The internet has made earning money easier than ever - whether you want a side hustle for some extra cash or a full online business, the opportunities keep growing fast. From quick gigs to long-term passive income streams, there’s something for everyone.
But don’t expect to get rich overnight (and if someone promises you that, it’s more than likely a scam). With focus, patience, and smart moves, you can build real, sustainable income online.
This guide breaks down proven ways people are making money from home, some with zero upfront costs, others aimed at long-term growth. The trick? Find what fits your skills, time, and goals.
Let’s dive in!
1. Best ways to make money online quickly (low skill, high interest)
If you're new to making money online (see our beginners’ guide here) or need cash fast, these low-barrier options can help you start building income without any special skills. They won’t replace your 9-5, but they’re great for extra cash or to start building your online income game.
Paid online surveys
Surveys remain one of the easiest ways to start earning online. Companies pay for your honest opinion. No skills needed, just some spare time.
- Top platforms: Swagbucks, Branded Surveys, YouGov, Prolific
- Earnings: Typically £0.50-£3 per survey, 10-20 minutes each
- Tip: You’ll need to hit a payout threshold (usually £10-20) before withdrawing
Get paid to click, watch, or search
Earn small amounts doing simple online tasks like watching videos or using a search engine. It won’t replace a full income, but it adds up if you’re consistent.
- Try: Qmee, InboxPounds, Swagbucks
- Earnings: Pennies per task, but easy to do anytime
Micro-tasks
These quick gigs need human input, like data entry or web research.
- Platforms: Clickworker, Amazon Mechanical Turk, Lionbridge
- Pay: £2–£10 per hour, flexible hours
Test websites and apps
Give feedback on the usability and functionality of websites or apps.
- Sites: UserTesting, Userlytics, TryMyUI
- Pay: £8-£12 per 20-minute test
- Requirements: Good communication skills and reliable internet
Competitions and prize draws (comping)
Not guaranteed income, but some people win prizes worth thousands annually by entering competitions.
- Follow brands on social media for exclusive contests
- Use aggregator sites like LoquaxTM and MSE's Competition Corner
2. Medium-effort methods with reliable returns
These options require more skill or time investment but offer better earning potential and more engaging work.
Freelance writing and editing
Content demand is booming. If you can write clearly, this is a solid way to earn.
- Get started: Upwork, Intch, Freelancer
- Rates: Beginners £10-20/article; experienced £30-100+/hour
- Tip: Build a niche and portfolio gradually
Sell stock photos or videos
Monetise your photography/videography skills on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)
Support businesses with admin tasks, social media, customer service, and more.
- Pay: £8-25/hour
- Build: Long-term client relationships for stable income
Sell handmade products
Use Etsy, Folksy, or Amazon Handmade to turn crafts into cash.
Sell digital products
High margins, no inventory. Popular items include Notion templates, Canva designs, ChatGPT prompts, and planners.
- Platforms: Gumroad, Etsy, Creative Market
3. Scalable and passive income streams
These take real effort up front, but once they’re set up, they can bring in steady income with little to no maintenance.
Dropshipping tips
Sell products online without inventory, using Shopify or WooCommerce.
- Profit margins: 3-7% after ads
- Requires skills in marketing and customer service
Print-on-demand
Design items like t-shirts or mugs are printed only when ordered.
- Platforms: Printful, Printify, Merch by Amazon, Redbubble
Start a blog or niche website
Earn through ads, affiliate links, sponsored content, and digital products.
- Takes roughly 6-18 months to grow, but can generate substantial passive income
Create and sell online courses
Share your expertise on platforms like Udemy, Teachable, Skillshare, or Coursera.
Write and publish ebooks
Self-publish on Kindle Direct Publishing or Smashwords. Good editing and marketing matter.
Launch a YouTube channel
Earn through ads, memberships, super chats, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Side hustles that use your environment or possessions
Why not monetise what you already own?
- Rent property through Airbnb or Booking.com for significant income.
- Rent belongings like cars (Turo), equipment (Fat Llama), or parking spaces (JustPark).
- Sell unused items on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Vinted - many earn hundreds decluttering.
- Use cashback apps like Shoppix and TopCashback (or from your Tap card - up to 8% people) for purchases you're already making.
These options work especially well in urban areas and thankfully require minimal upfront investment.
What to watch out for
The internet is full of legitimate opportunities, but scams are unfortunately common. Protecting yourself is crucial.
Avoid scams, watch for:
- Promises of guaranteed big money with little effort
- Upfront payment requests for “training” or “kits”
- Pyramid or multi-level marketing schemes
Know your tax obligations. In the UK, you must report online income over £1,000 to HMRC. Keep good records and consider professional advice.
Understand platform rules. Check minimum payouts, fees, payment methods, and account policies before signing up. Always read the ts and cs.
Tips for success when earning online
Unlock your online earning power with these 5 no-fluff strategies:
- Use a separate email for online earning to stay organised and secure
- Track your earnings and time with a spreadsheet for insights and taxes
- Focus on higher-paying platforms and build skills accordingly
- Start small, then scale what works best for you
- Learn digital skills (SEO, copywriting, design, social media) via free online tutorials
Final thoughts
Making money online gives you freedom, but it also takes effort and patience. There’s no magic formula - some people thrive blogging, others with surveys or micro-tasks. Start small, learn, and expand gradually.
And lastly, watch out for scams, keep good records, and keep adding value. If you’ve made it this far, we believe you’re ready to take control of your online income journey!
This article is for general information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial or other professional advice or a recommendation of any kind whatsoever and should not be relied upon or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to particular circumstances. We make no warranties, representations or undertakings about any of the content of this article (including, without limitation, as to the quality, accuracy, completeness or fitness for any particular purpose of such content), or any content of any other material referred to or accessed by hyperlinks through this article. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content on our site is accurate, complete or up-to-date.
