12 Practical Ways to Make $100 Fast
Whether you’re looking to pay down debt, cover an unexpected expense, or just add a little cushion to your bank account, there are numerous ways to make $100 quickly. From leveraging your skills to utilizing apps and services, these methods can help you achieve that goal without a major time commitment. Here are 12 practical ways to earn that extra hundred bucks fast.
1. Sell Unused Items
One of the quickest ways to generate cash is by selling items you no longer need. Old electronics, furniture, clothing, and even books can often fetch a good price online or in person.
Where to Sell:
Online Marketplaces: Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Poshmark allow you to sell goods quickly.
Garage Sales: A traditional approach that can attract local buyers.
Consignment Shops: Great for clothing and furniture.
Tech Resale Sites: Websites like Gazelle and Decluttr make it easy to sell old electronics.
Not only will this help you make $100, but it’s also a fantastic way to declutter your home. Some items, particularly electronics, may sell for higher prices, allowing you to reach your target faster.
2. Offer Your Skills on Freelance Websites
If you possess a particular skill—be it writing, graphic design, or web development—you can offer your services on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Many companies seek short-term help, and you can find gigs that pay up to $100 or more for just a few hours of work.
Top Sites to Consider:
Upwork
Fiverr
Freelancer
Guru
Ensure your profile is polished and professional to attract potential clients. Many freelancers earn their first $100 within hours by completing small, well-defined tasks, such as writing blog posts or designing logos.
3. Take Online Surveys
While taking surveys alone won’t make you rich, it’s a simple way to earn some extra cash on the side. Many websites reward you for sharing your opinions on products, services, or general lifestyle topics.
Where to Start:
Swagbucks: Earn points for surveys and convert them into cash or gift cards.
InboxDollars: Get paid for taking surveys, watching videos, and more.
Pinecone Research: Offers better-paying opportunities for exclusive members.
Depending on the survey site and your demographic profile, you can earn up to $100 in a few days or weeks. Look for companies that reward points, which you can redeem for cash or gift cards.
4. Drive for a Ride-Sharing Service
If you have a car and some free time, driving for a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can help you earn extra cash. These platforms often provide incentives or bonuses for completing a certain number of rides, which can increase your earnings.
Tips for Earning More:
Drive During Peak Hours: Weekends or evenings often see higher demand.
Check for Surge Pricing: Areas with surge pricing offer higher pay rates.
Maintain a Clean Vehicle: A clean and comfortable ride can lead to better ratings and tips.
In urban areas, it’s possible to make $100 in just a few hours, especially during rush hour or special events.
5. Use Cash-Back Apps
Many people overlook cash-back apps, but they can be a simple and effective way to make money without any extra effort. By using cash-back apps while shopping, you can earn rewards or discounts on everyday purchases.
Top Cash-Back Apps to Try:
Rakuten: Offers cash back for shopping at a wide range of stores.
Ibotta: Provides rebates on grocery and retail items.
Dosh: Offers automatic cash back for linked debit or credit card purchases.
PayPal Honey: Automatically finds and applies the best coupon codes.
Simply shop through these apps and earn cash back or discounts on eligible items. If you plan ahead and pair these apps with sales, you could easily make $100 over time.
6. Pet Sit or Dog Walk
If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking can be a fun and rewarding way to earn $100 fast. Many pet owners seek responsible individuals to care for their furry friends while they’re away.
Where to Find Pet-Sitting Jobs:
Rover: A popular platform for pet owners to find sitters and walkers.
Wag!: Offers opportunities to walk dogs and pet sit.
Care.com: Another platform for finding pet-sitting jobs.
You can set your own rates, and if you take on multiple clients or extended bookings, it’s easy to make $100 in just a few days.
7. Rent Out a Room or Space
If you have an extra room or unused space in your home, consider renting it out for a night or two. Platforms like Airbnb make it easy to connect with potential guests looking for short-term accommodations.
Ways to Rent Out Space:
Rent Out Your Guest Room: Ideal for travelers or tourists.
Rent Your Parking Space: If you don’t have a room, consider renting your garage or driveway.
Offer Unique Experiences: Advertise guided tours or outdoor space for events.
Depending on your location, renting out a space can help you make $100 or more for just a night’s stay.
8. Sign Up for a Gig Economy Job
The gig economy offers various ways to make money quickly. Whether it’s delivering food, grocery shopping, or running errands, various apps allow you to earn money on your schedule.
Popular Gig Economy Apps:
DoorDash: Deliver food to customers in your area.
Postmates: Pick up and deliver anything from food to small packages.
Instacart: Shop for groceries and deliver them to customers.
TaskRabbit: Offer services like assembling furniture or home repairs.
These platforms allow you to pick up small jobs that fit into your schedule, making it possible to earn $100 in a day or two.
9. Offer Virtual Assistance
As businesses become more remote, virtual assistants are in high demand. They can help with various tasks, from scheduling appointments to managing emails and social media accounts.
Where to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs:
Belay Solutions: Offers VA opportunities with businesses in need of administrative support.
Time Etc.: Specializes in freelance VA jobs with flexible hours.
Upwork: Look for VA roles and other administrative tasks.
Many virtual assistants charge hourly rates of $20 or more, so even working just five hours a week can help you hit your $100 target.
10. Create and Sell Handmade Products
If you’re crafty, consider creating handmade items and selling them online or at local markets. From jewelry and candles to custom T-shirts or art, there’s a market for creative products.
Where to Sell Your Crafts:
Etsy: The go-to online marketplace for handmade and vintage items.
Local Craft Fairs: Attend events in your area to showcase your products.
Facebook Marketplace: A great place to sell directly to your community.
Your earning potential depends on the type of item you sell and your pricing strategy, but it’s possible to make $100 or more in a short time.
11. Become a Mystery Shopper
Mystery shopping involves visiting retail stores or restaurants to assess the quality of customer service, cleanliness, and other aspects of the shopping experience. In return, you get paid for your time and may even receive reimbursement for your purchases.
Where to Start:
Market Force: Offers paid assignments for visiting various businesses.
BestMark: Provides opportunities for mystery shoppers across the country.
Secret Shopper: Another reliable mystery shopping platform.
By completing a few mystery shop assignments, you could easily make $100 in a week.
12. Sell Your Plasma
It’s not for the faint of heart, but donating plasma is another way to earn quick money while contributing to a good cause. Plasma is used to treat various medical conditions, and donating is generally safe.
Earning Potential:
Depending on the plasma donation center and your location, you can earn between $30 to $70 per session, with some centers offering bonuses for frequent donations. To get started, find a certified plasma donation center near you, such as CSL Plasma or BioLife.
The Bottom Line
Making $100 quickly is achievable if you are proactive and willing to explore various options. From selling unused items to leveraging gig economy platforms, there are many ways to turn your time or assets into cash.
Some methods will offer quick rewards, while others, like freelancing or virtual assistance, may take longer to build momentum but can provide more sustainable income over time. Whether you’re looking for a one-time payout or a long-term way to boost your income, these methods can help you reach your financial goals quickly. Start by choosing one or two methods that align with your strengths, and remember to check for any legal or tax implications, especially if you’re engaging in self-employment or selling goods.
