This page contains the following solutions.
Being disabled, I am limited physically as to ways to earn extra income. If I was able to, I think a fun and very flexible job to do would be as a catering server. This job requires setting up, serving food and beverages, bussing tables and breaking down the event at the end of the day. In my county, there are oodles of catering businesses who cater for occasions such as banquets, weddings and parties in general. Besides catering businesses there are also convention centers, restaurants and hotels that often need extra catering help.
The pay is generally minimum wage but there are also collective server shared gratuities at the end of a work day. Those tips add up because these businesses generally require a minimum 15% gratuity of the total service bill. Let's say the total service bill is $5,000.00 plus a 15% gratuity and there are ten 'servers'. That would total an extra $75.00 per server for that shift. If the shift is six hours then that is an extra $12.50 per hour added to your minimum wage pay.
These businesses usually know well in advance what events they will be catering so you will be able to decide with them early on as far as your availability for scheduling your services. Most of these businesses will be more than happy to have your help even if it's only one day a month. Perhaps this idea would be doable for you and if it is then check out your local caterers, convention centers, restaurants and hotels and fill out applications. Besides filling out the applications; follow up so they know you are serious. Once your foot is in the door and you've proven yourself you'll be on their regular list to call. ;-)
By Deeli from Richland, WA
When I was looking for work, I talked to anybody and everybody. For instance, I had a company come to my home to clean my furnace. When I called to schedule the appointment, I spoke with the lady on the phone in customer service and asked her if they were hiring. She said, "They are always looking for good people." and told me to email my resume. I did and 3 months later I was hired.
By Kathy from Sylvania, OH
It's getting to be nice weather and movie shooting season all over the country. Working as a movie extra is a fun way to pick up some extra money. Here in Hollywood, lots of retirees do it to supplement their income (and there are often nice hot meals for lunch as an added benefit.) But now movies are made all over the country so check out your local film commission (there are lots) and ask about signing up to be filmed in your neighborhood! (But remember to bring your own chair, sunscreen, drinks and some energy bars, just in case)
By pamphyila from Los Angeles
Those who live frugally pick up extra money here and there when they can. I have worked my way into a position as an inspector for our local elections, which is a steady gig a few times a year.
Here are the questions asked by community members. Read on to see the answers provided by the ThriftyFun community.
I'm a single mom of soon to be 3 year old twin girls. Their birthday is Jan. 8. But we are not celebrating until Saturday. I have been trying to find something to make just a little extra money so I can get them something and I haven't had any luck. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you and God Bless.
Hello there. What are your skills? Maybe you could try TaskRabbit and help run errands? Go to the site and click in the top right: become a tasker
That is a very short time frame to get a job and paid. How about a few suggestions for short term fixes? Do you have a lot of books you can gather and take to a place like half price book stores? They pay cash on the spot. They also take magazines, CDs,DVDs, electronic games, and records.
Do you have broken gold or silver jewelry? We have places that pay cash on the spot for broken or unwanted pieces.
Do you have clothing either yours or the kids' that are in good shape? Places like Plato Closet pays cash for teen and adult clothing....women and men. There are also places that pay for kids' clothing and toys.
Then for the long term, see if you can get in with a temp to perm agency that will assess your skills and match your skills to available jobs. Many agencies are flexible for different shifts and wages based on skills.
My personal advise is to stay away from multi level sales. I will not name names, but think jewelry, food, storage containers, make up and such. Some people do well, but they are hard work and many require large financial upfront investment.
Best wishes! Post back with an update. Blessings to your babies!
It is hard being a single parent, I know. You work a full-time job and need to pay for a sitter and then work a part-time job and pay more. At times most of your earnings go to the sitter. If you have writing skills and can write well there are many different sites online who hire writers.
I am sad to hear these are things that can't help. For many these are good sources for quick cash. The other posters had some good ideas for you also, so hopefully something else will work for you.
Do you have a Catholic Charities in your town? Sometimes that groups, or others from other religious denominations can help with emergency funding for bills and housing. That may be something to explore. Sending up prayers for solutions.
