30 Proven Ways To Make $500 Fast

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Are you in a tight spot and require $500 urgently? I have perfect solutions that will get you the cash you need, fast. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

We’ve all experienced unexpected bills or financial emergencies where we need an extra $500 or more cash.

I will show you some highly effective strategies to earn $500 within a short span of time, all with just a few clicks on your cell phone or computer. There are many ways to earn $500 quickly without putting in much effort.

Let’s take a look at different side hustles that can help you make $500 quickly. Whether you prefer working online or offline, or if you want to sell your unwanted items for some extra cash, this guide has options suitable for every skill level and availability.

How To Make $500 Fast?

You can easily make $500 with your existing skills. Trust me, I had tried many of the ideas explained below and they helped me to earn $500 fast whenever I needed it.

1. Become a Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistant work offers plenty of opportunities to make $500 fast while enjoying flexibility and convenience.

With endless opportunities to put your skills to good use, becoming a virtual assistant could be the perfect solution for anyone seeking a flexible yet lucrative side hustle.

From managing social media profiles and crafting captivating content to juggling schedules and lending a hand with administrative tasks, your role revolves around supporting business owners in whatever capacity they require.

By taking on multiple projects at once, you increase your earning potential, making it easier to reach your goal of making $500 fast.

To find virtual assistant jobs, you can explore various platforms and websites. Here are some options:

Apploye
FlexJobs
The Full Time VA
Upwork
Fiverr
VirutalStaff
Onlinejobs.ph

2. Affiliate Marketing

Are you searching for ways to earn quick money? How about trying your hand at affiliate marketing? Affiliate marketing allows you to promote another company’s products or services and earn commissions based on your performance metrics.

Whether it’s generating leads, driving traffic, or making direct sales, you can earn $500 or even more from home.

Affiliate marketing refers to the process where affiliates partner with brands to promote their products or services. In return, affiliates receive a percentage of revenue generated from successful conversions.

According to PostAffiliatePro, Affiliate marketing is expected to be worth $12 billion globally, with the US expanding its spending to $8.2 billion. To succeed in affiliate marketing, all you need is a computer, an internet connection, and a willingness to learn and adapt.

Flipping can turn unwanted items into profits. With diligent searching and clever reselling tactics, many people have made $500 in just days.

To begin your journey, check out these top three places teeming with free treasures waiting to be discovered:

Craigslist: Explore the often-overlooked “free” section featuring a wide range of castoffs. From home decor and appliances to books and gardening supplies, countless gems await discovery.
Nextdoor: Connect with neighbors offering freebies via this private social network. Not only does it foster stronger communities, but also provides access to lesser-known deals that don’t appear elsewhere.
Facebook Marketplace: Discover the vast array of pre-loved offerings under the “free” tab. Join relevant buy-and-sell groups specific to your region for even more targeted finds.

Investigate comparable items online to establish reasonable price expectations based on factors like age, brand, condition, and scarcity. Refresh or repair any damages, chips, tears, or other visible defects to improve overall appearance.

Advertise your newly acquired asset across multiple platforms, such as eBay, Poshmark, Mercari, and Depop, widening exposure and increasing the likelihood of successful transactions.

4. Do Handyman Work

Have you ever thought about being a handyman and offering your services through the Thumbtack app to earn $500 quickly? It’s a super cool platform to show off what you can do and reach out to folks who might need your help. Trust me, it’s a great way to put yourself out there and get your hustle on.

Some popular services offered on Thumbtack include

House cleaning
Appliance Repair
Lawn care
Home improvement projects
Bathroom remodels

With the wide range of categories offered on the Thumbtack platform, it is highly likely that you will find a perfect match for your unique skill set.

Additionally, the platform’s location-based matching system saves you valuable time that would otherwise be spent scouring outside your area for opportunities.

To increase your chances of success on Thumbtack, focus on providing excellent customer service and gathering positive reviews.

5. Participate In Surveys

Want to earn $500 without leaving your house? Look no further than online surveys.

Companies are always eager to gather feedback from consumers, and they’re willing to pay for it. By participating in online surveys, you can earn rewards such as gift cards, cash, or other perks. You get to share your thoughts and feelings, and you get rewarded for doing so.

There are plenty of websites that offer online surveys, and they’re usually free to join. Some popular options include Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Vindale Research. Once you sign up, you’ll have access to a variety of surveys that match your demographic profile.

You can do these surveys at any time, from anywhere. Whether you’re lounging on your couch during your downtime or waiting in line at the grocery store, you can pull out your phone or laptop and complete a few surveys. It’s a great way to pass the time and earn some extra spending money.

Some tips for success:

Be honest and thorough in your responses. This will help you qualify for more surveys and increase your chances of getting selected for higher-paying ones.
Sign up for multiple survey sites to maximize your earnings. Each site has its own unique selection of surveys, so the more sites you join, the more opportunities you’ll have to earn rewards.
Check your email regularly for survey invitations. Some surveys have limited spaces available, so it’s important to act fast if you see one that interests you.
Consider referring friends and family to survey sites. Many sites offer referral bonuses, which can add up quickly.

6. Give Your Space on Rent

With the Neighbor app, you can rent out your unused spaces to people in need of storage, and earn money doing it. It’s like having your own mini storage business, without the hassle of managing a physical facility.

Here are some ways you can use Neighbor to make money:

Rent out your garage: Is your garage full of stuff you never use? Clear it out and list it on Neighbor. You can earn up to $500 per month, depending on your location and the size of your garage.
Rent out a spare room: Have a guest room that’s only used occasionally? List it on Neighbor and earn money when someone needs a place to stay.
Rent out a closet: That walk-in closet you never use could be generating cash. List it on Neighbor and see how much you can make.
Rent out a parking spot: If you live in a busy city, you know how valuable parking spots can be. List yours on Neighbor and earn money from drivers who need a place to park.
Rent out a shed: Do you have a shed in your backyard that’s gathering dust? List it on Neighbor and turn it into a money-maker.

As long as you’re based in the United States, you can start making money with Neighbor Today. Of course, those living in major cities will likely see higher demand and therefore greater profits.

With the right strategies, you could potentially earn your first $500 in under a week. This was my experience. I successfully grew my Instagram audience from a modest 4,000 followers to an impressive 200,000 in just two short years while generating revenue along the way.

For this, opt for a social media site where you feel most comfortable expressing yourself.

Dive deep into a specific area of interest that genuinely sparks passion within you. The more invested you are in your niche, the simpler it will be to consistently craft top-notch content.

Prioritize delivering exceptional value through every single piece of content you share. Make certain your posts cater specifically to the preferences and demands of your target demographic and selected platform.

You can find my other guides on monetizing social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Twitter(X), and Pinterest.

8. Drive for Uber or Lyft

With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can sign up to become a driver and start earning money in no time.

Once you’ve downloaded the app and passed a background check, you’ll be eligible to start accepting ride requests. The apps will show you nearby riders who need a lift, and you can select which ones you want to pick up.

Both Uber and Lyft pay their drivers a base rate per mile and minute, plus they take care of all the transaction fees. On top of that, you’ll receive 100% of any tips you earn, which can really add up.

Another great thing about being an Uber or Lyft driver is the potential for bonuses. During peak hours, you can earn higher rates, and there may be special promotions or challenges that can boost your earnings even further. It’s not uncommon for drivers to make over $500 in just a weekend.

9. Become an Instacart Shopper

Are you looking for a way to make 500 dollars quickly in a week? Do you enjoy shopping and being active? Then you might want to consider becoming an Instacart personal shopper!

With Instacart, you can sign up to become a personal shopper and start accepting orders from customers in your area.

Your job will be to shop for their groceries and deliver them to their doorstep. It’s a flexible job that allows you to work on your own schedule, and you can choose how many hours you want to work each week.

One of the best parts about being an Instacart personal shopper is the potential to earn tips. Customers often show their appreciation for a job well done by leaving a tip, which can add extra money quickly.

Another benefit of working for Instacart is the flexibility. You can choose when you want to work, whether it’s early in the morning, late at night, or during peak hours.

Of course, like any job, there are some challenges that come with being an Instacart personal shopper. You’ll need to be able to lift up to 50 pounds, and you’ll need a reliable vehicle to transport the groceries. But with Instacart’s supportive team and resources at your fingertips, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.

10. Resell Electronics on Declutter

Decluttr is an innovative solution that helps you sell your unwanted tech and gadgets for top dollar.

Simply visit the Decluttr website, enter the barcode of each item you want to sell, and receive an instant offer. No hassle, no negotiation, just a fair price for your unwanted items.

Once you’ve entered all your items and accepted the order, Decluttr will send you a free shipping label. Package up your items and say goodbye to clutter. You’ll receive your payment the day after your order arrives, via direct deposit, PayPal, or check. You can make $500 or more according to the valuation of your items.

Here are some examples of items you can sell:

CDs
DVDs
Cell phones
Laptops
Tablets
Gaming consoles
Smartwatches
Headphones
Speakers

11. Teach Online

With many tutors charging top dollar for their expertise, this could be a fantastic opportunity for you to achieve your target of $500.

Let me walk you through the steps to become a successful tutor.

Determine your niche and client. What subjects do you excel in? Which age group or level of schooling resonates with you? These factors will guide your promotional efforts, allowing you to connect with individuals who require precisely what you offer.
Choose between in-person and online tutoring. Both modes present unique advantages and drawbacks. Face-to-face interactions may create stronger bonds Virtual lessons afford greater convenience and wider geographical reach.
Highlight your accomplishments and abilities. Once you identify your desired market, showcase your suitability for the role. Share your educational background, professional experience, or notable achievements in the chosen field. Doing so enhances your credibility and encourages prospective students to entrust their learning journey to you.
Explore tutoring platforms or develop your brand. Online marketplaces catering specifically to tutors streamline the process of finding suitable matches based on interests and competencies. Alternatively, cultivate your distinct identity as an educator by building a website or utilizing a social media presence to expand your network.
Set competitive rates. Research industry standards to strike a balance between fairness and profitability. Remember, pricing too low undermines your worthwhile talents, whereas exorbitant fees deter potential clients. Aim for a sweet spot tailored to the value delivered.
Deliver quality instruction. Lastly, commit to providing excellent service by employing engaging lesson plans, active listening, constructive feedback, and open communication lines. Happy customers tend to share their experiences, leading to organic growth and consistent revenue streams.

12. Running Errands

Are you finding yourself in a financial bind and needing to make $500 fast? You should try the TaskRabbit platform.

From running errands to providing assistance with home projects, this community offers endless opportunities to earn money quickly.

With busy schedules becoming increasingly common, many people seek assistance in managing their daily errands. Be prepared to run errands like picking up groceries, dropping off packages at the post office, or even returning library books.

Consider joining Task Rabbit today to earn extra income and connect with your community. By joining, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills, expand your network, and have a positive impact on those around you. And the best part? You can make $500 quickly.

13. Use Freecash Site

FreeCash is a revolutionary platform that allows you to make money by doing things you enjoy.

One of the easiest ways to earn cash on FreeCash is by testing new apps. App developers need real users like you to try out their creations and provide honest feedback.

Was the checkout process smooth? Were the instructions clear? Did you encounter any glitches or bugs? Your input about the app is invaluable, and you can earn anywhere from a few cents to $100 per app test. With testing more apps, you can easily get $500 quickly.

But app testing isn’t the only way to rake in the dough on FreeCash. You can also cash in by playing video games, taking surveys, or competing in daily trivia contests and quizzes.

The great thing about FreeCash is that you can choose how much time you want to spend on the platform. Whether you have a few minutes a day or several hours a week, you can earn money quickly and easily. And with our user-friendly interface and helpful customer support, you’ll never feel lost or confused.

14. Post Ads on Your Car

Tired of traditional side hustles like delivery jobs or ride-sharing services? Why not try something unique that requires minimal effort and lets your car generate passive income? I’m talking about car advertising.

With platforms like Wrapify, you can easily monetize your daily drives.

When your car is selected for a campaign, your car will be wrapped in the sponsoring company’s advertisement.

This process typically takes less than two hours and won’t damage your car’s paint job. Plus, most wraps are removable, so you can return your vehicle to its original state once the campaign concludes.

By simply driving around town with ads on your car, you can potentially earn up to $500 fast.

15. Sell Craft Online

Selling crafts online is a fabulous way to make $500 quickly. It provides a flexible way to earn extra cash right from the comfort of your own home.

You can sell your crafts on Etsy. It is an online marketplace that connects artisans with buyers around the globe. With millions of active users, Etsy offers endless possibilities for selling unique items such as jewelry, customized clothing, and even bespoke pet accessories.

To truly succeed on Etsy, focus on creating high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your passion and personality. Custom orders are always popular, allowing you to build strong relationships with repeat customers.

16. Get Paid To Watch Videos

You can now turn your love for films into a profitable opportunity to make $500 with the help of Inbox Dollars.

These legitimate websites not only offer payment for taking online surveys but also allow you to earn money by watching movies online.

By signing up for Inbox Dollars, you can start earning cash rewards for activities like watching videos, completing surveys, playing games, and shopping online. There’s no limit to how much you can earn. The more time you spend on the platform, the more opportunities you have to make money.

17. Create & Sell an Online Course

Have you ever thought of monetizing your unique skills and knowledge by creating and selling your online course? It not only allows you to share your passion with others but also provides an opportunity to generate substantial income.

When you offer specialized instruction in a particular field, you essentially become a high-demand expert who deserves premium compensation.

Online courses give you the flexibility to set your own price, allowing you to charge $500 or more per person if the value of the course justifies it. The pricing is entirely up to you.

Consider these popular subject areas perfect for online courses:

Budgeting and investment strategies
Organic gardening techniques
Advanced photography concepts
Programming fundamentals and emerging technologies
Full-stack web development tutorials
Comprehensive guides on social media optimization
Mindful yoga routines and meditation sessions
Artistic culinary experiences catering to diverse diets
Engaging DIY projects promoting handmade crafts
Effective communication tactics, including public speaking

18. Pet Sitting

In urban areas, pet sitting can be a goldmine. When people are away, they seek reliable individuals to care for their pets, and that’s where you come in. Whether it’s a quick dog walk or an overnight stay, you can offer your services and get paid for it.

You get to set your own rates. Want to charge $20 per dog walk? No problem.

According to care.com, the average dog walker in New York City makes around $25 per walk. If you’re willing to take on longer gigs, you can rake in even more dough. Overnight pet boarding can fetch anywhere from $25 to $75 per night.

If you offer pet boarding services and charge an average of $50 per night, you’d only need to care for one dog for 10 nights to earn $500.

19. Babysitting

Babysitting is not just for teenagers anymore. As an adult, you can offer your services as a babysitter and earn a good income.

Parents tend to prefer hiring adults because they perceive them as more responsible and reliable. If you have experience working with children or have raised kids of your own, you can charge even more.

There are several ways to find babysitting jobs. You can advertise your services locally, post about them on social media, or sign up with a reputable agency like Care.com. This platform allows you to offer not only babysitting but also housekeeping, pet-sitting, and tutoring services.

So, how quickly can you make $500? Well, it depends on how much you charge and how many hours you work. If you charge $20 per hour and babysit three kids for five hours each week, it will take you less than two weeks to earn $500

20. Become Editor

Audio and video editing are in high demand, and if you have the skills to do it well, you can make up to $500 per project.

Companies are constantly creating video and audio content to promote their products and services, but they often don’t have the resources to edit and refine it themselves.

With the right software and some practice, you can offer your services as a freelancer on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. You’ll be able to work with clients from all over the world, helping them turn raw footage into polished content that engages their audience.

As an audio/video editor, your job will involve cleaning up recordings, adding special effects, and ensuring that the sound and picture quality are top-notch.

You’ll also need to be able to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. But if you enjoy working with technology and have a keen eye for detail, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to earn $500 a week from home.

21. Rent Out Your Car

Perhaps you didn’t know this, but there’s a hidden idea to get $500 without doing any work right in your driveway, your very own car.

Whether you own an extra car or will be away from yours for some time, sharing your car with others can generate substantial income.

Renting your car through trusted platforms like Turo or Getaround provides unparalleled convenience. These online marketplaces connect car owners with potential renters, streamlining the process for both parties.

Alternatively, cater specifically to ride-share drivers who require dependable transport solutions. Connect with them through specialized platforms like Hyrecar.

22. Housesitting

Housesitting is a quick and convenient method to generate $500 without dealing with coworkers or clients.

A great place to start your journey towards becoming a successful housesitter is Care.com. This platform connects homeowners seeking reliable individuals to care for their properties during their absence.

Now let me share something truly astonishing. In cities like New York, experienced housesitters have been known to earn more than $5,000 each month.

23. Deliver Food

If you’re in need of quick cash and are eager to make $500 fast, a viable option to consider is delivering food through apps such as DoorDash. To get started, you’ll need a reliable car and a valid driver’s license. Additionally, passing a background check is a must.

You’ll receive tips from customers, which can significantly boost your earnings. Moreover, you’ll be paid a flat fee per delivery, and you might even qualify for bonus pay depending on your performance or specific promotions.

DoorDash allows you to keep 100% of the tips you receive. Furthermore, DoorDash and similar apps often offer “Peak Pay” during busy hours, providing you with even more opportunities to increase your earnings.

24. Freelance Writing

With strong writing skills and a passion for crafting compelling narratives, you can turn your talents into a lucrative side hustle or even a full-time career.

Small businesses are constantly seeking talented individuals who can produce high-quality written materials that resonate with their target audience.

From blog posts and web copy to social media updates and email newsletters, there is no shortage of opportunities for aspiring freelancers.

However, many companies lack the resources necessary to keep up with their content demands consistently. This creates a gap in the market for skilled writers to monetize their abilities and earn extra cash, potentially helping them reach their goal of making $500 quickly.

25. Earn Cashback

Want to know a secret to making $500 quickly? It’s simpler than you think. Cash-back reward apps can be your golden ticket to earning some extra money.

Imagine being able to earn money while still buying the things you need. Apps like Fluz, Dosh, Drop, and Ibotta offer cash-back rewards for simply shopping at participating brands and retailers. That’s right; you don’t have to change your spending habits or sacrifice quality.

You can earn up to 10% cash back on your purchases, and with Ibotta, you can even snag up to 30% cash back.

That means a $50 purchase could turn into $55 or even $65 in your pocket. It may not seem like much, but those savings add up quickly.

Especially when you consider all the little purchases you make throughout the month. Before you know it, you’ve got a tidy sum of $500 in your pocket.

26. Make Money Moving

If you’re looking to make $500 fast and possess a strong physique, Bellhop could be the perfect solution. This innovative mobile app offers an opportunity to earn substantial cash.

The app presents three distinct roles to choose from, each tailored to your preferences and strengths.

As a truck driver, you’ll be responsible for transporting furniture and belongings, ensuring a smooth transition for clients.

Alternatively, you can take on the role of a Captain, serving as the primary point of contact and orchestrating the entire moving process.

For those seeking a supporting role, the Wingman position allows you to assist in the delivery and setup of items.

27. Earn With Online Games

Are you a fan of online games? You have a great chance to earn $500. There are several websites and apps that allow you to earn money while doing what you love.

One popular option is Mistplay, which has over 5 million downloads and counting. By downloading the app and allowing it to monitor your gameplay, you can earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards, Steam wallet codes, or even cash via PayPal.

Another great option is Cashyy, which offers a variety of ways to earn money, including playing games, completing surveys, and watching videos. With over 100,000 users, Cashyy is quickly becoming a go-to destination for anyone looking to monetize their free time.

28. Sell Domains

Making $500 quickly can be a challenge, but one potential solution is by investing in domain names or websites. Although this method is not foolproof and relies on a combination of luck and skill, it can generate fast cash if done correctly.

In the early days of the Internet, many popular domain names were not yet taken, allowing individuals to buy them and resell them for a profit later.

For example, when ai gained popularity, some people purchased domain names containing “ai” and sold them at a higher price to interested buyers. This approach remains an option, but it depends on foresight and a bit of luck.

Individuals with expertise in SEO can significantly increase their chances of success in this venture. With a bit of luck, it is possible to make a $500 profit from a single transaction. However, as with any investment, there is always the risk of not making a sale or even losing money.

29. Get Paid To Browse The Web

Two websites that pay for online activities are MyPoints and Swagbucks, where you can earn $500 while browsing the internet.

MyPoints is a rewards program that gives you points for shopping online, taking surveys, watching videos, and yes, even browsing the web.

You can redeem your points for gift cards from popular retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks, or turn them into cash via PayPal.

Swagbucks is another website that rewards you for your online activities. By making Swagbucks your default search engine, you’ll earn points for every search query you perform.

it’s easy to set up – just head to their website, sign up for an account, and follow the instructions to make Swagbucks your go-to search engine. Then, you’ll start racking up points whenever you browse the web.

30. Rent Your RV

If you’re fortunate enough to own an RV, I have some exciting news for you. Curious about how to make $500 quickly and efficiently with your RV? You can rent out your RV via the innovative platform known as RVShare.

This hidden gem functions similarly to popular services like Airbnb and VRBO but focuses explicitly on connecting RV owners with aspiring road trippers.

Listing your RV is as straightforward as posting images and essential details online.

Earning $500 within a week becomes increasingly feasible, especially during peak seasons. Over time, dedicated participation may lead to astonishing annual profits exceeding $50,000.

Final Thoughts

So, I’ve covered a bunch of ways to make $500 quickly. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. Everyone’s got their own unique skills and style. But don’t worry, you’ll definitely find something in this list that’ll work for you.

Try out a few different ways to make money and see what works best for you. It’s all about finding what works for you and running with it. You might find that certain methods are more enjoyable, lucrative, or sustainable than others. Once you’ve identified a few strategies that work well for you, focus on those and put in the effort to grow and improve them over time.

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Brett Cullen

Brett is a tech enthusiast with a deep curiosity for exploring digital tools, apps, and gadgets that simplify everyday life. This passion led him to start his blog, where he shares in-depth reviews, helpful guides, and honest recommendations about the best apps and tech solutions available today.