Making money online – lessons from lockdowns
Instead of wasting your time doom scrolling through social media when bars, restaurants, and several shops are closed, why not put it to good use and earn some extra cash? These are some of the cheapest and easiest ways to make some extra money without leaving your house, from renting out your driveway to proofreading papers.
1. Make your driveway available for rent
More people are foregoing public transportation in favor of the safety of their vehicles, but many office parking lots are struggling to keep up with the increased demand.
You could earn money by renting out a parking space in your empty driveway to people who work nearby. Kerb, JustPark, and Stashbee are just a few of the apps and websites that link people with unused drives with people who need a parking spot. Most companies will let you set your price, but some will take a cut. Renting a parking space in London will cost up to £300 per month.
2. Try trading
Many people got into trading throughout 2020, especially in 2021. With the rise of Bitcoin, including the unexpected rise of various Altcoins, people are getting more informed. This time, they are not making the same mistake by investing money. They even don’t know where it’s going. That’s where a reliable Forex broker comes into the picture. Make sure you check broker reviews and keep yourself updated!
3. Tutoring through the internet
Parents looking for assistance in homeschooling their children are in high demand of online tutors. According to one website, Tutorful, you can earn between £20 and £30 per hour by using its platform. Specialist tutors can earn more than £50 per hour, according to work postings on job boards.
You can provide your services in various subjects, and many of them do not need any teaching credentials. Many job postings request evening and weekend availability, so you can work it around your other obligations.
4. Take on the role of a virtual assistant
Earn money by assisting companies with social media scheduling, file sorting, and mailing list preparation. A virtual assistant, according to Adzuna, an online work board, is one of the highest-paid second jobs, paying about £16 an hour on average. Many work listings ask for part-time hours, making it simple to fit it in with your regular schedule.
5. Editing and proofreading
Some publishers will value your skills if you have good grammar and a keen eye for detail. According to Adzuna numbers, you can earn up to £15 per hour on average. Working only five hours a week might add £300 or more to your monthly bank account before taxes. Upwork and Worksome, for example, allow you to bid on jobs you want and even build contracts for you. Businesses may sell work at a fixed price on other websites, such as PeoplePerHour.
Companies like Take Note and Way With Words will pay you to transcribe audio recordings. The majority of clients pay per minute of audio typed up, which is usually about £1. All you’ll need is a decent internet connection, quick typing skills, and a GCSE English grade of C. Some companies that provide proofreading and transcription services would require you to take a test first.
How to do a full-time job and a side hustle
Be sure to keep the two roles apart — don’t try to switch between them in the middle of the day. Maintain regular hours for your day job, such as 9 to 5, and set aside time for your side hustle.
Build a network: There are several freelancers and small business groups, and forums where you can get support and advice if you’re just getting started. Even better, many people will be able to put you in touch with valuable contacts and potential clients.
Establish specific financial objectives: Decide if this is something you want to do for fun or make money off. If it’s the latter, make sure the price represents the time spent on the project.
Fill out a tax return: You must report any money received over and above your PAYE salary to HM Revenue and Customs. As a result, you’ll have to file a self-assessment tax return every year.
