Introduction
So, you’re down bad. You’re in desperate need of some cash. What do you do? You go to YouTube and search, “How do I make money online?” Of course, you get bombarded by terrible advice like doing surveys (where you make a dollar an hour), super sketchy websites that give you viruses, and $1,997 courses on Shopify or Amazon FBA promising you’ll make $10,000 a month within 30 days.
Younger Shane was in this exact position. I had a terrible experience figuring out how to make money online. I tried a bunch of stuff that was terrible and found a few things that actually worked. In this blog post, I’ll talk about those few things that actually work.
On top of that, I scraped data from various self-reporting websites where people discuss the apps that work and those where you can make money within a day. This post will cover 10 websites or online jobs where you can get paid within 24 hours, ranking them on a scale of 1 to 10 based on ease of entry, skill-building opportunities, and payout reliability.
The Vision for a Comprehensive Database
I’m considering creating a free database listing different side hustle apps, detailing factors like:
- Potential earnings
- Hourly rates
- How frequently you can make money
If you’d like to see this, let me know! It’d take about 300 hours of work, but I’d make it available for free.
1. Gigwalk
This platform offers micro gigs like visiting a store to take photos of a storefront or a product. It’s ideal for people in areas with many stores. Tasks can pay around $25 for 15–30 minutes of work, but it’s not a reliable source of full-time income. Money score: 5/10.
2. Ibotta
Ibotta provides cashback on purchases you would make anyway. While it’s a passive way to save money, it’s not ideal for those needing immediate cash if they don’t already have the app installed. Some users have earned $4,000 over five years. Money score: 3/10.
3. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit connects you with clients for tasks like moving or furniture assembly. Many users report earning over $100,000 a year. It’s a fantastic option for those who don’t mind physical labor and want to build a clientele base. Money score: 10/10.
4. Premise
This app lets you complete location-based microtasks, like reviewing products in stores. While it’s not a full-time income source, it pays quickly and works well in high-density areas. Money score: 5/10.
5. Course Hero
A micro-tutoring site where you answer homework questions. It works best for people from countries with a lower cost of living. U.S.-based users might find it harder to compete unless they specialize in niche subjects. Money score: 3/10.
6. Papa Pal
Earn money by running errands, like picking up dry cleaning for older adults. The app encourages community relationships and bonuses for repeat tasks. However, it’s not a consistent income source. Money score: 4/10.
7. Snapwire
For photographers, Snapwire lets you sell photos online. Companies also post contests for specific photo requests. Amateurs and professionals can earn extra income here, but it’s not a fast money-maker. Money score: 6/10.
8. Uber
A widely known ridesharing app, Uber is a reliable way to earn quickly. With minimal requirements (just a car), you can make a full-time income temporarily, especially during events or holidays. Money score: 9/10.
9. DoorDash
A food delivery app perfect for those with a motorcycle, moped, or even a car. It allows flexible work hours and is a great way to supplement your income. Money score: 8/10.
10. Grubhub
Similar to DoorDash, Grubhub lets you deliver food and earn money. Many users combine it with other apps to maximize earnings. Money score: 7/10.
Conclusion
If you’re in a pinch, apps like Uber, DoorDash, and TaskRabbit are the quickest ways to earn money. For long-term success, invest time in learning a high-income skill.
