by Gary Foreman

Don’t let a temporary cash flow problem bring you down. Just pick one or two of these tools until you get back on top again.

Need a little quick cash? Everyone does at one time or another. If you could use a greenback transfusion, try one or more of these 19 ways to raise some quick cash.

1. Become an umpire or referee. Both children and adult leagues need someone to officiate. You’ll take some guff from the fans but be paid for the effort. You could earn $15 or more per game.

2. Check for unclaimed funds. States collect deposits, savings, and other accounts when the rightful owners can’t be found. A few minutes on the computer could net you money you didn’t know you had. Start your search at Unclaimed.org.

3. Skip the grocery store this week. See if you can’t feed your family with the things that you already have in the pantry. You’ll save this week’s grocery bill.

4. Join the online, small services marketplace. A site like Fiverr allows you to offer your services for a fee. It’s not a full-time job, but could provide a quick cash infusion.

5. Get a paper route. A few hours early in the morning could earn you $10k+ per year, and you can still keep your day job.

6. Use your skills. Whether it’s painting, cooking or another skill, your neighbors could be willing to pay you to do it for them.

8. Sell something on eBay. Do you have collectibles around the house? Designer clothes you no longer wear? Kids’ toys in good condition? Use the internet’s garage sale for quick cash.

9. Walk the dog. Neighbors go on vacation. The elderly become housebound. Dog walkers can earn $20 per day.

10. Become an odd jobber. Everyone is busy, but the leaves still need raking and the gutters need cleaning. Offer your time to someone who’s too busy to do it themselves.

11. Become an eBay reseller. Collectibles and other valuable items often go for peanuts at garage sales. Buy and resell on eBay where there are plenty of collectors to bid on your purchases.

13. Become a pet sitter. If you love animals, taking one or two into your home could provide love and a quick source of income. See if your vet will recommend you to his clients who are traveling.

14. Become an office fill-in. If you have office skills and are free during business hours, let professional offices know that you’re available to be a temporary fill-in. Small offices struggle when their receptionist goes on vacation. You could be the smiling face they need.

15. Become a researcher. Companies often do focus groups or surveys to find out what people think of their product. Many are even held online. Search for “market research firms” and apply to share your opinion.

16. Help at a food co-op or community pantry. Many will give you food in exchange for your time. You’ll spend less on your next trip to the grocer.

17. Change your tax dependents. If you’re getting a tax refund, too much of your paycheck is being withheld. Go to your HR department and ask them about changing your dependents.

18. Remove mortgage and credit card insurance. You may be paying for insurance on your mortgage or credit card balance. If you’re not required to carry it, drop the coverage.

19. Ask for a raise. This is especially important if you’ve saved your employer money or taken on additional responsibilities.

Don’t let a temporary cash flow problem bring you down. Just pick one or two of these tools until you get back on top again.

• 5 Simple Budget Cuts That Can Save $200 a Month
• 8 Easy Ways to Make Extra Money
• Surviving a Cash Crisis: 10 Places to Look for Extra Money

Reviewed May 2020