20 Ways to Make Extra Money for the Holidays

Do you find yourself wondering how to earn $1,000 for the holidays? Whether you’re aiming to bolster your holiday budget or build up some extra cash on the side, there are numerous avenues to explore for making extra money during the festive season. The holidays often come with a flurry of expenses, from Halloween costumes to Thanksgiving feasts and lavish Christmas gifts. Instead of dipping into your savings or fretting over the financial strain, why not discover ways to earn an additional $1,000 or more?

This guide presents 20 practical methods to help you pad your holiday budget, keep financial stress at bay, and even stash away some extra cash for future needs. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can make your holidays more enjoyable and financially manageable.

1. Get Paid for Your Opinion

Taking online surveys can be an easy way to supplement your income during the holidays. While you may not hit the $1,000 mark solely through surveys, they can complement other income sources. To maximize your earnings, sign up with multiple survey companies. Here are 12 trusted ones to consider:

• Prime Opinion
• Toluna
• InboxDollars
• Survey Junkie
• Swagbucks
• Branded Surveys
• Pinecone Research
• American Consumer Opinion
• My Points
• Valued Opinion
• Opinion Outpost
• LifePoints

2. House Sitting

Holidaymakers often need reliable house sitters to look after their homes, pets, and plants while they’re away. You could earn extra money by taking on this responsibility, which may involve staying at their property or making periodic check-ins. Rates typically range from $25 to $50 per day.

3. Dog Walking and Pet Sitting

The holiday season can be hectic for pet owners. Offer your services as a dog walker or pet sitter to help care for furry friends while their owners are busy or traveling. Check Craigslist, Facebook, and other online platforms to find opportunities.

4. Sell Unwanted Items

Declutter your home and make extra holiday cash by selling items you no longer need. You can use various platforms:

• Thrift Stores
• eBay
• Craigslist
• Garage/Yard Sales
• Facebook Marketplace

5. One-Time Gigs on Craigslist

Browse the “gigs” section on Craigslist to find short-term, one-time job opportunities. You can choose gigs that fit your schedule, complete the work, and get paid promptly.

6. Start an Etsy Shop

If you’re creative, consider opening an Etsy shop to sell handmade and vintage items. Etsy is a popular platform for unique holiday gifts.

7. Get a Roommate

If you have extra space, consider renting a room to a roommate temporarily. This can quickly earn you money for the holidays and help cover your expenses.

8. Amazon Selling

Become an Amazon seller and earn money by selling products on the world’s largest online marketplace. It’s possible to make substantial profits, as some sellers have reported earning over $100,000 in their first year.

9. Earn Rewards with Swagbucks

Swagbucks allows you to earn free gift cards and cash by shopping online, searching the web, and taking surveys. They’ve given out millions in cash and gift cards.

10. Babysitting

Parents often need babysitters for holiday parties and events. Sign up on websites like Care.com and SitterCity.com to find babysitting opportunities in your area.

11. Mystery Shopping

Mystery shopping lets you get paid to dine out or shop. Sign up with legitimate mystery shopping companies to earn money and possibly enjoy free meals or products.

12. Cashback Shopping

Use cashback websites like Rakuten to earn a percentage of your purchases back when shopping online. Many popular stores offer cashback, helping you save money on holiday shopping.

13. Rent Out Your RV

If you own an RV, consider renting it out to travelers during the holiday season. RVshare connects RV owners with renters, offering a unique way to make extra money.

14. Seasonal Retail Jobs

Many businesses hire seasonal workers for the holidays. Consider applying for temporary positions at companies like UPS, the US Postal Service, Kohl’s, Michaels, and 1-800-Flowers.com.

15. Food Delivery

With increased holiday demand, food delivery services like DoorDash, Instacart, Shipt, and UberEats often need more drivers. Sign up and earn extra money while delivering food.

16. Bill Trimming

Cutting down on expenses can free up extra holiday cash. Consider switching to a cheaper cell phone plan, reducing the number of streaming services you subscribe to, eating more meals at home, utilizing your local library, or even attempting a no-spend challenge.

17. Help with Household Tasks

Offer your assistance with household tasks like cleaning, snow shoveling, organizing, and holiday decoration hanging. You can advertise your services on platforms like Facebook and NextDoor.

18. Offer Your Handmade Crafts

If you’re skilled at crafting, create unique holiday gifts or decorations to sell at local craft fairs, online marketplaces, or directly to friends and family.

19. Tutoring

Leverage your expertise to tutor students in subjects you excel in. Many students require additional help before final exams, making tutoring in high demand during the holidays.

20. Virtual Assistance

Consider offering your services as a virtual assistant to businesses or entrepreneurs who may need extra help during the holiday season. Tasks can include email management, social media scheduling, and more.

How to Make Money Fast for the Holidays: Summary

To make money quickly for the holidays, explore the options mentioned above. Some of the fastest ways include taking surveys, participating in one-time gigs, and leveraging cashback opportunities. Be proactive, seize the holiday hustle, and you’ll be well on your way to earning extra cash for a festive season to remember.