How many times have you heard that question asked by your friends or family members? Maybe it's been months since the last time. You know what they mean though, you've had this feeling before where something is just not adding up. How are these people getting so much money without having to work at all? Well, there's an answer...it involves some sort of "magic trick" but we're going to talk about that later in this article. First, let's discuss why they might be asking such questions.
There are multiple reasons why someone would ask this kind of question. If they don't earn very much money themselves, maybe their savings account isn't as healthy as they'd like it to be. It could also be because they feel overwhelmed with bills and debt payments while simultaneously trying to save more money every month. Perhaps they want to start investing in the stock market but fear that doing so will cause them financial hardship if the markets crash down again. Or perhaps they simply haven't found any legitimate ways to increase their income enough over the years to reach their goals. Whatever the reason may be, there are actually several methods out there which anyone can use to generate extra cash quickly and easily. We'll go through those below. But first things first, let's take a look at one way you can make five bucks right now.
If you aren't earning much money yourself, then chances are your employer doesn't offer a 401k plan (or similar retirement savings option). The good news is that there are numerous companies out there who are willing to pay you to open an investment account at no cost whatsoever. This benefit alone has allowed millions upon millions of Americans to build long-term wealth throughout history. In fact, according to CNBC reports, roughly 95% of American adults own stocks today due to the power of compounding interest. So, instead of letting the opportunity pass you by, check out companies like Wealthy Investing Network and see if they offer services near you. If you live outside of North America, try checking out companies like SmartAsset. As far as I'm concerned, it's worth giving both a shot. Just remember that when signing up for either company, always read the fine print carefully. Some of these programs require applicants to meet certain criteria prior to receiving their funds. For example, you must first receive approval from the program coordinator/administrator before being eligible to withdraw your initial deposit. Also keep in mind that most of these plans only allow investors to invest once per week or once per month, rather than daily like traditional brokerage firms. However, if you're looking to put away larger amounts regularly, this shouldn't deter you too much. Lastly, remember that you should never share personal information including Social Security number, bank accounts numbers, etc. during signup unless absolutely necessary. Otherwise, you run the risk of identity theft. Now that you understand why someone might need access to an immediate lump sum of cash, let's move onto another possibility.
This method will probably surprise you because it works similarly to other popular apps nowadays. Essentially, you send someone else money using two different platforms known as Cash App and PayPal. While it sounds complicated, it really isn't. Here's how it goes.
First off, download the Cash App mobile app to find out if you qualify to participate. Then log into the platform and create your profile. Once you do, choose how much you want to give. Remember, you won't be charged anything until the end of the process. Next, locate the button labeled "Send Money." Hit that button, type in the amount you wish to transfer along with the recipient's email address, and hit Send. That person will immediately receive the payment via direct deposit and won't even notice that it came straight from you. On top of that, users will often receive their funds within 2 business days after sending their request. To learn more, visit the Cash App website here.
Now that you understand why someone might need instant access to a small amount of money, let's move onto our next step.
Before we continue discussing how you can make money, it's important to note that there are plenty of apps available today which provide users with opportunities to gain rewards. Many of these include credit card bonuses, travel deals, gift cards, etc. One such app is Swagbucks. Basically, users perform tasks such as watching videos, shopping online, completing surveys, playing games, reading articles, answering polls, searching websites, taking quizzes, etc., in order to help complete offers made by advertisers. Users often earn points called SBs which they can redeem against merchandise sold exclusively by Swagbucks vendors, subscriptions, sweepstakes entries, and referral bonus checks. These merchants usually range between tech gadgets, household items, apparel, home goods, health products, electronics, toys, video games, books, etc. After collecting enough SBs, users can convert them to cash which they can donate to charity, spend on stuff they already bought, or reinvest back into the site itself. Check out their FAQ page here. According to Swagbucks' Compensation Plan overview, new customers can expect to earn $25-$100 per hour depending on whether they decide to become Verified Members ($50) or Non-Verified Members ($75). Keep in mind that non-members will still be able to watch ads and collect reward credits, however, verification status provides additional benefits such as faster redemption rates, higher earnings limits, and the ability to refer others without incurring monthly fees. Swagbucks also allows users to set up recurring deposits directly inside the app. Additionally, they currently support debit and credit cards. Other sites offering similar compensation models include Inbox Dollars and ReferralCodes.
Lastly, let's examine how exactly you can claim your $5 PayPal balance.
To submit a dispute code, head over to PayPal's Resolution Center page. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and select My Account > View Your Recent Activity. There, scroll down further until you come across a green box titled "Dispute Code(s)." Click it. From there, enter the code provided by your customer service rep. You should receive a response stating that your case was submitted successfully. Depending on what happened, PayPal should follow up with an automated reply telling you the outcome. Hopefully, you'll hear back from them sooner rather than later. At least that means they took your issue seriously.
So many questions. How would it feel if someone just gave me five bucks without asking anything in return? Well that's exactly what we're going to explore today. We'll be using some of our favorite apps and websites to learn how to earn $5 from anyone with no strings attached.
Now don't worry about getting bored or being disappointed because the method is simple but not easy. The results are guaranteed though so stay tuned till the end. After all, who knows, this could actually change your life forever...
1. Make Money by Selling Your Own Stuff
If you have stuff lying around unused then why not sell them instead of throwing them away? There's an app called Fiverr where people will pay you up to $5 for small jobs like making phone calls, delivering things etc. You decide the price based on the value you place on your services. It takes less than 10 minutes to set up an account and start earning. And yes, there are hundreds of other ways to get paid too.
2. Earn Free Gift Cards From Retailers
Amazon has made gift cards more accessible as they've added options such as Amazon Pay balance transfer cards which let you use your card at over 40 million retail locations nationwide. If you already shop at Amazon frequently, here's another way to save money while shopping. Just follow these three steps:
Sign into Amazon Go (Free)
Select "Gift Card" under Shop Now
Choose one of the available Amazon Gift Cards from the list.
3. Get Paid In Store Credit For Shopping At Target
Target offers shoppers store credit when they spend certain amounts in their stores. They call it Cartwheel program and currently offer two different programs - Cartwheel Savings Club and Cartwheel Visa Rewards Program. Both require you to register first before receiving any credit.
The process is very straightforward. Once registered, go to your nearest target store and buy something worth above a specific amount. When checking out, ask for store credits rather than paying with cash. Then swipe your Cartwheel Member ID slip inside the checkout scanner whenever you check out. This helps boost sales and gives customers more incentive to come back again.
4. Sell Online To Build A List Of Subscribers
There are thousands of products you can choose to promote online through affiliate marketing. All you need to do is find a suitable product for yourself and sign up as an affiliate marketer. Affiliate marketers receive commissions every time someone buys the promoted product after clicking a link provided in emails sent by affiliates. Commissions vary depending on the type of sale generated. Some popular choices include e-books, digital downloads, membership sites, coaching programs, auto-ship orders, etc.
Most companies offering commission rates will provide detailed information regarding minimum payout thresholds, transaction fees, and monthly payments via bank transfers, direct deposit, or electronic checks. Checkout Commission Junction website for details. Also read our guide to starting an internet business.
5. Start An Etsy Business Or Sell Handmade Products On eBay
Etsy marketplace allows sellers worldwide to showcase their talents and craftsmanship. People looking to buy unique gifts or handmade items can browse and purchase directly from sellers across the globe. As long as you fulfill transactions securely, Etsy charges a fee of 4% plus 30 cents per item sold.
Sellers also benefit from better conversion rates since buyers often prefer buying from smaller artists selling locally. The site itself provides tools to help increase traffic, engagement, and profits. Here are some great tips for newbies.
6. Create Custom PDF Books With Canva
Canva is a graphic design platform used by millions of professionals for creating professional documents. But did you know that you can create custom books with this tool too? Yes, even textbooks!
You can either choose templates or upload images to build attractive covers. Add text boxes and add tables, charts, pictures, videos, audio files, links, buttons, etc. The possibilities seem endless once you open Canva.
7. Take Surveys For Extra Money
Surveys are fun yet tedious tasks you must complete daily. However, you can easily take surveys for extra money to supplement your income. Simply join survey panels and submit completed surveys to qualify for reward points. These points translate to real cash eventually.
To avoid scams, look for legitimate surveys panels only. Join relevant panels according to interests. Most reputable panels charge a minimal registration fee ranging between $10-$30 annually. Registering with multiple irrelevant panelists may lead to spamming. So stick to quality ones only.
8. Rent Out Items You Don't Use Anymore Using Airbnb
Airbnb is a trusted alternative accommodation service for travelers seeking short term rentals or sublets. Since its launch in 2008, the company has grown significantly and become a global pioneer of sharing economy.
Today, Airbnb hosts rent rooms, entire homes, castles, villas, tents, cars, trucks, boats, RVs, yurts, and other spaces to visitors world over. Whether you live in New York City or London, renting space with Airbnb lets you meet locals and experience local culture firsthand. Plus, it saves lots of money.
9. Become A Freelancer By Working Whenever And Wherever You Want
Freelancing enables individuals to work independently from home or anywhere else they want. While freelancers usually have full control over working hours, projects, clients, terms, location, deadlines, wages, expenses, etc., remote workers lack much needed support systems. That's why most remote workers establish a virtual office system to manage projects, communicate regularly, track progress, etc.
Here are some ideas for setting up your own freelance business.
10. Sell Photos Online Through ShutterStock
Shutterstock is probably the largest stock photo library in existence today. Their mission is to connect photographers and designers to publishers. Photographers can upload photos and illustrations for consideration. Designers can pitch creative concepts for illustration. Editors review submitted materials and select those that appeal to their tastes.
11. Work Part Time Doing Data Entry Jobs For Companies Like Walmart
Data entry job involves entering data obtained from forms, spreadsheets, databases, screens, etc. into predefined formats. You can perform data entry tasks anytime you want. If done part-time, you can fit them seamlessly into everyday schedules. Moreover, you don't need special training or certification to begin.
Online data entry opportunities abound on UpWork and Indeed. Even if you aren't good with numbers, you can still land lucrative data entry jobs. All you need is a computer, smartphone, reliable Internet connection, and willingness to put in effort.
12. Perform Medical Transcription Services Remotely Via MediTrans
MediTrans is a medical transcription provider serving healthcare providers nationwide. The company recruits experienced health care practitioners to transcribe doctors' notes remotely for compensation.
In addition to performing duties efficiently, candidates should possess excellent communication skills. Applicants should speak English fluently along with having strong writing abilities. Besides providing a steady source of additional income, Medical Transcribers enjoy flexible scheduling, competitive hourly wage rate, generous benefits package, 401K plan matching, etc.
13. Become a Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant works from her/his personal laptop or desktop PC connected to the web. VA responsibilities range from administrative, social media management, bookkeeping, event planning, customer relations, content development, blog creation, etc.
Many VAs work remotely from home offices, cafes, libraries, hotels, airports, etc. Others travel within driving distance to customers' physical addresses. Either way, VAs generally enjoy higher flexibility, lower costs associated with commuting, and ability to attend important events during weekends.
14. Become a Live Stream Host On Twitch.tv
Twitch.tv is the leading destination for gamers to watch, chat, and share gameplay footage among themselves. Users stream games on live video feeds hosted on their computers. Viewers tune in to catch glimpses of epic battles and exciting moments happening on screen.
Live stream hosting requires users to install dedicated streaming software onto their PCs. Popular applications for live streams include OBS Studio, XSplit Broadcaster, GameStream, Emperium Streaming Server, Open Broadcast Software, Livestream Producer, Kaltura, Justin.tv, Mixer, YouTube, Ustream, Periscope, Meerkat, Twitter, Facebook Live, Google Hangouts, Skype Webcast, Discord, Rocket.Chat, Zoom, Blender, Adobe Flash Player, Microsoft Silverlight, Apple QuickTime Pro, Windows Media Video 9, etc.
15. Be A Mystery Shopper
Mystery shopper tests retailers by pretending to be interested consumers. They visit various shops and sample merchandise offered there. Afterwards, mystery shoppers report their experiences and opinions to managers anonymously.
Retailers rely heavily upon mystery shoppers to improve their overall performance. Hence, prices charged by mystery shoppers tend to be fair and reasonable. Usually, mystery shoppers are compensated for their efforts.
Useful Tips for Making Money Fast Online
Making money fast online isn't difficult if you try hard enough. Unfortunately, many beginners fall prey to fraudulent schemes. Before joining any opportunity, research thoroughly and apply commonsense principles. Follow these proven methods below to ensure success:
Set realistic goals and expectations. Remember, nothing comes overnight. Success doesn't happen overnight.
Sometimes it's easy enough just googling "how do i get free money" or something similar. But other times...well, we know the feeling when you're looking at your phone screen wondering where that extra dollar went from your paycheck.
So what if there was some quick way to take out cash whenever you wanted without having to worry about fees or waiting for funds transfer? Well, lucky for you, there is! We've compiled everything you need to know about getting paid for doing absolutely nothing with these three apps.
In this article, we'll explain exactly how to withdraw $5 using PayPal, CashApp, and Venmo. If you want more than $5, check out our guide to withdrawing large amounts of cash from any bank account.
Cash App allows users to send and receive payments between friends and family. To access their balance, they simply visit the app store within the app itself. From here, users will see an overview of all recent transactions as well as upcoming ones. They can also look back through previous transactions by tapping on each one individually.
To deposit money into your Cash App balance, tap the plus sign next to the search bar, then select Deposit Money/Withdrawal Card. Here, you have two options. You can either enter the amount manually (i.e., "$50") or choose Auto Withdraw which lets you set up automatic withdrawals based upon specific criteria (i.e., every time you spend over $100).
If you decide to put down the manual option, be sure to input your personal identification number first. Once done, tap Next. The website should load automatically, but if not, hit Enter. Then, follow the prompts until completion. Depending on whether you chose Manual or Automatic withdrawal, you may have to wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 48 hours before receiving the money in your linked checking account.
When it comes to spending, you can swipe left on any transaction to return it. This feature essentially turns the app into a digital wallet. When sending someone else money, simply tap the menu button located in the upper-right corner of the screen, scroll down, and select Send Funds. Choose who you wish to pay, add a message if necessary, and confirm your payment.
If you'd like to quickly withdraw your money instead, tap More Actions along the bottom of the page, scroll down, and select Withdraw My Money. Again, pick who you would like to pay, add a note if needed, and click Confirm. Afterward, you'll see the results appear on your main Cash App tab.
Once you've withdrawn your money, be aware that you cannot withdraw more than $2,999 per week. In addition, Cash App does not support international transfers. Lastly, keep in mind that Cash App charges its customers 2% fee on top of whatever service charge might apply.
This fee isn't always included in advertised prices so be sure to read the fine print before making any purchases. Also, remember that Cash App only supports debit cards, credit cards, ApplePay, GooglePay, and gift card balances. For those reasons, we recommend taking advantage of PayPal below.
Venmo has been around since 2011 and primarily functions as a peer-to-peer payment platform. It offers both mobile and web applications. Similar to Cash App, you can link multiple accounts together as long as they are associated with the same financial institution.
Like Cash App, Venmo makes paying people pretty simple. First, open the application. On the home feed, tap the Plus (+) sign followed by Add Payment. Select Bank Account/Debit Cards/Credit Cards and proceed once again. Input your name, address, social security number, and banking information. Make sure to include the routing and account numbers for whichever account(s) you plan on linking.
Next, type in the person's email address and password. Finally, complete the rest of the fields accordingly. Once you're finished, press Continue. Your friend will receive an invite via text message asking them to accept your request. Upon accepting, verify your identity by logging into your preferred user profile. Following successful verification, your friend will receive an email notification letting them know you sent them money.
It's important to note that Venmo doesn't allow users to withdraw more than $1,000 weekly. Furthermore, it doesn't offer direct deposits nor does it support international transfers. However, unlike Cash App, Venmo does support debit card purchases. So if you prefer to avoid overdraft fees, this could be a better alternative for you.
Lastly, while most people tend to stick with Cash App due to its ease of use, don't discount Venmo as a viable option. Not only does it come packed with features such as customizable backgrounds, stickers, and emojis, but it's also less expensive. Venmo costs a flat rate of 1 percent plus 15 cents per swiped purchase versus Cash App's 2 percent plus 20 cents.
Claiming your money on Venmo is relatively straightforward. First, head over to your dashboard by clicking the hamburger icon located directly underneath your avatar. Scroll down and select Request Money under Payments. Find the section labeled Claimed and find the entry corresponding to the amount you received. Click View Details to view the individual transaction details.
Keep in mind that while claiming money is fairly simple, requesting money requires additional effort depending on your situation. If you were unable to submit a legitimate claim during checkout, consider reaching out to the sender. A customer service representative should walk you through submitting a dispute ticket. For more detailed instructions, please refer to Venmo's Help Center.
Getting $10 without ever opening an account sounds too good to be true, but it's actually possible thanks to Venmo's referral program. Essentially, this means giving away money to new signups.
For starters, you must create a Venmo account. Thereafter, register a friend named "Referral Link." Simply copy and paste that URL directly into your browser. Within seconds, you'll see the Referral Code pop up on your screen. Now, log into your newly created account and repeat step 3 above. Copy and paste your referral code into the box provided, fill in your contact info, and click Submit. That's it — your friend will receive the money after they successfully complete the registration process.
As mentioned earlier, Venmo limits referrals to no more than $500 per month. Additionally, you won't earn a dime unless your referred friend completes the signup process. Of course, if you happen to recruit many people throughout the year, you could potentially rack up quite a few rewards. Unfortunately, Venmo doesn't provide a systemized method of tracking earned referrals.
While Venmo provides several different ways to save money, we highly suggest setting up a savings goal using a tool like Digits. Unlike traditional banks, this popular app gives users the ability to connect their various accounts together. As a result, you can easily track your earnings across multiple platforms including Venmo, PayPal, Mint, and Zelle.
Just follow our battle-tested guidelines and rake in the profits.