Are you looking for ways to boost your income without committing to a second full-time job? Discovering a legitimate online side job, often referred to as a side hustle, can provide the perfect solution. A side hustle is essentially any paid work that you can do outside your main job, offering both flexibility and potential financial benefits.
Many online side jobs offer greater freedom since you can often work as an independent contractor. This gives you the flexibility to choose hours that fit into your existing schedule. To get started, all you typically need is a reliable computer, internet access, and sometimes, a mobile device.
However, a common challenge when searching for online side jobs is distinguishing legitimate opportunities from scams. Numerous dubious websites promise high earnings without delivering real work. Always remain vigilant to avoid these pitfalls, especially when promising jobs don’t align with the actual work described.
For instance, many rebate processing scams falsely advertise easy work for big payouts. Most often, these opportunities require you to sell services instead of processing rebates directly—this highlights the importance of careful research when looking for online side jobs.
After extensive searching, I have identified several legitimate online side jobs that can provide the extra income you desire. Below, you will find a comprehensive list of 32 credible online side jobs and resources for finding openings.
1. Freelance Writing Opportunities
The demand for skilled writers continues to climb as many websites and blogs lack the resources to produce consistent content. If you have writing talent or expertise in specific topics, check out these platforms to kickstart your freelance writing career:
Explore this post for a comprehensive list of paid freelance writing jobs.
2. Become a Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants handle diverse administrative tasks for businesses, including scheduling, social media management, and bookkeeping. Depending on your availability, these roles can be flexible and tailored to fit your lifestyle.
To find virtual assistant positions, explore blogs, job boards, LinkedIn, and dedicated Facebook groups.
Here are some companies that frequently hire freelance virtual assistants:
3. Graphic Design Services
Graphic design requires specific skills, but many schools are equipping students with tools like Photoshop. If creativity is your forte, consider a side hustle in web design and gain entry into this vibrant field.
Best platforms to find graphic design jobs include:
4. Customer Support Roles
This side job typically involves assisting customers with queries, complaints, and general product information. Most customer service representatives working remotely often have fixed hours, which could affect flexibility but allows for work-from-home convenience.
Explore major job boards, LinkedIn, and company sites for customer support positions.
Notable companies offering remote customer service roles include:
5. Data Entry Jobs
Data entry positions can be risky, as numerous illegitimate companies exist. However, several legitimate firms seek data entry employees to manage information effectively.
If you are in search of data entry opportunities, consider these reputable companies:
6. Perform Short Tasks Online
Short tasks refer to singular, concise assignments that can be completed for payment. These micro-jobs vary significantly based on individual skill sets and can involve tasks like transcription, content moderation, and proofreading.
To find short task opportunities, check out these resources:
7. Transcription Services
If you possess strong typing and listening skills, transcribing audio files into text documents offers a solid online side job option. You can manage this task any time that suits your schedule using the necessary software and tools.
8. Test Websites
For those with tech skills, applying for website testing gigs is an easy and engaging way to earn. Many tests require you to capture your screen, so a device with a camera is handy. You could earn an average of $10 for testing sessions lasting between 5 to 20 minutes!
9. Participate in Online Surveys
Despite some negative perceptions, online surveys can be a useful side job if you’re careful about where you sign up. Some paid survey platforms can offer worthwhile compensation for your time. For example, on Gauge Research, it’s possible to earn $70 from just seven 10-minute surveys!
10. Tutor Online
If you’re a knowledgeable student or educator, consider online tutoring to share your expertise and earn extra income. Many tutoring platforms allow you to set your hours and work as needed.
11. Join Focus Groups
By participating in focus groups, you can offer your insights on various products and services while earning up to $150 per hour. These sessions come in various formats, including online studies and interviews.
12. Work as a Translator
If you’re fluent in multiple languages, consider a bilingual side hustle. Many businesses need translations for documents or on-the-phone interpretations. According to ZipRecruiter, freelance translators make an average of $28 an hour.
13. Launch a Print-on-Demand Business
Those with a creative spirit can start a print-on-demand business selling custom designs on items like T-shirts and mugs. Many platforms enable you to set up an account for free, allowing you to design and promote your creations easily. For instance, Jessica Roop, who operates her own successful print-on-demand store, has leveraged this model to earn an additional $500 to $1,500 a month.
14. Teach English Online
As a native English speaker, you can earn by tutoring non-native speakers online. Some companies require teaching credentials, while others, like Cambly, allow you to participate without prior experience. The hourly pay typically ranges from $10 to $26.
15. Proofreading and Editing Services
If you have a strong command of the English language, you might consider proofreading or editing as a viable side gig. Most roles require at least a bachelor’s degree and may involve passing a timed exam.
16. Closed Captioning Jobs
Closed captioning involves listening to audio from videos, films, and shows and converting it into subtitles for better accessibility. This job requires fast typing skills and can often be done remotely through various freelance sites.
17. Scoring Tests
Many tests, especially written essays, require human evaluation. You can earn money by scoring written responses online. According to certain sites, graders typically earn between $10 to $20 per hour for their work, making this a flexible and rewarding side job.
18. Leverage Your Photography Skills
If photography is your passion, you can monetize your skills by selling stock images. After submitting a few samples, you can earn a commission on your photos through various stock image sites.
19. Teach Skills Online
If you hold a teaching credential or have a deep understanding of a skill, you can generate income by teaching subjects online. Positions in K-12 education usually require a degree, while platforms like Outschool may not require formal credentials.
20. Mystery Shopping Opportunities
If undercover work intrigues you, consider mystery shopping. This job often involves evaluating customer service through phone calls or in-store visits and completing surveys afterward. Payment varies widely, often including reimbursement for purchases.
21. Online Marketplace Selling
Consider selling items you no longer use, such as clothing, accessories, or collectibles, online. Some people have even transformed this into a booming side hustle by sourcing unique items from thrift stores or garage sales.
22. Mock Juror Programs
If you enjoy legal dramas, you could earn money as a mock juror. Attorneys use these services to prep for trial, and participation pays between $20 and $60 for sessions lasting about one hour.
23. Social Media Management
Do you excel at managing social media platforms? As a social media manager, you can help businesses enhance their online presence while earning a lucrative side income. You’ll handle posts, customer interactions, and content creation across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
24. Search Engine Evaluator
Search engine evaluators assess and rate content quality for companies like Google. No formal experience is necessary, but being detail-oriented and tech-savvy is vital. The hourly pay is typically around $17, and flexible hours allow you to choose when you work.
25. Pet Sitting Services
If you’re an animal lover, offering pet sitting or dog walking services can be a fun way to earn some additional cash. Apps designed for pet owners connect you with those in your area needing your services.
26. Online Styling
If fashion excites you, becoming an online stylist could be your ideal side job. You’ll curate outfits for busy individuals looking for wardrobe updates, employing both creativity and customer service skills.
27. Content Creation
If you love creating engaging content, platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube provide opportunities to earn income as a content creator. With engagement as a key factor, brands may also opt to sponsor your content, increasing your earnings
Each platform has specific criteria for their creator funds. For example, TikTok requires 10,000 followers and 100,000 views in the past 30 days for participation in their fund.
28. Renting Out Your Items
With the rise of the rental economy, consider renting out everything from tools to vehicles. Thanks to platforms like Airbnb, you can now capitalize on your unused resources for some extra income.
29. Become an SEO Specialist
Utilizing your knowledge of search engine optimization opens many doors for online income. Businesses seek experts to help improve their visibility online through methods like keyword research and content strategy. Job listings can be discovered on platforms like Study.com and MarketerHire.
30. Drive for Cash
If you don’t mind driving, consider joining a delivery service. You’ll deliver groceries, meals, and supplies, allowing you to set your own hours and earn cash quickly.
31. Start Your Own Podcast
Podcasting can yield significant financial rewards, just ask Alex Cooper from the Call Her Daddy Podcast, who signed a $125 million deal with SiriusXM. While it’s a high bar, podcasting allows for diverse topics and monetization methods, including sponsorships and product sales.
To get started, follow this guide on launching a successful podcast, from scripting to marketing strategies.
32. Train AI Tools
With increasing demand, AI training positions are flourishing. These roles often require only basic tech skills, attention to detail, and research abilities. Companies like DataAnnotation Tech typically pay starting rates of $20 per hour or more, and workers set their schedules.
Unlock Additional Income Through Online Side Jobs
As illustrated, numerous legitimate online side jobs await your exploration. Always conduct thorough research to avoid scams that seem too good to be true. While it’s essential to be cautious, you can successfully discover genuine online side jobs fitting your interests and schedule.
Finally, keep in mind that many of these opportunities classify as independent contractor roles, making you responsible for self-employment taxes. Consulting with a tax professional can aid you in navigating your responsibilities as a fellow 1099 worker.
What online side jobs have you explored? Share your experiences in the comments below—we’d love to learn about your journey to earning online!
Originally published December 30, 2014. Updated content August 2024.
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