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How will I financially support another human if I am struggling to support myself? If you’re asking yourself this questions right now, you’re not alone.
This is a question many women face as they prepare for a new baby to arrive. It’s important to remember two things when facing such a difficult question: Babies offer one of the greatest returns on investment—raising a child is rewarding. There are also practical things you can do to financially prepare for a new baby, even if your circumstances are challenging right now.
How to Make Money Pre-Baby
Start by creating a budget. If you already have one, you will want to adjust it to reflect your new expenses. You can ask a friend for help or find a budget template online.
As you look at your budget, you may realize you need more income to cover the cost of your expenses. Here are 10 ways you can earn some extra money before you’re officially a new momma!
The great thing about these jobs is that they give you the power to choose how much you take on, which means you can continue most of these after your baby arrives. You can also have a part-time or full-time job and pick up a side gig. I hope you find something that interests you. What you may find interesting, another woman may not so we found options to suit an array of interests. Lean into your skills to find something that suits you.
1. Transcriptionist
Different companies require varying levels of expertise—this means there are a number of opportunities for beginners to transcribe audio content. We suggest working for one or two companies and doing a couple projects to see if it is a good fit for you. This job requires good grammar, the ability to sit for long periods of time, and attentive listening skills. Transcriptionists are typically paid based on audio hours, so be sure to factor that in as you calculate how much you will make per hour of your time.
Pay Range
$3–$20 per hour
Platforms to Consider
3Play Media – English and Spanish
2. Online Juror
For those of you who are avid Law & Order watchers, this just might be the perfect job for you! Lawyers often participate in practice cases and need people, like you, to serve as the jury. Sometimes you will read a case and other times you will watch. There are various websites that match people to cases, so if there aren’t any open cases on one website, keep looking.
Pay Range
$5–$60 per trial
Platforms to Consider
3. Sell Clothes or Old Items
You will likely need to create space to welcome your new baby, so why not make a few extra dollars while doing it? If you have gently used items you no longer find useful, try selling them. There is a risk that you won’t sell your items before the baby comes, however if you have a box you can store the items in, it doesn’t hurt to leave the items listed and at least clear out the space in your closet. You can also utilize these platforms to purchase maternity and baby clothes at potentially lower prices.
Pay Range
Varies
Platforms to Consider
4. Translator
If you are bi-lingual you can put your knowledge to work and become an online translator. This job pays well and allows you to work from the comfort of your own home while exercising your skills and helping people around the world!
Pay Range
$13–$32 per hour
Platforms to Consider
5. Online Tutor
Now more than ever, online tutors are incredibly valuable as many students are taking online classes. Some sites require a bachelor’s degrees and others require you to prove expertise in a subject. If you qualify, this is a great opportunity to work from home. You have the potential to help shape the future of kids across the world.
Pay Range
$9–$25 per hour
Platforms to Consider
6. Drive for a Food Delivery Service
With more people staying home and ordering food/groceries to their door, there is an increase in demand for drivers. This job allows you to work whenever you want for as long as you want. There is a lot of flexibility and you have control over your hours. Flexibility can be key when considering doctor’s appointments and your sleep schedule.
Pay Range
$15–$25 per hour
Platforms to Consider
7. Babysit
If this is your first baby, you may want to practice being around kids. Babysitting pays well and is flexible. Unless you commit to one family on a regular basis, you can choose how many jobs you accept. Here are a few tips for getting asked to return: always leave the house cleaner than you found it, be loving but firm with the children, be creative, look the parents in the eyes, and have fun. Remember that you are always interviewing for your next job. If you leave a good impression, they may recommend you to their friends.
Pay Range
$10–$25 per hour
Platforms to Consider
8. Housesit
Housesitting is another great option! It can sometimes feel like a staycation with a few important responsibilities like watering flowers, checking the mail, or taking care of their pets. You have the flexibility to decide when and where you want to accept jobs. Pay varies depending on location, responsibilities, and the individual.
Pay Range
$25–$45 per day
Platforms to Consider
9. Odd Jobs
This is the Swiss Army Knife of side gigs. It gives you the opportunity to browse a variety of jobs and select an appropriate job for that day. The jobs can range from taking photos of products at a store, cleaning, running errands, identifying photos to develop CAPTCHA systems, as well as so many other possibilities.
Pay Range
$8–$43 per hour
Platforms to Consider
10. Wrap Your Car with Advertisements
If you have a personal car and a good driving record, you can connect with companies to have your car wrapped with an advertisement. This requires little from you aside from your willingness to drive your car with an advertisement on it! Some companies even allow leased cars to be wrapped.
Pay Range
$100–$500 per month
Platforms to Consider
There are a plethora of side gigs out there, if you do a little bit of research you are bound to find one that suits your interests. The benefit of many of these jobs is that you are your own boss and control when, where, and how much you work. Don’t be afraid to try something new! Work hard and earn some extra income by investing your time and skills into a clever job. You might be surprised at how providing for your growing family can be fun and interesting.
Also, congratulations on your new baby, sis!
