12 Easy Ways to Make Money in One Hour
Sometimes, you just need cash fast—whether it’s to cover a bill, pay for an emergency repair, or to avoid dipping into savings. Knowing how to
make money on the side can be a game changer in these situations.
While you may not double your money in one hour, there are ways to earn much-needed cash to make ends meet or supplement your income without lots of setup or commitment. You could make anywhere from $10 to $100 or more per hour with these strategies. But it’s important to approach them with a specific target in mind.
From selling unwanted items to flipping your stuff for profit to tapping into the vast gig economy with your skills, here are 12 fast and realistic ways to make money in just one hour.
1. Rent out your vehicle
If you’re not using your car, consider renting it out through an app like Turo or Getaround. Some platforms even offer instant payouts for short-term rentals. Just make sure your car is clean, fueled, and ready to drive.
2. Do microtasks or freelance work online
If you can write, edit, or handle data entry, look into platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or other freelance websites. Some tasks pay instantly once delivered, and others take just minutes. This option is often one of the best ways to make money from home in one hour.
3. Flip free stuff for profit
Check out the “free” section on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or your local community giveaway Facebook group. You might be able to pick up something in good condition, clean it up, and resell it. With a little hustle, this is one of the savvier ideas to
make money fast, especially if you can spot a hidden gem.
4. Sell valuable items to a pawnshop
Have an old tablet, vintage watch, or game console that’s collecting dust? Take it to a local pawnshop to exchange it for cash. These shops will often give you cash on the spot. And while you may not get the best deal, it can be fast money in your hand.
5. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Once you’re clear to drive for a rideshare app, you can pick up a short shift during peak hours (like lunchtime or rush hour) and earn some quick cash. Even one trip could earn you around $20 to $30, especially with a tip.
Gold prices are always reliable, and even a single chain or pair of earrings could bring some decent cash. Many jewelers or gold-buying kiosks will weigh and appraise your item upon arrival. Just bring an ID and be ready to negotiate for a fair deal.
7. Offer tech help to friends or neighbors
If you’re tech savvy, knowing how to hook up a printer or clean up a slow laptop can help you make some fast cash. Many people are happy to pay for quick tech support without having to call a repair shop and book an appointment.
8. Test websites or apps
Companies pay for feedback on their websites or mobile apps. Sites like UserTesting or TryMyUI offer small payouts (usually $10 to $20) for short 15- to 30-minute tests. That means completing a few could get you close to your target in under an hour.
9. Search Reddit for opportunities
Yes, Reddit. Subreddits like /r/forhire often list quick tasks ranging from graphic design to help researching a particular topic. You can often connect with someone and get paid the same day via PayPal or Venmo. Just use good judgment to avoid potential scams.
10. Sell used stuff online for local pickup
Chances are you’ve got some stuff lying around that you won’t ever use again. Consider listing unwanted items on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. Things like tools, small appliances, furniture items, or even plants are usually in demand. And deals can close fast if your price is right.
11. Resell unused gift cards for cash
Have a gift card sitting around for a store you never shop? Sell it online for a quick payout. Sites like CardCash or Raise will buy your unused gift cards and often pay you instantly via PayPal or direct deposit. You won’t get the full face value, but it’s fast money for something you weren’t going to use anyway.
12. Earn rewards fast from cashback or survey apps
Consider signing up for
money making apps like InboxDollars, Rakuten, or Fetch, and complete a few quick surveys. You won’t make a fortune, but stacking bonuses, referrals, and a few easy tasks can result in real money to your account, and some payout options are nearly instant.
Top tips for making quick money in one hour
Landing some cash fast isn’t always just about the task, it’s about how you approach it. Here are a few tips to help you stay efficient and maximize your time:
Set a clear goal. Are you trying to make $20, $50, or more? Knowing your target will help you identify the right path forward.
Get curious. Not every hustle will suit you, but the more you can experiment, the more likely you are to find something that works.
Build an emergency fund. Even a
small emergency fund can prevent having to scramble for cash next time you’re in a pinch.
Need money fast? You can trust EarnIn
Sometimes even the fastest side gigs can’t help fast enough — that’s where EarnIn
comes in. With EarnIn’s
Cash Out tool, you can access money you’ve already earned without the stress of payday loans or the huge fees that come with them.
Cash Out lets you access up to $150/day with a max of $750 every pay period, with no interest, credit checks, or mandatory fees.
FAQs
Can you make $100 in an hour?
It’s possible with a side hustle. Start with what you already have — skills, stuff, or a car. Freelancing online, flipping free items, or driving for Uber during peak hours can realistically get you there. And if you’ve got gold jewelry or electronics lying around the house, selling them could help hit the $100 mark fast.
How can you make money ASAP?
Look local first. Sell something on Facebook Marketplace, clean a neighbor’s yard, or check Craigslist for quick gigs. If you’re online anyway, consider looking for
a cash advance app or completing a few user tests. The key is to keep it simple and move fast.
What job pays the most per hour?
Freelance gigs like graphic design, copywriting, or tech troubleshooting
tend to pay the highest per hour — sometimes $50 to $100 or more. If you’re already skilled, picking up just one short task could deliver a serious payout in less than an hour.
Can you get money fast without working?
If “working” means no jobs or tasks, your best bet is to sell something — think unused electronics, jewelry, or unused gift cards. Some cashback or referral apps also offer bonuses just for signing up or completing small actions, so stacking a few of those could do the trick.
Please note, the material collected in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as or construed as advice regarding any specific circumstances. Nor is it an endorsement of any organization or services.
This Blog was sponsored by EarnIn. While the author received compensation, the information shared is grounded in independent research and intended to provide helpful and accurate guidance to readers.
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