How to Earn Quick and Easy Money

In this economy, even those who are employed have probably experienced a drop in salary or cuts to benefits and those who are unemployed could certainly use some quick cash. Here are some quick and easy ways to make some extra money.

You've probably heard of it and haven't ever considered actually signing up, but you should try it: secret shopping is actually a fun hobby, heightens observation, and can pay well. Multiple services exist; sign up for a few to see which one you're most comfortable with and which one pays the best. Some assignments pay in the form of cash, others pay for goods and/or services received at the place of business, and some use a hybrid model. Anyone who is 18 years old and up may sign up and get paid, but those who speak more than one language fluently, have pets, and meet other specific requirements will be especially successful.

Artsy types should investigate ETSY, which is an online marketplace for buyers and sellers of vintage or handmade art. From jewelry to photography, sell what you love creating and make a little extra cash.

Ebay and Craigslist are the quintessential online sales sites. While Ebay is more auction and storefront oriented and Craigslist is more glorified local flea market, the two have their places when it comes to selling most types of goods. Use Ebay to sell specific items and higher-valued pieces, and use Craigslist for quick liquidation or to find local buyers for heavy or hard-to-ship items like furniture or large musical instruments.

The not-so-online version of Ebay or Craiglist is the garage sale. A new trend is for several neighbors to have a garage sale together, so that they can have a larger advertising budget and reach more people. For best results, advertise ahead of time, use local signs and online ads, make a good use of the internet and social media, and keep prices low. Do research to know what non-clothing items are actually worth. Now is a good time to sell pre-owned items because many people are interested in saving money by buying used clothing, furniture and the like.

Are you a gifted writer? If so, check in to online publishing sites. If you've always wanted to write a book, many sites will let you design your book for free, and send the link to friends and family and even allow anyone to find and purchase your book. You can set your own price and choose how the finished product will look, making the book truly customizable.

Anyone who already keeps a blog will be glad to know that blogs can now be bought and sold through Amazon's Kindle Publishing for Blogs program. While pricing is low - $.99 to $1.99 - a blogger will surely welcome more publicity, and possibly a few extra bucks, to their blog.

http://www.secretshopper.com/
www.blurb.com
www.etsy.com
www.ebay.com
www.craigslist.com
http://www.blogherald.com/2009/05/14/promote-your-blog-on-kindle-make-money/