20 ways to earn more cash on the side in 2016

Whether you are a student, unemployed or in need of extra cash, there are tricks to earn more money. Most require only basic skills and spare time.

1. Freelance work

It is easy to work online. Demand for high quality writers, consultants and graphics artists is increasing. If you have a skill, sell it. Register at Elance, Upwork or Fiverr to build a freelance portfolio.

2. Pet boarding services

If you have a pet-friendly home, set up a boarding business. Owners going on holiday often prefer a home environment over a kennel. You must guarantee the pet is safe, exercised and tended to.

3. Tutor or teach an online course

Help students with homework or teach a musical instrument. If you understand teaching, this is a viable job. Use tutor websites to advertise or teach classes on sites like Skillshare or Edutopia.

4. Freeroll Poker

Gambling is risky when money is tight. Freeroll poker rooms allow you to play for free with a complimentary sum. Winnings are paid in real cash. Only play on verified sites that are legal in your jurisdiction.

5. Donate plasma

Donating plasma or hair is an option for the healthy. Plasma is the fluid part of blood. You can donate up to two times a week. The process is generally considered pain-free.

6. Sell stuff

Use eBay or Craigslist to sell tools, computer parts, clothes or books. You can also collect sea shells, stones or leaves to sell as art supplies. Alternatively, ship local sweets and snacks to expats who cannot find them abroad.

7. Lend your body to science

Medical tests involve trying new drugs or vaccines. You are a medical guinea pig. Manufacturers usually only run trials when they are confident the medicine is safe. There is a risk of allergic reactions. A doctor must explain how the drug works before you start.

8. Mystery shopping

Companies pay to check the quality of their service. Mystery shoppers pretend to be customers and provide feedback on their experience. This ensures employees adhere to regulations.

9. Create things

Etsy is a platform for handmade products. If you make jewellery, paintings or wood craft, you can find a market there. Zazzle allows you to create virtual designs. They manufacture the product when someone orders and you get paid.

10. Online surveys

You get paid for your opinion. Register at survey sites to fill out forms about consumer habits. This helps brands improve products. Some sites pay in cash while others offer gift vouchers. You can find a list of survey sites here.

11. Yard sale

A yard sale is faster than listing items individually online. It clears junk from your house and garage while generating cash.

12. Pawn shops

A pawnbroker provides a loan in exchange for valuables. You can repay the loan to get the item back. If you do not repay it, the pawnbroker keeps the item to sell.

13. Rent a room or parking spot

If you have an unused room or parking spot, rent it out. Short-term rentals for backpackers are an alternative to long-term flatmates. It is a steady means of making money.

14. Run errands

Offer to run errands for the busy or the elderly. If you own a van, you can help people move furniture or transport items.

15. Temp job

Register with an agency for cleaning or catering jobs. They will contact you when shifts arise. This is useful if you cannot commit to a full-time schedule.

16. Start a blog

Popular blogs attract paid reviews and advertising. You can also utilize affiliate marketing to generate income from your content.

17. Sign up as an extra

Sign up for free to be a background extra. You provide details on your appearance and availability. If filming occurs in your town, you can get paid to appear in a TV show or movie.

18. Sign up for competitions

Enter online competitions daily. Prizes are not always cash. You might win electronics or travel vouchers instead.

19. Busking

Perform on the street or in the subway. Good entertainment can earn considerable cash in a single day. It requires talent and confidence.