With the Covid-19 pandemic, you may be among millions of people who find themselves working from home. And if you’re like me, you may be looking for a new home based business idea or ways to make more money from home to supplement your income. I’ve built my businesses from home, and I’m telling you – there has never been a better time to figure out a new side hustle.
This post covers 76 ways to build home based businesses for additional income. They range from one off side gigs to business ideas that may require some time, but could eventually replace all of your current income.
If you’re finding yourself in need of cash right now, consider checking out our post below on how to get money fast. Otherwise, scan through this list and start building your next home based business today!
Sneak Peak: Top 12 Best Home-Based Business Ideas:
*Note: continue reading #13-76 > >
Whether you are looking to quit the daily grind or trying to make extra cash as a way to get out of debt, starting a home business or side hustle can be the ideal way to meet your goals.
There are countless home based business opportunities just waiting for you to begin.
Before you get excited about starting your home based business idea, you first have to make sure you have the right tools in place.
The main tool is a speedy Internet connection. Most home-based businesses will require some sort of Internet connection. With a good Internet connection, you can also take care of a phone and fax.
Isn’t technology great?
On top of the right tools, you should also have a dedicated office or workspace that’s free from distractions.
Now that you have the right tools and work-space, let’s look at some of the top home based business ideas you can start today.
Interested in starting a blog and working from home? Sign up for my Make 1k Blogging email challenge. It’s a free, 10 email series that’s the main goal is to help you get your blog set up and earning $1,000!
76 Home-Based Business Ideas You Can Start Today
Now that we’ve got those details out of the way, here are 76 of the best home-based businesses almost anyone could start from their kitchen table.
1. Earn up to $45 Per Survey with Survey Junkie!
Did you know that you can earn money from surveys? You sure can.
My favorite is Survey Junkie. They are highly reputable and by far the most popular among our readers. Depending on your demographics, you can earn anywhere from $2.00 per hour to $5.00 per hour completing surveys on Survey Junkie.
However, filling out surveys is not the only way to earn money on Survey Junkie! You’ll also become a candidate for focus groups, invited to watch videos and review, and even earn money by playing games!
Now’s your chance to take surveys and make money online.
Earn up to $45 per Survey with Survey Junkie
2. More Online Survey Websites!
Making money online by filling out surveys is big business.
Right from the comfort of your couch, you could be earning money not just from Survey Junkie, but from several other websites as well. Check it out.
| Top Survey Sites: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Swagbucks | Watch videos, answer surveys, shop, and more. $5 Sign-up Bonus | Sign Up |
| Survey Junkie | Highly reputable and most popular | Sign Up |
| Inbox Dollars | Watch videos, answer surveys, play games, and more. $5 Sign-up Bonus | Sign Up |
| MyPoints | Earn points for surveys, redeem for amazon or retail gift cards | Sign Up |
| Pinecone Research | Sign Up | |
| iSurvey World | Watch videos, answer surveys, play games, and more. $5 Sign-up Bonus | Sign Up |
3. Rent Out a Room or House
Vrbo, Airbnb, and Vacasa are all examples of an online marketplace that arranges lodging options between a visitor and a host.
Let’s say you have a guest house or spare bedroom. Why not list the space on Vrbo and make that your business?
What you can charge per night depends on the area. The more touristy the city and nice your home, the more you can charge.
It’s easy and free to join Vrbo as a host. Simply create a profile (include a picture!), upload pictures of the room or space, set a price, and see if there’s any interest!
Many people around the world have been able to make the money they earn from Vrbo their primary business. And you could, too!
*Bonus Idea*
Don’t feel like letting strangers into your home? Airbnb, unlike the others, also arranges for “local experiences.” For example, let’s say your town or city has a nightlife area that tourists never seem to discover. Create a profile on Airbnb as an “Experience Host” and show the tourists a good time while getting paid!
| Marketplace | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| VRBO | Estimate how much you could earn! | Sign Up |
| Airbnb | Simple, secure way to host your home | Sign Up |
| Vacasa | Let Vacasa care for your home & guests | Sign Up |
4. Rent Out Your Car
It used to seem weird to rent out a spare room to a stranger, or to stay in stranger’s home when you go on vacation. Thanks to the likes of Airbnb and others, these sharing economy services have shown us it’s not so scary!
So let me ask – how do you feel about renting out your car?
Think about it. Rental car agencies (Enterprise, Avis, Budget, etc.) are awful to deal with and too expensive.
A company called Turo has disrupted the industry. People across the country are earning money from lending their cars out to strangers.
If you aren’t using your car for a couple of days, or if you have a spare one, simply join Turo’s free platform, list the car, and charge whatever you want for the day.
5. Invest in Real Estate
Real estate investing may seem more like a “side business,” than a true at-home business. Over time, however, making money as a landlord from the comfort of your home is a great place to start on your road to self-employment.
Want to get in on the action but don’t have the experience or time? I recommend real estate crowdfunding.
Real estate crowdfunding is when investors pool their money together to buy investment properties. Each crowdfunding platform is different; some focus on commercial, some focus on flipping homes, and others buy with the intent of collecting rent over the long term.
| Platform | Min. Inv. | Term |
|---|---|---|
| Fundrise | $500 | n/a |
| RealtyMogul | $5,000 | 6-120 mo. |
| PeerStreet | $1,000 | 6-24 mo. |
| CrowdStreet | $10K | 36-360 mo. |
| Roofstock | $0 | n/a |
6. Get Paid to Shop
Online stores compete for your attention and are willing to pay for it. If you shop a lot online, this could be a viable way to make money from home.
I’m talking about cash back sites. On such site is Rakuten.com.
This is how it works: Let’s say Rakuten partners with Target. When you buy something from Target on Rakuten.com, Rakuten receives a commission. Because Rakuten wants you to return to their site, they offer you cash back. For example, if you bought a lamp for $60, Rakuten might offer you 3% cash back ($1.80).
$1.80 doesn’t seem like much, but if you commit to always buying from cash back sites, the money will add up.
Check out all the cash back sites below and remember to shop on the ones you like!
7. Sell Stuff
This business idea sounds vague but that’s only because it’s widely open to interpretation. The root of the idea is related to the one above: People shop online a lot these days.
Why not be the one to sell them stuff? Below are places that facilitate online selling. Keep in mind, however, to make it a viable business, you need to be consistently selling. So think big.
Maybe you could shop at local thrift or antique stores and re-sell items online? This idea requires creativity.
- Gazelle: Sell used electronics
- Worthy: Sell engagement rings and old navy
- Declutter: Similar to Gazelle, a marketplace for electronics
- Poshmark: Sell jewelry, clothes, handbags, etc.
- LetGo: Furniture, cars, books, computers, etc.
- eBay: Create a store profile and sell anything!
- Amazon: Make money selling stuff already listed on Amazon.
8. Meal Planning
One of the best ways to keep a grocery budget—and a waistline—in check is to do meal planning.
But for some, this kind of planning is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. A meal planner could put together a list of a week’s recipes, along with a grocery list, for a harried but budget-conscious shopper.
Check out these services which were created to make meal planning cheaper and healthier for all:
- PlateJoy: Custom Meals
- Purple Carrot: Plant Based Meals
- Trifecta: Organic Meals
- Terra’s Kitchen: Custom Meals
- Splendid Spoon: Soup and Smoothies
9. Invest in Stocks
Similar to real estate, investing has long served as a way to earn a living without the boss or office required.
That said, investing is a risky business (literally) so I recommend only those who are experienced and have a strategy to consider this idea.
Below are brokerages I’ve used and can recommend. The great news these days about brokerages, is many have all gone down to $0 trading commissions!
10. Blogging
It takes some time to grow an audience and find ways to monetize your blog, but if you love to share your point of view with the world, you can make money blogging and work from home.
Niche blogs are a particular area of growth in this ever-growing profession. Pay can vary widely, but the income potential is nearly limitless.
With a hosting platform like Bluehost, you could have your site up and running in no time.
Want to start a blog for super cheap? Check out how my wife and I make money blogging and learn how you can make 1K Blogging.
Our top picks for web hosting options:
- Bluehost
- SiteGround
- GoDaddy
- Hostgator
- SquareSpace
11. Deliver Food
When restaurants receive an “order for delivery,” they are responsible for delivering the food. If you’re a pizza joint or a restaurant that gets a lot of delivery orders, you hire employees to be dedicated food deliverers.
But what about restaurants that get takeout orders, but not enough to justify hiring a full time employee to deliver the food?
Leave it to technology to solve this problem. And perhaps your next business idea.
Uber drivers take passengers from one place to another. Uber Eats drivers, however, take food orders from restaurants to customers. Exact same concept. Instead of the app pinging you that a passenger needs a ride, the app pings you that a restaurant needs food delivered somewhere.
There’s a ton of these services popping up and drivers are making a full-time living from them:
12. Voiceover Work
We’ve all seen YouTube videos or Netflix shows where a narrator is describing the scene or event, but is never seen. This person is called a voiceover actor. And business is booming.
Want to get in on the action? There are several ways to dip your toe into the entertainment industry, consider these sites below.
- Back Stage: The largest listing of entertainment jobs in the country (actors, singers, dancers, etc.)
- Kidscasting.com: Have a cute kid? Kidscasting.com lists jobs daily for jobs around the country requiring kids.
- Mandy.com: Mandy.com lists voiceover work, film and TV crew jobs, musicians and more.
13. Teach English from Your Couch
I recently met an English teacher and asked him where he taught. His response?
“Oh no, I work from home and teach students on the other side of the world in China.”
What????
Teaching English used to be a job folks would take as an excuse to travel. Not anymore! Nowadays, if you have kids and a home to maintain, why not take advantage of technology and teach students online?
VIPKid is is an online teaching and educational company based in China. Chinese parents specifically want their kids to learn English from native speakers, preferably from America.
Work your own hours. Earn up to $22/hour. No need to leave the house.
14. Home Inspection
This is one business idea you may not have considered, but it’s a vital role that new homeowners everywhere depend upon.
An important part of the home buying process is having a professional home inspector go through the house to determine the condition of the building and point out any potential problems.
A home inspector needs to meet the state regulations for the profession, which varies from state to state, although anyone who has worked in the construction or housing industry will have a leg up.
Median salary: $59,700.
*All median salaries listed are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics unless otherwise noted.
15. Massage Therapist
While licensing requirements for massage therapy can vary from state to state, the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork can help any budding masseuse fulfill their local requirements.
Massage therapists can either work out of their own home or make house calls with a portable massage table.
Median salary: $41,420.
16. Tax Preparation
No one likes doing taxes, and they need to be paid whether the economy is booming or tanking. This is why at-home tax preparation can be a great business for anyone with a tax background, or anyone willing to take training courses.
Since there are annual changes to the tax code, you will need to refresh your training each year, and you will also need to register with the IRS as a tax preparer.
This is more of a seasonal business idea than it is a year-round endeavor, but it can be a great way to earn some extra income each winter/spring.
Median salary: $46,860.
17. Doula
A doula is a labor coach that can help a birthing mother in any labor environment, from a hospital to a midwife clinic to home.
Doulas are non-medical professionals who offer information, emotional support, and physical assistance in the process of giving birth.
While licensing for doulas is not required by most states, getting certified by DONA International, the only certifying body for this profession, is a good idea.
Doulas do have to deal with unpredictable schedules, but they easily can do this work from home.
Doulas generally charge between $500 and $1000 per birth.
18. Hairstylist
If you have experience cutting hair and giving manicures, opening up shop from your home is an excellent way to start your own salon.
Make sure that you follow all of your state’s requirements for doing salon care in a home, as they can be stringent.
Median salary: $24,730.
19. Interior Designer
While you do not need a degree or certification in order to set out an interior designer shingle, it is really necessary in order to make sure you can meet the needs of many clients.
An education in the history and theory of design will allow you to understand trends that you may not like, but your clients do.
Median salary: $53,370.
Business Ideas Where You Can Work Remote
Many small businesses have gaps in what their employees can take care of.
Hiring a full-time employee to fill in those gaps isn’t necessarily feasible, which is where your work-at-home business comes into play.
Here are some work-at-home ideas that every business needs:
20. Graphic Design
Businesses always need graphic designers to help them convey information visually, through logos, advertisements, posters, websites, and the like.
While it is possible to be an entirely self-taught graphic designer, most have either a certification or a degree.
Other than the cost of design software, this business has very little overhead and can be done anywhere with a dedicated computer.
If you have the type of graphic design skills businesses need and you have the resources to buy the software you need to get started, this might be the home-based business idea for you.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic designers have a median salary of $50,370.
21. Bookkeeping
This is a perfect business idea for trained accountants who would like to work from home, although it is not necessary to be a Certified Public Accountant in order to become a freelance bookkeeper—it’s just necessary to have the background knowledge that bookkeeping courses at any community college can offer.
This kind of freelance work is especially helpful for small businesses that do not need or cannot afford a fulltime bookkeeper, making it possible for you to have full time work through several smaller clients.
Median salary: $40,240.
22. Copywriting
These writers put together promotional materials for businesses, including ads, websites, newsletters, commercials, direct mailings, and many others.
Copywriters generally have a degree in advertising, marketing, English, or communication, but an excellent writer can do a great job copywriting.
Median salary: $62,170.
23. Virtual Assistant
This is a worker who handles any number of small tasks for a business or individual.
Tasks include answering emails, data entry, scheduling, managing blogs, and even shopping. Anyone can become a virtual assistant.
According to Indeed.com, the average salary for virtual assistants is $42,000.
24. Courier Service
If you live in a bustling area, chances are local businesses could use a local courier service.
Unlike the big name services, you can offer more flexible pick-up and drop off times, which can be a godsend to many small businesses.
According to About.com, half of the couriers earn in the $17,000 to $27,000 range.
28. Translation
If you know a second (or third) language, you can make a living at home translating documents.
It’s a global marketplace, and even the best translation software can’t understand linguistic nuance.
Median salary: $49,930.
29. Video Production
Everyone wants a piece of YouTube, so talented freelancers can make a great living by producing videos for companies and organizations. Rates vary by area, equipment, and background.
30. Internet Security Consulting
If you’re tech-savvy and understand the ins and outs of internet security, consider becoming a consultant for small businesses.
Unlike the big boys, these companies can’t afford the huge security budgets, but they still want to be able to protect their internet customers.
31. Green Consulting
Many smaller companies would like to find ways to make their processes greener without spending more green.
You can help them to figure out ways to improve their carbon footprint without sacrificing the bottom line.
32. Grant Writing
Non-profits, universities, hospitals and other community organizations all have a great need for grant money to supplement their budgets, but grants are notoriously tricky to write for the first time.
If you have experience writing grants or are willing to learn how to do it by practicing your skills without pay for a few non-profits, you can start a lucrative freelance grant writing business.
According to eHow, grant writers can make anywhere from $40,300 to $67,000.
33. Medical Transcription
You hear about these opportunities, and they often sound like scams.
But the truth is that the medical industry has a great need for individuals to transcribe audio dictations into coherent reports. Transcriptionists do need education—generally a two-year degree—to make sure they are clear on the arcane medical terminology.
Median salary: $34,770.
34. Debt Collection
It takes a very thick skin to go into this business, but debt collectors only need a telephone and a computer to work, making it a great work-at-home business. It’s also a recession-proof (or even recession-loving) business.
Licensing requirements vary from state to state, so make sure you do your homework before setting up shop.
Median salary: $36,020.
35. Call Center Representative
Believe it or not, it is possible to actually reach a woman named Peggy (and not a man with a Russian accent) when you call customer service.
That’s because of the homeshore movement, which is trying to hire more independent contractors to work from home on customer service issues.
If you’ve got a phone line and an internet connection, you can work from home as a call center rep.
Median salary: $33,750.
Home-Based Business Ideas that Make Your Hobbies Pay
Anything you love to do for fun could also become a great at-home gig.
36. E-book author
Publishing is dead; long live the e-reader!
Now that anyone can have their work e-published, it is possible for anyone to make a fortune off their writing.
The biggest recent example is the 50 Shades of Grey trilogy, but there are many authors taking advantage of the ease of e-publishing.
If you love to write and are willing to do your own promotion (and having a blog can really help in that case), writing an e-book is an excellent way to make money fast from home.
37. Building furniture
Everyone loves a well-built and handmade piece of furniture. If you’re already spending time in your workshop, why not sell your wares?
Etsy is an excellent place to start selling without having to have a physical storefront.
38. Sewing
Whether you’re making onesies and quilts for sale online or at local markets or doing repairs and alterations for locals with ill-fitting clothes, your sewing machine could be your ticket to a work-from-home business.
39. Personal Organizer
If you’re someone who reorganizes closets for fun, offer up your services to harried and disorganized individuals and businesses.
40. Home Staging
If rearranging furniture is your idea of fun, home staging is a great home-based business.
You will help sellers get their homes looking beautiful so they sell as quickly as possible.
41. Herb Farming
Gardening can be very relaxing, and potentially very lucrative.
With both the increased interest in alternative therapies and the demand for locally grown and organic foods, an herb farmer can find plenty of customers, particularly if you’re in an urban area.
While this does require some space for growing, herbs are fairly small and nearly any home can be slightly modified to allow for an extensive herb garden.
42. Electronic Repairs
If you’re the sort who takes apart the computer for fun, operating an electronics repair shop out of your home is a natural decision.
In particular, repairing iPads and other tablets would provide you with a great deal of business, as many tablet users are looking for a less expensive way to fix smashed screens and other damages that can be costly through the manufacturer.
Median salary: $57,890.
43. Baking
Beautifully decorated cakes and cookies, artisan bread, and artful pastries have become all the rage, partially thanks to shows like Ace of Cakes.
Median salary: $26,520.
44. Personal Chef
As a personal chef, you would spend your time whipping up delicious meals for those who don’t have time to cook but do have money to burn.
The best way to make a name for yourself as a personal chef is to offer meals that fit stringent dietary or allergy requirements.
45. Mystery Shopping
For many people, the idea of getting paid to shop is a dream come true.
There are many mystery shopping scams to beware of, however. Never accept a gig that requires an upfront fee—that’s a good sign it’s not legit.
According to the website Scambusters, legitimate mystery shopping can pay anywhere from $8 per job up to $50 to $100 per job.
46. Bargain Hunting
If you love a bargain and know how to make coupons, specials, and unadvertised deals your penny-pinching pitch, then you could help others learn how to save money—and turn a profit.
The Grocery Game’s Teri Gault is the most famous at-home bargain hunter turned millionaire, but you could be next with some concerted thrifty efforts.
Start saving with coupons.com>>
47. Personal Stylist.
You have an eye for clothes and know what styles look best on what body types. So turn your passion for fashion into a business by becoming a personal stylist/shopper.
You’ll feel good about making others look great.
48. Catering
If you love to cook on a grand scale, why not start a catering business out of your home?
How much you make depends on the scale of the assignments you take, and your ability to correctly decide how much your materials will cost.
But this is also an industry where you can start small and work your way up to bigger gigs—and profits.
49. App Designer
Creating a profitable app for smartphones isn’t necessarily about having the best or most innovative idea: it’s about creating the best user experience for that idea.
That’s how app designers are able to make their work-from-home a full-time job—and then just live off the passive income.
50. Furniture Refinishing and Repair
You might have made a hobby of refinishing and repairing garage sale finds. Now, make your skills profitable by offering to make old furniture as good as new. After all, retro is definitely in.
51. Landscape Design
If you’re never happier than when you are landscaping your yard, landscape design might be the home-based business for you.
This is a relatively new field, so you can get some background knowledge through a degree, although schools that offer these degrees are somewhat rare, or you can intern with another landscape designer.
52. Tour Guide
You may love exploring all the fun corners of your hometown, but it might not occur to you to make that hobby a business.
This is an especially good idea if you can offer themed tours or other niche tours.
Median salary: $23,620.
Home Business Opportunities that Provide Necessary Services
Everyone needs a hand sometimes. Here are ways you can lend one and make a living.
53. At-Home Daycare
This is an especially good idea for stay-at-home-parents who need to bring in some money.
You’re already staying home with your kids: why not invite a few others to the party? Licensing for in-home daycare varies from state to state, but you will want to make sure you comply with your local regulations.
Median salary: $19,300.
54. Off-Hours Daycare
Though this is basically the same as above, it does deserve its own description. Finding someone to regularly watch children during off-hours, like second shift, weekends, or very early mornings, can be extremely difficult for parents.
Offering care during off-peak hours means that you can command a higher fee.
55. Elder Care.
In most cases, work-from-home elder care workers will make daily house calls to their patients to help with anything from meal preparation to self-care to minor home repairs.
The median pay for elder care work is $20,170. If you have a heart for serving the elderly, you could build a lucrative career out of it. You can market your services by word of mouth, social media, and using listing sites like care.com.
Median salary: $20,170.
56. Lawn Care
While once the province of teenagers, lawn mowing, gardening, raking, and snow removal can be a legitimately grown up home-based business.
57. Dog Walker
This job isn’t just for New Yorkers anymore.
Any large community can use dog walkers to help the area Fidos and Rovers make it through the master’s long workday.
58. Pet Sitter
If you can find pet owners who are willing to bring their dogs and cats to you, this is truly a home-based business. Otherwise, you’ll need to be willing to live at other houses (or at least visit 3-4 times a day) while you’re working.
59. Pet Grooming
Most pet owners don’t quite have the stomach or the time to clip nails, bathe, or give haircuts to their animals. With a couple of small tweaks to a bathroom, basement, or laundry room, you could have a full-service doggy salon in your home.
Again, it’s important to double-check your local requirements for this.
60. Travel Planning
While anyone can check an aggregator site for the best price to fly to Saint Louis, planning a more elaborate trip might be too much for some travelers.
This is where a travel planner comes in, using his skills to find the best trip—including flight, accommodation, rental car, and tours—for the budget.
61. Resume Writing
If you have a knack for making a resume shine, you could offer your services to job seekers.
62. Party Planning
From weddings to birthday parties to corporate events to conferences, the details of putting on a huge bash can be beyond the average party-giver. That’s why they’ll turn all the planning over to you.
Median salary: $49,370.
63. Child Proofing
Keeping our kids safe is so important, but the details of how to do so can be confusing.
A professional childproofing business is inexpensive to start up, but there may be state regulations to follow. It’s also a good idea to apprentice with a child proofer in order to learn the business.
64. Digital Media Conversion
It’s time-consuming to convert old-school media like CDs into digital files.
If you have excellent tech skills, this is a service you can offer to the tech-phobic and time-crunched alike.
65. Tutoring
A background in education is helpful for tutoring, but not necessary.
All you really need are mad skills in one or more academic area, and you can help local students do better in their classes.
66. Patient Advocacy
With the byzantine complexity of modern medical billing practices, there is a definite need for patient advocates.
These individuals take the time to track down hospital billing paperwork and potentially argue with insurance companies.
Considering the fact that many of those who need to hire advocates are either ailing or grieving, this is a very necessary service.
67. Personal Trainer
You love to work out and you know the ins and outs of nutrition and exercise.
Share your passion with novice exercisers, either out of your home or through a local gym.
Median salary: $31,090.
68. Junk Removal
Anyone who has ever had the unenviable task of cleaning up a house for sale after the death of the owner knows just how important this job is.
Junk removal can be as simple as hauling away unwanted stuff to the dump, or it can be as complicated as separating out the trash from the treasures and handling the actual sale of the goods.
69. Appraiser
We all love the moment in Antiques Roadshow when the owner learns how much their heirloom is worth.
Becoming an antiques appraiser will allow you to live that moment every day. This does require a background education in the subject and access to an excellent reference library.
70. Music Teacher
Teaching piano (or guitar or violin or singing) lessons out of your house is a well-established way for stay-at-home spouses to make a little extra cash.
If Lois Griffin can do it, so can any musically minded entrepreneur.
71. Housecleaner
With very low overhead and a skill set that is very easy to learn, housecleaning is one of the easiest businesses to start.
Depending on how much you want to grow, the income potential is pretty limitless.
Self-employed Business Opportunities That Didn’t Exist 15 Years Ago
As technology develops, so do entrepreneurial opportunities. Here are some work-at-home jobs that our parents would never have anticipated:
72. Online Store
It used to be that if you had a product to sell, you also had to have a storefront and all the costs associated with it. These days, you can sell anything to anyone anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re marketing the organic honey from your backyard apiary or selling personalized linens that you embroider yourself, you can find a market for your products online.
My good buddy Steve Chou from MyWifeQuitHerJob.com has created an online course that walks people step-by-step through building their own online store. His wife was able to quit her job, and together their online business produces in the six figures.
If you’re interested in learning more, check out his course: Profitable Online Store.
73. eBay Sales
Another online business idea is to simply become the eBay middleman.
Millions of vendors sell their wares on the online auction house. If you can find an inexpensive source for (legally!) saleable merchandise, you can get into the business.
74. Micro Jobs
With the advent of Fiverr, we saw a brand new way to assign and accept work: little jobs for small payouts.
But it’s no party trick. Apps like Gigwalk and sites like Mechanical Turk make it possible to cobble together a living with lots of little assignment each day.
75. Internet Marketing Affiliate
If you already have your own website or blog, you can earn money by becoming an affiliate.
You can either sell products directly and earn money that way, or you can sign up others as affiliates, much like multi-level marketing.
76. Get Paid for Social Media
Some Twitter users are able to leverage their huge following into a paid gig for advertisers.
Prolific bloggers have been known to get paid for commenting on other blogs. If you are a social media expert, you can use that expertise to earn money.
People want to reach your audience and are willing to pay you for it.
Home Based Businesses Opportunities (Requiring Training)
All of these ideas require some background in the area, but they are an ideal way to use your already-acquired skills in a work-from-home business.
And even if you do not already have the necessary training, there is nothing keeping you from getting certified in order to start your home-based business.
If you do not currently have enough money to get the certification you need I would recommend saving a little each month until you have enough to pay cash.
If that is not an option or you are desperate to get out of the grind, then you can check personal and student loan rates from various banks at SimpleTuition.com or learn more about Peer to Peer borrowing in my Lending Club review.
The Bottom Line on Being Self-Employed and Working from Home
If daily commutes, coworkers, and cubicles don’t suit your fancy, why not try one of the home business ideas on the list?
When you work from home, you can call the shots, set your standards, and pursue your professional passions at your own speed.
Home business opportunities are plentiful, opening the door for you to do what you love surrounded by all the comforts of home.
Self-employment is a beautiful thing, and with some disciplined and dedicated steps, you can start a thriving home business.
Sonia N. Mazyck says
I felt that this information pertaining to self-employment will be a valuable source for me. I was seeking general ideas of
what business would be most profiting for me and realistic. I am also interesting in using Amazon and eBay to distribute my products or services.
rajhuns pednekar says
Good options
Pat Wendt says
Thanks for the tips and inspiring video. I am going to share this site with my daughter who need some income, at least until a product she has produced starts selling. If she takes some of the advice given here, she may find a better way to do business.
I am a retired executive director for non profits and I have been on boards since the early 80’s including a 9 stint on a national board. Consulting sounds like a plausible occupation!
Thanks for your help and I plan to check back!
Pat
Pahoa, Hawaii
Joe says
“Home Based Business Ideas” No. 1 – Uber driver. Are you an idiot? Unless you remotely control your car, own a car, and can drive, how is that a home based business? You were number one in the google search results. Because of people like you genuine people in need like myself have the internet clogged up with garbage click bait affiliate laden BS. You’re ruining the internet and discouraging huge amounts of people from actually doing something to change their lives.
thomas asad says
I need a typist to type my presentation that go my Publisher. Am working on a new novel.
Jitesh says
Nice Ideas
Thanks
Peter says
Most of this work is total crap. Mystery shopping, surveys will earn you so little for the amount of time it’s worthless. There are a million bloggers so does anyone think they have any chance making ok money? If you do better have your head examined. Just to name a few/. The majority of people trying to launch these businesses will fail because these type of businesses have little chance to succeed.
Robert says
We are a unique dating software media company. We provide dating software to those that want to sell dating software as a business. Wondering how we can get added to your list.
Thanks,
Robert
iDateMedia.com
Lee says
Would it be legal to have a car delailing and repair business out of your driveway…
Jaque thomas says
looking for opportunities that are available to work from . What about Tee Shirts
JDA says
Excellent and thorough list and article. Amazing and well done! Your SEO should be front page! Your too generous with the minimum ads as well.
Yvette de Lange says
Hi, i need to start a business from home with little or none start up cost. I am based in Cape Town. Thank you.
Scott Romero says
Here are a few more…
Photography
Car Detailing
House Power Washing
Window Cleaning
Screen Repair and Replacement
Handiman
Elderly Care Assistant (Changing light bulbs, air filters, minor handiman, Putting out the trash, Walking their dog, ect. doing all the things elderly folks have trouble with or just check in on them daily.) as baby boomers turn elderly, this could be big.
Liz P says
Another unknown money maker is making crossword puzzles. Magazines will pay a couple hundred to $1000 for them.
DARRYL JERVONICE SMITH says
I’m interested in Travel Planning
Martina Hailee says
You can add Data Entry in the list. That is the best home base job they can have. It was so easy and can be done by anyone.
Bright says
What can of a good business can a man do to earn money
Cheryl Macaluso says
I am looking for work from home in the Accounting field. I have twenty five years of experience and three years of college majoring in Accounting.
I live in Mobile Alabama
I had my own Accounting business in Virginia
If I can help you to balance your books ,
Work on line with Intuit please send me an email or call me
Sincerely
Cheryl Macaluso
M.khalid says
I want to start a home work as a translator from English to pushto and urdu and from pishto to english .
Edwin Hernandez says
I need to do an investment for manufacture something, I have the money, but not the idea.
Jeff Rose says
Hi Edwin – Maybe start by taking a look at products you really like, then see if you can improve on them somehow. Can you make it better? Can you make it cheaper? Can you deliver it faster? Can you find a market niche where the product will take off. It’s not necessary to come up with a whole new product, which is also very risky. But if you can take an existing product and make it better you’ll have a better chance at success. Also take old product and see how you reinvent them. That’s what Howard Schultz did with Starbucks. He virtually reinvented coffee, which is something no one thought could be done at the time.
David DeKoven says
An encouraging article timely and much appreciated. Realized much more skills acquired over these years, hobbies that I have enjoyed could really help in these “retirement days “. Thank you!
Brian Winch says
I have another to add to your list that’s almost as easy to do as going for a daily walk! Clean up litter outside commercial properties for property management companies. The work is done on foot using simple hand tools. I started this as a side gig in 1981 and grew it into a profitable full-time business that I continue to operate today. I share my experience in my book, Cleanlots, and offer free support.
Elizabeth says
Pensioner at 63 female need to do something from home have to be home for my husband he needs me. I know English and Afrikaans i can type i have done debtors creditors wages not 100%computer literate but knows how to do invoicing letters wages etc on computer. I love speaking to people telephonically.i also have a valid driving licence
Jeff Rose says
Hi Elizabeth – You might try searching the web (particularly Indeed.com) to see if there are any jobs offered in those areas. Search under “work at home” or similar titles. Otherwise you might put together an impressive resume of the skillsets you have to offer, and shop them around to small businesses. There are millions of online business who hire freelancers to do specific jobs. If you can get just one, you can build on it by adding others as you go along. That will enable you to move into it gradually, and at your own pace and comfort level. Good luck!
Mike says
I like below part
My good buddy Steve Chou from MyWifeQuitHerJob.com has created an online course that walks people step-by-step through building their own online store. His wife was able to quit her job, and together their online store produces in the six figures. If you’re interested in learning more, check out his course: Profitable Online Store.
Sage Poland says
Hi Jeff,
I enjoyed your article. One thing I noticed was a typo in the ‘Editing’ portion. The line should read “but any eagle – eyed writer could do (a) great job.”
It’s kind of ironic actually. If you ever need anyone to edit, I have a BA in English and would like to get back in that field.
Thanks,
Sage
Jeff Rose says
Hi Sage – Our articles are edited, but items get missed by both spell-check and human editors. I ask for mercy on that front!
Michael baker says
Please send information on furniture buisness
Jeff Rose says
Hi Michael – Your best bet would be to google that information.We’ve presented a summary list, but don’t offer specific strategies or “how-tos”.
Lindsay says
DONA is definitely not the only certifying body for doula training.
Jeff Rose says
Thanks for sharing that Lindsay.
Akshara Malhotra says
An online business can save lots of money required for rent and expenses. Nearly anyone can start an online base business, as it is a comprehensive & beneficial.
The most trending businesses are; 1. Affiliate Marketing, 2. Facebook Page E-commerce, 3. Teaching online courses, 4. Social media consultant, & 5. eBook author: Publish your book online. Affiliate Marketing leads to be one of the strong and productive ways to make money online. There are a lot of online business ideas, but these five plans will be so obvious to start an online business without risk.
I just want to say that making money online is not simple.It requires a lot of substantial efforts and patience. Every option for business needs time. You should have in-depth information on the subjects as well. Then you will be in a form to act as expertise. Many users think that starting an online business is a simple job. But this story is completely mistaken. I have encountered lots of difficulties in my online journey but I never QUITED. I constantly blog in my own style. I personally doing Affiliate marketing with my current blog and it gives me a good result. I really enjoy it.
Anyways, thanks for sharing, beneficial for those who think that it is impossible to earn money from home…
Jeff Rose says
Hi Akshara – You’ve given a lot of good advice. Though a home business seems easy (but yes, they ARE easy to start), it’s first and foremost a business. That means you won’t be an overnight success. It could take years before it earns enough money to live on. It might be best to start it as a side business. But always remember to run it as a serious business, and not as a casual hobby. One other thing about a business…the hardest part is getting it from zero to making money. You have to be willing to overcome that hurdle.
Harish Kumar says
This business ideas are really useful for me,I am going to select one of the job from the list to make money.keep doing this great work,keep sharing.
Katy says
So many ideas are there to start a business. All it takes is dedication & hard work to make it a success. Great job on the article.
Jeff Rose says
Thanks Katy!
Kevin says
I found interest in the business opportunities you’ve mentioned in your article. Most of them, Thank you. And, though, I never gave thought to most of them. However, there is inaccuracy in the “opportunities that didn’t exist 15 years ago.” I know because I was involved with them (e.g.,) eBay, online stores are commonly known as e-commerce, and affiliate marketing. Internet marketing (actually) started in the earlier 1990.s.
Jeff Rose says
Hi Kevin – We should have said most of them didn’t exist. It is true that a lot of new opportunities are coming online all the time.
Harish Kumar says
Thanks for the helpful list, recently I quit my 9 to 5 job, I am looking for a home-based business to make money, now I got some idea about that, I am going to create a blog to earn money, keep doing this great work. keep sharing with us.
donny says
Great list here! Some are very out of the box great ideas. I did find great success working from home myself. All I do is refer people to our services from home. When customers pay their electric or wireless bill, I get a check.
Terry Wright says
Thanks for a great article.
One of the most comprehensive list of home business ideas I’ve seen.
It’s got my creative juices flowing.
Much Appreciated!
Terry Wright
Bounama says
Thanks 4 this amazing insight into the Home-based biz. I woud appreciate that 10-step stuff. I’d like to know, what you think of network marketting. Is it sound?
Jeff Rose says
Hi Bounama – Not sure exactly what you mean by network marketing, mainly because the term applied to a lot of different activities. I’d be careful if they want you to put money upfront. And I’d also research it carefully, including checking with the Better Business Bureau in your area.
Hericha Karis says
This is an ultimate guide and huge opportunity to build career in different are from home. Great work. thank you
Dwayne Graves says
Great! article very informative and this is awesome suggestions for start online business.Thanks for the guideline. It’s very helpful.
Mark says
Please send me the 10 step PDF, I found your article inspiring.
Mark
Marchelle Denise Fuller says
I absolutely love the Off Hour Daycare it’s a money maker to me
Deon Christie says
Excellent article, thanks for the hard work. This must’ve taken quite a bit of research time. I fit in at Number 25 as a Pro Blogger, and can confidently add that it will not be easy. I can however assure you Blogging will be SO worth it, once you get the hang of it.
Billy Butler says
I think this is terrific. I know that one of the biggest reasons people fail to make it work with starting a business online is the lack of knowledge of how to get started, or the lack of knowledge of how to market their business online with real proven techniques that drive traffic, and provide new and real leads for new membership or product sales. I have found that starting a business online can be the best option from an overhead standpoint, and definitely is the best bet as far as leveraging your exposure. i came across a tremendous opportunity that provides excellent support and a true one step approach to setting up your own profitable business that can, and will generate amazing profits with the right attention and effort to insure it’s success.
AMIT SRIVASTAVA says
My core competencies are:
* Best career Guide & Councillor for students of food tech.
* Lecture delivering in the technical institutes food technology.
* Skill to organised training to the industries dealing in ISO & Food safety certification.
* Working as a Head – Quality Control in liquor industry.
* Having expertise in corrective and preventive action through root cause analysis breakdown studies.
* Having sound knowledge to provide the turn key consultancy for setting up the small food processing industries.
test says
Currently it looks like WordPress is the top blogging platform out there right now.
(from what I’ve read) Is that what you are using on your
blog?
Jeff Rose says
Yes. WordPress is not only free, but it it’s also the most common blogging platform, and it has the largest number of free applications that can be used in conjunction with it.
homepage says
Fantastic blog! Do you have any helpful hints
for aspiring writers? I’m planning to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything.
Would you recommend starting with a free platform like WordPress or go
for a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m completely confused ..
Any recommendations? Kudos!
Jeff Rose says
Yes, absolutely, go with WordPress. Not only is it free, but it’s also very user-friendly. And there are lots of free apps available to go with it. I’d also get active on the social media to help you get noticed. You can use an application like Hootsuite to help you manage and schedule your social media activities.
Brian Winch says
I have new content for your small business blog listings that your readers would be interested to read about.
I’ve been providing a simple ‘green’ service at commercial properties since 1981. Using only hand tools, I perform a daily litter cleanup service for the exterior property (sidewalks, parking lot, landscape). Almost as easy as going for a walk! I generate a six figure income yearly from this simple, home based, low cost start up business and I can teach you how to do the same. Details online: http://www.cleanlots.com. Affiliate program available.
Heather says
Just an FYI that you may want to edit this article. DONA is not the only certifying organization for doulas. There are many other organizations that offer excellent training for new doulas.
ann brown says
interested in how to get a job as a customer service rep from home? I have 18 years in the workforce as a customer service rep.
Sonia Royster says
Can you give me some tips of how I can go about to stare a Coustomer Service Rep business from my home and how do i go about getting clients.
CATHERINE says
I’m interested in working from home as a Customer Service Rep. Can you tell me how to get started?
Rick says
Can I get more info? My back round is in the Building, Home Improvement industry, I am turning 62 soon and looking a local part time representation.
clive says
Really enjoyed your article..I am in the process of setting up a home based business of making and selling accent pieces and furniture. Please could you send me your pdf on this process I would be great full for any help.
Regards
Clive
Debi Stanley says
Excellent article!
Liz says
Gosh, I’d sure appreciate a copy of the 10-step PDF for starting a home-based business, if it’s not too much trouble for you. Thanks so much. WOW!
Michele M. Riberdy says
Item #8 should be changed from interior designer to interior decorator because indeed interior designers are required to have a degree and in many states are required to be licensed. Interior designers need to know building and safety codes among other things. Selecting paint colors and toss pillows is a very small part of the job. Many commercial ID’s do very little “decorating”. See IIDA or NCIDQ for more information.
PJ says
Just wondering if I could also get a copy of that 10 step list also, Thanks!
Steve says
Hi Karlene,
I would really appreciate a copy too, please
Shaquonia says
Hello Karlene,
I would also like a copy of your 10 step PDF guide to starting my own business. Thanks.
Shawn Melady says
Great information! I would like a 10 step PDF copy too please!
Whitney Williams says
Hi Karlene love this article I would love to receive a copy of the 10 step pdf for starting my own business. I will gladly appreciate it thank you.
cris says
Lot’s of good ideas although clearly can’t be done from the comfort of your own kitchen table.
Just to add for those who are looking for ways to make money from home without leaving home, think about services you can provide to businesses i.e. being a virtual assistant – taking calls, marketing, data entry.
If you want a business you can do from home, you can start up your own virtual assistant business, join a business opportunity, or just become an internet marketer.
Nice article to get the ideas flowing nonetheless.
kendieth says
HI KARLENE,
I would like to get a copy of that 10 step PDF starting a new business if i can
Thank you so much
Raquel says
Hi Karlene,
I would love a copy of the 10 step PDF for starting a new business.
Thank you so much.
Arafath says
All the businesses are good to consider for and i found interesting with medical transcription. One of my friend doing this business these days and the fact he used to earn descent income form the specific job.
Margie says
Like Karen, I would like for someone to help me with the “how to” part. I have a couple of business ideas, but when you start researching on the internet you are barraged with plenty of sites that lead you no where, and don’t answer specific questions. @ Karlene: How could I get your information?
Monty Murray says
Great suggestions! I’ve personally found number 23—blogging to be an excellent income source. The potential is limitless, just as you say.
David Jones says
Something for everyone you should be able to find at least one idea from the list. Especially interested in the Opportunities That Didn’t Exist 15 Years Ago section!
Kathy says
Great article! Love getting new ideas to tie in with what we are already working on. Just curious though as to what your opinion is of the direct sales industry and how viable it is in the long run?
Leroy McKane says
I have a friend who’s started ebay sales and its worked really well for him
darcy hubbert says
Thanks for sharing your brilliant ideas! This is one great article!
Karen says
It is great to have these ideas on what type of home business that you could start. I have seen these types of articles before. What I would like to see with these articles are some information on how to get the education that may be requires. I would also like to see some recommended steps to assist is starting a homebased business. Thank!
Karlene Cameron says
@Karen, I can certainly help you with the recommended steps. I have a 10-step PDF for starting a home-based biz of your own. Feel free to contact me if you’d like a copy.
Tame says
hi Karlene,
I saw your response to Karen regarding the 10-step PDF for starting a home-based biz of your own. I would like a copy too if you don’t mind sharing it with me.
Thank you for responding.
Tame
Ian says
I am looking to make some changes also and would love a copy of the 10-step pdf you are discussing here as well please. I hope you don’t mind.
Ian
Micki says
Hi Karlene, I would also like a copy of your 10-step PDF for starting a home-based business. Thanks!!
Antrice Thomas says
Hello Karlene,
I would love to have a copy of the 10-step PDF for starting my own business. Thank you so much.
Tierr LeBean says
Hi Karlene, I would also like a copy of your 10 step PDF for starting my own business, please. If it’s not too much to ask!
Thank you.
Holly Reed says
Plz snd me he 10 step PDF file for startn a hm based biz. Thk u so much.
Christie says
Karlene-
I would love to get a copy of your PDF file for starting a home-based business. Thanks.
Christie
Carl G says
Karlene,
I would also like a copy of your 10 step PDF for starting my own business, please.
Kellie Lee says
Helo5,
Can you alsi send me the pdf for the 10 step process of strarting a business.
Thanks!
David says
@Karen,
Could you also send me a copy of the document.
Thanks