How to Make Money Online: Are you interested in making money online but not quite ready to launch a full-scale business? There are plenty of ways to earn extra income on the internet—even if you have no prior experience or technical skills. From doing side gigs and selling pre-owned items to offering tutoring services, there are various low-effort opportunities to explore. Unlike traditional online business models, these options are simpler to get started with and often require minimal setup. In this article, we’ll guide you through how quickly you can begin earning and what tools or skills you might need.
Ready to dive in? Here are 20 beginner-friendly ways to start making money online today.
20 Beginner-Friendly Ways to Make Money Online
If you’re just starting your journey to earn money online, there are plenty of simple and accessible options to explore. From decluttering your home to offering online services, you don’t need advanced skills to get started. Here are 28 easy and effective ways beginners can make money online:
- Sell your secondhand items
- Work as a virtual assistant
- Test websites and mobile apps
- Rent out your belongings
- Find part-time or freelance side gigs
- Get paid to watch videos or read content
- License your photos to stock photography sites
- Start freelancing in your area of expertise
- Resell or consign gently used clothing
- Launch a blog and monetize it
- Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services
- Participate in online surveys
- Sell custom print-on-demand products
- Buy and resell domain names
- Start a dropshipping e Commerce store
- Sell products on marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy
- Teach or tutor students online
- Build and sell online courses or workshops
- Earn through affiliate marketing
- Rent a spare room in your home
Each of these options is beginner-friendly and can be done from home, making it easier than ever to start earning money online.
Note: As you begin earning money online as a beginner, you may eventually want to take things to the next level. One great way to do that is by starting your own online business—such as launching an eCommerce store. In the list of ideas below, look for the “🚀 Level Up” tag to find opportunities that can help you grow your income and build something more long-term.
1. Sell your secondhand items
One of the fastest and easiest ways to make money online is by selling unused items you already own. Take a look around your home and gather anything you no longer need—furniture, electronics, toys, tools, gaming gear, or home décor. You can list these items on platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and VarageSale to quickly turn clutter into cash.
- Best for: Anyone looking to earn quick money online
- Startup time: Less than 1 hour
- Effort level: Low
- Time to first payment: Varies based on the platform and item sold
✅ What You Should Know:
- Each marketplace has different rules and fees—be sure to review them before listing.
- For beginners, Facebook Marketplace is especially user-friendly. Check out a step-by-step guide to get started.
2. Work as a virtual assistant
Working as a virtual assistant is a great way to earn money online from the comfort of your home. As a VA, you can offer support services to clients across the globe. Common tasks include data entry, content creation, managing social media accounts, handling email or calendar scheduling, and more—depending on your skills and the client’s needs.
- Best for: People who want to make money from home with flexible hours
- Startup time: A few hours
- Effort to start: Low
- Time to first payment: Varies based on the platform or client agreement
✅ What You Should Know:
- Some clients may look for specific experience or skill sets, such as social media knowledge, Excel proficiency, or content writing.
- List all your relevant skills clearly to stand out from the competition.
- You can find VA gigs on traditional job sites or freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour.
💡 Tip: As you gain experience, consider building your own website to showcase your services and attract clients directly—helping you increase rates and avoid third-party fees.
3. Test websites and mobile apps
Many market research companies pay users to test websites, apps, or even physical products. As a tester, your job is to provide honest feedback on user experience, design, functionality, or overall impressions. Platforms like UserTesting, TryMyUI, and PlaytestCloud offer regular opportunities to earn money by reviewing digital products and services.
- Best for: People who enjoy trying new tech, trends, or products
- Startup time: Just a few minutes to create an account
- Effort level: Low to medium, depending on the task
- Time to first payment: Varies by platform and payout schedule
Read Also: How Do I Increase Traffic on an E-Commerce Website?
✅ What You Should Know:
- Some platforms require users to reach a minimum earnings threshold before allowing withdrawals.
- Most testing sites only accept users who are 18 years or older.
- You’ll be notified by email when a new testing opportunity becomes available—but spots fill quickly, so be ready to act fast.
💡 Tip: Sign up on multiple platforms to increase your chances of getting consistent testing gigs and faster payouts.
4. Rent out your belongings
The sharing economy has opened the door for earning money from items you rarely use. From lawnmowers and power tools to electronics and kitchen appliances, there’s likely something in your home that others would gladly pay to rent. Platforms like FriendWithA make it easy to list your belongings and start generating passive income.
- Best for: People with items in high demand who want to make money online quickly and consistently
- Startup time: 1–2 hours to upload listings and review other offerings
- Effort level: Low
- Time to first payment: Often immediate, depending on the rental platform’s terms
✅ What You Should Know:
- Make sure your items are insured—either personally or through a platform that offers protection—against damage or loss.
- Most rental platforms require users to be at least 18 years old.
- Popular rental items include tools, cameras, drones, party equipment, and small appliances.
🚀 Level Up: If renting items is working well for you, consider niche rental businesses—like launching a wedding dress rental service, tool rental brand, or even developing your own product line for long-term growth.
5. Find part-time or freelance side gigs
Side gigs are one of the most flexible ways to earn extra money online—without giving up your full-time job. From data entry and transcription to manual labor or food delivery, there are countless opportunities. Platforms like Fiverr, TaskRabbit, and Upwork allow you to promote your skills, while apps like Uber, Grubhub, and DoorDash offer earning potential through local delivery services.
- Best for: Those who want to make money online quickly with flexible hours
- Startup time: Less than 1 hour
- Effort to start: Medium
- Time to first payment: Varies based on the platform or service used
✅ What You Should Know:
- Some platforms may charge sign-up or service fees—check the terms before joining.
- Payment schedules differ across marketplaces, so review them in advance to ensure they fit your needs.
- Most digital side gigs only require a computer and internet connection, while delivery services need a vehicle and valid license, and labor-based gigs may require physical strength or tools.
🚀 Level Up: As you gain clients and positive reviews, consider creating a personal eCommerce site or portfolio where clients can book services directly—helping you maximize profits and avoid marketplace fees.
6. Get paid to watch videos or read content
The role of a content consumer is an emerging online job—especially popular among Gen Z freelancers and digital natives. As a content consumer, you assist influencers, creators, or brands by keeping up with social media trends, aggregating relevant content, and identifying viral topics. It’s a behind-the-scenes role that helps businesses and personalities stay ahead in the fast-paced world of online content.
- Best for: Social media-savvy users who enjoy browsing and analyzing digital trends
- Startup time: A few hours to set up a profile and outline your services
- Effort to start: Low
- Time to first payment: Depends on the client and project agreement
✅ What You Should Know:
- Since “content consumer” is still a new job title, it’s important to clearly define your services and expertise when marketing yourself.
- Promote your offerings on freelance platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or even LinkedIn.
- Include specifics such as your niche (e.g., fashion trends, tech news, meme culture) and the value you bring (like curating viral content or trend forecasting).
🚀 Level Up: If you become highly knowledgeable in trends and online culture, you could transition into content creation or work directly with marketing teams as a trend consultant—boosting your income potential significantly.
7. License your photos to stock photography sites
If you have an eye for capturing great photos, you can start making money online by licensing your images to stock photo platforms. Websites like iStock, Adobe Stock, and Shutterstock allow you to upload and sell your photos, earning a commission every time someone downloads one. You can also share your work on free stock sites like Burst to gain exposure and build your reputation.
- Best for: Creative beginners looking to start a career in photography
- Startup time: Less than 1 hour (if you already have a portfolio of photos)
- Effort level: Low
- Time to first payment: Varies by platform and download activity
✅ What You Should Know:
- Each stock photography site has its own guidelines for image quality, resolution, and subject matter—make sure to review them before submitting.
- Start by uploading your best photos across multiple platforms to increase your chances of sales.
- Natural images, lifestyle shots, and business-related themes tend to perform well.
8. Start freelancing in your area of expertise
A growing trend among home-based businesses is offering freelance services online. Popular freelance roles include copywriting, graphic design, translation, and digital marketing. Platforms like Upwork, 99Designs, and PeoplePerHour are great places to find clients. To boost your credibility, consider creating a simple website to display your portfolio and showcase your work.
🚀 Pro tip: Turn your skills into digital products like downloadable guides or templates. This strategy helped Jack Butcher grow his brand, Visualize Value, by creating scalable income from reusable content.
Ideal for: Beginners with skills in areas like data entry, web development, or content writing.
Startup time: Minimal—you can begin through freelance platforms without a website.
Effort level: Moderate.
Time to first payment: Varies depending on your agreement with clients.
Things to keep in mind:
- Build a strong portfolio with samples, client references, and testimonials. Highlight these on your site.
- Price your services based on your skill level and market rates.
- Sign up for freelance platforms and maintain an up-to-date profile to attract clients.
9. Resell or consign gently used clothing
Selling your unused clothes and accessories is a quick and effective way to make extra cash while decluttering your space. Apps like Depop, Poshmark, and Craigslist make it easy to snap a photo, write a short description, and list items for sale—no need for a website or brand. You can choose to sell locally or offer shipping for broader reach.
🚀 Pro tip: Take it to the next level by selling on established marketplaces or launching your own online thrift or vintage store.
Ideal for: Fashion lovers with overflowing closets.
Startup time: Very low—just photograph, upload, and describe each item.
Effort level: Low—minimal effort beyond handling buyer questions and shipping.
Time to first payout: Varies by platform.
Things to keep in mind:
- List your items on multiple platforms to boost visibility and increase chances of selling.
- Be aware that most selling apps charge listing fees or take a commission from each sale.
10. Launch a blog and monetize it
Blogging is a longtime favorite for digital entrepreneurs like Ryan Robinson and Mattie James. Running a blog lets you share your thoughts, expertise, and experiences on topics you’re passionate about. With platforms like WordPress, you can start a blog with zero technical skills. Then monetize it with ads, sponsored content, or selling your own products and services.
Best for: Writers and enthusiasts with a passion for a particular subject.
Startup time: A few hours to set up, ongoing effort required to maintain and grow.
Effort level: Medium to high.
Time to first payment: Several months, as building traffic and readership takes time.
What to know:
Regularly publishing high-quality content is critical for growing a blog. Make a publishing schedule and stick to it.
Focus on a specific niche rather than a broad topic to attract a dedicated
11. Offer pet-sitting or dog-walking services
Following the post-pandemic pet boom and the return to the office, many dogs and cats are left craving attention. Platforms like Rover make it easy to connect with pet owners in need of pet-sitting, dog walking, or cat visits—and you can be the one to provide the love and care they need!
🚀 Pro tip: Scale up by creating your own pet service business with a website where you can offer pet sitting, walking, and even pet-related products.
Ideal for: Animal lovers who enjoy spending time with pets but aren’t ready for the responsibility of full-time ownership.
Startup time: Quick—just an hour to set up your account.
Effort level: Moderate to high—depends on how many clients you take on.
Time to first payment: Varies, depending on the platform or service you choose.
Things to keep in mind:
- Some sites like Rover provide insurance coverage, so make sure to check if your platform includes that.
- If you’re building your own business, you’ll need to look into any business insurance required.
- Great for teens or young entrepreneurs to kick off with a parent’s support.
12. Participate in online surveys
One of the fastest ways to make money online for beginners is completing online surveys. There are many survey sites and mobile apps that pay users to give their opinion on anything from their shopping behaviors to how they feel about specific product categories. These surveys help brands make business decisions or create new products.
Best for: Those with extra time (and lots of opinions) looking to make money online quickly.
Startup time: A few minutes.
Effort to start: Low.
Time to first payment: Depends on the survey platform’s payment structure.
What to know:
Many survey sites pay in points and you need to earn a certain amount before you redeem them.
Completing online surveys is not a get rich quick scheme, as hourly rates tend to net out to well below minimum wage. Don’t expect this idea to be a reliable or sustainable source of income. Rather, it can provide a few extra bucks to supplement other income sources.
13. Sell custom print-on-demand products
With the rise of print-on-demand (POD) services, artists and creators can now design custom products without worrying about inventory or shipping. When a customer places an order, the POD company prints your design on a product, handles the packaging, and ships it directly to the buyer.
POD products include items like t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, and fan merchandise. It’s an easy, low-risk way to turn your creativity into income with minimal investment.
Ideal for: Beginner artists and creators wanting to monetize their designs, or influencers looking to offer custom fan merch.
Startup time: A few hours to set up an online store and integrate POD services.
Effort level: Easy to start, especially if you already have designs. Maintenance is typically easy to medium.
Time to first payment: Most platforms take about five days after a sale to release funds.
Things to keep in mind:
- Once your store is set up, explore different POD suppliers to compare product quality, pricing, and variety.
- You usually need to be at least 18 to use most ecommerce platforms.
- Depending on your location, certain products may require licenses, permits, or certifications.
14. Buy and resell domain names
Choosing a memorable domain name for a business website is a crucial part of the branding exercise. Many new brands seek the perfect domain name to represent their business and improve discoverability.
You can watch trends and buy related domain names on sites like Shopify, Namecheap, GoDaddy, and Hover. To make the most of this idea, buy up a number of domains and sell each for a small profit.
Best for: Those with some money to invest upfront.
Startup time: Less than an hour.
Effort level: Minimal.
Time to first payment: Varies, depending on form of payment accepted.
What to know:
Buying and selling domain names is not always a way to make fast money. You may sit on a domain for months or even years before seeing a return.
15. Start a drop shipping e Commerce store
Drop shipping is another low-cost ecommerce model where products are shipped directly from the supplier or manufacturer to the customer. It’s an attractive option for beginners since you don’t have to manage inventory or handle shipping—your main focus is driving traffic and providing customer service.
Ideal for: New entrepreneurs wanting to dip their toes into ecommerce.
Startup time: A few hours to set up a store and find reliable suppliers.
Effort level: Medium to start and scale; low once it’s up and running.
Time to first payment: Expect a wait of about five days after a sale to receive your payout, depending on the platform.
Things to keep in mind:
- You can start by setting up a Shopify store and testing it out with a free trial.
- AliExpress and other drop shipping platforms are great for sourcing products.
- Most ecommerce platforms require you to be at least 18 years old.
- Be mindful that certain products may need licenses, permits, or certifications, depending on your location.
💡 Pro Tip: One of the perks of drop shipping is the ability to quickly pivot and sell trending products. Stay on top of trends by keeping an eye on social media platforms.
16. Sell products on marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy
Online marketplaces have become launchpads for countless successful brands, thanks to their built-in audiences searching for specific types of products. For example, Etsy is a popular destination for buyers seeking handmade and vintage items, while Amazon serves as a global hub for product discovery and research.
The great thing about selling on these platforms is that you don’t need to worry about driving traffic to your own website or building a complex brand—marketplaces do a lot of that for you.
🚀 Pro Tip: Level up by expanding to your own online store. You can sell on both platforms like Etsy and Shopify simultaneously, and use apps like Etsy Marketplace Integration to sync your inventory.
Ideal for: Sellers with vintage or handmade products.
Startup time: Quick—about an hour or two to create your account and list products.
Effort level: Varies depending on the product and business model.
Time to first payment: Can range from the day after to up to 14 days after a sale, depending on the marketplace.
Things to keep in mind:
- Follow Etsy’s guidelines for acceptable products and platform usage.
- Ensure you comply with Amazon’s seller policies to maintain good standing.
- You must be at least 18 to sell on most marketplaces.
- Sellers aged 13–18 can use Etsy, but with the supervision of a parent or guardian.
17. Teach or tutor students online
If you’re skilled in subjects like biology, math, or languages, online tutoring can be a great way to earn extra income. Platforms like TutorMe and Fiverr make it easy to connect with students who need help. Alternatively, you could set up a simple website and use social media or word-of-mouth referrals to attract clients.
🚀 Pro Tip: If you find success in tutoring, consider leveling up by creating and selling your own online courses through an ecommerce store.
Ideal for: Aspiring educators or anyone looking to gain teaching experience before launching an online course.
Startup time: A few hours to either set up an account on a tutoring platform or create a website.
Effort level: Medium to start, with ongoing effort depending on how many students you take on.
Time to first payment: Varies depending on how you structure your billing and platform.
Things to keep in mind:
- Many freelance sites will require proof of your expertise in the subject you wish to teach.
- Be aware of transaction fees on tutoring platforms.
- You’ll need in-depth knowledge of your subject matter and may require specific qualifications or certifications, depending on the platform and subject.
18. Build and sell online courses or workshops
Got a special skill or area of expertise you want to share with the world? You can create a course or workshop to teach others. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Skillshare make it easy to design and market educational content to a global audience. Whether you’re offering a photography class or a coding bootcamp, there’s always demand for learning across various fields.
Ideal for: Individuals with specialized knowledge or unique skills in a particular area.
Startup time: A few hours to several weeks, depending on the depth and length of your course.
Effort level: High to create the course, but low to medium effort required to maintain it.
Time to first payment: Varies by platform, but usually within a month after course sales begin.
Things to keep in mind:
- Creating a high-quality course is just part of the journey—you’ll also need to market it. Leverage social media, email campaigns, and collaborate with other educators to get the word out.
19. Earn through affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing allows you to earn passive income by promoting products from brands you love. Once you sign up for an affiliate program, you’ll receive unique links to share on your website or social media. When someone purchases through your link, you earn a commission on the sale. Building a strong content marketing strategy around your affiliate links can help drive traffic, boost clicks, and increase sales.
Ideal for: Anyone with an online audience, from bloggers to social media influencers.
Startup time: A few hours to get set up.
Effort level: Medium to start; minimal ongoing effort to maintain.
Time to first payment: Varies, depending on how well your links perform and the payment terms of the brands.
20 Rent a spare room in your home
If you have extra space in your home, you can make money by renting it out using online listing services or apartment rental platforms. Whether you’re subletting a room in your rental, renting out a garage, or offering a basement apartment, there are plenty of ways to earn online without specialized skills. Depending on your available space, you could even rent it out for recurring uses like an artist’s studio or a band practice space.
Ideal for: Property owners or renters who want to reduce living expenses.
Startup time: Depends on whether your space needs upgrades before renting it out.
Effort to start: Varies based on the condition of the space; medium effort to maintain and manage tenant relationships.
Time to first payment: Typically at the start of the rental agreement or lease term.
Things to keep in mind:
- Renting out a space means you’ll act as the landlord and property manager, which includes handling repairs and ensuring safety.
- Check with your insurance provider and understand the tax implications before listing your space. You’ll also need to comply with local regulations for rental properties.
- For a beginner-friendly option, consider listing your space on short-term rental sites like Airbnb.