Second Sources of Income

Recession. Rising fuel prices. Rising food prices. Rising utilities. Foreclosures. Employer budget cuts mean no raise this year. Late fees start to add up. Credit score plummets. Paycheck-to-paycheck existence. Sound familiar? You're paying now for your grasshopper ways wishing you had followed the ant's lead.

We live in troubled times and it doesn't seem to be something we will get out of easily. Many American's are now looking for a second source of income. The decision to get a second job is a lot easier to make than the execution of it. Unfortunately, With daycare concerns, gas prices, and the toll on your family, it can seem that getting a second job really won't be worth it in the end.

1. Freelancing. Everyone has knowledge about something. It may not seem like it but I bet you have some pretty good tips on something. How about website design? Know how to fix a kitchen sink? There are numerous sources on the internet who will pay you for your time and words. Associated Content is an excellent source to earn money. There are others such as eHow and Helium who pay as well.

2. Blog. Start a blog. By itself that won't really give you any money. However if you have a blog on a particular subject such as scrapbooking, then attach some affiliate links to your blog. Some companies will pay you for every person who clicks on their link. Don't forget to market your blog. You need traffic to make money.

3. Direct Sales. There are many companies online that offer commissions for selling their products. Everyone has been invited to a "party" for a particular product whether it be Avon, Mary Kay, Tastefully Simple, Memory Works, Stampin' Up, or even a Passion party. Some require some start up costs but this can turn into a very profitable second income.

4. Arts and Crafts. Know how to scrapbook? Make jewelry in your spare time? Are you a whiz with a table saw and oak? Quilters, knitters, and other craft entrepreneurs can sell their homemade crafts online. Check out Etsy.com for an avenue to sell your homemade arts and crafts.

5. eBay. Sell things on eBay. Go to garage sales Saturday morning and find good deals. Sell it on eBay. Got a CD collection you never listen to? Sell it. That old cell phone you upgraded. Sell it. Did you use a PDA before your Treo? Sell it. Your junk is another person's treasure.

There is money to be made out there without getting a "second job." While it is perfectly reasonable and acceptable to get a part-time job, it might not be an option for you for daycare or transportation reasons. There are other avenues you can take. Just remember, when you are making extra money, put some away for a rainy day. There might just be a storm front moving in.