When my husband and I first got married, money was extremely tight. I’d pick up odd jobs and sell things to make an extra few hundred dollars a month. When it comes to being wise with money, I’ve learned a lot over the years. But there is one tip that has stuck with me: when money is scarce, use your extra resources and time to fill in the gaps. Trust me when I say, that’s WAY better than going into debt.

There are a million ways to make extra money these days, but it can be hard to narrow down the best strategies to pursue when there are SO many options. Below are a few of my favorite ways…yes, I’m going to share my secrets.

1. Couponing Apps

If you’re not using Ibotta, Rakuten, or Fetch, you are missing out on lots of savings! I’ve earned nearly $500 on Ibotta and several hundred on Rakuten and Fetch. I recommend these first because they are *easy* to use and integrate into the shopping you already do.

2. Sell Things You Already Have

Is there a pile of unused clothes in your closet? Some designer bags that you don’t like anymore? Maybe even a rug or TV you don’t have room for anymore? List them on Poshmark, Mercari, or even Facebook Marketplace (I’ve had a lot of success with this one, but beware scammers and be safe)!

3. Get Paid to Use Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

Have you ever posted a status on Facebook…Tweeted on Twitter…Or watched a YouTube video? If you’re nodding, then I’ve got great news. You can now get paid for doing all three of these things… and as much as $280 a day! It’s a pretty cool opportunity and a great way to utilize that free time you spend on your phone. Check out the opportunity here.

4. Become a Website Chat Support Agent

You can earn $25-$35 in your free time by becoming a website chat support agents – no experience is needed, as full training will be provided. As an agent, your duties involve assisting customers with any inquiries they may have through the business’s website, such as questions on discount codes and refund policies. Everything you need to help them is supplied in a document that comes with your role. You can learn more here.

5. Become an Online Writer

If you love writing like I do, you can put your skills to use in a variety of online writing jobs that actually turn out to be pretty lucrative. This involves creating content from your own home with no set duration of the contract, researching the given topics, and creating 500-700 word articles with our training and support. Depending on the scope of the job and qualifications, reimbursement will be 150 bucks daily. That adds up quickly! Discover this job now.

These are 5 of my favorite opportunities to earn money on the side, but I’ve experimented with a lot of things. If you have questions about how you could earn money in a niche area or interest I didn’t mention, shoot me an email and I’ll be happy to help!