Money is always an issue — even when you have it! If you don’t have it, or at least enough to cover all your bills, groceries, and a little spending cash, it’s important you do everything you can to save better and start earning more and more each year. Since COVID-19, businesses have shut down and it’s been increasingly difficult for people to earn extra money. But there are some things you can do in Rochester to do so!

Here are some great ways to start earning some extra cash in Rochester this year:

Ride Sharing Services

Though you’ll have to take hygienic precautions (as you should), you’ll be able to start earning money right away if you decide to take advantage of this innovative secondary source of income! Uber and Lyft are the two most popular options and anyone can drive — as long as you have a license and a working (and safe) vehicle.

These organizations will do a brief background check, however, just to ensure that you don’t have a criminal record and your driving history is relatively clean. Additionally, you’ll have to provide registration, proof of insurance, and vehicle inspection!

Sell Your Items Online

This is another great option that’s available to pretty much anyone with an internet connection! All you have to do is decide to sell certain items around your house. Start by taking a walk around and putting things in three separate piles: a “Keep” pile, a “Throwaway” pile, and a “Sell” pile. Obviously, keep the things that are important to you and toss out any pieces of junk that no one would want. But all that other stuff… someone out there is willing to pay money for them!

Roughly 0.7% of Americans pawn precious metal or stones when they need cash.

Freelance Writing

As long as you have some sort of writing background — even if it was just a few homework assignments back in college — you’ll be able to offer your services as a freelance writer. This is a great option for people with flexible work schedules who can work a few hours throughout the week and see their bank accounts increase!

You must take these opportunities seriously, though, because if the quality just isn’t there, you likely won’t be able to pursue this career. So make sure you’re giving yourself plenty of time for each assignment, proofread everything multiple times, and really give it your best effort.

Get Your Real Estate License

This one might take some time, but it will be a great way to earn a significant amount of money down the line if you give it your all!

A real estate agent’s commission is 3% to 6% of the sale price of a home. Even in a tough market, which we are currently in, you’ll be able to sell and earn high commissions!

Start Working Towards a Law Degree

Sure, this one isn’t exactly a great way to generate income right away — but the financial gains you’ll be making down the road will be well worth it. Attorneys are some of the most respected and prestigious professionals out there — and you could be part of that world!

It’s going to take a lot of work, sure, and you’ll have to shell out some money upfront for testing and schooling costs. But down the line, once you’re a respected attorney, the sky is the limit to how much you can earn! Keep in mind, about 96% of personal injury cases are settled pre-trial.

Downgrade Your Expensive Items

If times are significantly tough for you and your family right now, you might want to consider downgrading some parts of your life. That’s completely acceptable and financially responsible — so don’t get too down on yourself. By trading in that expensive TV, car, or subscription service and going for more affordable options, you will be able to treat your family to something wonderful later on.

So take a long look at all the items in your possession and think about what can be downgraded or gotten rid of entirely.

Things are difficult for us all right now. But as long as you’re thinking about bettering your financial situation every day, you’re going to figure it out. So get ready to put the work in and good luck!