me know in the comments below.

Like this article? Pin it!

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:

Can You Really Make a Living in the Gig Economy?

Brittany Lyte — Wed, 15 Jun 2016 09:00:13 +0000

The gig economy is here to stay. That's the prediction, anyway. And while some underemployed workers are rejoicing at the growing opportunity to choose their own hours and boost their post-recession income, some experts are concerned that more and more Americans will wind up working gigs for the whole of their income rather than just the occasional cash infusion. If traditional, salaried jobs take a back seat to one-time gigs, one of the biggest fears among folks studying the sharing economy is that workers will get stuck with lackluster or wholly nonexistent benefit packages and an unstable job outlook. (See also: 6 Smart Ways to Make It Rain Today)

So, how much can the average freelance-gigger really earn piecing together an income from a string of odd jobs? Is it plausible to jump headfirst into the sharing economy and expect to earn a good living? We did the math for you.

Ridesharing

The claim: Uber says its drivers earn $6 more per hour than traditional cabbies. This statement, however, fails to take into consideration the fact that Uber drivers are not reimbursed by the company for insurance, gas, car maintenance, nor the ever-depreciating value of the vehicle itself — a combined cost that the company estimates to be about $15,000 per year in New York City. The data is shaky, but, at least in some cities, Uber drivers still make out better than regular cabbies when these expenses are accounted for. Of course, a lot of it has to do with peak hours and regional gas costs. So take these estimates for what they are — estimates.

Perhaps, just as important as the financials is Uber employee satisfaction, which just so happens to rank notably high. A 2014 survey of 601 Uber drivers found that 78% of participants are very satisfied or somewhat satisfied with Uber, and 71% said their income had increased since they started working for the company. That bodes well for ridesharing's future.

And while Uber isn't the only ridesharing company out there, its workers tend to earn more than those at competing brands, such as Lyft. According to an analysis by NerdWallet, Uber drivers earn an average of $16 per ride, while Lyft drivers earn about $11.50. Based on those estimates, the average Uber driver needs to give about 60 rides per week to make an annual income of $50,000, while those working for Lyft need to provide about 84 rides a week.

Conclusion: It's possible to make a solid living in the ridesharing market, but you have to hustle. You also have to have patience and financial flexibility to weather the ebb and flow of peak hours, peak seasons, and fluctuating gasoline prices.

Gigs With TaskRabbit

From picking up groceries to weedwacking, TaskRabbit is the one-stop-shop for finding a set of nearby helping hands. As a Tasker, you can shop for tasks that you are willing and able to perform in your area. For each task that you successfully complete, you collect a predetermined payment, of which TaskRabbit collects a 30% service fee. There are also occasional overhead costs, like when a task requires you to use public transit or drive your own vehicle.

Jamie Viggiano, Taskrabbit's VP of marketing, reports that roughly 10%-15% of the site's Taskers regularly earn $6,000 to $7,000 a month, after the commission is deducted. Exhibit A: Brian Schrier of San Francisco told Time Magazine that he averages about $2,000 per week performing tasks ranging from carpentry to folding shirts. And David Cordova, 31, of New York City, said he earns up to $4,000 per month working six-hour days (two to three gigs per day) Monday through Friday, and sometimes Saturday, too.

Conclusion: It's important to note that Brian and David are examples of exceptional Taskers — only a small minority of Taskers are making a living using TaskRabbit. But, if you commit yourself, it's possible.

Tour Guiding With Vayable

Vayable, the app that pairs tourists with local guides in major cities, offers users an authentic travel experience in exchange for a fee, which amounts to whatever the local guide decides is fair. (The company takes a 15% cut.) This marketplace for personalized and unique travel experiences is transforming the travel market. But can it transform your wallet?

Right now, the going rate — which, of course, you set yourself — for an eight-hour tour of West Maui is $500, while a three-hour after-dark tour of Moscow is $107. In New York City, one of the most popular offerings is a customized running tour of New York, priced at $50 per hour. Sebastien, the athlete who offers the New York running tour, has 34 reviews, which means he's earned at least $1,445 using Vayable.

Conclusion: Depending on how tourist-friendly your locale is, you can earn a nice hunk of extra change offering guided tours and experiences through Vayable. But until the network grows, it's nothing to quit your day job over.

Are you making a stable living in the gig economy? Share your tips!

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

17 Part-Time Jobs to Do While Your Kids Are at School

Camilla Cheung — Mon, 02 May 2016 09:00:05 +0000

Balancing parenting and work can be a challenge, especially if you have young children. With school days ending in the early afternoon, many working parents have to get additional after-school care if they want to work a full-time job. Like many parents out there, I would love to have the flexibility to work during school hours, and be able to be home when my kids are done with the school day.

While they may be harder to find, there are jobs out there that are either part-time, or work within the school schedule, giving you time with your kids and the ability to contribute to the family income. (See also: 6 Best Jobs for Working Moms and Dads)

1. School Jobs

It's obvious, but one of the best ways to work during school hours is to work at a school. You could get credentialed as a classroom teacher, but there are also many other support positions available at schools. These include: teacher's aides, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, administrative assistants, counselors, nurses, speech therapists and other instructional specialists, as well as substitute teachers.

Some of these positions require specialized education; others do not. In California, for instance, the requirements for being a substitute teacher are having a bachelor's degree and passing a reading/math/writing test. One huge benefit of working at a school is that you can be on break during the summer just as your kids are, reducing the need for additional childcare.

2. Freelance Writer/Editor/Proofreader

Freelance jobs give you the flexibility to set your own hours and work as much or as little as you'd like. However, they usually don't offer benefits, and may not always provide a steady income. They may also require a significant amount of unpaid legwork looking for gigs and drumming up business.

Freelance writing, editing, or proofreading jobs are perfect for working from home, and all you need is an Internet connection and a word processor. If you are gifted with words, blogging or copywriting might be a good fit. A few online courses could also prepare you for a part-time job as an editor or proofreader. (See also: 22 Websites That Will Pay You to Write for Them)

3. Freelance Artist or Designer

I know of several people who are working flexible jobs in creative fields. One is a freelance graphic artist who designs wedding and party invitations, as well as websites. Another does beautiful calligraphy and watercolor art for weddings and events, and has collaborated with various companies to put her designs on phone cases and other products. If you love being creative, consider turning your hobby into a career as a freelance artist.

4. Sell Stuff Online

It has become increasingly easy to sell things via e-commerce platforms like eBay, Etsy, Amazon Marketplace, and even social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Do you love thrifting? Consider selling some of your vintage finds or name brand clothing. Are you crafty or artistic? You could open a small business selling jewelry, handicrafts, cards, baby accessories, and more. I know one stay-at-home-mom who started a business selling a monthly beauty subscription box. If you want to sell on a larger scale, you could also try starting your own e-commerce store.

5. Fitness Instructor

Yoga and Pilates instructors, personal trainers, and other fitness instructors often have a great deal of flexibility to set their own hours, whether they work at a studio or on their own. If you're already a fitness buff, consider turning something you enjoy into a money-making venture.

6. Teacher

If you enjoy teaching, there are many part-time opportunities to share your knowledge without being tied to a 9-to-5 workday. Many learning centers, language schools, private schools, community colleges, and music schools may hire teachers or tutors for just a few hours a day. True, some of these hours may be in the evening, but it may be easier to arrange for a partner, grandparent, or babysitter to watch the kids in the evening after traditional work hours.

7. Online Tutor

Tutoring or teaching online is now a great option for people looking to work from home. With your computer, a headset, and a high-speed Internet connection, you can teach people from all over the country (or the world) from the comfort of your couch.

8. Offer In-Home Daycare

If your children can get transportation to and from their schools, allowing you to stay at home, you might be able to operate an in-home daycare. This can be a great way to care for your own children while making some extra money. Be aware of the licensing requirements in your state, though. If you're caring for children from more than one family, you probably need to be licensed.

9. Test Scorer

Standardized testing is a big part of the education system these days, and all those tests need people to score them. For instance, Pearson Assessments hires college-educated people to score tests and essays from home, on a flexible schedule.

10. Freelance Bookkeeper or Tax Preparer

Help a small business owner by keeping track of their accounts and helping them with quarterly taxes. This kind of work is often very flexible and, aside from meetings with your clients, can be done anytime during the day. While an accounting background can be helpful, it's not necessary as long as you have a good head for numbers and can learn to use some of the many accounting software tools available.

11. Freelance Photographer

If you're gifted with a camera, doing family portraits, product photography, and even wedding and event photography can be a good part-time job. While you often have to work weekends for events, you can do the rest of the work — such as editing and retouching — on a flexible schedule.

Don't forget, there's also money in stock photography. Submit stock photos to sites like Shutterstock and iStockPhoto, and you'll be paid every time someone purchases your image. My husband submitted a few dozen photos and graphics several years ago, and we still earn passive income every month even though he no longer has the time to submit new photography.

12. Social Media Manager

The explosion of social media has opened up a whole new field of employment. Because you can manage social media accounts remotely, these jobs are often quite flexible. Many businesses hire social media managers to generate content and post to their Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts, as well as interact with their audience online. If you are naturally good at social media and find it easy to gain followers, this might be just the job for you.

13. Party Planner

If you're known in your social circle as the parent who always throws the perfect party, you might be able to put those skills to use as a party planner. Yes, parties often take place on weekends, but you can do a lot of the prep work while your kids are at school.

14. Translator

If you are fluent in more than one language, doing online translation can pay quite well, depending on the company and content. The best thing is, doing online translation work is often very flexible, as long as you can meet your deadlines.

15. Online Customer Service Agent

Many companies now source their customer service agents from people working from home. Depending on the company, you might answer using your Internet connection and computer, or via your cellphone. Often these programs are flexible and you can work whenever you want. Check out sites like Working Solutions as a place to start.

16. Administrative Assistant

Often, offices require extra help for clerical work on a part-time basis. You may be able to find administrative work on a part-time basis for a few hours a day. Think outside traditional offices and broaden your options with churches and other religious organizations, small businesses, and self-employed entrepreneurs who might need a personal/administrative assistant.

17. Driver and Delivery Services

Companies like Uber, Lyft, Doordash, Postmates, Amazon Flex, and more have made it easy for people to hire drivers and couriers through an easy-to-navigate app. You'll need a car and a smartphone, but you can set your hours whenever it's convenient for you — though you'll make more at certain times than at others.

What other jobs can be done during school hours? Let us know in the comments!

Like this article? Pin it!

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:

12 Great Side Jobs for Outdoorsy Types

Brittany Lyte — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 09:30:22 +0000

If working a 9-to-5 job in an office cubicle is slowly driving you crazy, remember that you've got options. There are lots of ways to supplement your income from a "regular" job with a side gig that lets — nay, requires! — you to roam free in nature. Computer eye strain be gone! Here are 12 side jobs for lovers of the great outdoors. (See also: 11 Cool Jobs for Outdoorsy Types)

1. Waterkeeper

Imagine a job where you get paid to paddle a beautiful natural waterway. Waterkeepers, or riverkeepers, do precisely that, scouting for polluters and testing for water quality along the way. They are the protectors of our rivers and lakes, working to keep these natural resources pristine. Ask riverkeeper Hartwell Carson his favorite part of patrolling North Carolina's French Broad River Trail, and he'll tell you this: "Getting in my canoe around sunset and paddling upstream, trying to be all stealth."

2. Wilderness Instructor

In some schools, nature is a subject of study no less important than reading or math. Taught by experts in food foraging and shelter building, these classes school children on the interconnectivity between humans and nature, something often overlooked in this age of smartphones and tablets. In addition to schools, church groups, Girl Scout troops, and neighborhood associations sometimes employ wilderness instructors for workshops.

3. Trail Blazer

At $10 an hour, you can build a hiking trail deep into the Tennessee wilderness, erecting signage and mending weather-worn safety features as you go. No loafers. No desk. Just a backpack full of tools and a wide-brimmed hat.

4. Photographer

Early morning light and the evening golden hour make for beautiful photographs. For these reasons and more, many photographers are averse to studio portraiture. Hey — who wouldn't prefer to take pictures while immersed in the natural elements? Whether you decide to start up your own family portrait business or take on a gig as a stringer at your local newspaper, photography can be a great way to boost your income while fueling your love of nature. Music festivals, historical sites, real estate companies, and local tourism boards all need stellar photography, too.

5. Deckhand

Nothing says summertime like a cruise along the harbor. And if you score a part-time, $10-an-hour deckhand gig, you can enjoy the experience time and time again while getting paid for it. All tour boats and most fishing boats need deckhands — and many of these gigs don't require previous experience, making them accessible to newbies aching to get out on the water. Working as a deckhand is also a great way to grow your knowledge about boats.

6. Arborist

Get those tree legs ready! Climbing, pruning, planting, and preserving are all in the arborist's job description. If you have any interest in saving trees, this is the gig for you.

7. Ski School Instructor

If getting paid to play on a powder-covered mountain sounds like good fun, consider becoming a ski school instructor. Among the perks: Free ski passes, and the satisfaction of teaching newbies how to make their first turns.

8. Surf Instructor

If you live to catch waves, why not make a little extra cash teaching others to do the same? Many surf instructors are regular folks with regular weekday jobs — but on the weekends, they like to go out and play in the water while making an extra chunk of change.

9. River Rafting Guide

"The typical guide is someone who enjoys being outdoors, and likes the water and nature and sunshine in general." That's how River Rider, a whitewater rafting company based in Oregon, describes its employees. Most of them, the website states, are folks with full-time desk jobs somewhere else. They're also lovers of river rafting, and they see a convenience factor in getting paid to do it while bringing other folks along for a wet and wild ride.

10. House Painter

Painting the exterior of a home is a job that requires precision and, of course, a tolerance for spending long hours outdoors. It's also a job that can make you feel good. With every house you paint, you'll know that you've played a role in raising its curb appeal.

11. Wine Tour Guide

If getting paid to drive and entertain a car full of wine tasters around the vineyards of Santa Ynez doesn't sound like fun, we don't know what does. This part-time gig has got it all: Gorgeous landscapes, delicious wine, and the opportunity to meet and educate wine tasters about grapes and this gorgeous sliver of California wine country.

12. Zoo Tour Guide

As a tour guide at your local zoo, you'll trade in coworkers with neckties for lions and lemurs — and you'll have the unique privilege of showing off these beautiful species to wide-eyed visitors. The San Diego Zoo pays between $20 and $22 per hour for friendly, informed part-time guides.

What other side jobs would be perfect for outdoorsy people? Share with us in the comments!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

5 Unexpected Side Benefits of Your Side Hustle

Claire Millard — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 09:00:14 +0000

The quirky cool girl you always see knitting on the train? Her side hustle is selling on Etsy. The tech support guy you sometimes sit with at lunch? He does his own freelance web design. And that chatty stranger who stopped you in the street to take an Instagram photo of your outfit? She's hustling, too, with her commercialised blog.

Everyone is at it. The side hustle in all its forms is a distinctly Millennial concept. With more options than ever, you might be tempted. Here are five unexpected reasons why you should get hustling today.

1. Compound Interest

One of the main draws to starting a side hustle is the option to bring in some extra cash. Which is great if you have a handbag habit or exotic vacation to fund. But where this gets really, ahem, interesting, is interest — compound interest, to be precise.

Money earned and invested while you're young is worth more to you than money earned when you're further down your career path. Simply by saving the income from a single high school summer job, you could use compound interest to beat the average American pension pot. (See also: This Is How Rich You'd Be If You'd Saved the Money You Earned in High School)

But the early years are precisely when we are least inclined to cut our costs to pay off student debt or start investing in a 401K. That's where the side hustle comes in. Prop up your earnings, and use the extra to invest. You won't regret it.

2. Unemployment Insurance

When the robots come to take over your job, do you have a plan B?

Your side hustle might be your perfect insurance against unemployment in a world where organizational change and layoffs are all too familiar. Pick a field where you can develop marketable skills, and even if the worst should happen, you can fall back on them to earn your keep.

Tech-based side hustles are particularly useful in this respect, as you learn the skills that will be really in demand in the next few years. But don't forget the more traditional practical skills people seek out, like hairdressing, beauty services, and skilled trades.

3. Increased Confidence

If you're not sure what your side hustle could be, then pick something that takes you out of your comfort zone. Learning a new skill and pushing your own boundaries will do wonders for your confidence, as well as building a business.

Try building on a skill you're already confident in, but in a way that stretches your boundaries. For example, if you play a musical instrument well, offer lessons to improve your teaching technique, or design an interactive web course to share your knowledge with other learners.

Technology makes it easier than ever to find creative ways to connect with people who might be interested in your knowledge, products, or skills. Treat it as a challenge to increase your own experience level while earning on the side.

4. Creating New Passions

Turning something that's currently a hobby, into an income generator is a sure way to make sure you dedicate more time to it. Rather than feeling a slightly guilty twinge when you "waste time" on your passion, you're investing in your business and yourself.

Even better, you might discover new passions and interests along the way. These can help keep you fresh and interested, and give breadth outside the usual industry silos we get trapped in.

5. Professional Development

Even if you have no expectation that you will change your career course, your side hustle can add value to the day job. Most of us need to practice continued professional development, and the side hustle can be a good way to do that while profiting from your efforts.

For the best results, choose a route that allows you to develop skills to complement the work you do on a daily basis. If you work in an area that values vocational skills, you could become a trainer or assessor for the relevant qualifications. In a large team environment or in a corporate setting, think about training as a coach or mentor, to add value in your day job as well as build your freelance business. If you're a skilled writer or public speaker, deepen your knowledge of a niche area related to your job and write for industry magazines, or pitch to present at conferences. These are all ways to bring in additional income, while also improving your prospects in your main employment.

It's easy to see why more and more of us are seeking out a side hustle to add some variety to our working life. From offering a creative outlet and allowing for further personal and professional development, the benefits go far beyond the immediate cash boost you can get from taking on some extra work.

Do you have a side hustle that changed your life? Let us know in the comments!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

6 Side Jobs for People Who Are Good With Money

Jennifer Holder — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 09:00:10 +0000

Are you good with money, but need more of it? There might be a great side job available for you to use your mad saving skills. Being good with money can go a long way. Just make sure your side hustle doesn't directly reflect your main gig, as this skill can open up plenty of opportunities for other side jobs. There is no reason to burn yourself out by accumulating disposable income. Here are six great side jobs for people who are spectacularly money savvy. (See also: 30 Great Side Jobs)

1. Tax Preparer

Did you know you can create a side job to do people's taxes? It's not as easy as making a Turbotax account and learning deductions, though. Some states require certifications, and getting bonded might be recommended to keep from being sued, but tax preparation can be lucrative. Check out a tax business like H&R Block or Jackson-Hewitt before committing to this side job, but if you have the skills and want to spend some money up front to get started, go for it!

2. Bookkeeper

A bookkeeper is a must have for a small business or startup, and someone who is good with QuickBooks can go a long way. If you are savvy with QuickBooks — or even just tracking expenses in Excel — this is the perfect freelance position to go for. A knack for producing financial statements, and a willingness to take on that responsibility for a business makes you the perfect potential bookkeeper.

3. Writer

If you're good with money, you probably have some advice to give. So why not write for a blog? There's a great one by the name of, ahem, Wise Bread, that offers payment for writing. You can also write for other blogs based on your personal interests and passions, and earn a decent chunk of change doing so.

4. Teacher

Being good with money is a skill, and you should share it. There are great and easy ways to share skills on platforms like Udemy and Pathwright. Also, you should consider teaching in person at a university or community college in your area. If you aren't a certified financial planner, steer clear of certain subjects, but basic budgeting skills are definitely transferable from person-to-person.

5. Cashier

If you're good with money, working the register at a retail or grocery store is a somewhat obvious position to take on. Being able to count money quickly, keeping up with transactions, and closing out at the end of the night is a valuable skill. You also will have to have a customer service heart, but that can come with the love of extra cash.

6. Tutor

Math is one of the hardest subjects for people to grasp. If you have a good hold on the subject because of your money skills, consider tutoring children and adults in algebra or other subjects. As finance classes are a requirement now in many schools, there may be an opportunity to teach that as well.

What side jobs do you do for extra money? Share with us in the comments!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

10 Great Side Jobs for Introverts

Paul Michael — Wed, 17 Feb 2016 10:00:08 +0000

A second source of income is not only a nice financial safety net; it's also a way to broaden your work experience. In fact, many side jobs are often very different to the full-time careers people have. And, speaking as an introvert with a side job, this topic is near and dear to my heart. So if you're a little on the quiet side, and would like to spend some of your spare time earning money, here are 12 great jobs for you. (See also: 6 Reasons Introverts Make the Best Employees)

1. Thrifting for Cash

Thrift and charity stores are home to so many hidden treasures, and if you know what to look for, you can make some great money selling them on eBay, Craigslist, and various Facebook groups. It helps to start with a subject you have some interest and enthusiasm for. So, if you're a fan of vintage clothing, start browsing the aisles at your local thrift stores. For a few bucks, you can pick up sweaters and coats that can go for 10 times what you paid for them, and often a lot more. It's a job you can do in your spare time, and requires little-to-no contact with any of those social situations that can raise your anxiety levels to Defcon 1.

2. Drive for Lyft or Uber

Taxis are quickly being replaced by the very convenient Lyft and Uber services. If you have a car in excellent condition, and don't mind putting extra miles on it, you can make a good bit of extra cash being a driver. Most of the time, you're driving just one or two people around, and with the aid of smartphone GPS services, you never have to worry about getting lost or asking your fare for directions.

I have had drivers who were very chatty and social, and others who clearly liked to just do the driving with as little conversation as possible. As long as you're okay with strangers getting into your car (and both Lyft and Uber have a lot of safety measurements in place) you will do great. Plus, you'll get to see more of your city than you ever thought you would.

3. Writing

Be it blogging, journalism, copywriting, or even writing jokes for comedians, writing is perfectly suited to introverts. You can do it at home, or if you have a laptop, you can write wherever and whenever you want. For instance, if you have a long commute on public transportation, you can fill that time earning extra money. Writing, in its many forms, can be fit into a regular full-time schedule, using evenings and weekends, holidays, and personal days. And it's something that can be done without having any real contact with anyone, if you desire.

4. Medical Transcription

Make no mistake, you cannot just decide to become a medical transcriptionist one day, apply for a job, and get it. Although you don't need a degree, you will need some training in this arena. Vocational schools, community colleges, and even online schools can give you the skills you need. In particular, a strong knowledge of medical terminology must be acquired, but once you have this, you can make a very good side living transcribing written reports (which can be very tough to read), or more often, recorded memos from doctors and nurses. It can be done in the comfort of your own home, and the pay can be close to $20 per hour.

5. Janitorial Work

I actually made some good money doing this to put myself through college. The hours were very flexible, and I rarely had to interact with people on a regular basis. Jobs ranged from cleaning windows and mopping floors, to small DIY jobs, changing light bulbs, and unpacking boxes and crates. Most of the time, I would wear headphones and listen to music while I did my duties. Reach out to local places that have janitorial services — including schools and community centers — and see if they need help.

6. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking

If you're more at home with animals than you are with people (and let's face it, animals rarely give us the social anxiety problems that people do), then a part-time job with animals may be just your thing. Advertise your services as either a pet sitter, or dog walker on a site like Craigslist. How much you charge is completely up to you, but obviously you don't want to charge so much that you never get any work. Also keep in mind that with pet sitting comes additional expenses, like food and supplies. You may want to have the owner provide those, or include the additional costs in your hourly rate.

7. Answering Service

All you need is a phone, a pleasant phone manner, and the willingness to work some unfavorable hours. As an answering service, you will be taking calls and relaying messages to a variety of professionals, including doctors, insurance agents, and hospitals. Obviously, the major drawback is that you will be required to work outside of normal work hours, and that can mean answering the phone at 3:30 a.m., and doing so with alertness and amiability. However, if that's no problem for you, this can be a great way to earn extra income.

8. Tutoring

One-on-one tutoring with someone eager to learn is a great side job for any introvert. You may have some excellent skills in any number of school and college subjects, include math, chemistry, biology, or music, and you should share that knowledge.

Personally, I have taken guitar lessons from a guy who did it evenings and weekends to pay for his own equipment. When I asked where he was next playing a gig, he looked like I had smacked him with a wet kipper. "Oh, I'm way too shy to gig, I just love playing at home." But, he had absolutely no problem with the tutor/student dynamic. If that sounds like you, give tutoring a try. You can travel to other people's homes, or have them come to you.

9. Deliver Pizzas, or Newspapers

These are not just jobs for college kids looking to make a bit of extra cash. Anyone can become a pizza delivery driver, or deliver newspapers. All you need is your own car, and the available time to get it done. Most pizza deliveries happen after the workday ends, and most newspapers are delivered long before the workday begins. So, if you are willing to sacrifice some of that time, you can earn some good income.

10. Data Entry

If you have a computer, and have good typing skills (accuracy and speed are essential) then data entry could be ideal for you. As the world goes digital, there are literally millions of pages of documents that need to be typed up and stored. The money varies, from as little as minimum wage, to around $20 per hour.

However, it can be done from home, with some music in the background and your feet in slippers. And you will never have to talk to anyone, as it can all be done via snail mail and email.

Are you an introvert? What's your ideal side gig? Let us know in the comments!

Like this article? Pin it!

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

13 Ways to Make Money From Valentine's Day

Mikey Rox — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 10:00:05 +0000

While Valentine's Day is traditionally for lovers, it's also for savvy entrepreneurs. Instead of emptying your wallet to buy your special someone something special (aka "expensive"), you can actually turn a profit by setting up a side gig. Take advantage of the Hallmark holiday by raking in cold, hard cash with these 13 ways to earn extra money from Valentine's Day.

1. Create Handmade Valentine's Cards

If you're crafty or have decent graphic design skills, create your own line of heartfelt or funny Valentine's greeting cards. They're relatively easy to make — keeping them clever will probably be the hardest part — and you can sell them on Etsy, Bonanza, and a host of other sites that cater to handmade items. You'll can find colored envelopes at your local office-supply or craft store, and be sure to account for the cost of materials and shipping when pricing so you can make a decent profit.

2. Deliver Stuff

Not all local companies have the resources to offer delivery services, and that's where you come in. Identify some of the businesses that are particularly relevant around Valentine's Day and contact them to see what their delivery needs are. Places like florists, gift shops, and bakeries may be able to use an extra hand.

Bear in mind that this gig will likely be under-the-table because of insurance restrictions, so consider that before deciding if this is right for you. Even better, you may be able to score private gigs from, say, a guy who wants to send his girlfriend flowers last minute so he can save on the high shipping and delivery costs. One man's procrastination is your extra cash.

3. Play Chef for a Couple's Romantic Dinner

Are you a whiz in the kitchen? Offer to cook a multi-course meal for family, friends, co-workers, or even strangers who want to enjoy a relaxing Valentine's Day at home without all the hassle of cooking a romantic dinner. Plan a special menu of the couple's favorite dishes — complete with candles, ambient lighting, and mood-setting music — and set your fee to accommodate for the ingredients, travel, and time spent setting up, cooking, and cleaning after the meal.

4. Write Love Letters for Would-Be Casanovas

Most people aren't very slick when it comes to writing poetry or love letters, but if you're a gifted writer who can make people swoon in just a few sentences, putting sweet nothings on paper might be your money maker. (See also: 11 Life Skills That Are Now Completely Obsolete)

5. Plan Exciting Date Experiences

Everybody has their strengths, but men aren't always the best at planning special, exciting, or romantic dates. There are some creative dudes out there, for sure, but for the most part, the male of the species needs help in this area. If you happen to excel in this department, put together a few itineraries that are too good to pass up, and then do the due diligence so you can get paid by setting up the date to ensure that it goes off without a hitch.

6. Babysit or Pet Sit

All those parents you know — both of human and fur babies — deserve a break, too. And you can cash in big if you have the skills, certifications, and patience to babysit or pet sit while Mom and Dad enjoy a night out on the town.

According to UrbanSitter's 2015 Babysitting and Nanny Rates Survey, you're looking at about $15 per hour for one child and upwards of $20 per hour for three children. Add in a 15%-20% tip plus pizza money and you could take home a legit payday, albeit with a few more gray hairs. For pet sitting, you can expect between $10 and $15 per hour, as estimated by Care.com's pet care rate calculator.

7. Bake Valentine-Themed Goodies

What's Valentine's Day without dessert? That's the best part! Whip up your famous cookies, cakes, and pastries, and shop them around to local eateries (you'll fare better if you establish yourself as a small business with well-packaged goods and a business card; both of which are easy to do), or offer them up to your private network of friends, family, and co-workers.

8. Unload Unwanted Jewelry

If you have a collection of jewelry with which you're willing to part, you may be able to find interested buyers in your area. Instant-list apps like Wallapop, VarageSale, and OfferUp have made it simpler than ever to unload your items by snapping a photo, writing a short description, and naming a price.

9. Promote Your Party-Planning Skills

There may not be a huge market for amateur party planners, but it's worth a shot. If you're known for throwing memorable shindigs, you might be able to drum up some business. Shop the dollar stores for decorations to keep costs down.

10. Busk, or Serenade Couples

Throw a hat or instrument case on the ground in a well-traveled area and belt out love songs all day. If you want to be more proactive about it, take your show on the road and wander up to lovey-dovey couples for a serenading session. That dude would be a dummy if he didn't at least reach in his pocket for a dollar.

11. Photograph Couples' Special Moments

Valentine's Day, with all the sentiment that surrounds it, is prime time for weddings, engagements, and other relationship-specific photo ops. If you're handy with a camera, offer to snap shots of the special moments that the happy couple will cherish forever.

12. Draw or Paint Couples' Portraits

You don't have to be a well-established or recognized artist to sell your work. Some couples may enjoy the prospect of being drawn or painted, not only as a Valentine's Day activity, but also a gift to themselves that they can hang in the home as a reminder of their love.

13. Host a Singles Party for All Your Lonely Friends

Planning on spending Valentine's Day alone? Not anymore. Host a party at home for singles, if you have a large and diverse network of friends. Charge a few bucks admission to cover the cost of food, décor, drinks, and so you can walk away with a reasonable wage.

Do you have other ways to make extra cash on Valentine's Day? I'd love to hear some of your ideas in the comments below.

Like this article? Pin it!

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:

10 Money Moves You Need to Make Before You Take a Side Job

Damian Davila — Wed, 13 Jan 2016 18:00:02 +0000

This year is shaping up to be a great year for the U.S. economy.

Given the positive economic conditions, you may be considering to take a side job to earn some extra cash. While having some extra funds in your bank account sounds amazing, remember that it takes money to make money. Without careful planning, your new venture may actually put you in a worse financial position than you originally were!

Here are the top 10 things you must do before you take a side job.

1. Consult With Your Employer

When you're already employed, you need to consult with your employer about your plans to take a side job. For example, a lawyer may consider to tutor students preparing for the LSAT or the bar exam. However, her current contract may include a clause that prevents her from engaging in such activities for personal profit.

To avoid any potential conflicts of interest or breach of contract with your employer, be transparent and talk to your HR representative and supervisor before starting your side job. By seeing that you choose to be safe over sorry, your employer will have an easier time approving your side job. You might even want to consider talking about a salary bump to prevent you from taking that gig and focus all of your attention in your current job.

2. Plan Ahead for Business Expenses

While your employer may approve of your side job, you shouldn't use their office supplies and equipment to pursue your side job. This means that your company phone, computer or laptop, email, and supply cabinet are off limits for any activities involving your other job. Set aside some funds to cover initial expenses, including purchasing a domain for your company website or printing business cards. And keep every single one of the receipts from your business purchases! (See also: Best Small Business Credit Cards)

3. Open a Business Bank Account

A best practice is to set up a business checking account to keep a clean separation between your personal and business finances. A business account allows you to track incoming and outgoing cash flows and doubles as a bookkeeping tool while you're in startup mode. Minimize fees and maximize interest by looking for an interest-bearing online checking account.

4. Get a Credit Card Reader for Your Smartphone

Cash is king, but roughly eight in 10 individuals carry less than $50 cash in their wallets on a regular basis. Fortunately, 72% of Americans have at least one credit card. No matter in what industry is your side job, it's a good idea to have a mobile payment tool that can process credit card payments from non-cash carrying clients. If you already have a smartphone, you can use a credit card reader from Square (which charges a fee of 2.75% per transaction) or PayPal Here (which charges 2.7% per transaction).

5. Open a PayPal Account

If your side job allows you to complete jobs remotely, consider opening a PayPal account. Many freelancing platforms and domestic and foreign vendors use PayPal as their preferred method of payment. An advantage of PayPal is that under most circumstances, you'll have access to your funds immediately. On the other hand, that convenience costs you $0.30 and 2.9% per transaction.

6. Calculate Additional Income Tax Withholding

Once those extra funds start arriving, they'll be a source of celebration. However, don't let those same monies become a source of frustration around tax season. Use the IRS Withholding Calculator to estimate how much more you should be withholding from the paycheck of your main job to cover your income taxes.

If your income is too hard to predict, remember that you can submit estimated tax payments April 15th, June 15th, and September 15th of the current tax year and January 15th of the next tax year using Form 1040-ES.

7. Collect Forms 1099-MISC

Speaking of taxes, you need to collect a Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Income for each individual or company that pays you at least $600 during a year for services rendered. While the IRS doesn't require you to submit any Forms 1099-MISC with your federal tax return, the IRS would prefer to see those forms to verify income in case of an audit. Given that the IRS charges a 25% inaccuracy penalty on top of applicable taxes and interest to tax offenders, plan ahead by collecting all of your Forms 1099-MISC.

8. Learn to Use IRS Schedule C

Independent contractors, freelancers, and owners of a sole proprietorship use Schedule C from Form 1040 to determine their profit or loss from business activities. If you file your taxes on your own, carefully review the instructions from Schedule C to deduct all applicable business expenses, including use of your vehicle and home for business purposes, and costs of goods sold, if applicable.

9. Hire an Accountant

If you use Schedule C, you're almost three times as likely to get audited as a corporate filer. Even smart people make tax return mistakes. Now that you're juggling a side job on top of your main job, you may not have enough time to do your taxes. Hiring a tax professional allows you to free up time to focus on your new venture and find out the best ways to deduct business expenses.

For example, most tax preparation software only provides one or two ways to deduct your home expenses. Instead, your tax pro would advise to use the square footage of your home space dedicated to business activities to allocate permissible business deductions.

10. Open a Solo 401K

One of the most missed opportunities by independent contractors, freelancers, and small business owners is to maximize their retirement savings through a solo 401K. While you can only contribute up to $18,000 to an employer-sponsored 401K for 2015 and 2016, you can contribute up to $53,000 in a solo 401K for 2015 and 2016. Individuals age 50 and over can make additional catch-up contribution on top of those $53,000. By making contributions as employer and employee, you use a solo 401K to boost your nest egg. Consult your financial planner or accountant (and if you don't have one, here's another reason to find one!) to learn more details about how to set up a solo 401K.

Are you planning to take a side job this year?

Like this article? Pin it!

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: