Need a quick $500? Whether you’ve got bills to cover, want a weekend getaway, or just want extra cash, the internet has made it easier than ever to earn money quickly.
No more wasting time with scams—real people are making real money from home and on the go.
Here are 10 tried-and-true ways to make $500 fast, some with almost instant payouts. Pick what works for you and start cashing in today!
1. Deliver Food with DoorDash
Got a car and some free time? Delivering food with DoorDash is one of the quickest ways to make money. You can sign up, get approved, and start taking orders in your area.
How It Works:
- Sign up on DoorDash’s website and complete the verification process.
- Once approved, log into the app and accept delivery orders.
- The more you deliver, the more you earn—plus tips boost your earnings!
DoorDash drivers often make $100 or more in a day, especially on busy weekends, so reaching $500 fast is realistic.
2. Take Online Surveys
Online surveys won’t make you rich, but they’re easy money. Survey sites pay you to answer questions, and many offer sign-up bonuses.
How It Works:
- Sign up for survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars.
- Start taking surveys, watching videos, or even shopping online.
- Cash out via PayPal, gift cards, or direct deposit once you reach the payout minimum.
With survey sites offering bonuses up to $10 just for signing up, you can make a quick $50–$100 in no time.
3. Test Websites and Apps
Ever used an app and thought, “This could be better?” Website and app testing platforms let you share feedback on user experience for cash.
How It Works:
- Sign up for sites like UserTesting or TryMyUI.
- Complete a test demo to qualify, then start testing sites and apps.
- Each test takes about 20 minutes, paying around $10.
If you can dedicate a few hours, you could easily reach $100+ in a single day.
4. Sell Your Skills on Fiverr
Do you have a skill you could sell? From graphic design to voiceovers, Fiverr is perfect for offering quick services and getting paid fast.
How It Works:
- Create a Fiverr profile and list your services.
- Set your starting rate at $5 and offer extra services for more cash.
- Respond quickly to clients to keep orders rolling in.
Fiverr allows you to stack jobs and boost earnings with extra services. Many freelancers make $500+ in their first month.
5. Rent Out a Room on Airbnb
If you have a spare room, Airbnb lets you rent it out to travelers. It’s a great way to make money on your own schedule.
How It Works:
- Sign up on Airbnb and list your room or property.
- Take clear photos and write a detailed description.
- Set competitive rates based on local demand.
Depending on your location, renting out your space could get you $100–$150 per night. Just a few bookings can add up to $500 fast.
6. Freelance Writing
If you enjoy writing, freelance gigs can pay well, even if you’re just starting. Many websites and blogs need fresh content and pay per article.
How It Works:
- Create a profile on Upwork, Freelancer, or ProBlogger.
- Apply to writing gigs that match your interests and skills.
- Complete the work and submit—payments are usually prompt.
Writers can earn anywhere from $50–$200 per article, making $500 achievable in a week or even a few days.
7. Sell Old Electronics
Got old gadgets collecting dust? Selling your used electronics on sites like Decluttr and eBay can quickly bring in cash.
How It Works:
- Gather old phones, laptops, tablets, or game consoles.
- Use Decluttr or eBay to list items and set a fair price.
- Ship items out when they sell and receive payment.
If you’ve got a few unused devices, selling them can add up to $500 in no time.
8. Offer Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Services
Pet lovers can earn fast cash by walking dogs or offering pet-sitting services on Rover.
How It Works:
- Sign up on Rover, create a profile, and list your services.
- Start accepting bookings for walks or pet-sitting sessions.
- Build a good reputation for repeat business.
Many dog walkers make $15–$30 per walk, so with a few clients, you could be on your way to $500 in just a few weeks.
9. Sell Handmade Crafts
If you’re crafty, you can sell handmade items on Etsy. From jewelry to custom artwork, people love unique, handmade goods.
How It Works:
- Set up a shop on Etsy and list your creations.
- Promote your shop on social media to drive traffic.
- Price items to cover materials, time, and shipping.
Crafters often earn $500 or more monthly, especially around holidays.
10. Teach English Online
If you’re a native English speaker, companies like VIPKid pay for online English lessons. It’s flexible, fun, and pays well.
How It Works:
- Apply to platforms like VIPKid or Cambly.
- Complete an interview and teaching demo.
- Set your availability and start teaching!
Teachers on these platforms can earn up to $20 per hour, making $500 achievable in under two weeks of part-time work.
With these ten methods, you’re set to reach your $500 goal fast. Choose what fits your skills and lifestyle, and start making money today!
