12 simple ways to make $100 fast

If you’re feeling the pinch of rising costs from the last few years, you’re not alone. Whether you need extra cash to cover unexpected expenses or want to save up for something special, finding easy ways to make $100 quickly can be a game-changer. 

From leveraging cashback apps to selling unused items, you can boost your cash flow fast — even making $100 a day in some cases. Here are 10 practical ways to earn that extra hundred bucks. 

1. Try cashback apps

Cashback apps are one of the easiest ways to make money on purchases you’re already making. These apps give you a percentage of your spending as cash or rewards. 

Some popular cashback apps include:

• Dosh
• Ibotta
• Rakuten
• Upside

To start earning cash back, simply download the app, shop through their platform or scan your receipts after making a purchase. Cashback apps can accumulate savings over time. How quickly you reach $100 depends on your shopping habits and the promotions offered by the app. Regular users can sometimes hit $100 in a few months.

You can also check out cashback credit cards for more opportunities.

2. Return unused items

Have you ever gone on a shopping spree and ended up with items you don’t need or want? Instead of letting those purchases gather dust, return them to the store for a refund. This is a quick and easy way to get some money back. Make sure to keep your receipts and return items within the store’s return policy period. 

I just returned $177 worth of purchases to Amazon using a Kohl’s dropoff location. I’ve also used Amazon’s Trade-In program to get money back for an old Kindle and Fire Tablet. This earned me a $20 credit on a newer Kindle, which will double as a Christmas gift.

If returns are not an option, consider selling the items online or through consignment shops. You may not get the full retail price, but it’s a good way to recoup some of your money.

3. Drive for a ridesharing service

If you have a reliable car and a good driving record, consider becoming a driver for ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft. You can drive during your free hours, evenings or weekends to earn extra cash. According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly pay for rideshare drivers is $21.12, meaning you could potentially earn $100 in just a few shifts. Do it regularly, and you could easily make an extra $100 a day.

While these gigs are generally safe, stay alert and follow safety protocols. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and stick to well-lit, populated areas during your shifts. Also make sure you have the right type of insurance to cover any risks.

4. Sell unused gift cards

According to Bankrate’s Unused Gift Cards Survey, nearly 47 percent of U.S. adults have at least one unused gift card, with an average value of $187 each. Instead of letting these cards go to waste, sell them on websites like CardCash or Raise. 

While you might not get the full value, this is still a convenient way to make quick cash.

5. Deliver food

Food delivery services such as Doordash, Grubhub, UberEats or even Walmart Grocery can be a lucrative way to earn extra income. You can choose your hours and work around your regular job. Drivers earn a base rate plus tips. According to ZipRecruiter, Walmart Grocery Delivery drivers earn $20 per hour on average. 

My former roommate uses her DoorDash income to make her car payment every month. Since it’s a Prius, she’s not spending a lot on gas, either. Some fast-food drivers even opt to deliver by riding a bike or walking, adding exercise into the mix.

6. Rent out your stuff

If you own a parking space but don’t have a car, consider renting it out on platforms like Neighbor or Spacer. This can be particularly profitable in busy urban areas where parking is at a premium. Place an ad online or ask around your neighborhood to find someone who’s willing to pay for the spot. 

You could also consider renting an empty room in your house on Airbnb or renting out your car on Turo. Friends of mine earn consistent income renting their basement every month in a university town where out-of-town travelers visit for game days.

7. Offer services

If you excel in subjects like math or English, tutoring can be a great way to make extra money. Spread the word within your network or advertise your services on social media, VIPKid or Wyzant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, private tutors can earn about $20 per hour. 

You could even bundle your tutoring services with other child—and family-related services, like babysitting, petsitting, dog walking and housecleaning. You could advertise on Care.com, where you can post your rates and research what others charge in your area. Alternatively, you could put up a yard sign or see if there’s a local bulletin board you could put a flier on. Word of mouth can also be very effective, so ask friends, family and local teachers for referrals. 

8. Sell items online

Big-ticket items sitting around your home can be a quick source of cash. Whether it’s jewelry, musical instruments, bikes or designer clothes, there are several online marketplaces where you can sell them. Sites like eBay, Etsy, Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are good places to start. 

I just sold five pieces of used kid’s clothes for $10, and a toddler car for $20. You can even recycle items like used sneakers for cash.

9. Freelance your skills

Freelance work is another fantastic way to earn extra money. Websites like Fiverr and Upwork connect freelancers with clients who need specific skills such as web design, writing, photography or social media management. After setting up your profile and services, you can start taking on small gigs that fit into your schedule. 

You might also consider becoming a transcriptionist or captioner with a site like Rev.com. If you’re a teacher, you can offer lesson plans and resources on TeachersPayTeachers. 

Generally, anyone can sign up for freelancing services like these. However, some platforms may have application processes or require you to prove your skills before accepting you. Once approved, you can start offering your services and set your rates.

10. Cash in money you already have

Have you checked your old savings bonds lately? Many people forget about bonds they received as gifts years ago. Both paper and electronic Series EE bonds are redeemable. 

The process is simple: Electronic bonds can be cashed in online with funds deposited directly into your bank account, while paper bonds might need to be mailed in or redeemed at a local bank. 

You can also claim your unclaimed cash or property. Over $4 billion is returned to owners every year! I did this once and found over $100 in unclaimed money from a previous address in another state. Search for your for free using state records.

11. Sign up for paid research studies

Participating in research studies is a simple way to make extra cash while helping advance scientific knowledge. Many universities, medical institutions and market research companies pay individuals to take part in studies. These can range from medical trials to focus groups or surveys. 

Compensation varies based on the type of study and the time commitment, but some pay participants as much as $50 to $200 per session. My family participated in a family research study by the local university and got paid $100 each time we participated. 

You can find opportunities by checking local university websites, clinical research facilities or platforms like ClinicalTrials.gov. Always read the study requirements carefully and ensure it’s something you’re comfortable with before committing.

12. Sell your plasma

It’s not for the faint of heart, but donating plasma is another way to earn quick money while contributing to a good cause. Plasma is used to treat various medical conditions, including immune system disorders and burns. Donating is generally safe, and you can do it every few weeks. 

Depending on the plasma donation center and your location, you can earn between $30 to $70 per session, with some centers offering bonuses for frequent donations. To get started, find a certified plasma donation center near you, such as CSL Plasma or BioLife, and ensure you meet the health requirements for donation.

The bottom line

There are numerous ways to come up with $100 quickly. Whether you leverage technology through cashback apps or sell unused items, there’s an option out there that suits your skills and schedule. Evaluate what works best for you, whether it’s a one-time endeavor or something you can pursue regularly. 

These tips not only help you make extra cash but also create a buffer for future expenses, giving you peace of mind and financial flexibility.