It seems like everyday the cost of living is going up. More and more surprise costs keep popping up. Have you found yourself staring at a surprise bill or an unexpected expense and wondering, “Where the heck am I going to get $150 fast?” You’re not alone.
Whether it’s a car trouble, kids items, last-minute birthday gift, or just trying to make rent—life happens. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to beg your bank account, borrow from friends, or rack up a credit card to make it work.
There can be quick, clever ways to earn cash fast—yes, even if you’re starting from scratch.
Let’s break down 13 practical ways to make $150 quickly, starting today.
1. Flip Your Stuff for Fast Cash
Look around your house. Those sweaters you no longer wear, old phone, the unused coffee machine, the pair of boots you never wore? That’s potential money just sitting there.
📲 Use apps like:
- Facebook Marketplace
- Thred Up
- Poshmark
Pro tip: take good photos, write honest descriptions (no one wants to buy something ‘like new’ only to find it ‘well used’), and price to sell quickly.
2. Take On a Quick Freelance Gig
Got writing chops? Graphic design skills? Social media savvy? Turn your talent, or skills from your 9-5 into instant income.
💻 Check out:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- PeoplePerHour
Set up a simple profile and look for “express” gigs that pay within 24–48 hours.
3. Share Your Opinions Online
It’s not glamorous, but getting paid for surveys and tasks adds up. If you’ve got downtime while watching TV or on your commute—why not earn?
🎯 Best survey sites:
- Swagbucks
- InboxDollars
- Branded Surveys
Stack a few sites to increase your daily earnings.
These reviews can take time, but are a good way to earn a couple extra bucks here and there.
4. Join a Focus Group or Online Study
Companies pay real money for your feedback. We’re talking $50–$150 for an hour of your time in some cases.
👥 Try:
- Respondent.io
- User Interviews
- Local research panels (check Craigslist or Facebook)
5. Deliver Food or Groceries
If you’ve got a car (or even a bike), you can start earning today.
🍔 Sign up with:
- DoorDash
- Uber Eats
- Instacart
Work the dinner rush or weekend lunch hours to rack up tips fast.
6. Knock Out Quick Gigs with Apps
Don’t want to drive or deal with food? Gig apps let you run errands or complete odd jobs—everything from building IKEA furniture to grocery drop-offs. If you find that your handy and like to tinker with odd tasks around the house, this may be for you!
🛠️ Apps to check:
- TaskRabbit
- Gigwalk
- Steady
Choose what you want, when you want.
7. Offer Babysitting or Pet Sitting
Got a calm vibe and some free time? Love to take care of kids? Parents and pet owners are always in need.
🐶 Use:
- Rover (for pets)
- Care.com (for kids)
- Local Facebook groups or neighborhood apps (seriously child care is always in need)
Even a few hours on a Friday night could get you halfway to your $150 goal.
8. Rent Out Something You’re Not Using
You don’t need to own a second property to cash in on the rental market. Think: camera gear, tools, parking spots, or even your driveway.
🏠 Rent via:
- Turo (cars)
- Fat Llama (equipment)
- Neighbor (storage space)
9. Tutor Someone—Online or In Person
If you’re great at a subject, help a student out and get paid.
📚 Platforms:
- Wyzant
- Superprof
- Post in local parent groups or school forums
Subjects like math, science, and languages are always a great place to start.
10. Test Websites and Apps for Pay
Companies pay for fresh eyes on their websites and apps. You’ll get tasks like “click around and give feedback” or “record your thoughts as you browse.”
🧪 Try:
- UserTesting
- TryMyUI
- PlaytestCloud (for mobile games)
Most tests take under 20 minutes and pay $5–$20.
11. Sell Your Crafts or Artwork
Are you artsy or crafty? Handmade goods are in high demand, especially unique or seasonal items.
I started to create kids sweaters with floral embroidery (as gifts), but once friends started to see I got asked to create some for them (and get paid). This turned my fun little project into a couple to make some extra cash!
🎨 Sell on:
- Etsy
- Instagram (with a business page)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Local markets or pop-ups
If digital is more your thing, try printable downloads or digital art.
12. Offer Local Help for Cash
Think: shoveling snow, raking leaves, organizing garages. These “unsexy” tasks are prime money-makers because no one wants to do them.
🚪 Knock on doors, post on:
- Nextdoor
- Facebook Marketplace
- Community bulletin boards
13. Rent a Room (Even for One Night)
If you’ve got a spare bedroom, even one night’s booking on Airbnb can cover your $150 goal—and then some.
🛏️ Tips:
- Clean, cozy, and clutter-free wins
- Add some nice photos and a clear description
- Offer flexible check-in for extra appeal
You don’t need to win the lottery or wait until payday to fix a financial pinch. With a little effort and creativity, $150 can be just a few actions away—no borrowing required.
Pick one or two ideas that match your schedule and skills, and take action today. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.
