Are you looking to make extra money but don’t have cash to invest upfront? The good news is that there are plenty of side hustles you can start with zero investment. Whether you want a flexible gig or a way to build long-term income, this list has you covered. Here are 15 easy side hustles you can start with $0.

1. Freelance Writing

If you have a knack for writing, you can get paid to create blog posts, articles, and website content.

How to Get Started:
Sign up for platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find your first clients. You can also reach out to small businesses and bloggers who may need content.

Pros:

• No startup costs
• Flexible work hours
• High earning potential

Cons:

• Requires strong writing skills
• May take time to build a client base

2. Virtual Assistant

Help businesses with tasks like email management, scheduling, and social media.

How to Get Started:
Create a LinkedIn profile highlighting your administrative skills and offer your services on websites like PeoplePerHour and Belay.

Pros:

• High demand
• No experience needed for basic tasks
• Remote work flexibility

Cons:

• Can be repetitive
• Clients may expect fast turnarounds

For more guidance on starting a side hustle as a virtual assistant, read here.

3. Online Tutoring

Teach subjects like math, English, or even test prep to students worldwide.

How to Get Started:
Sign up for tutoring websites like VIPKid, Wyzant, or Chegg Tutors to connect with students.

Pros:

• No degree required for many platforms
• Good pay rates
• Can tutor from anywhere

Cons:

• Some platforms require experience or certification
• Can be time-consuming

4. Social Media Management

Manage social media accounts for small businesses and influencers.

How to Get Started:
Build a portfolio by offering free services to a few clients, then pitch your services on Upwork and social media groups.

Pros:

• No upfront costs
• Creative and engaging work
• High demand for services

Cons:

• May require staying up to date with trends
• Can be time-intensive

5. Selling Digital Products

Create and sell e-books, digital coloring books, printables, templates, or stock photos online.

How to Get Started:
Use platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, or Teachable to market and sell your digital products.

Pros:

• Passive income potential
• No inventory or shipping
• Scalable business model

Cons:

• Takes time to create products
• Need to market effectively

6. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

Earn money by taking care of pets while owners are away.

How to Get Started:
Sign up for pet sitting platforms like Rover or Wag to find local pet owners needing your services.

Pros:

• Great for animal lovers
• No equipment needed
• Can start with friends and family

Cons:

• Irregular work schedule
• Requires trust and reliability

More information on pet sitting here.

7. Flipping Free Items

Find free items from Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or curbside and resell them.

How to Get Started:
Look for free items in your area, clean them up, and list them on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp.

Pros:

• 100% profit margin
• Environmentally friendly
• Can be done locally or online

Cons:

• Requires time to find and list items
• May need minor repairs or cleaning

Check out my experience here.

8. Affiliate Marketing

Promote products and earn commissions for each sale through your referral link.

How to Get Started:
Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or CJ Affiliate and promote products through a blog, social media, or YouTube.

Pros:

• Passive income potential
• No inventory or shipping
• Can scale with time

Cons:

• Takes time to build an audience
• Requires marketing skills

Check out this guide on how to start.

9. Babysitting

Offer childcare services for parents who need a reliable and responsible sitter.

How to Get Started:
Start by offering babysitting services to friends, family, or neighbors. You can also sign up on Care.com or Sittercity to find jobs.

Pros:

• No special skills required
• Flexible schedule
• Can build a loyal client base

Cons:

• Requires patience and responsibility
• Work may be inconsistent

Check out my experience here.

10. Handyman or Odd Jobs

Offer small repair, assembly, or delivery services in your local area.

How to Get Started:
Use apps like TaskRabbit, Nextdoor, or Craigslist to advertise your services.

Pros:

• No experience needed for basic tasks
• Quick cash
• Work on your own schedule

Cons:

• May require physical labor
• Inconsistent income

11. Mystery Shopping

Get paid to visit stores, restaurants, or services and provide feedback on your experience.

How to Get Started:
Sign up for mystery shopping companies like BestMark or Market Force.

Pros:

• Free meals or products
• Flexible schedule
• Easy work

Cons:

• Some gigs may not pay much
• Must follow detailed instructions

12. Voiceover Work

Earn money by lending your voice to commercials, audiobooks, or explainer videos.

How to Get Started:
Create a demo reel and offer services on platforms like Fiverr or Voices.com.

Pros:

• No equipment needed to start
• Can be done remotely
• High earning potential

Cons:

• May require voice training
• Competitive industry

13. Online Surveys and Market Research

Earn money by taking online surveys, testing products, or participating in research studies.

How to Get Started:
Sign up for survey websites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or Respondent to get paid for your opinions.

Pros:

• Super easy to start
• Can do it in your free time
• No special skills required

Cons:

• Low earning potential
• Some surveys can be time-consuming

Check out my experience here.

14. Blogging

Start a blog on a topic you’re passionate about and monetize through ads and sponsorships.

How to Get Started:
Use free platforms like Medium or Blogger, then transition to WordPress as you grow.

Pros:

• Passive income potential
• Work on your own schedule
• Creative freedom

Cons:

• Takes time to build traffic
• May need SEO and marketing skills

Check out these articles on blogging to get you started.

15. Selling Handmade Crafts

Sell handmade jewelry, art, or home decor on platforms like Etsy.

How to Get Started:
Create unique products and list them for free on craft marketplaces.

Pros:

• Great for creative individuals
• No upfront costs if using free materials
• Scalable business potential

Cons:

• Can be time-consuming
• Requires marketing effort

Final Thoughts

Starting a side hustle doesn’t have to cost a dime. With dedication and effort, you can turn any of these zero-cost side hustles into a steady income stream. Pick one that matches your skills and interests, and get started today!

Additional Tips for Success:

• Stay Consistent: Results may take time, so stick with your side hustle.
• Market Yourself: Use social media and word-of-mouth to promote your services.
• Build Your Skills: Invest time in learning new techniques to improve your offerings.

Do you have a favorite side hustle from this list? Let us know in the comments!