Quick loans, also known as payday loans or cash advances, are short-term, high-interest loans designed to provide immediate financial relief for borrowers facing urgent expenses. These loans are popular due to their accessibility and speed, often disbursed within a day.

However, the ease of access comes with significant financial risks, including high-interest rates and short repayment periods, which can lead to a cycle of debt. This article delves into the intricacies of quick loans, exploring their benefits, risks, and the regulations surrounding them.

Benefits of Quick Loans

Speed and Convenience: Quick loans are designed to provide immediate financial assistance. The application process is fast, with minimal documentation required, and funds are typically available within 24 hours.

Accessibility: These loans are accessible to a broad range of borrowers, including those with poor credit histories. Lenders often do not require a credit check, making it easier for individuals with low credit scores to obtain funds.

Flexibility: Quick loans can be used for various purposes, including medical emergencies, car repairs, or unexpected bills. This flexibility allows borrowers to address urgent financial needs without restrictions.

Simple Application Process: The application process is user-friendly and can often be completed online. Borrowers only need to provide basic information such as identification, proof of income, and bank account details.

Risks and Drawbacks of Quick Loans

High-Interest Rates: One of the most significant drawbacks of quick loans is their exorbitant interest rates. Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) can exceed 400%, leading to high repayment amounts that can be challenging for borrowers to manage.

Short Repayment Terms: Quick loans typically have short repayment periods, often due on the borrower’s next payday. This can create financial strain, especially if the borrower is already facing economic difficulties.

Cycle of Debt: Due to the high costs and short repayment terms, many borrowers find themselves unable to repay the loan on time. This can lead to a cycle of debt, where borrowers take out new loans to cover the old ones, accumulating more fees and interest over time.

Lack of Regulation: While some jurisdictions have implemented regulations to protect consumers from predatory lending practices, many areas still lack adequate oversight. This can lead to abusive practices and exploitation of vulnerable borrowers.

Banks That Offer Quick Loans: A Detailed Overview

Quick loans, often known for their speedy approval and disbursement process, are not only provided by payday lenders and online platforms but also by several reputable banks.

While traditional banks are generally associated with more stringent lending criteria and longer approval times, many have adapted to offer quicker loan options to meet the urgent financial needs of their customers. This article explores various banks that provide quick loans, detailing their offerings, application processes, and what borrowers can expect.

1. Wells Fargo

Product: Personal Loans

Overview: Wells Fargo offers personal loans with a quick application process and fast funding, often within one to two business days. The loans are available in amounts ranging from $3,000 to $100,000.

Application Process: Applicants can apply online, over the phone, or in person. Basic information such as identification, proof of income, and employment details are required.

Interest Rates and Terms: The interest rates vary based on the borrower’s credit profile but typically range from 5.74% to 19.99%. Repayment terms range from 12 to 84 months.

2. Citibank

Product: Personal Loans

Overview: Citibank offers personal loans that can be funded as quickly as the same day of approval. Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $30,000, providing flexibility for various financial needs.

Application Process: The application can be completed online or in a branch. Required documentation includes personal identification, proof of income, and other financial details.

Interest Rates and Terms: Interest rates range from 7.99% to 23.99%, with loan terms from 12 to 60 months, depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness.

3. U.S. Bank

Product: Simple Loan

Overview: U.S. Bank’s Simple Loan is specifically designed for quick, small loans. Customers can borrow between $100 and $1,000, with funds typically available on the same day.

Application Process: Existing U.S. Bank customers can apply online or through the mobile app. The application requires minimal documentation, primarily proof of identity and account history.

Interest Rates and Terms: The fee structure is straightforward, with a $12 fee for every $100 borrowed. The repayment term is three months, with monthly payments automatically deducted from the borrower’s U.S. Bank account.

4. PNC Bank

Product: Personal Loans

Overview: PNC Bank offers personal loans with quick approval and funding, often within one to two business days. Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $35,000.

Application Process: Applications can be completed online, over the phone, or in person. Necessary documents include identification, proof of income, and employment verification.

Interest Rates and Terms: Interest rates range from 5.99% to 24.74%, with loan terms from 12 to 60 months, based on the borrower’s credit profile.

5. TD Bank

Product: Express Loan

Overview: TD Bank’s Express Loan is designed for quick access to funds, offering loan amounts from $2,000 to $25,000. The application process is quick, and funds are typically available within two days.

Application Process: Borrowers can apply online, in a branch, or over the phone. Required documentation includes personal identification and proof of income.

Interest Rates and Terms: Interest rates range from 6.99% to 18.99%, with repayment terms from 12 to 60 months.

6. Chase Bank

Product: Chase Quick Loans (My Chase Loan)

Overview: Chase Bank offers My Chase Loan, a quick loan option available to eligible Chase credit card holders. Loan amounts depend on the available credit line, and funds are disbursed quickly.

Application Process: The process is simple and can be completed online through the Chase mobile app. No additional documentation is required beyond the credit card account.

Interest Rates and Terms: Interest rates are typically lower than credit card rates and are fixed. Repayment terms vary based on the amount borrowed and the borrower’s credit profile.

7. Bank of America

Product: Balance Assist

Overview: Bank of America’s Balance Assist is designed for small, quick loans ranging from $100 to $500. The funds are generally available on the same day.

Application Process: Existing customers can apply online or through the mobile app with minimal documentation required.

Interest Rates and Terms: The loan fee is a flat $5, with repayment due in three equal monthly installments.

8. Regions Bank

Product: Regions Ready Advance Loan

Overview: Regions Bank offers the Ready Advance Loan, which provides quick access to funds ranging from $50 to $500. Funds are usually available immediately upon approval.

Application Process: The application can be completed online or in a branch. Existing Regions customers with an active checking account can apply with minimal documentation.

Interest Rates and Terms: The loan carries a $10 monthly fee for every $100 borrowed. Repayment is typically due within 30 days, but terms can vary.

Alternatives to Quick Loans

Given the high costs and risks associated with quick loans, it is crucial for consumers to consider alternative options for managing financial emergencies:

• Personal Loans from Credit Unions: Credit unions often offer small personal loans at lower interest rates compared to payday lenders. These loans typically have more manageable repayment terms and are available to members.
• Credit Card Cash Advances: While still expensive, credit card cash advances usually have lower interest rates than quick loans. Borrowers can access cash quickly through their credit cards, although fees and interest will apply.
• Installment Loans: Some lenders offer installment loans with longer repayment periods and lower interest rates. These loans can provide immediate funds while giving borrowers more time to repay.
• Emergency Assistance Programs: Many communities have non-profit organizations and government programs that provide financial assistance to individuals in crisis. These programs can offer grants or low-interest loans to help cover emergency expenses.
• Borrowing from Friends or Family: While not always feasible, borrowing from friends or family can be a less expensive alternative to quick loans. It is essential to approach such arrangements with clear terms to avoid straining relationships.

Conclusion

Quick loans offer a fast and convenient solution for individuals facing urgent financial needs. However, the high-interest rates and short repayment terms pose significant risks, potentially leading to a cycle of debt. Consumers must weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully and explore alternative options before committing to a quick loan.

Understanding the regulations and consumer protections in place can help borrowers make informed decisions and avoid predatory lending practices. By considering all available options and seeking financial advice, individuals can find the most suitable solution for their needs while minimizing the risk of financial hardship.

Crochet is a craft technique that involves using a hooked needle to create fabric by interlocking loops of yarn or thread. It is similar to knitting, but instead of using two needles, crochet uses a single hook.

With crochet, you can create a wide variety of items such as blankets, scarves, hats, and even intricate lacework. It’s a popular hobby enjoyed by many people around the world. The options are endless! We’ve compiled a step-by-step easy-to-follow guide to help you learn to crochet with some helpful tips along the way!

What do I need to begin crocheting?

One of the best things about crocheting is that you don’t need a lot to get started – you can get by with just two things:

• Yarn
• Crochet Hook

However, having access to additional tools can make things easier. Let’s get a little more detailed and then you’ll be able to decide what’s right for you.

Choose your yarn

Choosing the right yarn for your project will ensure that your finished product looks and feels the way you want it to. Yarn comes in different weights, colors, and fibers.

You can find more information on the different yarn weights in our yarn weight comparison post coming soon! Beginners may find it easier to start with medium weight yarn in a light color. This will make it easier to see your stitches and correct any mishaps along the way.

Choose your hook

Crochet hooks come in different sizes and materials such as metal, plastic, bamboo, and wood. The size of the hook you choose will depend on the weight of the yarn you’re using and the desired gauge. If you aren’t sure which size you need, it’s usually a good idea to check the yarn label – it should display the recommended size.

Additional tools

These may not be required for every project, but it’s usually a good idea to have these handy to make the job easier:

• Scissors – a pair of sharp scissors will come in handy for cutting yarn and trimming loose ends
• Yarn needles – these are used for weaving in loose ends and sewing pieces together
• Stitch markers – these are helpful for marking specific stitches or sections in your work
• Measuring tape – a flexible measuring tape is useful for checking gauge and measuring your work
• Other accessories – some crafts enjoy using a yarn bowl or bag to keep their yarn organized, and a stitch counter to help keep track of their stitches

Now that you have your materials – let’s crochet! Here you’ll find a handy step by step guide that you can refer back to at any time! Remember – it will take some time to learn. Mistakes are okay – they are a part of the process.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Crochet

How to Hold Your Crochet Hook

When holding a crochet hook, there are 2 widely used methods. You can hold the hook however feels most comfortable to you!

Method 1 – The Pencil Grip

In the pencil method, place your thumb on the flat part of the hook, near the thumb rest or grip area. Rest the hook against the side of your index finger, with the pointed end facing down. Curl your remaining fingers gently around the hook, just like you would when holding a pencil.

Method 2 – The Knife Grip

In the knife method, place your right hand over the hook and grasp it between your thumb and index finger to begin. The left hand is used to control the yarn and to hold the stitches as they are created.

Remember to find a grip that feels comfortable for you. Ultimately, the goal is to find a grip that allows you to manipulate the hook smoothly and maintain control while working on your crochet project. Practice and experimentation will help you determine the most comfortable and efficient method for you.

How to Hold Yarn When Crocheting

It’s important to learn how to hold your yarn because of tension. Tension is important in crochet because it affects the overall appearance and size of your project. When you crochet with consistent tension, it ensures that your stitches are uniform in size and appearance. This is especially important when working on projects that require precise measurements.

Hold your non-dominant hand out in front of you, face down. Bring the initial strand of yarn under your pinky, ring finger, or middle finger. Then wrap it over your pointer finger. Control the tension by squeezing your fingers together as you work a stitch and pull more yarn into your project. When you squeeze, you’ll add more tension and your stitches will be smaller. Less squeezing results in a lower tension and more loose stitching.

How to Crochet for Beginners

This is an Instructable to teach a beginner how to crochet. All you need is some fat yarn and a size N crochet hook.

Step 1: Make a Slip Knot.

Begin the slip knot by laying the yarn down and looping it. Making sure your short piece, the tail, is on top of the long yarn. Next, flip the whole thing down, onto the longer yarn. Grab the middle yarn between your thumb and forefinger and pull the middle yarn out gently. Hang on to tail and pull the loop tight.

Step 2: Tighten the Loop

Pick up the loop in your left hand and slide the hook into the loop and tighten the loop around the hook. Not too tight, there should be some give. Note: I started out life left-handed and am now ambidextrous. I prefer to teach the way my nana taught me because it’s how all the books are published.

Step 3: How to Hold the Thread

Turn the long side of the thread around your pinkie and twist it around your index finger. Grab the short side, the tail, with your middle and ring fingers. Hold the hook in your right hand. This way of holding the thread and hook will create enough space to move the hook and it keeps tension on the thread.

There are multiple ways to keep your thread and hook, find out what works the best for you.

Step 4: Begin the Chain

Begin with the starting chain stitch by twisting the thread around the hook and pull it through the loop.

Step 5: Finish the Chain

Don’t make the loop too tight and continue to the second loop by pulling the thread trough the second loop. Keep continuing until you have a chain.

Step 6: Begin the First Row

To start the first row of single crochet insert the hook in the second chain from the hook. You now have two loops around your hook.

Step 7: Crocheting the Chained Row

Catch the yarn in your left hand with the hook and pull it through the first loop. This will leave you again with two loops on your hook. Catch the yarn again with your hook and pull it through both loops. Repeat these steps until you get to the end of the chained row.

To crochet more rows, chain one stitch at the end of each of the end of your row and turn your crocheting over to start the next row.

Step 8: Finish

To finish, cut the long side of the yarn and pull it through the loop. Remember, it doesn’t matter what you’re crocheting, it only matters that you’re doing it!!

Now come on! It’s witnessed that the majority of the people do not belong to the elite segment of the population. Therefore, we the people have to cut the cost drastically while planning our trips. Or we have to simultaneously keep trying to grab some exciting offers on various holiday packages.

However, these are some of the standard dents that we usually face. But transatlantic flight ticket fares are the major barrier to budget planning. It usually works as a major dent in the dreams of travellers who desire to travel abroad.

Well, we understand how tiring it can be to find & book cheap flight tickets. So, people who are looking for the best way to book flight tickets in India or abroad at affordable rates, can now master the art of finding one with our best 11 tips to grab the cheapest flight ticket.

By following these tactics then you can save huge without compromising on your requirements. So, if we have your interest, then go through all the tips extensively as these will assist you in achieving this goal.

Tips to book cheap flight tickets

1. Be flexible with your Travel Dates

The majority of you can see various travel-related websites that promise to offer exclusive discounts and deals on specific days. And we further believe in such statements, but in reality, it’s false.

So, to save you from this trap we suggest you to track the flight tickets for the entire month with various flight-checking platforms. It is one of the great tricks to get the cheapest flights to a specific destination.

In this process, just check the one-way fare by not mentioning the departure via which you will be able to see the bookings for the entire month. With this, you’ll get a clear picture of the monthly flight prices and dates which has a cost-effective offer.

2. Remove the Cookies

While using the new incognito mode also make sure to clear all the cookies. We are providing this secret mantra to you because we know that cookies store all the necessary info related to your recent preferences and history.

These crucial details are later used by travel-related companies and airlines. Owing to this, you see higher prices that’s why it’s highly recommended to clear cookies and then search for the lowest prices on flights.

3. Avoid Believing in Myths

Searching for budget-friendly flight tickets requires lots of patience and work. Thus, to achieve this goal, your first and foremost job is to stop believing in the online myths about cheap flight ticket bookings. Well, to make things clearer here are some of the lies that you might have come across several times.

• Booking Flights on Tuesday helps save huge money on fares.
• You don’t possess the power to predict the airlines’ prices on websites.
• There are no dates, wherein you can book your flights.

These are the major myths but in reality, the airlines rely on pricing algorithms that fix fares based on various factors, including demand, weather, events, fuel prices etc.

4. Track Airlines on Social Media Platforms

The significant presence of social media has enabled us to reap some consumer benefits. As a result, travellers who want to visit abroad can now follow famous airlines on diverse social media platforms.

Using this ninja trick will help you in getting insights regarding several promotional deals that airlines offer at the last minute. Also, you can subscribe to some of them to get regular alerts regarding airfare discounts and best flash sales.

5. Rely on New Incognito Mode

It’s another clever way to find cheapest flights because when you search with your login credentials, then eventually you start getting notifications related to that matter. Similar happens in the case of flight bookings.

The repeated search leads to prices skyrocketing, hence, it is advised to rely on the new incognito mode while booking cheap flights. In this way, your previous history will not get stored. Further utilise various electronic gadgets, such as laptops, phones and computers to book flight tickets without accepting cookies.

6. Utilise Flight Search Engines

If you have the patients, then only we can suggest this trick to you for attaining cheap flight tickets. Because in this method you have to go through different search engines to compare distinct flights, prices and drips. Additionally, you might have to take care that you are keeping track of fare inflation notifications. So, always remember to use numerous search engines in combination to avail the best deal on flights.

7. Keep An Eye on Flyer Programs

Everyone wants that their loyalty to come in handy during certain scenarios. And during flight bookings, you can use your loyalty effectively by enrolling in frequent flyer programs. To implement this tip, you can select specific airlines, points and holiday packages from your account.

In return, you receive reward points, which you can redeem after collecting those points. You can also search for credit card tie-ups while searching for flights on airlines as they can help in getting extra points.

8. Consider the Destination

This is one of the awesome tricks to get the cheapest flights, especially when you are curious to tour any destination. To execute this method, you can use your personalised search engine to identify attractions with pocket-friendly prices.

Then as per the data, you can freeze your plans and find the best-of-the-best holiday places as per your cravings. This conniving move will allow you to travel to exotic destinations at cheaper rates so that you can satiate your wanderlust.

9. Look Forward to Beneficial Deals

Those who want to satiate their goal of getting a cheap flight ticket can now try signing up for some flight-oriented newsletters or mailers. Subscribing these can aid you in getting exciting offers and deals that will fit your itinerary. So, in short, never miss the opportunity to target these beneficial deals and discounts as they are available for a limited period.

10. Try Hidden City Fares

If you are ready to engage in risky activity to decrease your fare amount, then we would recommend trying hidden city fares. This option is only for those individuals who are adamant about spending large amounts of money on vacation.

You can only avail this offer when there’s a layover at your favourite attractions. To implement this strategy, one should exit the airport in the layover city instead of reaching or landing on your selected departure route. This strategy is bit tricky so, make sure you take extra measures.

11. Deploy Student Discounts

If your age group lies under 26 years, then taking advantage of student discounts is the best way to get cheaper flight bookings. You can visit your universities or consult with travel agencies for the same.

Through employing these student discounts you can get approximately 10-20% concession on standard flight tickets. Further, you can avail special baggage allowances that will further assist you in saving an enormous amount of money.

You’ve been meaning to save more money. It’s been on your mind for a while. But now — right now — feels like the time to get serious. To save a big chunk of cash before you really need it. When it comes to saving money, small changes can add up quickly. Here are some of the best ways to save money right away.

How To Save Money on Groceries

Food and other essentials can take up a big portion of your budget, but there are many clever ways to save money on groceries.

1. Shop at Discount and Bulk Stores

Discount grocery stores and bulk stores like Aldi or Costco often have lower prices than traditional grocery stores. While these stores may have more limited selections, this can help you save time and money.

2. Meal Prep

Not only does meal prepping save you time during the week, but it also helps you avoid the temptation of eating out or ordering in—both of which eat into your bank account more than you might like. Plus, prepping your own meals makes it easier to meet your nutritional goals.

3. Buy Generic Brands

Generic brands can be quite a bit cheaper than name brands. For example, a can of generic black beans may cost $0.78, while a can of name-brand beans might run you $1.28. That’s $0.50 saved on one item. Do that consistently, and you’ll notice the savings.

4. Shop in the Middle of the Week

Shopping on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday may help you find more discounts on groceries. Stores often run sales midweek and offer coupons or savings on specific weekdays. Try out a few different days and plan your trips according to when you find the best deals.

5. Use a Cashback Credit Card

Using a cash-back credit card is a great way to save money on purchases you would make anyway. Look for a card that offers cashback on your biggest spending categories, such as groceries, gas or dining. Pay off your entire balance each month to avoid interest charges.

How To Save Money on Your Electric Bill

Energy rates continue to rise every year, with many households paying hundreds each month to keep the lights on. If you’re feeling the drain, here are a few ways to lower your electricity bill.

6. Unplug Those Vampires

Ever heard of energy vampires? Your electronics keep drawing power even when they’re not in use. Unplug your device chargers, game consoles and TVs when you’re not using them—it’s a small effort that can make a big difference in the long run.

7. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

LED bulbs use around 70% less energy than traditional bulbs, and they can last up to 25 times as long too. This means you save money on your electric bill and on replacement bulbs by switching to LED. Dimmer switches also work well with LED bulbs to stretch your energy.

8. Do Your Chores During Off-Peak Hours

Use your appliances during off-peak hours to cut your monthly bill. Power companies often charge lower rates during times of day when demand is lower, such as before 3 p.m. and after 7 p.m. Try doing your laundry at night or running the dishwasher in the morning to start.

9. Tweak Your Thermostat Settings

The Department of Energy estimates that you can reduce electricity costs by up to 10% annually by adjusting your thermostat seven to 10 degrees from its normal setting for eight hours each day. With a programmable thermostat, you can easily schedule temperature changes to use a little less energy when you don’t need it.

10. Leak-Proof Your Home

Air leaks can cause your heating and cooling system to work harder and use more energy. Check your doors, windows and vents for leaks to make sure you’re not paying for more electricity than you need. Sealing these with caulk is an easy, low-budget solution.

How To Save Money for a House

Saving money for a house takes time and discipline no matter how you slice it, but there are ways to make the process a little easier on yourself.

11. Open a High-Yield Savings Account

To give your savings a boost, open a high-yield savings account earning a competitive interest rate. Then, automate your saving by scheduling automatic transfers or sending a percentage of your paycheck straight to this account.

12. Temporarily Cut Down on Rent

If you’re renting, consider moving to a smaller apartment or sharing a living space with a friend or family member to reduce your rent and free up more money for a while. You may also be able to negotiate with your landlord to lower your rent.

13. Save on Transportation

Transportation costs can add up quickly. Consider carpooling, taking public transportation or biking to work to spend less on gas and ride-sharing services.

14. Round Up Your Spending

Saving in the background, or without thinking about it, is a smart solution for anyone who has trouble remembering to save. Many money-saving apps offer round-up transfer options to automatically send a portion of every checking account transaction to your savings account.

15. Cancel Subscriptions

Cancel any services you have but don’t need including streaming, gym memberships and food delivery services. Take that extra money and move it to your savings account each month. Try an app like Rocket Money to organize your subscriptions and see which ones you might be able to cut.

How To Save Money for a Wedding

Who said you can’t have your dream wedding without breaking the bank? Here are some fun and creative ways to save money for a wedding.

16. Pick an Off-Peak Date

You’d be surprised by how much you can save just by choosing a date that’s not in high demand. Get married on a weekday or pick a weekend in an off-season month to take advantage of lower average costs.

17. DIY Decorations

You can save a lot of money by making your own decorations. Get creative and make your own centerpieces, flower arrangements and wedding favors. You can also borrow decorations from friends and family or rent them from your local party rental companies.

18. Choose a Non-Traditional Venue

Dedicated wedding venues grow costlier every year. Go the non-traditional route and have a breathtaking ceremony at a park, the beach or in your backyard. You’ll often save money at non-traditional venues, and many places allow weddings even if they don’t specialize in them.

19. Limit the Guest List

One of the most straightforward ways to save money on a wedding is to trim your guest list. You often pay for drinks and food at a per-person rate, and larger venues charge higher prices. Consider limiting your guest list to your closest friends and family members. Or, invite everyone to the ceremony and a select number of guests to the reception.

20. Buy a Pre-Owned Dress

Wedding dresses tend to be very expensive, but you can save money by buying a pre-owned dress. Companies like Pre Owned Wedding Dresses and Stillwhite make it easy to shop secondhand from a variety of styles and designers.

What Is the Best Way To Save Money?

The best way to save money is whatever way will work for you. The easier it is for you to commit to saving, the more regularly you’ll do it and the faster you will be able to reach your goals.

The first step to saving is to make it a habit. Here are some tips for getting into a habit of saving.

• Set goals. Set savings goals that motivate you, like saving up for a house or going on a dream vacation, and give yourself timelines for reaching them.
• Budget. Make a budget and make saving a necessary expense. Try out different budgeting methods until you find one you can stick to.
• Cut down on spending. Use budgeting apps to find out where you’re money is going and look for places where you can cut back.
• Automate your saving. Automate your saving by setting up a direct deposit from your paycheck into a high-yield savings account or money market account.
• Pay off debt. Work on paying off your debt, starting with high-interest debt, to free up more money for savings and improve your financial situation.
• Earn more. Look for ways to increase your income or consider a side hustle to bring more money in.

The sting of inflation may have you pondering how to make some extra income. If you have the time and energy, you can put your skills and passions to work with a side hustle.

NerdWallet rounded up 14 real ways to make money at home, online or out and about. For each potential side job, we list details like what it takes to get started, age requirements and how fast you can get paid. While most people want to make money fast, don’t discount the “slow” gigs, as they may pay more in the long run.

How to make money online

Making money online is the sweet spot people look for in the gig economy. Whether you aspire to be a six-figure social media influencer, or are just looking to supplement your regular income with some online side jobs, we’ve found some viable options.

1. Pick up freelance work online

Make money online through websites such as Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com. These sites offer opportunities to do a variety of freelance jobs, such as writing, programming, design, marketing, data entry and being a virtual assistant. Fluent in a second language? Check sites such as Gengo or Blend Express, or drum up business through a site of your own. No matter what freelancing you do, keep track of the going rate for the kind of work you provide so you know what to charge.

A recent report from Freelancer.com found that creative writing jobs had the fastest growth in listings on its site in the second quarter of 2023, up 58%. And although generative artificial intelligence (AI) is being used more for content creation, it can’t fully do the work of human writers. Companies are looking for writers who know how to edit AI content and who have at least a basic understanding of search engine optimization — learning or beefing up SEO skills could be a lucrative side hustle. Some freelancers are charging $100 an hour or more for their freelance writing services.

Total time: It can take a while to get your first gig.
Setup: 24-48 hours.
How easy to start: Easy, if you have the expertise.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by site.

2. Test websites and apps

Another way to make money from home is on sites like UserTesting.com. You get paid for your thoughts on how well — or not so well — certain websites and apps work. You’ll have to complete a short test to be accepted, then you’ll be paid depending on the test type.

Total time: Approval time can vary.
Setup: Less than an hour.
How easy to start: Easy, if you have the tech gear and complete a sample test.
Age threshold: 18+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Seven days.

3. Learn to use AI tools

The use of generative artificial intelligence is on the rise. A recent report from PwC estimates that the North American economy will see a $3.7 trillion impact by 2030, thanks to the AI market.

So there’s no better time to learn how to make money by using AI tools. Some AI-related side hustles include:

• Integrating AI tools as a freelancer, to help you create digital products or to edit AI content for a client.
• Improving your advertising, marketing efforts and management of your existing small business.
• Teaching others to use AI tools.

Total time: Depends on demand.
Setup: Around 24-48 hours if using a site like Upwork or Freelancer.com.
How easy to start: If you’re already familiar with AI tools, it will be easier to get started.
Age threshold: 16+ for Freelancer.com and 18 for Upwork.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by client or the number of products you sell and your chosen platform.

4. Take surveys for money

You can make money from home by taking online surveys, but don’t expect to earn a lot. Survey sites don’t typically offer a big payoff, and many sites are more useful for earning gift cards than cash. Some of the more popular survey sites include Swagbucks and Survey Junkie.

Total time: It will take a while.
Setup: Just minutes.
How easy to start: Very. Just register and begin.
Age threshold: 13 to 18+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by site.

5. Make money from your blog with affiliate links

If you’re a blogger who gets decent traffic, you could make money by joining an affiliate network. Affiliates (that’s you) get paid when someone clicks through from the website to the partner site and buys something there. Some bloggers make a lot of money this way, particularly those who do affiliate marketing full-time.

Total time: It can take quite a while to build an audience.
Setup: With blog templates, building a site is easy.
How easy to start: While getting started can be easy, creating regular content may be another matter.
Age threshold: Any.
How fast you’ll get paid: A month or two, on average.

How to make money from home

Some side hustles don’t even require you to leave the house. Or if they do, it might just be a short walk around the block with a furry friend. Working from home requires a little creativity and a stick-to-it spirit. Here are some excellent ideas for side gigs from home:

6. Become a dog walker with Rover or Wag

Love dogs? Choose dog walking as a beginner’s way to make money. Apps like Wag and Rover offer on-demand dog walking, so you can pick up walks when your schedule allows. If you have space (and your landlord’s permission, if you rent), you could offer overnight dog boarding. Read the fine print if you sign up for these services

Total time: Building a client base may take some time.
Setup: Can take a few weeks to be approved.
How easy to start: Love pets? You’re good to go.
Age threshold: 18+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Two days to a week.

7. Sell unused gift cards

Make extra money by selling unused or partially used gift cards on a site like CardCash or GiftCash. These websites say they will pay you up to 92% of the card’s value. On CardCash, you can also trade in your card for one you’ll use.

Total time: In minutes if your gift card is for a popular store.
Setup: Easy.
How easy to start: The more gift cards you have to sell, the better.
Age threshold: Old enough to have a credit card.
How fast you’ll get paid: At least 1-2 days.

8. List your spare bedroom on Airbnb

Renting out your home or spare bedroom on vacation rental sites is another way to make extra money. Be prepared to spend some money to clean and keep up the property, replace home goods and pay toward service fees. And scrutinize your rental agreement before you get started.

Total time: Demand drives success, and that depends on your location.
Setup: A listing can be created and live in hours.
How easy to start: If you have a place to rent, it’s a simple process.
Age threshold: 18+.
How fast you’ll get paid: About one day.

How to make money offline

There’s online and at-home ways to make extra money — and then there’s a third alternative: offline. This version of the gig economy may require more work, but the upside can be substantial. Since there’s no escaping the internet these days, some of these offline methods do have online components:

9. Sell your gently used clothes

Selling clothes you no longer wear is a quick way to make some money. Start with local consignment shops to make money quicker or use sites like ThredUp and Poshmark to find buyers. If you go the online route, be sure to take clear, well-lit photos of your pieces and research similar items to set competitive prices.

Total time: Varies by sales channel.
Setup: Easy and fast. You can simply go to a consignment shop or fill a box with clothes and send it in.
How easy to start: Easy. Cleaning out the closet may be the hardest part.
Age threshold: Any.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by sales channel.

10. Trade in old phones, electronics for cash

Have an old phone, iPad, laptop or gaming system lying around? Sell it on a site like Swappa or Gazelle. Check out Amazon’s trade-in program, which pays participants in Amazon gift cards — and eBay, too. If you’re in a rush, try an ecoATM kiosk, which offers cash on the spot for your device.

Total time: Lots of options, so your time spent will vary.
Setup: A breeze.
How easy to start: Easy, especially if your phone is in good shape.
Age threshold: Any.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by where you sell.

11. Get a babysitting gig

Everyone from college students to recent retirees can make money by watching other people’s children. Word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family are still a great way to get started, but you can also create a profile for free on Care.com or Sittercity to expand your reach. Note any specialized skills, such as CPR certifications, to make yourself more marketable.

Total time: Online setup takes minutes; neighborhood referrals may take a while.
Setup: Just minutes.
How easy to start: Getting the word out is the main thing.
Age threshold: Very young if you’re using referrals. 18+ online.
How fast you’ll get paid: When the parents come home.

12. Rent out your car

City-dwellers often don’t use their cars for days or weeks at a time. That idle time can translate to extra money with services like Getaround and Turo, which let you rent out your car by the hour or day. You take home the majority of those earnings, while Getaround or Turo takes a cut for protecting your car while it’s being rented.

Total time: Demand for your car will depend on the local market.
Setup: It takes about a half hour to set up an account.
How easy to start: With an appropriate vehicle, it’s easy.
Age threshold: A valid driver’s license and 21+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by site.

13. Drive for Uber, Lyft

Join Uber or Lyft (or both) and make money by driving passengers around. Just don’t forget to factor in gas and maintenance costs. You need an eligible car in good condition and must agree to a background check and a review of your driving history.

Total time: Depends on your market demand.
Setup: A few weeks.
How easy to start: Not difficult, but you’ll need the right type of vehicle.
Age threshold: Licensed to drive in your locality with one year of licensed driving experience (or three years if you’re under age 25).
How fast you’ll get paid: Very fast. Either instantly or within days.

14. Make deliveries for Amazon, Uber Eats

Take advantage of the growing delivery trend and sign up for a service like Instacart, Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash or Amazon Flex. You get paid per delivery, in most cases, and can even earn tips. A car isn’t always required — Postmates and, in some cities, DoorDash, lets you use a bike or scooter to make deliveries. However, a background check is almost always part of the deal.

Total time: Depends on your market demand.
Setup: About a week.
How easy to start: Easy, if you have dependable transportation.
Age threshold: 21+.
How fast you’ll get paid: Varies by vendor.

15. Fiverr

This website is a bit different than the others on the list. It is a well-known freelancing site where you are your own master. People from different parts of the globe offer their services in any area they are good at.

Look at the screenshot below, you can see people are actually selling these kinds of services over there. If you look closely you can see they have reviews as well, which means people are actually buying their services.

If you too want to try out, go ahead and create your own ‘gig’ with the services you wish to offer. People who are interested in your service will directly contact you and pay you for the same.