40+ ways you can make money in one day (really!)

Have you ever checked your bank account and wished you could magically add a few hundred dollars?

We've all been there.

The good news is that earning quick money has become easier than ever with the rise of the gig economy. In fact, over 70 million Americans participated in freelance work in 2023.

Whether an unexpected bill has landed in your mailbox or you're saving up for something special, you have options. Real, practical options.

I’ve put together 40 legitimate ways to earn money in just one day – and yes, these actually work.

Let's explore how you can turn your next 24 hours into some extra green.

Can you really make money in one day?

The short answer is ‘Yes, absolutely.’

And don't worry, I'm not about to suggest anything sketchy like pyramid schemes or selling your grandmother's silverware. There are plenty of real, legit ways to put cash in your pocket when you need it.

First things first though, let's keep it real.

While you won't be swimming in gold coins by tomorrow, you can definitely earn some decent money within 24 hours if you're willing to put in the effort.

Think about it - what are you already great at?

Maybe you're great with dogs, handy with tools, or have design skills that wow your friends. Or, you’re that person everyone comes to for social media advice.

Guess what? Those skills can translate into quick cash.

Plus, with platforms like Whop, Gumroad, Etsy, and course marketplaces, turning your expertise into products or services has never been easier.

I've got 40 solid ideas to share with you - real ways that real people are making money fast. Whether you want to sell digital downloads like templates and presets, or package your knowledge into mini-courses and workshops, there's bound to be something that matches your creative strengths.

The best part?

Once you’re all set up, many of your ideas can become passive income streams that keep earning while you sleep.

Make money in one day with these 40 ideas

Whether you need emergency cash or want to start a side hustle, these 40 legitimate ways can help you earn money in just 24 hours.

1. Affiliate marketing

This is one of the smoothest ways to start earning online - literally from day one. Affiliate marketing is basically getting paid to recommend products you actually love.

Think of it as being a digital matchmaker: you connect your audience with great products, and when they buy through your special link, you earn a sweet commission. The moment someone makes a purchase, you're making money.

The key to making it work? Pick a niche you're genuinely excited about. Love gaming peripherals? Passionate about productivity apps? Whatever gets you fired up, there's probably an affiliate program for it.

You can get started in a few hours - platforms like Amazon Associates and ClickBank are perfect for beginners since they offer tons of products to promote.

And hey, if you're into digital products, Whop's got some fantastic opportunities for affiliates to earn by promoting top-performing digital goods.

2. Ebooks

An ebook is essentially your expertise wrapped up in a digital package that people can buy instantly. The best part? You can start making sales as soon as you hit publish.

Got experience in social media marketing? Know the ins and outs of personal finance? Whatever you're good at, someone is willing to pay for your knowledge. Focus on solving one specific problem, and you've got a potentially profitable ebook.

Here's what makes ebooks such a smart move: once you've created it, the same ebook can keep making money day after day without extra work. You can list it on platforms like Whop, Amazon Kindle, or Etsy - or even sell it directly from your own website. Make once, sell over and over again, and if you do this well you have the potential to make money every hour.

3. Online surveys

While online surveys won't make you wealthy, they can provide quick cash when you need it today. Several legitimate online survey platforms offer almost instant payment options once you reach a minimum threshold, typically around $5.

Popular sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and PrizeRebel let you earn through simple surveys, with payments sent via PayPal or gift cards. Starting early in the morning gives you the best chance to earn $20-30 in a day, as more surveys are available during business hours.

Be honest in your responses and expect to earn around $3-8 per hour with focused effort.

4. Video courses

Video courses are like ebooks on steroids. While they take a bit more time to create than an ebook, you can charge premium prices - we're talking $1,000 or more. And once your course is live, you can start selling it immediately.

Now, I know what you're thinking - that's a hefty price tag. But here's the secret: people will happily pay top dollar if you can solve a problem and deliver real results. Don't just teach "social media marketing" - show people exactly how to blow up their dropshipping store on TikTok using organic growth strategies.

The more specific your solution, the easier it is to find people willing to pay.

To make those high-ticket sales, you'll need two things: solid proof that you know your stuff (think testimonials), and a smooth sales system that converts browsers into buyers.

But don't stress about the technical stuff - platforms like Whop handle all the hosting and delivery headaches for you, so you can focus on what matters: creating awesome content and making sales.

To learn more, read How to make money online with video content

5. Selling clothes

One of the fastest ways to make money in 24 hours is hiding right in your closet. Those jeans you haven't worn in months or that jacket that's not quite your style anymore? They could be cash in your pocket by tonight.

Online platforms like Vinted and Poshmark are perfect for quick sales - you can literally list items in minutes and potentially secure a buyer the same day.

The process is simple: snap a few photos, write a quick description, set your price, and start connecting with buyers immediately. Many buyers are looking for same-day pickup, especially if you offer a competitive price.

Don't want to wait for online buyers?

Host a last-minute yard sale today - just put up some signs in your neighborhood and post them on local Facebook groups or Nextdoor. With the right pricing strategy you could turn your unused clothes into immediate cash.

6. Podcast editing

The recent podcast boom might be your answer to making quick money. Turns out, podcasters constantly need editors, and you can jump in with just a few basic skills.

Start by learning free software like Audacity, then offer to edit a couple of episodes for free. Yes, free - but these samples quickly turn into paid gigs at $30-50 per hour. Focus on basics like cleaning up background noise and trimming silences - skills you can pick up in a day through tutorials.

Your best bet for finding clients? Join podcast Facebook groups and Reddit communities where hosts are actively seeking editors.

Being an influencer isn't just about posting selfies anymore - you can actually start making money from day one if you play it smart.

You probably already have everything you need to get started: a phone, some creativity, and your unique perspective.

Most people don't realize that you don't need millions of followers to start earning. Even with a small but engaged audience (yes, even just a few hundred followers!), you can start monetizing today through quick-win strategies.

Micro-influencing is where it's at - brands often prefer working with creators who have smaller, super-engaged audiences.

Pick a niche - budget fashion, tech reviews, or cooking hacks. Once you've got some content up, start reaching out to brands for sponsored posts, join affiliate programs, or sell your own digital products to your audience. As an influencer you can create multiple streams of income from one platform.

Pro tip: platforms like TikTok and Instagram are goldmines now because their algorithms love giving new creators a chance to go viral. One well-timed, creative post could literally start bringing in money within 24 hours.

8. Delivery service jobs

Turn your car into a money-making machine today by signing up for delivery apps. Food delivery platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates often approve drivers within hours, letting you start earning the same day.

Best of all, many offer instant pay features - deliver a few meals and cash out immediately.

For package delivery, Amazon Flex lets you earn $18-25 per hour delivering Prime packages. Plus, evening and weekend shifts are usually available, making it perfect for quick cash after your regular job. Most platforms let you work whenever you want, so you can start earning as soon as you're approved.

9. Sell stock photos or videos

Got a camera and an eye for great shots? Turn those photos sitting on your phone into cash, starting today: sell stock photos and videos.

You don't need to be Annie Leibovitz either - those authentic, real-life moments you capture are exactly what buyers are looking for. Businesses and creators are constantly hunting for fresh images of everything from people working on laptops (hello, remote work content!) to aesthetic food shots and urban scenes.

Getting started is simple. Just create a profile on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, upload your best shots (you can literally do this today), and boom - your photos can start making you money.

10. Street performing

Do you have a special talent? Whether you can play guitar, juggle, do magic tricks, or create art, you could turn your skills into cash today as a street performer. Popular spots like busy shopping areas, tourist locations, and weekend markets often draw generous crowds.

Before you start performing, check your local laws - many cities require permits for street performances. Some areas have designated spots for buskers, while others have specific time restrictions.

Once you've found a legal spot, pick high-traffic times and engage with your audience. A well-placed tip jar, engaging performance, and friendly demeanor can earn you decent money in just a few hours.

11. Print-on-demand

Want to start selling cool merch without spending a dime upfront?

Print-on-demand is your ticket to quick cash. Think of it as your own mini-merch empire but without the headache of storing inventory or risking your savings. The moment someone buys, your design gets printed and shipped directly to them. Pretty sweet, right?

Let's say you've got a killer idea for “new parent” merch - those hilarious "running on coffee and baby smiles" t-shirts or heartfelt "mama bear" hoodies. If your designs hit home with your audience, you could be making money before the day is over.

The secret sauce?

Understanding exactly what makes your audience tick. You just need designs that speak to people's hearts, interests, or sense of humor. Platforms like Redbubble, Printful, and Merch by Amazon can handle all the printing and shipping, so you can focus on what matters: creating designs that sell and marketing them to the right people.

12. Tutoring

Same-day tutoring services are a great way to earn some quick cash. Whether you're great at math, science, or languages, many parents are willing to pay for immediate help, especially during exam seasons.

While online platforms like Tutor.com and Wyzant offer steady opportunities, they require background checks and verification. Whop stands out as a quick-start option with no upfront costs.

You can immediately create your profile, host video calls, and start tutoring. The platform also lets you expand into selling courses and ebooks, with minimal fees on your earnings.

For immediate cash, focus on local, in-person tutoring first while setting up your online presence for long-term income.

13. Odd jobs

Odd jobs aren't just about helping your neighbor move anymore. These days, you've got online and offline options to earn fast money.

Jump onto TaskRabbit, and you'll find everything from furniture assembly to yard work in your area. The app connects you directly with people who need help and are ready to pay. Simply browse local jobs, pick what matches your skills, and get to work.

Don't forget the traditional route, though - putting the word out locally can still land you same-day cash jobs. Sometimes the quickest money is right in your neighborhood, from helping someone clear their garage to painting a fence.

14. Short-form video editing

Want to tap into serious money? Short-form video editing is a great way to do so. With creators desperate to go viral, they're willing to pay good money for editors who know what works.

Getting started is easier than you'd think. Grab free software like CapCut, learn the basics, and study what makes videos pop on social media.

The real money maker?

Once you're skilled, you can knock out several videos per hour at $50-150 each. Do the math - that adds up fast.

Stay sharp by joining TikTok Discord communities where editors share trending tips. The viral landscape changes daily, but that's exactly why creators need editors who get it.

15. Consulting

Turn your expertise into serious cash through consulting. If you've got real-world experience or specialized knowledge, companies will pay premium rates for your insights - especially in money-driving areas like business development, marketing, and customer acquisition.

Think $100-300+ per hour for solid advice in these fields.

The key?

Build a strong personal brand that shows you know your stuff. Start by creating value-packed content on LinkedIn, then use platforms like Whop to sell your expertise through one-on-one sessions, training videos, and ready-to-use templates.

16. Testing websites and apps

Companies are actually paying people to test their websites and apps - and yes, it's as simple as it sounds. You browse their site, try their app, and tell them what you think.

Platforms like UserTesting, BetaTesting, and IntelliZoom will pay you for your honest feedback. Most tests take 15-30 minutes and pay around $10-20 each. A tip here - take 10 minutes to set up a solid profile first - it helps you land more testing gigs.

Want in?

Pick a platform, complete your profile (be thorough!), and you could be earning money today just by sharing your thoughts on new apps and websites.

17. Personal coaching

Do you have experience helping people reach their goals? Personal coaching could put cash in your pocket today - and you don't need fancy certificates to start. What counts is your ability to guide others toward real results.

Whether you excel at productivity, relationships, or crushing fitness goals, someone's willing to pay for your knowledge. Most new coaches charge $50-100 per session, and you can start taking clients as soon as today.

18. Donating plasma

Need cash today? Plasma donation centers like BioLife, CSL, and Octapharma pay on the spot - often $50-100 for your first visit. While it takes longer than giving blood (about 2 hours), you'll walk out with money in hand.

The process is straightforward: bring your ID and proof of address, pass a quick health screening, and you're set to donate. Most centers load your payment directly onto a debit card right after your session.

First-time donors often earn bonus money, and some centers run special promotions where you can earn up to $900 in your first month. Just check if you're eligible - most healthy adults between 18-65 can donate up to twice a week.

Email newsletters offer a fast path to your first dollars online. While major players like Morning Brew command millions, you can start earning in a few days with a simpler approach.

Begin with a targeted niche – local events, industry insights, or curated news – and use free platforms like Substack to launch instantly.

The key to quick earnings?

Start with a free newsletter but immediately offer a premium tier for exclusive content at $5-10 monthly. Even 50 initial subscribers can generate $250-500 monthly in recurring revenue.

Speed up your earnings by approaching small businesses about newsletter sponsorships – many will pay $50-100 for a single mention to reach your specific audience.

20. Babysitting

On-demand babysitting is a great way to turn your free hours into cash.

Apps like Sittercity and UrbanSitter connect you with parents seeking same-day childcare, often paying $20-30 per hour. Create a profile now, complete the quick background check, and activate notifications for urgent requests.

For the fastest results, message local friends and family about your immediate availability – even a few hours of sitting can net you $60-100 today.

21. Product testing

Turn your honest opinions into cash or free products by becoming a product tester. Companies need real feedback before launching, and they'll pay for your insights.

While less common than surveys, product testing typically offers better compensation – either in cash, free products, or both.

Start with platforms like UserTesting and Testbirds for tech and software testing gigs. For physical products, connect with emerging Amazon sellers who often offer free items plus payment for detailed reviews.

Join Amazon seller groups to tap into daily product launches looking for testers. Just be reliable with your feedback, and you'll build a steady stream of testing opportunities.

22. Car washing

Set up a neighborhood car wash business through Nextdoor. With basic supplies and competitive rates ($20-30 per wash), you can tap into local demand for affordable, personal service.

Target busy neighbors and multiple-car households to earn $100+ in a day. A weekend special offer can help attract your first customers fast.

23. Make a YouTube channel

YouTube remains a top platform to earn online, even after 20 years. While building a full channel takes time, you can create content starting today.

YouTube Shorts is a faster way to build an audience with quick, engaging clips. Don't want to show your face? Create faceless content using AI tools for visuals and voiceovers.

Once you gain traction, income flows through ads, sponsorships, and product sales. The key is providing value while being entertaining – start with what you know best.

24. Yardwork

Your neighborhood's yards could be your next paycheck. From mowing lawns and pulling weeds to raking leaves and trimming hedges, basic yardwork is always in demand.

Connect with local clients through Nextdoor, a community app where neighbors post job requests daily. For more consistent work, try specialized platforms like GreenPal or Lawn Love – these apps match you directly with homeowners needing yard maintenance.

The great news is there's no need for fancy equipment to get started. Begin doing basic services using tools you already have. Many homeowners are willing to provide equipment for reliable help.

You can start today and get paid immediately after completing each job.

25. Create and sell Instagram accounts

Build and sell themed accounts on Instagram to get rich quick. Create content around popular niches like pets, luxury, travel, tech, or business. Grow your following through consistent posting and trending content, using AI tools to speed up creation.

Once you've built an engaged audience, earn through sponsored posts and digital products – or sell the entire account for potentially thousands. Popular accounts in targeted niches can sell for five or six figures.

The key is picking a niche you understand and staying active with quality content.

26. Tech support

Got tech skills? Turn them into quick cash through freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. From troubleshooting computers to setting up software, there's constant demand for technical support.

Many clients need immediate help and are willing to pay well for fast solutions. While some jobs take time to get paid, plenty offer same-day payment for urgent tech assistance.

27. Teach English online

If you’re a native English speaker, you can turn your language skills into quick cash by teaching online. Platforms like VIPKid, Cambly, and Qkids connect you with students worldwide, and many don't require teaching certificates.

Just prove your fluency, sign up, pass the approval process, and start teaching on your schedule. It's a flexible way to earn from home, perfect for both side income and digital nomads.

The problem with language platforms is that they tend to take a big cut of your revenue. If you want to keep more of your earnings, consider teaching a language on Whop. Create your whop, upload your teaching documents like online courses and homework sheets, and host lessons with video chats in your whop.

28. Become a virtual assistant

Virtual assistants (VAs) are in high demand as companies embrace remote work. While basic VA roles exist, focus on specialized skills to earn more. Start with administrative tasks like scheduling and organization, then build up to higher-paying opportunities.

Quality VAs who prove their worth can command premium rates, especially when working with entrepreneurs who value skilled support. The key is to highlight your unique abilities and deliver consistent results.

29. House cleaning

Turn your cleaning skills into quick cash by offering local services. Post on community boards or use dedicated platforms like Housekeeper.com to find clients.

The beauty of cleaning work is its flexibility - choose your hours, select specific jobs, and often get paid the same day.

Many clients prefer reliable, independent cleaners over big companies. Plus, you can start with basic supplies and expand your services as you build a client base.

30. Help build communities

Online communities are booming on platforms like Discord and Whop, creating opportunities to earn as a community manager or creator. Many groups need help growing and engaging their audiences, and they're willing to pay for it.

No formal qualifications are needed – just show your community-building skills and networking ability.

Want to start your own? Whop lets you create paid communities (called 'whops') around any topic – from sports betting to travel. You can set one up in minutes, customize it with Whop apps, and start monetizing through memberships.

The platform is free to use, and you choose how to structure your community and pricing.

How to Set Up Your First Whop (In Under 10 Minutes)

31. Pet sitting

Pet sitting offers a swift path to earning cash, combining flexibility with the joy of caring for animals. Reach out to your social circle - neighbors, friends, and family members often need reliable pet care on short notice.

For broader opportunities, platforms like Rover and PetBacker connect pet sitters with pet owners, making it easy to find same-day assignments. While some turn pet sitting into a full-time profession, it's equally valuable as a quick money-making solution when you need extra income.

Many pet owners pay immediately after service; this makes it an ideal option for fast cash.

32. Sell leads

Finding qualified leads is one of business owners' biggest challenges - and that spells an opportunity for anyone ready to solve this problem.

By connecting businesses with potential customers, you can build a profitable side business through lead generation. The model is simple: identify quality prospects for companies in high-value industries, then get paid either through commissions or set fees for each lead.

Medical practices need new patients, law firms seek clients, financial advisors look for investors, and real estate agents want home buyers and sellers. Businesses in these fields understand the value of new customers, so they're often willing to pay premium rates for qualified prospects.

33. Rent out items

Turn your unused items into instant income through the rental market. From cars and bikes to party equipment, tech gadgets, and power tools, everyday items sitting idle in your home could earn you quick cash.

Think beyond the obvious: while vehicles and tools are popular rentals, nearly anything of value can find its temporary home with someone who needs it for a day or two.

This approach is particularly appealing because it generates income from items you already own, with minimal extra effort on your part. Plus, you maintain ownership while earning from assets that would otherwise gather dust.

34. Calendar organization

Calendar organizing might sound simple, but it's a service that can put quick cash in your pocket. Believe it or not, busy professionals and entrepreneurs happily shell out $50-100 per hour just to have someone sort out their chaotic schedules.

Getting started is simple: post on social media or reach out to local business groups with your same-day organization services. You'll be the expert who swoops in to merge scattered calendars, set up smart color-coding, and carve out strategic time blocks.

Here's the sweet spot: you can do it all remotely, and most clients just need 2-3 hours to get their schedule whipped into shape.

35. Creating custom playlists

Turn your music obsession into quick cash by curating custom playlists for people who don't have the time (or the knack) to do it themselves. From workout mixes to dinner party soundtracks, there's serious demand for perfectly crafted playlists that set just the right mood.

Think about it —busy professionals want killer gym playlists, event planners need the perfect party vibe, and small business owners are looking for on-brand background music for their shops.

You can charge anywhere from $25-75 per playlist, depending on length and complexity, and knock out several in a day.

36. Presentation design

Ever noticed how many people freeze up at the thought of designing PowerPoint slides? Professionals everywhere need polished presentations but lack the time or design skills to create them - and they're willing to pay $50-200 per presentation for someone to transform their boring bullets into eye-catching slides.

The secret?

Most clients already have their content ready; they just need someone to make it look professional and engaging. You'll pick stunning templates, create consistent color schemes, add modern graphics, and turn text-heavy slides into visual stories.

Even a basic eye for design and decent PowerPoint or Canva skills can land you quick projects.

37. Personal styling advice

Got a knack for putting outfits together? Personal styling has become a hot service, and you don't need fancy credentials to start making money today. People are willing to pay $75-150 per session for someone to help them figure out what to wear for job interviews, special events, or just to refresh their everyday look.

Through virtual styling sessions, you can hop on a video call to provide outfit advice and create new combinations from clothes they already own.

All you need is a good eye for style, basic knowledge of body types, and the ability to give friendly, honest feedback.

38. NFT creation and sales

Creating and selling NFTs can be a quick way to earn if you've got some artistic flair or digital design skills. Best of all, you can create and list your artwork on NFT marketplaces in a single day. This can earn you anywhere from $50 to several hundred dollars per piece.

Start by creating eye-catching digital artwork. Convert it into an NFT on platforms like OpenSea or Rarible, and market it through social media channels. With basic design software skills and a creative mindset, you can produce multiple pieces in a day.

Remember to leverage trending hashtags and engage with the NFT community to boost visibility for same-day sales.

39. Host virtual events

Ready to put your organizational skills to work? Virtual event hosting has become a lucrative gig, with businesses and individuals willing to pay $200-500 for someone to run their online gatherings smoothly.

From virtual team buildings to digital workshops, there's a constant demand for hosts who can manage the technical side while keeping audiences engaged.

You'll handle everything from platform setup and participant management to running interactive elements and troubleshooting technical issues. With basic knowledge of platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, plus some engaging personality, you can start booking events today.

The best part?

Most virtual events last just a few hours, meaning you could potentially host multiple sessions in a single day.

40. Write dating profiles

It might seem simple, but the average person struggles to write about themselves on dating apps. Singles are more than willing to invest $50-150 for a profile that helps them shine online - and who can blame them?

In today's digital dating world, those few lines of text can make all the difference. And, you get to help people tell their story in a way that truly represents who they are.

A typical project involves having a friendly chat with your client to understand what makes them tick, then crafting a profile that captures their personality and attracts the right kind of attention.

Most profiles only take an hour or two to perfect, meaning you could help several people find love in a single day.

write dating profiles tinder screenshots

What’s the best way to make money fast?

While gig economy jobs like food delivery, ride-sharing, or task completion platforms can provide quick cash, these typically offer only temporary solutions. A more strategic approach is to develop a steady, passive income stream through digital products.

Digital products are where the real opportunity lies.

Instead of trading your time for dollars, you could create something once and sell it infinitely in theory. Maybe you're knowledgeable about a particular topic and could create an online course. Or perhaps you have design skills and could develop templates that others would gladly purchase.

The smartest approach?

Start with some gig work to cover your immediate needs, but dedicate a few hours each week to developing your digital product. This way, you're not just chasing quick money – you're building a sustainable income stream that could support you for years to come.

Make money today with Whop

Whop has become the go-to platform for creators who want to sell everything from digital downloadable products to exclusive memberships. Getting started is straightforward – you'll want to first explore what's already selling well on the platform and identify where your skills fit in.

Many successful Whop creators start by developing digital products like courses or tools that solve real problems. Whether you're knowledgeable about software development, trading, or content creation, there's likely an audience waiting for your expertise.

Get started with Whop – it's free and takes just minutes.

Make Money Today with Whop

FAQs

Still have questions? We’ve answered the top queries on making money in a day for you, right here.

How to make quick money in one day?

Legal ways to earn quick money in a day are straightforward. You can sell unused items online, do odd jobs through TaskRabbit, or deliver food through apps. Other options include paid research studies, plasma donation, pet-sitting services, and yard work for neighbors.

How to make quick money in one day on my phone?

You can make money on your phone using delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats to deliver food. Survey apps like Swagbucks pay for opinions. Selling apps help you sell items quickly through Facebook Marketplace. Task apps like TaskRabbit let you find quick local jobs. Receipt apps give cashback on shopping.