Unlock Extra Income: 10 Side Hustles to Boost Your Finances without Overwhelming Your Life

The cost of living crisis is snapping at our heels, so it's the perfect time to explore some side hustles that won't take over your life. These ideas are ideal for those with limited time and can be incorporated into your daily routine or worked on over a few days. While many side hustle suggestions are US-specific, I'm flipping the script and offering side hustles specifically for people in the United Kingdom. However, most of these options are also available in other regions, including the United States. I personally generate around £150 a month from these tasks (excluding ACX), and I spend no more than an hour a day on all of them combined.

Please note that some of these suggestions may require spending money. I'm not suggesting you spend money differently than you currently do. Instead, I encourage you to think about your spending habits and adapt your mindset to generate income from your existing activities.

Paid Product Testing:

I must admit, I haven't been successful in receiving products for testing. However, by answering daily survey questions and occasionally participating in longer surveys (which take about 10 to 15 minutes), you can accumulate points that can be redeemed for vouchers, including those for Amazon and PayPal.

Swagbucks:

If you have a lot of time or enjoy occasional ventures, Swagbucks can be a decent way to earn a few pounds here and there. This survey site resembles a party, with countless surveys available all over the platform. On certain nights, they even host live games with presenters, resembling a TV show. Personally, I've earned over £3500 in four years, but I find it a bit time-consuming. So, I drift in and out, completing a survey every few days.

Top Cashback:

This is one of my favorite methods to earn money, whether it's through holidays, purchasing electronics, or even grocery shopping. Think of Top Cashback as a search engine. Before making an online purchase, visit their website and check if the store you're buying from is one of their approved retailers. I earn around £1000 per year using this website. For instance, this week I purchased a new Apple Watch and earned £113 in cashback. In the past, I've earned up to £300 on a holiday. Sometimes, insurance companies offer significant payouts when you sign up through the Top Cashback portal.

Shoppix:

When it comes to shopping, the Shoppix app is your friend. Ensure you get a receipt for every purchase you make and scan it into the app. You'll receive 2.5 pence per receipt, and once you reach £5, £10, or £20, you can exchange it for Amazon or PayPal vouchers. The app also provides an email address where you can forward online purchase receipts, so it's not limited to physical in-store purchases. Additionally, the app occasionally offers surveys that allow you to earn extra points. However, be aware that your purchase data is being sold under the guise of customer research, though your identity as the purchaser remains anonymous.

Amazon Mechanical Turk:

The name may be puzzling, but Amazon Mechanical Turk is an excellent way to earn small amounts of money that gradually increase over time. It may take a few weeks, months, or even years to gain access, but once you do, the earning potential is significant. Most tasks involve simple processes like verifying information, correcting data, and checking reviews. As you become more established, you can earn more, and higher-paying services may become available. Simple tasks on Amazon Mechanical Turk can easily earn you the equivalent of a minimum wage per hour.

Investing:

Allocate £10 per month to an app like Trading 212. Purchase small percentages of shares that gradually accumulate into full shares. Opt for stocks that pay dividends, and over time, your initial modest income can grow substantially. For example, owning £4500 in Apple shares can earn you enough money to buy the top-spec iPhone each year. Now, that's something to consider!

eBay:

Never forget the oldest side hustle in the book. Look around your house and gather everything you haven't used in two years, then sell it on eBay. It may be slow and tedious, but the money you make can be used for investments, debt repayment, or savings. If you haven't touched an item in two years, chances are you won't miss it. Let go of sentimental value and use the proceeds in whichever way you prefer, whether it's paying off debts, funding a holiday, or building savings.

Cashback Cards:

Opt for bank and credit cards that offer cashback. If you use a credit card, make sure to pay it off in full each month to avoid interest charges. Cashback cards should never be underestimated. Every three months, I earn enough cashback to cover a week's worth of groceries.

ACX:

If you have a clear and confident voice, ACX might be the perfect opportunity for you. Many self-published authors lack the confidence to narrate their own audiobooks. ACX allows you to pitch for work as an audiobook narrator, opening unexpected avenues for you. Keep in mind that this may require purchasing some equipment, and recording must be done in complete silence, so it may not suit everyone. Personally, I've earned up to £8000 in certain years, but it can be a lengthy and demanding endeavor.

Amazon Shopper Panel:

While this option doesn't generate physical cash, it provides vouchers that can be spent on Amazon. Sign up for the panel and regularly check in to complete surveys. Once you've been using the app for a while, it will allow you to share receipts from places other than Amazon, enabling you to earn small amounts of money. While it may not yield substantial earnings, spending a few minutes each month can accumulate up to £15 in Amazon vouchers.

Remember, these side hustles won't drastically change your life, but they'll encourage you to think differently about how you approach earning extra income. Embrace the opportunities within your existing activities and gradually increase your financial resources.