You know, we should all have the freedom to live our lives how we want to live them. However, absolutely no one gets to live for free – unless you are born into royalty or marry into it anyway. That is what my mother used to say to me about the importance of paying rent and utility bills. And, nearly everyone runs into a time when they might need to make some fast money.
Ideas for How to Make $500 Fast
I don’t know where you live, but I’m from New York City, and most things are not cheap especially rent. In the United States, the average rent for a studio or one-bedroom apartment is about average rent is $1,000. For a two-bedroom apartment, its about $1,200. The average three-bedroom apartment runs for about $1,500.
Additionally, the current unemployment rate is about 4%. I do everything I can to avoid being included in that number. I am always multitasking online and looking for gig economy jobs. If you want to know how to make $500 fast, here are some opportunities that have worked for me.
Rent Out Spare Rooms
If you have an extra room in your apartment or house, you can list a short-term or long-term vacancy on Airbnb. Domestic and especially international travelers often try to avoid expensive and ever-increasing hotel prices. How much you charge per day, week, or month depends on where you live. If you live in or near a population dense metropolitan city where there is more demand for available vacancies, you’ll be able to charge more for rent.
As you make your Airbnb listing, take pictures of the room and list nearby points of interest. Creating an Airbnb listing by itself is not enough to get you a tenant, so sell your vacancy as much as you can. If you live in San Francisco, Miami, or New York, you might be able to make thousands per month. On average, about 50% of all Airbnb hosts make at least $500 a month.
Deliver Food Part-Time With DoorDash
DoorDash is an online app service that matches local restaurants, diners, delis, and other eating establishments with anyone who wants to deliver food for them. Many restaurants do not have delivery services or can’t deliver to customers outside their delivery range. All you have to do is stay tuned to the DoorDash app and take delivery gig opportunities in your area when they present themselves. You can walk, bike, or drive when working for DoorDash. I work jobs for this service often and recommend it highly.
DoorDash has developed working connections with over 300 restaurants throughout Canada and the United States. So, depending on where you live, you are sure to have opportunities for work. You must be at least 18 years old, have a smart device, and a valid driver’s license if you drive. As a DoorDash delivery person, you get paid by the distance required for delivery. You might make $5 to $25 a gig. If you hustle and take as many jobs as possible, you could earn $25 an hour, depending on demand.
Dogsitting and Walking With Rover
Rover is an online service that matches people who can’t always care for their dogs with dog lovers looking for pet caring gigs. You might walk a dog, take care of one for a weekend, or an extended period. Some Rover clients might even pay you to visit their home and pay their pet a visit. Rover will give you a $20 bonus just for signing up. If you live an area with a high concentration of dog owners, you should have no problem making $500 in a month.
Keep Hustling
There are just too many ways and opportunities to make side money today. If you need $500, there is always an opportunity in the gig economy that may solve your needs.
Read More
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Allen Francis was an academic advisor, librarian, and college adjunct for many years with no money, no financial literacy, and no responsibility when he had money. To him, the phrase “personal finance,” contains the power that anyone has to grow their own wealth. Allen is an advocate of best personal financial practices including focusing on your needs instead of your wants, asking for help when you need it, saving and investing in your own small business.