4 Ways to Make Extra Cash from Home

If you are looking for a way to bring in a little extra income, but don't have a lot of time, consider the many ways to earn money from home. Whether you're a full-time parent, employee, or student, there are several ways to earn extra cash. I'm not talking about work at home job scams, envelope stuffing, or multi-level marketing programs. Rather, legitimate ways to earn money to payoff debts, save for vacation, or make a few home improvements.

1. Mystery Shopping: You won't get rich with mystery shopping; however, this is a great ways to eat and play for free, and earn extra cash along the way. I signed up with a free mystery shopping company because I wanted a cheap way to eat out. The first month brought several assignments, which included an AMF Bowling alley, Ruby Tuesday's Restaurant, Kincaid's Restaurant, Five Guy's Restaurant, and a few other jobs that simply called for observing the staff and evaluating their personal service. I received compensation for meals, plus $8 - $10 per assignment.

2. Paid Online Surveys: A few paid online survey companies do not ask for an upfront payment, and pay points per survey completed. Survey takers then convert their points into cash, and receive a check from the survey company. Within the past year, I've earned $40 with paid online survey's, which isn't a lot of money. Then again, I only took a few surveys a month.

3. Freelance Writing: I started freelance writing five years ago with a goal to payoff debt and start a savings account. Now, I freelance on a part-time basis, and earn an adequate amount money to meet my monthly expenses. There are different types of freelance writers. Some writers choose a niche, and focus their attention on resume writing, web content, medical writing, and so forth. I choose to diversify, which has opened the door to more opportunities. You don't have to have an English or Journalism degree to become a freelance writer. Even so, every aspiring writer should know how to write a coherent sentence. If you struggle with grammar and sentence structure, brush up on your English skills, take an online writing course, and then apply for a freelance writing job.

4. EBAY It: If you have an attic full of junk, or simply want to de-clutter your home, list your items on EBAY and earn extra cash. Millions of people are eager to buy your old records, CD's, furniture, toys, etc. If you don't have extra stuff around the home, visit garage or yard sales, or buy department store clearance items and sell them at retail price.