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Finding extra money in your budget to pay down debt, contribute to emergency savings account take a vacation can be difficult. But if you think a surprise inheritance from a long-lost wealthy relative is the only way you’ll see extra cash, think again. There are plenty of side jobs that offer decent pay in exchange for just a few hours of time and effort. The key to making a side job really pay off is putting the extra money you make toward a specific purpose, rather than just rolling it into your regular bank account.

Here a few money-making side jobs to consider:      woman walking dogs as a side job to make extra money

Mystery Shopper

Retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses want honest, constructive feedback on their products and services. They hire mystery shoppers to provide it. The most successful mystery shoppers provide thorough, detailed feedback to help businesses improve. Unfortunately, scammers have capitalized on the popularity of mystery shopping, so you have to investigate opportunities to ensure they’re legit. The best way to do that is by starting with the Mystery Shopping Providers Association, which requires businesses to adhere to a mystery shopping code of ethics.

Pet-sitter

Everyone with pets has the same dilemma: who’s going to care for them when they’re out of town? That’s where you come in. If you love animals and don’t mind being away from home for a few nights, offer your services as a pet sitter. Do some research into the going rates for kennels and other pet sitters in your area, and price your services accordingly. (Not into pets? Offer house-sitting services to those who want their place to look lived-in while they’re away).

Focus Group Member

If you want to get paid to give your opinion (and who doesn’t?), focus groups are a great way to make some extra cash. Register with a local market research company, and when they have a client who is looking for opinions from those in your demographic group, you’ll receive a call to come in. Focus groups generally last about 1-3 hours and most pay in cash or check the same day.

Tutor

If you’re a math whiz or a grammar guru (or just a general smarty-pants) use your brain power to make some extra money by tutoring. Register with a local learning center to start tutoring students in your area of expertise.

Artist

Whether it’s making jewelry, knitting, sewing, painting or any other creatively crafty endeavor, you can make it pay by becoming a seller on Etsy. This online marketplace for hand-made and vintage goods can be a great source of extra income. And you’ll get paid for doing something you love.

woman working on balancing budget

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