Studies show that more people are taking on side hustles, whether they already have full-time jobs, are in between jobs, or are in school. Side hustles offer a way to earn extra income, but many options don’t pay out immediately and can take weeks or months before you see any money. But if you’re looking to make money on a much quicker timeline, some side hustles allow you to earn within an hour or less, although income isn’t guaranteed.

Here are nine side hustles that may let you earn money fairly quickly. To determine the best options for this list, we considered a few factors:

– Can you get paid the same day you complete the work, or is same-day pay an option?

– Does the side hustle require minimal experience and skills to get started?

– Is it flexible enough to fit around your schedule?

While some of these ideas may require a little setup, they’re usually straightforward once you get going and could provide a fast way to earn extra cash.

Nine Ways to Earn Money in an Hour or Less

With the growing popularity of social media and freelance platforms, there are countless side hustles you can try. Here are a few options where you might make money right away.

1. Dog Walking or Pet Sitting

Effort to find work: You might need to sign up with a pet care service or build a client base by word of mouth.

With millions of American households owning dogs, pet care services are often in high demand. If you enjoy animals, consider becoming a dog walker or pet sitter. Dog walking typically involves leaving your home, but pet sitting can often be done at your or the client’s residence. You might need to promote your services, but even simple flyers in apartment buildings or local parks can help. This side hustle often pays directly after each job.

2. Babysitting

Effort to find work: Relatively low effort if you rely on word of mouth or sign up with a babysitting service.

Babysitting involves looking after a child’s needs while the parents or guardians are away. If you like kids, babysitting can be a flexible gig that allows you to earn extra money at different times. It’s also a job that often pays on the same day.

3. Handyperson Jobs

Effort to find work: Some effort may be required to advertise your skills or build a reputation by word of mouth.

If you’re handy with repairs and maintenance, you might consider side jobs as a handyperson. Tasks might include minor carpentry, plumbing, or assembling furniture. Depending on the arrangement, you can choose to be paid by the hour or per project. Most of the time, you’ll be paid right after completing the job.

4. Selling Unused Items

Effort to find work: Minimal effort, especially if you use digital platforms to sell items.

Look around your home for items you no longer need. Furniture, clothes, and other belongings can often be sold quickly on online marketplaces. As you declutter, you’ll also be making money.

5. Convert Coins to Cash

Effort to find work: Minimal effort for those who have spare coins.

Collect any loose change around your home and convert it to cash. You can use machines at grocery stores or take your coins to a bank. Making a habit of this every few weeks can add up to a little extra spending money.

6. Signing Up for a Delivery Service

Effort to find work: Easy to apply, but it may take a few days or weeks to start after applying.

Delivery services for groceries, takeout, and more have created new side hustle opportunities. Drivers are often paid per delivery, and you might also earn tips and bonuses. Some services offer daily payouts, making it possible to get paid quickly. You’ll need to be at least 18 and may need a driver’s license and car insurance if you’re driving. Approval may take a few days.

7. Recycling Bottles and Cans

Effort to find work: Some effort needed to collect enough bottles and cans to make it worthwhile.

States like California and New York pay you for turning in plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Check your state’s rates for recycling and see if it’s worthwhile. This is an eco-friendly side hustle that can bring in some extra money, especially if you make it a regular habit.

8. Mowing Lawns

Effort to find work: Low effort if you already have access to a lawn mower and live in an area with lawns.

If you own a lawn mower and live in a neighborhood with lawns, you could earn money mowing for neighbors. It’s often easy to ask around and find clients, making this a quick way to make money. Just remember to be cautious when offering services to people you don’t know.

9. Renting Out a Room or Your Home

Effort to find work: Low effort to sign up, but it may take some time before you see your first booking.

If you travel frequently or have a spare room, you might consider renting out space on short-term rental platforms. Most platforms allow you to review profiles and reviews of potential guests before accepting bookings, offering a bit of security. This can be an easy way to make extra money when you’re not home.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, it’s worth trying a few side gigs to see which fits best with your schedule, skills, and income needs. Experiment with different options to find out which side hustle works best for you.