How to Make Extra Cash for the Upcoming Holiday Season

Do you get bored quickly during holiday breaks from school? Or do you need extra money to have fun with friends during your break? You might consider working at a temporary or part-time job over your break. Not only would you earn extra money for the holidays, but you would also be improving your resume.

Just keep in mind that it may be difficult for a young person to find a part-time job because adults may be competing with you for these jobs, due to the economy. However, there are alternatives for making extra cash without a regular job:

·      Pet sitting: Many people need someone to care for their pets while they are away on vacation. Holiday breaks are the perfect time to ask people you know if they need someone to care for their pets. And the rewards may be more than financial, as walking dogs is great exercise.

·      Babysitting: Babysitters are often in great demand during the holiday season. This can be a fun money-making opportunity if you enjoy kids. Of course, it is also a great responsibility; parents will expect you to take good care of their kids and not raid their refrigerator or turn their house into party central. Consider creating fliers to distribute in your neighborhood and to your parents’ friends to publicize your services.

·      Winter Labor: If you live in area that gets a lot of snow during the winter, consider shoveling snow off of people’s driveways and sidewalks. In fact, if your area gets snow until March, this could be a good job for the entire winter.

·      Sell your used electronics and gently worn clothing: If you have properly functioning electronics that you aren’t using, consider selling them online. Secure websites like uSell and Gazelle.com allow you to safely sell your smart phones, tablets, etc., online. If you have gently used clothing that you no longer wear or no longer fits you, consider selling it to consignment stores. If your item sells, then you might receive 50 percent of the selling price. Some stores might give you cash on the spot if your clothes are not outdated and are in good condition. You can might even sell your clothes online through sites such as thredUP.com or The RealReal.

READERS, what do you think?

1.     Have you ever looked for opportunities to make extra cash during your holiday break? If so, what did you do?

2.     Can you think of other ways to make money during your break that are not mentioned here? If so, what are they? How practical do you think they are?

References:

Flashman, R., & Stork-Hestad, N. (2011, December 5). KHSFPP Update # 258—Part-Time Jobs for the Holidays. Kentucky High School Financial Planning Program. Retrieved December 3, 2014, from http://www2.ca.uky.edu/hes/fcs/hsfp/updates/2011/update0258.htm.

Huddleston, C. (2014, November). 20 Ways to Earn Extra Cash for the 2014 Holidays. Kiplinger.com. Retrieved December 3, 2014, from http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/saving/T065-S001-20-ways-to-earn-extra-cash-for-the-2014-holidays/index.html.