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Who doesn’t want more money each month? Thankfully, you don’t need to find another job to earn some extra cash.
Instead, there are plenty of items and hidden income sources you’ve never thought of. Some of these hidden income sources can be reused in different ways.
These secret money makers are ones I, or my family and friends, have previously and successfully used. Here are 13 hidden income sources you’re overlooking.
1. Jewelry
Jewelry is something so easy to overlook. You can make some good money selling old jewelry. The jewelry doesn’t need to cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, either.
Honestly, I’ve had the best luck selling old costume jewelry to local theater groups and in bulk on places like Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp. Big, flashy pieces that are trendy.
2. Old Clothes
There are so many ways to make money with old clothes. Firstly, you can always sell your gently used items. The options are endless.
I’ve sold used clothing on Facebook Marketplace, in garage sales, flea markets, and through gently used apps. If you’re creative, you can fix or create new clothes from your old ones. I have a friend who made adorable scrunchies from her old t-shirts.
3. Nicknacks
Look around your home and try to count just how many nicknacks you own. The answer is probably way too many. Nicknacks are so easy to give and get. They are inexpensive, cute, and sweet ways to show someone you thought of them while on a trip or event.
After a while, though, owning 20 or more nicknacks creates clutter. Instead of keeping everything, consider selling them.
4. Your Car
Cars are such obvious income sources, but not in the way you’d think. Sure, you can sign up as a delivery driver and use your car, but there are other ways to earn money.
One of my friends in school got paid to drive her car around with advertisements. She drove around with sticker decals advertising a local law firm for three months. It’s not super glamorous, but it’s easy money.
5. Food
The food in your home can also earn you extra money. This hidden income source is right in your face, yet you probably don’t think anything of it. So, how can you make cash with food items?
If you have a talent for baking or cooking, think about making and selling delicious dishes. I used to sell empanadillas from home. On a good week, I made an additional $200 for pickups.
6. Boxes
Never get rid of boxes. Not only are they a lifesaver when you’re looking to move, but they’re also an unexpected income source. You won’t become a millionaire by owning boxes, but selling them in bulk can earn you some extra money.
I sold fifteen boxes of all sizes with old, gently used packing tape for $25. Is $25 a lot? Not really, but money is money.
7. Crafts
The world of arts and crafts feels endless. There are so many hobbies you can pick up, many of which are lucrative. I have plenty of friends who make money each month on homemade jewelry, paintings, crochet items, embroidery, and more. If you can make something unique, someone will pay for it. A good website to try and sell crafts is Etsy.
8. Phone
Just like cars, phones are a great way to make money. I’m not talking about selling your phone. Instead, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of apps where you can make extra cash.
For instance, I take surveys, which earn me points for rewards. I have also downloaded a walking app that gives me points, which I exchange for gift cards.
9. Laptop
If you have access to a laptop or desktop, you can make money. The bulk of my income is made online. You can tutor, write, teach, or work in customer service.
Online work is lucrative, and it’s pretty flexible. You can keep your full-time main job while taking on a part-time or contract position that uses just your computer.
10. Bedrooms
This is not a source of income available for everyone. But if you’re lucky enough to own a home with extra space, why not rent out your extra bedrooms?
Making a couple hundred a month can be so helpful during tough times. I’ve even seen people convert sheds and garages into studios.
11. Textbooks
Textbooks are incredibly expensive. Even gently used textbooks can cost $50. If you’ve already finished your course, consider selling your textbooks and classroom supplies.
This is perfect if you don’t need to use them anymore. The same goes for calculators. After I graduated from college, I sold my old TI-84 calculator for nearly $100.
12. Musical Instruments
When was the last time you played your old instrument? I used to play the piccolo and flute for four years in high school. I swore up and down I’d keep playing and practicing after graduating.
Guess what? I didn’t. With this realization, I sold both for a good chunk of change. Now, they belong to people who practice and play.
13. Teaching/Tutoring
While I touched upon this hidden income source earlier, it deserves its own section. Teaching/tutoring can be such a money-maker. You don’t need to be a certified teacher to offer your services to students.
I only have an associate’s degree, but I have years of experience writing and tutoring in writing. I have another friend who teaches children in their homes how to play the piano, although she’s stopped pursuing music.
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