Ever wished there was a magic money tree you could shake whenever you needed some extra cash?
While money may not grow on trees, there are ways to score some free money if you know where to look. You just have to get creative.
Whether you’ve got bills to pay or want to fund your next vacation, who wouldn’t want to find ways to get their hands on some free money?
Lucky for you, we’ve scouted the best ways for you to pad your wallet with some bonus bucks.
From cash-back apps and rewards programs to less conventional methods, you can start funding your next splurge or paying off debt without spending an extra cent.
Read on to discover 10 clever hacks to get free money now.
Get Cash Back When You Shop Online
When you shop online, don’t miss out on free money in the form of cashback. Many major retailers offer cash back for purchases made through their website or mobile app.
All you have to do is sign up for their rewards program, and the savings can really add up over time.
Some of the biggest cash-back offers are:
- eBay – eBay gives 2-10% cash back on all purchases. They frequently run promo codes for even higher rates like 15-20% off.
- Walmart – Walmart’s cashback rates vary from 1-5% and they offer additional ways to earn like surveys, rollbacks, and promo codes. They also price match so you can stack deals.
- Amazon– Amazon’s cashback rates typically range from 1-10% depending on the product category. As a Prime member, you also get 5% back on all purchases. Amazon points can be redeemed for millions of items so you’re really getting free money to spend on whatever you like.
- Target – Target REDcard holders earn an automatic 5% cash back on all Target purchases in-store and online. You can also earn 1-5% back on select items through the Target Circle rewards program.
- Kohl’s – Kohl’s Yes2You Rewards members get Kohl’s Cash for every dollar spent that can be used like cash on a future purchase. Kohl’s also frequently offers additional ways to earn and promo codes for 30% off or more.
Open a High-Yield Savings Account
A high-yield savings account is one of the easiest ways to earn some extra cash each month without lifting a finger. Here’s how it works:
You open an account at an online bank that offers high interest rates, like Ally Bank, Barclays, or Synchrony. These accounts typically pay way more than regular brick-and-mortar banks. We’re talking 10-20 times higher!
Once your account is open, you automatically start earning interest each month just by keeping your money in the account. The more you deposit, the more you earn. It’s that simple.
Most high-yield savings accounts have no minimum balance and no monthly fees. They’re very low-risk since your money is FDIC insured for up to $250,000.
The only catch is you typically can’t write checks from these accounts and are limited to six withdrawals per month. But for earning easy money, that’s a small price to pay.
To maximize your earnings, shop around at different banks to find the highest rates. Even small differences of half a percent or less in APY can add up to hundreds of dollars over a year.
Make high-yield savings accounts your new best friend, and watch as the interest payments start rolling in each month. Before you know it, you’ll have earned enough to treat yourself to something special or pad your emergency fund.
Look for Unclaimed Funds in Your Name
Have you ever wondered if there’s any unclaimed money out there with your name on it?
You’d be surprised at how common it is for people to lose track of bank accounts, tax refunds, insurance payouts, and other funds that legally belong to them.
Check Unclaimed Property Databases
Nearly every state maintains an unclaimed property database, often called a treasurer’s office, where you can search for funds in your name.
Simply enter your information like name, city, and state to see if anything pops up.
Many are even searchable online, such as MissingMoney.com which taps into state databases across the U.S. You could find an old savings account, uncashed check, security deposit refund or other cash owed to you.
If there’s a match, file a claim to recover the money – it’s that easy!
Some other places to check include:
➜ State taxing authority – For any tax refunds you’re due.
➜ Old employers – For uncashed paychecks, expense reimbursements, etc.
➜ Banks and credit unions – For savings accounts, CDs, safe deposit boxes you may have forgotten about.
➜ Insurance companies – For life insurance payouts, health insurance refunds or other benefits owed to you.
➜ Utility companies – For utility deposit refunds if you closed an account.
➜ Brokerages – For stock dividends, bond interest or other investment income not claimed.
Do Market Research Studies
One easy way to earn some free cash is by participating in market research studies.
Companies are always looking for people to provide opinions and feedback on new products or services before they launch. All you have to do is share your thoughts, and you’ll get paid for your time.
Find Studies in Your Area
Check websites like Respondent, Survey Junkie, and User Interviews for available market research studies in your city or online.
You can filter by your demographic profile like age, gender, income, etc. to find studies you qualify for. These typically pay between $30 to $200 for 30 to 90 minutes of your time.
Apply and Get Selected
Once you find a study you’re interested in, apply to participate. The researchers will review your profile to make sure you meet their criteria.
If selected, they’ll contact you with details about the study including the date, time, location, compensation, and what will be involved. Some studies are in-person at a facility, while others allow you to participate remotely over the phone or online.
Provide Your Feedback
On the day of the study, simply provide your honest opinions and insights into the concepts, products or marketing materials the researchers present to you.
There are no right or wrong answers – they just want your genuine reactions and feedback. Some studies involve individual interviews, focus groups, surveys or product testing. Be prepared to discuss what you like, dislike and ways for improvement.
Get Paid
At the conclusion of the study, you’ll receive your compensation, typically in cash or via a digital payment like PayPal.
The researchers greatly appreciate you taking the time to participate and provide your valuable input. And you’ll walk away with some easy money in your pocket for sharing your thoughts!
Drive With Uber or Lyft in Your Spare Time
Driving for Uber or Lyft during your spare time is an easy way to make some extra cash without a major time commitment. As an independent contractor, you get to set your own schedule and work as little or as much as you want.
Requirements
To get started, you’ll need a relatively new 4-door vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and auto insurance in your name.
Both companies have vehicle age requirements, typically 10 years old or newer. You’ll also need a smartphone to access the driver app which allows you to tap into the ride-sharing network.
How Much Can You Make?
Earnings will vary depending on when and where you drive, but you can make between $10 to $15 an hour after accounting for gas and other expenses.
Weekday mornings and evenings during rush hour and weekends, especially nights, tend to be the busiest times.
Airport pickups and drop-offs can also increase your fares. Many drivers report making an extra $100 to $500 a week driving just a few hours a day or a couple nights a week.
Getting Started
Sign up to drive with Uber, Lyft, or both. The application process typically takes a week or two and includes a vehicle inspection, background check, and driver orientation.
Once approved, you’ll receive a device to track your miles for tax purposes and you can start picking up riders through the app.
Pros and Cons
The flexibility and extra income are huge benefits of ride-sharing driving. However, the job can also be tiring, and you’re responsible for all expenses.
You don’t receive any benefits like health insurance or paid time off.
The job can also lack stability since demand depends on the time of day and location. But for a side gig, ride-sharing is an easy way to make some spare cash whenever you have the free time.
Conclusion
So there you have it, 10 clever ways to get some free money in your pocket right now.
Whether it’s a few extra bucks from a survey, cash back from your credit card, or a small windfall from selling some unwanted goods, every little bit helps.
While none of these methods will make you rich overnight, with some time and effort you can easily generate an extra $500-$1000 per month or more using these simple money-making hacks.
Why not give a few of these a try this week and see how much you can earn?
The money you make is yours to keep and can really add up over time. And of course, be sure to share your success stories with us – we’d love to hear how these tips and tricks are working for you!