Patience is often a virtue, but when you need quick cash, it may not suffice. Whether facing an unexpected expense with a depleted emergency fund or aiming to jumpstart savings for a significant goal, there are numerous gigs to consider.

However, many require time and resources to initiate. If you seek fast money-making opportunities that pay within hours or days, explore these 13 quick money-making strategies.

Test user experiences

Businesses seeking feedback on websites or mobile apps often hire services that recruit and pay testers. After recruitment, you’re typically tasked with completing a short test on the client’s platform and sharing your experience.

Requirements: A computer or smartphone with internet access, and potentially a microphone and webcam. Application to a testing service takes minutes, with approvals generally within days on popular sites.

Earnings: Between $5 and $120 per test, based on complexity and whether the test is done independently or live on the company’s schedule. Payments usually process in about a week.

Take online surveys

Many companies use online surveys to gather product or advertising insights. Surveys may ask about your habits and preferences or request feedback on media.

Requirements: A computer or smartphone with internet access. Once registered with a survey service, you can start surveys almost immediately.

Earnings: From $0.25 to $25 per survey, varying by survey company and type. Payment methods differ, ranging from cash and gift cards to points redeemable for various rewards.

Sell stock photos

Turn your photography into passive income by uploading images to stock photo websites. You earn royalties when someone buys the rights to your photos.

Requirements: A collection of photos, possibly enhanced by a good camera and editing software. Ensure images are free of logos and copyrighted material, and obtain model releases if photographing people. Research site-specific rules, as some permit free uploads while others charge fees.

Earnings: Depends on the platform and membership type, with commission rates from 8% to 85% of the sale price.

Sell unwanted items

Declutter by selling items you no longer need via online marketplaces or traditional garage sales.

Requirements: Items in demand that you’re ready to part with, plus the ability to ship or meet buyers.

Earnings: The better the condition and desirability of your items, the closer you’ll get to the original purchase price. Be mindful of platform fees and shipping costs, which can reduce profits.

Become a dog walker

Enjoy plenty of exercise and quality time with furry friends while earning extra money. Numerous apps connect you with pet owners willing to pay for your services. Alternatively, advertise on local social media groups or with traditional paper flyers.

Requirements: You should be able to manage one or multiple dogs on a leash. Experience with different breeds and temperaments can be advantageous, especially for handling reactive, nervous, or elderly dogs. If you use a dog-walking app, you’ll likely need to pass a background check, which may incur a personal cost.

Earnings: While you can set your own rates, you’ll need to remain competitive in your area. The average fee for a dog walk is $25.50, but keep in mind that most apps deduct a commission. Walking multiple dogs at once and planning efficient routes can help maximize your earnings.

Try pet sitting or animal care

Cats, horses, chickens — oh my! Pet sitters and animal caretakers are in high demand as owners seek to travel without worry. Like dog walking, it’s easy to get started by either advertising independently or signing up on a pet-sitting app. Some dog-walking apps also allow you to promote other pet-care services.

Requirements: Reliable transportation is necessary to reach an animal owner’s home, or you need a suitable place to board pets. Experience with specific animals, like birds or horses, can be beneficial. You may also need to undergo a background check if using an app, with potential costs involved.

Earnings: Pet sitters typically charge $10 to $30 per day or $40 to $75 per night for overnight care. Higher fees can be justified for sitting multiple pets, frequent visits, or providing specialized care. Expect apps to take a small percentage of your earnings.

Consider house sitting

Prefer fewer pets? Earn money by house sitting instead. Without animals to care for, responsibilities may include watering plants, collecting mail, and maintaining cleanliness.

Websites and apps facilitate connections with homeowners, though they may charge membership fees. Alternatively, advertise independently and use your network for free.

Requirements: Similar to pet sitting, you need a way to reach your client’s home. Some websites might require a background check.

Earnings: House sitters typically earn $25 to $100 per day, based on duties and frequency of visits or stays. House sitting could also offer the perk of staying in a new environment with amenities like a backyard or pool.

Drive for a rideshare company

If you own a car and enjoy driving, consider working for a rideshare company. Once approved in the app, you can set your availability and preferred areas, allowing you to start earning by transporting people to their destinations. There are no initial fees, but you will need certain essentials.

Requirements: A reliable four-door vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and proof of residency in your city and state. Depending on your location and the app, you may need to be at least 21 years old, have one or more years of driving experience, and provide proof of insurance. A criminal background check is also required, but the company covers this cost.

Potential earnings: Income varies based on factors like location, ride types, and tips. Research shows rideshare drivers earn between $9 and $28 per hour, although major companies claim it’s closer to $35 per hour.

Make deliveries

If you prefer driving without interacting with passengers, becoming a delivery driver might be a great option. With the rise in delivery services for food, groceries, and packages, there are plenty of apps to choose from.

Requirements: Generally, you’ll need a vehicle and driver’s license. Some apps even allow deliveries via bike or scooter in certain areas. Similar to rideshare driving, you must apply and pass a background check, which is typically covered by the company.

Potential earnings: Drivers for popular services average between $12 and $24 per hour, but pay depends on your location, timing, delivery types, and tips.

Rent out your car

For a more passive income stream, consider renting out your car when it’s not in use. Apps facilitate finding drivers willing to rent your vehicle for a few hours, a day, or longer.

Requirements: A qualifying vehicle — meeting specific age, mileage, and title history criteria — and a valid driver’s license are necessary. You typically need to be at least 21 years old. While many car-sharing platforms offer protection plans and liability insurance, you may need your own auto insurance, depending on state requirements.

Check your personal policy: Some prohibit renting out your car, others might increase your premium, and some may not cover incidents involving renters.

Potential earnings: Average earnings are around $250 to $1,000 per month, depending on your car type, location, availability, and other factors. Listing sites take a percentage of rental costs but do not charge upfront fees.