The median U.S. salary is less than $29,000, and even those who exceed this metric are not likely to make more than $45,000. In other words, individuals who are working a typical 9-to-5 job may not be bringing in enough money to have their version of the American dream. This becomes even more difficult for retirees and those who are not suited to a career in Corporate America. Fortunately, there are several alternative methods you can utilize to either boost your current income or to replace a typical job altogether.
1. Join A Clinical Trial
Not every clinical trial offers cash compensation, and the amount paid in others will vary. However, it may be possible to earn anywhere from a few dollars to almost $2,000 for participating in one clinical trial. The trick is to pay close attention to the qualifying criteria and any applicable payments so that you can choose the right type of trial for you. As an added bonus, some people who choose this route are able to gain access to potentially life-saving medication for a variety of medical issues.
2. Start House Flipping
The housing market is continuously improving, but there are still many foreclosed properties that are available for a discounted price. This gives someone who is handy with tools a good opportunity to get involved in house flipping. In a nutshell, the process of flipping houses involves buying cheap homes with the intention of investing enough time and money to dramatically increase their value. The amount of money that you can make will depend on several factors, but a quick house flip has the potential to bring in several thousand dollars in one month.
3. Dog Walking And Pet Sitting
Many people who work full-time hire others to walk their dog or even pet sit throughout the day, and this is also a useful alternative to boarding animals during vacation. In the past, this was something that people in the local area could use as a way to make a few dollars, but the rise of websites such as Care.com and Pet Sitters International makes it possible to earn $10 an hour or more offering these services. This is a great way for animal lovers to supplement their income, and some people have even turned it into a career!
4. Tutor Others In Your Top Subjects
YouTube and other online resources can help students get a better grasp on tricky subjects, but there are still many people who need an actual tutor to answer questions and show them more difficult concepts. Tutors for every subject imaginable can be found in-person and on numerous websites. According to Presto Experts, online tutors can earn at least 50 cents per minute for offering their knowledge to others. This may not be a steady source of income, but it is a good way to earn an extra $30 per hour every so often.
5. Sell Your Hair And Plasma
There are many things that you naturally have on and in your body that are worth money to others, including hair, plasma, and sperm. For example, the online hair price calculator indicates that 6 inches of brown undyed hair is valued at $59. Donating plasma can bring in $200 or more per month, and a sperm donation is usually worth at least $35. There are also some much more highly invasive procedures you can go through if you need to make a larger amount of money. Qualified women have the option of selling their eggs, and a completed cycle is typically compensated with an $8,000 payment.
