We all know that maintaining a reasonable budget is important, but unexpected costs can pop up at any moment. Whether a major appliance broke down, your car isn’t running like it should or you decided to treat yourself to something extravagant — things happen. That’s why it’s highly advisable to keep an emergency fund on hand for just these occasions. Still, if you find yourself in need of extra cash, there are plenty of ways to make money fast.
1. Perform tasks
Several websites allow you to perform tasks virtually. Sites like Fiverr and Task Rabbit are looking for people to assist by writing blog posts, editing and translating different documents. You can also visit Amazon Mechanical Turk to perform simple tasks such as writing product descriptions, transcribing audio and identifying objects in a photo.
[See: A Guide to Launching Your Side Business.]
2. Sell used items
Instead of throwing away valuable items, sell them at a discounted rate. You can list them on eBay or Amazon, or take them to your consignment stores for faster cash. From clothing, electronics and furniture to vintage collectibles, the possibilities of what you can sell are endless.
3. Online surveys
If you have a computer and some free time, taking online surveys is a great way to make quick and easy money. Websites such as iPoll.com only require you to sign up with an e-mail address and a small screening to provide the companies with your demographic information. You can earn from $1 to over $10 for each completed survey.
4. Babysitting or House sitting
Babysitting is the perfect option for those with child care experience. You can babysit from a few hours to an entire weekend to make money quickly. If you have little experience with children, you can try to earn money by watching pets or houses while owners travel. Start by listing your services and skills on websites like Care.com and Trusted Housesitters.
5. Rent it out
Airbnb and HomeAway allow you to rent out your space for your chosen rate. You can either rent out a room, your entire apartment or house, or even your furnished garage to travelers who can’t afford expensive hotels. If you travel frequently for business, this can work as a way to make money with the added bonus of having a “house sitter.”
[See: 10 Oddly Practical Things You Can Rent.]
6. Local focus groups
Many companies are looking for individuals to test out new products before a launch. You can usually find plenty of focus groups locally and sometimes make up to $100 just for taking time to answer a few simple questions. Signing up is easy and can be done online via websites like FocusGroup.com and 2020Panel.
7. Chores and labor
Offering to do everyday housework such as mowing lawns or cleaning rooms can help fill up your pockets. If you have any spare time over the weekend, try posting fliers or knocking on doors to see who needs assistance. There are also sites like Craigslist and Hire a Helper that advertise locally.
8. Online tutoring
Not only is online tutoring a good way to make money on the side, it is super flexible. You have the option to determine your own hours as well as choose from a variety of different subjects to help students of all ages. Online resources such as Tutor.com only require tutors have completed two years in college to be considered.
[See: 6 Ways to Treat Yourself on a Budget.]
9. Tech reviews
Some companies will pay consumers just to write a review of their products or apps. These companies value the opinions of everyday people and are looking for ways to improve. Find products to review using websites like UserTesting.com. The best part about reviewing is that you can do so from your own home.
10. Virtual assistant
As a virtual assistant, you are assigned to do various administrative assignments, such as filtering through e-mails, entering data and making phone calls. Choose from working with one person to working with multiple people. You even get to set your own rate.
By taking advantage of just a few of these options, you can make some extra cash by Monday.
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10 Ways to Earn Money This Weekend originally appeared on usnews.com