Joe's Money

For the longest time, I had been using a Bank of America rewards based credit card.  There were many redemtion options on this guy.  Generally, you could redeem for giftcards for fewer points than redeeming cash.  While you would earn 1 point for every dollar spent, rewards were quite expensive.

Recently, I switched to the no hassle card from Capital One.  They offer 2% cash back on gas and groceries, and a straight 1% on everything else.

So far, its been better than expected.  We do our grocery shopping at Walmart.  (Bring on the hate Walmart crowd, hey they got the low low prices)  While Walmart obviously sells more than groceries, and the card is only supposed to give 2% cash back on groceries and 1% on everything else, there must not be a way to differenciate the different items.  The result?  2% cash back on everything at Walmart.  A nice little surprise!

The card also has online offers to earn points faster.  Lots of places you arlready shop offer bonuses both online and in store.  Not a bad gig.

Overall, I’ve earned a few $100 cash back checks.  You can also redeem the points for a simple statement credit.  I like to take the check and toss it in my Roth or other savings account.

Overall, the card is a good deal if you pay the balance off monthly.  Nothing like free money!

1.  Sell Things You Don’t Use

This is an easy one.  With tools like eBay and Craigslist, the possibilities are endless.  Take a look around your house and find some things you don’t need or use anymore.  Even if you are not sure it will sell, you have nothing to lose.  Craigslist ads are free and reach loads of potential buyers.  If you need an even larger scale, try eBay.  Both are very easy to learn.

2.  Computer Repair Services

Are you good with computers?  Well guess what, most others are not.  Throw an ad in the local paper or again, on Craigslist.  Most of the big box stores charge big bucks for the same services.  If you know how to fix em up, give it a shot.  There are even easy ways to create your own website to support your business.  You can list your qualifications and pricing info.  Be sure to offer in home service.  Most people do not like the idea of a stranger picking up their computers and being on the honor system to bringing it back.

3.  Help With Moving

Can you spare some muscle?  People are often looking for a extra set of hands or two to help out with the ever so fun task of moving.  Movers can expect to make $15 an hour or more.

4.  Lawn Care

Lawn care is yet another task that many of us don’t exactly look forward to.  Put your mower to work!  Start small with some residential customers and build your way up.  Once you save up some money you could purchase a larger, commercial grade mower and hit the commercial seen for some big bucks!

5.  Resell a Product

Many products can be found online at wholesale prices, especially if you buy in larger quantities.  Take a look around, there are tons of options.  Some wholesalers will even drop ship good for you.  This simply means you make the sale and they will ship the item directly to the customer for you.  That way you don’t have to actually order the product, store it at your home, and ultimately ship it to your buyer.

6.  Sell Crafts or Keepsake Items

Are you good with crafts or other keepsake items?  You can easily turn this hobby into cold hard cash.  Some crafty folks have been seeing selling anything from your regular craft items to custom wedding invitations.

7.  Write an eBook

Are you an expert on a subject not as well known by others?  Write an eBook.  An eBook is simply a digital book.  You can sell these on eBay or countless other websites.  I have personally seen many for sale including topics like workout routines, gambling tips, gardening, and many other how to topics.  The best part of this is, once the eBook is created, it is all profit and you don’t have to ship anything!  Delivery is usually via email.

8.  Cleaning Services

Are you neat and tidy?  Between bringing the kids to baseball practice and too many other errands to count, sometimes we all can’t keep up.  Take advantage of other people’s busy schedules (or in some cases, laziness) and offer you tidy hands up for hire.

9.  Get a Paper Route

Shockingly, some paper routes for the major newspapers can actually pay quite well.  The local paper here advertises up for $400 per month for simple delivery.  Check around and see if there is anything available in your area.

10.  Rent Out a Room

The big question…  Is an extra $500 per month worth having someone else in your space?  Depending on what you can tolerate, this could be a very easy way to generate some extra income.  Also, depending on your home design, you may already be setup for success.  You might not even notice anyone coming in or out if you have a separate entry.  Be sure to check local laws, etc before offering a room up for rent.