Job hunting is a tough gig. Between the searching, the resume tweaking, the applications, and phone screenings - it can feel like a full-time job in and of itself. The only problem is, you don’t get paid to search for a job. If you’re currently looking for a new role, it can be stressful to think about the bills that need to get paid and the costs associated with the upcoming holiday season. But don’t worry. Finding a new job is not the only way to take some money home, there are several ways you can earn extra cash while searching and save up to $300 per week!

Ways to earn money quick

Offer up your strongest skills and make money

Do you enjoy writing? Do you have a creative eye and graphic design skills? Maybe you know how to do astrology readings. If you have a skill that may be useful to others, consider offering your talents up as a freelancer! Sign up for free on sites such as Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer, or Craigslist.

Tips for success

• Before listing your services, be sure to check out the “market rate” for similar services and set your price accordingly
• If applicable, create an online portfolio to help showcase your work
• Practice your personal pitch before you promote your services

How much can you earn as a freelancer?

Freelancing is another gig where money can fluctuate depending on what services you are selling. Lower paying jobs such as transcription or voice-overs have going rates of $8 - $15 per hour, while more demanding jobs such as copywriting or programming can earn you anywhere from $20 - $80+ an hour!

Sign up to become a delivery driver for quick cash

If you’re looking for a gig that can get you money quick, consider signing up to drive for a delivery service such as Doordash, Postmates, or Uber Eats. Drivers can enjoy the flexibility of being their own boss, setting their own hours, and earning steady income.

Tips for success

• Take the time to fully understand the payment system for each platform
• Make sure your car is in good working condition
• Sign up for multiple apps - there’s no limit to how many you can work for

How much can you earn as a delivery driver?

According to Glassdoor, delivery drivers can expect to earn anywhere between $12 - $25 per hour depending on their location. In addition to the standard pay-scale model offered by each company, there are opportunities for promotional earnings, helping you boost your wage. Drivers also get to keep 100% of earned tips.

Help others with household tasks and earn!

There are so many online marketplaces such as Task Rabbit, Craigslist, Handy, and Thumbtack where you can earn money by connecting with locals who need help with odd-jobs! Tasks can include anything from plumbing projects, house cleaning, furniture assembly, yard maintenance, and errand running!

Tips for success

• Similar to freelancing, check the market for comparable services and rates
• Make sure you have the proper equipment before offering to help with a task
• Have a list of references and referrals that you can point potential clients to

How much can you earn as a tasker?

Once you’ve downloaded your app of choice, you’re able to select the task categories you are interested in and set your own pay rate! According to Glassdoor, Taskers report earnings that range from $8 - $40 per hour.

Rent out some space for income

If you have any unused space on your property, consider renting it out to earn some extra cash! Sites such as Neighbor make it simple for you to create a free listing to advertise to people in your community about your available space like a basement, garage, or shed. You can allow renters to store anything from furniture to cars, boats, or large appliances. On Neighbor.com, hosts are protected by $1 million in liability insurance and are guaranteed a payout each month while the storage space is officially occupied, even if the renter stops paying!

Tips for success

• Take high quality photos that show an accurate representation of the space available
• Try and ensure that each renter has their own space
• When meeting potential renters, be personable and show them their belongings are safe in your space

How much can you earn renting out space?

It may range from person to person, but people have reported to earning anywhere form $50 - $500 per month on Neighbor!

Clean out your closet and get paid

If you have any clothes, shoes, or accessories that you no longer wear, consider selling them online! You don’t need to have top of the line designer items to make money, either. Sites like Mercari and Poshmark make it very easy and quick to sell your unwanted items from the comfort of your own home.

Tips for success

• Wash and iron your clothes prior to selling
• Take high quality photos for your listings
• Write colorful descriptions of the items you are selling

How much can you earn selling clothes online?

Income ranges vary drastically depending on the types of items you have to offer, what condition they are in, and how often you plan on selling. On average, those who sell clothes regularly report to earning between $75 - $200 per month.

Better manage your money - 3 simple tips

1. Create a budget

It may be a bit time-consuming, taking the time to review your expenses and reducing costs wherever possible is the first step you should take to manage your money. Start by identifying your non-negotiable expenses including all basic living necessities (shelter, food, healthcare) and similar. List out these must-haves and their associated costs.

Next, eliminate all non-essential expenses. This can include making coffee at home instead of stopping by the cafe, putting your streaming subscription on pause, or limiting take out to once or twice per month. There plenty of tools that can help you manage your monthly expenses and savings, such as:

• Mint
• Clarity Money
• Acorns
• You Need a Budget

2. Reach out to creditors

Creditors are anyone that you owe money to, they can be student loan lenders, mortgage lenders, credit card companies, etc. Try to give them a call and ask if you can make arrangements to delay or reduce payments temporarily. Tell them the truth, and explain you want to work out a payment plan that works for you so that you can make your payments each month. Deferment options may vary, but it’s worth inquiring.

3. Shop smarter

There’s no shame in being frugal when trying to save money. Look for coupons and online sales to reduce spending costs. You can also take a break in name-brand products and opt for the generics, you might be surprised at how similar they really are! If possible, buy bulk-packaged essentials such as laundry detergent and toilet paper to give your budget some breathing room.

For more information about managing unemployment, take a look at our Unemployment Resource Center.