If you’re in a pinch and need to make $500 fast, there are plenty of legal and creative ways to boost your bank account. Whether you’re facing a sudden expense or just want some extra cash for the weekend, these options can help you reach your financial goal quickly.
1. Drive for DoorDash – Earn $1,000 in a Flash!
Need cash urgently? Become a DoorDash driver and rake in $15 to $25 per hour. DoorDash dominates the market, offering flexible schedules and weekly or daily payouts. Follow these tips from experienced Dashers to maximize your earnings:
- Drive during peak hours, especially during dinner and weekend evenings.
- Make it a fun experience by bringing a friend or spouse along.
- Use mileage tracking apps like Everlance for tax deductions.
- Benefit from DoorDash promotions like Peak Pay and Challenges.
Learn more about becoming a DoorDash driver.
2. Take Online Surveys – A Simple Way to Add to Your Wallet
While online surveys won’t make you rich overnight, combining them with other strategies can significantly boost your income. Check out Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys, paying up to $3 per survey. Sign up for multiple survey sites to increase your earning potential.
Earn cash with Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys.
3. Freelance Your Skills – Unlocking Your Earning Potential
Leverage your skills to start freelancing and quickly make $1,000 or more monthly. Explore various freelance paths, such as:
- Digital marketing
- Writing
- Graphic design
- Virtual assistance
- Bookkeeping
- Web development
- Proofreading
Platforms like FlexJobs, Upwork, and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients, offering diverse opportunities.
Discover freelance opportunities on platforms like FlexJobs and Upwork.
4. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking – Have Fun While Earning
If you love pets, consider pet sitting or dog walking. Use Rover, a popular app connecting pet owners with caregivers. Set your rates, availability, and service offerings. Earn $35-$70 per night for pet sitting and $15-$25 per walk for dog walking.
Join Rover and get paid to play with pets.
5. Earn Cash Back with Ibotta – Shopping Smartly
Download Ibotta, an app that rewards you for everyday shopping. Earn up to 30% cash back at major retailers like Target, Home Depot, and Domino’s Pizza. Ibotta works for both in-store and online purchases, making it a convenient way to accumulate cash.
Sign up for Ibotta and start earning cash back.
6. Rent Out Your Unused Space – Turn Empty Spaces into Cash
List your unused space on Neighbor, a platform similar to Airbnb but for storage. Rent out your garage, basement, or attic and set your own rates. This alternative to traditional storage spaces is a creative way to make extra money.
Monetize your unused space with Neighbor.
7. Rent Out Your Car – Make Money from Your Idle Vehicle
Don’t let your car sit idle. List it on HyreCar, a peer-to-peer rental marketplace, and earn around $35 per day. This passive income stream is perfect if you’re working from home or have a spare vehicle.
Rent out your car on HyreCar and start earning.
8. Open a New Bank Account – Grabbing Easy Cash Bonuses
Take advantage of bank promotions by opening a new checking account. Check out SoFi, offering cash bonuses ranging from $50 to $300. Some promotions require setting up direct deposit, but it’s a simple way to pocket extra cash.
Explore SoFi’s cash bonus offers for new accounts.
9. Get Cash Back When You Buy Gas – Upside App Rewards
Ease the burden of rising gas prices with the Upside app. Earn up to $0.25 per gallon in cash back at over 50,000 locations nationwide. Simply fill up your tank, check in, and upload your receipt to start accumulating cash.
Start saving on gas with the Upside app.
10. Sell Your Stuff – Declutter for Quick Cash
Turn your unused items into quick cash by selling them online. Platforms like Decluttr, Chairish, Poshmark, and ThredUp cater to various items, from electronics to clothing. Consider traditional methods like yard sales, Craigslist, and eBay for a fast turnaround.
Explore selling options on Decluttr, Chairish, and more.
11. Babysit – Fun and Profitable Side Gig
If you enjoy working with kids, offer babysitting services. Use Care.com to connect with families seeking childcare. Word-of-mouth and online platforms can help you find opportunities quickly.
Join Care.com and start offering your babysitting services.
12. Find a Part-Time Job – Traditional Yet Effective
Part-time jobs are still a reliable way to make extra money. Whether delivering pizzas or taking up other flexible roles, part-time gigs provide immediate cash. Check local listings or platforms like NextDoor for job opportunities.
Find part-time opportunities in your area.
13. Negotiate for a Raise – Boost Your Long-Term Income
Don’t overlook the potential for a raise at your current job. Research industry standards, choose the right time, and practice your pitch. Even a modest increase can significantly impact your monthly income.
Learn effective negotiation strategies for a raise.
14. Sell Things on eBay – Profit from Your Flips
Tap into the lucrative world of eBay selling. Spot items at flea markets, garage sales, or thrift stores and sell them for a profit. Consider high-demand categories like car parts, cameras, antiques, and collectibles.
Start selling on eBay and turn your finds into profits.
15. Start Tutoring – Share Your Knowledge for Cash
If you excel in a particular subject, offer tutoring services. Whether ACT/SAT prep or subject-specific tutoring, you can earn $30-$100 per hour. Advertise your services on social media, local platforms, or tutoring websites like Book Nook.
Explore tutoring opportunities on Book Nook and other platforms.
16. Try Flea Market Flipping – Turn Trash into Treasure
Flea market flipping involves finding undervalued items and selling them for a profit. Develop an eye for profitable flips and explore various sources like flea markets, garage sales, and thrift stores.
17. Find Odd Jobs – Quick Gigs for Fast Cash
Browse platforms like Craigslist and NextDoor for odd jobs in your area. Whether unloading a truck, installing drywall, or providing drone footage, these small tasks can quickly add up to a few hundred dollars.
18. Yard Work and Maintenance – Cash in on Outdoor Chores
Offer yard work and maintenance services to neighbors and local residents. From mowing lawns to shoveling snow, these tasks can earn you $20 per hour or more. Advertise your services online and in your community.
19. Get a Balance Transfer Credit Card – Save on Interest, Save Money
Take control of your credit card debt with a balance transfer card. Enjoy 0% interest for 12-18 months, reducing your overall interest charges. Be mindful of associated fees and
ensure you can pay off the balance within the promotional period.
20. Sell Your Unused Gift Cards – Turn Gift Cards into Cash
If you have unused gift cards, sell them on platforms like Raise and Cardsell. Get paid through PayPal, check, or direct deposit, putting your unused gift cards to good use.
21. Donate Your Plasma – Earn While Helping Others
Consider donating plasma for both a charitable act and extra cash. Earn $30 to $100 per donation, with each session taking up to 2 hours. Many donation sites provide compensation for your time.
Conclusion: A Multifaceted Approach for Fast Cash
Combine several of these strategies to reach your $500 goal quickly. Whether driving for DoorDash, taking surveys, or freelancing, these legal and diverse options offer a practical roadmap to financial relief. While making money fast addresses immediate needs, continuing to explore additional income sources builds financial resilience for the future.