If you are looking to increase your income, there are many practical ways to make money online. Below are 20 proven approaches that people commonly use to earn additional cash through the internet, ranging from flexible side activities to more structured online work.
It is important to understand that there is a £1,000 annual allowance for side-hustle income. Once your earnings go beyond this threshold, you are required to register as a sole trader with HMRC and may need to pay tax on the income you generate.
Income earned from investments, including dividends, is handled under a separate tax system. If this applies to you, our guide on maximising dividend returns explains how investment income is taxed and how to manage it more effectively.
1. Tutoring
Best for
People who are confident in specific subjects, such as GCSE or A-Level material. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable explaining topics clearly and working one-to-one or in small groups. Works well for those with an education background or strong subject knowledge.
Effort level
Medium. Time is needed to prepare lessons and run sessions. Effort is ongoing and depends on how many students you teach and how often sessions are scheduled.
How to start
Decide which subjects and academic levels you can tutor confidently. Prepare simple lesson outlines or revision materials for common topics. Choose how you want to find students, such as personal referrals, local advertising, or online platforms. Create a profile on tutoring websites like MyTutor or SuperProf. Clearly state your subjects, availability, and preferred teaching format, such as online sessions. Read the platform rules on scheduling, communication, and payments. Keep a simple schedule and update your availability as needed.
2. Tutoring
Best for
People who are confident in specific subjects, such as GCSE or A-Level topics. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable explaining ideas clearly. Works well for those with teaching experience or strong academic knowledge.
Effort level
Medium. Preparation is needed before sessions. Effort is ongoing and depends on how many students you teach and how often sessions take place.
How to start
Decide which subjects and academic levels you are able to tutor. Prepare basic materials or outlines for common topics students may ask about. Choose how you want to find students, either through personal contacts or online tutoring platforms. Create a profile on platforms such as MyTutor or SuperProf. Add clear information about your subjects, availability, and teaching approach. Set your availability and preferred session format, such as online video calls. Read platform rules on payments, scheduling, and cancellations. Keep track of sessions and adjust your availability as needed.
3. Freelancing
Best for
People who already have a usable skill, such as writing, design, marketing, admin, or bookkeeping. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable working online and communicating with clients. Works for those who can complete tasks independently and meet deadlines.
Effort level
Medium. Initial effort is needed to set up profiles and proposals. Ongoing effort depends on how many projects you accept and how often you apply for work.
How to start
Identify one clear skill you can offer and focus on that service. Create an account on a freelancing platform such as Upwork or PeoplePerHour. Complete your profile with a simple description of your experience and what you can do. Add work samples if you have them, or create basic examples to show your approach. Review existing listings to understand how other freelancers describe similar services. Set a clear rate and be aware of platform service fees. Apply to suitable projects with short, relevant proposals. Communicate clearly with clients and follow platform rules for payments and delivery.
4. Trading Collectibles
Best for
People who are already interested in specific items such as clothing, toys, records, or memorabilia. Suitable for beginners who are willing to research products and track market activity. Works well for those who are patient and detail-focused.
Effort level
Medium. Research and sourcing take time. Effort is occasional but requires attention when buying, storing, and listing items.
How to start
Choose one type of collectible and focus only on that category. Learn which brands, editions, or releases are limited or hard to find. Follow official release announcements and retailer schedules. Monitor resale platforms such as eBay to understand current pricing and demand. When buying items, keep them in original condition and store them carefully. Create listings with clear photos and accurate descriptions when you decide to sell. Track purchase dates, prices, and platform fees so records are clear and consistent.
5. Leasing Your Driveway
Best for
People who have a private driveway they do not use all the time. Suitable for beginners with no prior experience. Works well for those living near city centres, transport hubs, stadiums, or event venues.
Effort level
Low. Setup is done once, with occasional updates to availability or pricing. Day-to-day effort is minimal once listings are active.
How to start
Check that your driveway is legally yours to rent and not restricted by lease terms or local rules. Measure the space and confirm what types of vehicles it can accommodate. Create an account on a parking platform such as JustPark, ParkLet, or Park on My Drive. Add clear photos and an accurate description of the location and access instructions. Set availability, pricing, and any time restrictions. Review the platform’s service fees and include them when setting prices. Check your home insurance policy to confirm liability cover applies to driveway parking. Monitor bookings occasionally and update details if access or availability changes.
6. Leasing Your Property
Best for
Homeowners or tenants who have permission to rent out a room or entire property. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable hosting guests and managing basic communication. Works for people living in areas with regular visitor demand.
Effort level
Medium. Setup takes time at the beginning. Ongoing effort depends on how often the property is rented and whether you manage it yourself or use a co-host.
How to start
Check that you are legally allowed to lease your property for short stays. Review local regulations, lease terms, or council rules that may apply. Decide whether you want to rent out a whole property or a single room. Create an account on a short-term rental platform such as Airbnb. Set up your listing with clear photos, accurate descriptions, and house rules. Define availability, check-in methods, and guest expectations. If you prefer less direct involvement, look into assigning a co-host through the platform and review any associated fees. Review your home insurance policy and confirm that short-term letting and liability coverage are included before accepting bookings.
7. Dog Walking
Best for
People who are comfortable around dogs and able to commit time during the day. Suitable for beginners with no prior experience in pet services. Works well for those who live in areas with pet owners nearby and can handle local, in-person work.
Effort level
Medium. The work is hands-on and scheduled. Effort is ongoing and depends on how often you accept bookings and how many dogs you walk or care for.
How to start
Check that you are confident handling dogs of different sizes and temperaments. Decide whether you want to offer dog walking, pet sitting, or boarding in your home. Create an account on a pet service platform such as Rover or Wag!. Complete the required profile details, identity checks, and any background verification. Set your availability, service area, and basic preferences, such as dog size or number of pets at one time. Read platform guidelines on safety, cancellations, and communication. Start accepting requests locally and follow agreed schedules and care instructions carefully.
8. Trading Web Domains
Best for
People who are comfortable using online tools and researching trends. Suitable for beginners who want to learn how domain names work and are willing to spend time evaluating ideas. Works well for those who follow technology, business, or niche topics.
Effort level
Medium. Research takes time, and monitoring domains is ongoing. Actions are occasional, but attention to detail is required.
How to start
Learn the basics of how domain names are registered and renewed. Create an account with a domain registrar such as GoDaddy or Dynadot. Research current topics, industries, or technologies to understand naming patterns. Check which domain extensions are gaining attention. Search for available domain names related to those topics and review pricing before buying. Explore expired domain listings on platforms like GoDaddy Auctions. Read the rules around expiration, grace periods, and redemption phases so you understand the timing. If using back-order services, place requests according to the platform’s instructions and review any fees that may apply. Keep a simple list of domains you own, renewal dates, and where they are registered.
9. Recycling Tech
Best for
People who upgrade phones or devices regularly and keep old tech at home. Suitable for beginners with no technical skills. Works for anyone who has unused smartphones or small electronics in working condition.
Effort level
Low. Effort is occasional and usually limited to checking device condition and completing a trade-in or recycling form.
How to start
Check which devices you no longer use, such as old smartphones or tablets. Make sure the device is unlocked and reset to factory settings. Inspect its condition honestly, noting any damage or wear. Visit a tech recycling or resale website such as Mazuma and search for your device model and storage size. Select the condition that best matches your device. Review the quoted price and follow the instructions to proceed. Package the device securely and send it using the provided shipping method. Keep proof of postage and track the process until it is completed.
10. Social Advertising
Best for
People who already use social media regularly and have a small but active audience. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable posting content and interacting with followers. Works well for those who focus on a specific topic or interest.
Effort level
Medium. Requires regular posting and audience interaction. Effort is ongoing to maintain activity and follow platform rules.
How to start
Choose one social media platform and focus on it consistently. Create content around a clear topic such as fitness, fashion, gaming, or travel. Post regularly and respond to comments or messages to encourage interaction. Make sure your profile information is complete and clear. Follow brands and companies related to your content area. Some brands or agencies may contact you directly, or you may be offered products to feature. Learn and follow advertising rules on your platform, including clear disclosure of sponsored or gifted content. Keep basic records of any products or agreements and review local tax and reporting requirements so you understand when declarations may be needed.
Many people explore social advertising as a way to make money online, either by running ads for their own products or offering ad services to others.
However, the biggest challenge beginners face isn’t creativity or budget — it’s tracking accuracy. Without reliable event data, ad platforms like Facebook and TikTok struggle to optimize delivery, leading to wasted spend and unstable results.
This is where server-side tracking and first-party data become critical. For Shopify merchants and online sellers, understanding how pixels, events, and conversion tracking signals work is often the difference between profitable ads and constant testing with no return.
11. Investing
Best for
People who want to learn how investing works using online platforms or mobile apps. Suitable for beginners starting from zero who are comfortable using apps and reading basic instructions.
Effort level
Medium. Initial effort is needed to learn how platforms work and set things up. Ongoing effort depends on how often you choose to review or adjust investments.
How to start
Choose an investing platform or app that is regulated and easy to use. Create an account and complete the identity checks required. Use a demo or practice account, if available, to place simulated trades with virtual money. This helps you understand how markets move and how orders work. Learn the basics of different asset types offered on the platform. Before using taxable accounts, understand how tax-efficient accounts like ISAs work and how annual allowances apply. Read the platform’s information about taxes and record keeping. If you are unsure how tax rules apply to you, consider speaking with a qualified professional before proceeding.
12. Using Cashback Websites
Best for
People who already shop online and want to use an extra step before checkout. Suitable for beginners with no technical skills. Works for anyone comfortable creating accounts and clicking referral links.
Effort level
Low. The main effort is starting each purchase through a cashback website. This is an ongoing habit rather than a one-time task.
How to start
Create an account on a cashback website such as Quidco or TopCashback. Confirm your email and complete basic profile details. Before buying anything online, log in to the cashback site and search for the retailer you plan to use. Click through the provided link to reach the retailer’s website. Shop as normal and complete your purchase in the same session. Make sure tracking is enabled in your browser and avoid using ad blockers during checkout. Check your cashback account later to confirm the purchase has been recorded.
13. Selling Stock Photographs
Best for
People who already take photos with a phone or camera and have basic photography skills. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable using websites and following simple guidelines. Works well for those who can photograph everyday objects, places, animals, or people.
Effort level
Medium. Effort is required to take clear photos, upload them, and follow platform rules. The work is ongoing if you continue adding new images, but there is no daily management required.
How to start
Begin by reviewing photos you already have and select clear, realistic images. Focus on simple subjects such as objects, locations, animals, or daily life scenes. Create an account on stock photography platforms like iStock or Getty Images. Follow their requirements for image quality, file size, and formats. Upload your photos with accurate titles and descriptions so they are easy to find. If your photos include people, ask each person to sign a model release form and upload it with the image. Check the platform’s feedback or approval notes and adjust future uploads to meet their standards.
14. Selling Your Belongings
Best for
People who have unused items at home and want a simple way to turn them into cash. This works well for students, renters, or anyone decluttering without wanting to start a full business.
Effort level
Low. The main effort is taking photos, writing short descriptions, and packing items once they sell. There is no ongoing management once listings are live.
How to start
Begin by sorting through items you no longer use, such as clothing, electronics, books, or small household goods. Choose the right platform based on the item type. Use apps like Vinted for clothing and accessories, or eBay for a wider range of products. Create clear listings with honest descriptions and good photos. Set realistic prices by checking similar items already sold. Once an item sells, use the platform’s built-in shipping tools or digital postage labels to send it quickly and keep buyer ratings positive.
15. Leasing Your Property to Filmmakers
Best for
Homeowners or landlords who have a property with distinctive features, a flexible living arrangement, or the ability to vacate the space temporarily. Suitable for people who are comfortable having crews on-site and can meet filming requirements.
Effort level
Low to medium. You do not need to create products or manage customers daily, but you must be responsive to enquiries, allow property viewings, and prepare the space for filming. Effort increases with longer shoots or frequent bookings.
How to start
Begin by assessing whether your property has characteristics that could appeal to film or television productions, such as unique architecture, spacious rooms, good natural light, or convenient parking. Take clear, accurate photos of both the interior and exterior. Register your property with location agencies such as Scouty, Shoot Factory, or Location Works, and complete their listing requirements. Review contract terms carefully, including commission fees, usage duration, and any restrictions. Be clear about availability, access rules, and expectations before accepting a booking.
16. Crafting
Best for
People who enjoy making handmade items and have practical creative skills. Suitable for beginners who want to turn a hobby into income and are comfortable producing physical products from home.
Effort level
Medium. Requires time to create products, manage listings, handle packaging and shipping, and understand platform fees. Effort increases during busy seasons such as holidays.
How to start
Begin by identifying what you enjoy making and what people are willing to buy, such as handmade decor, personalised gifts, or small functional items. Choose a marketplace like Etsy or Not On The High Street and set up a seller account. Create clear product listings with good photos and detailed descriptions. Before pricing your items, calculate all costs, including materials, platform fees, and shipping, to ensure each sale is profitable. Start with a small range of products, test demand, and refine your offerings based on customer interest and feedback.
17. Blogging
Best for
People who enjoy writing, researching, and sharing knowledge in a specific niche. Suitable for beginners starting from zero who are patient and willing to build skills and authority over time.
Effort level
Medium to high. Requires consistent content creation, learning basic SEO, understanding audience needs, and maintaining the blog over a long period before results appear.
How to start
Choose a clear niche that you are genuinely interested in and can learn deeply. Set up a simple blog using a platform like WordPress. Publish helpful, original articles that solve real problems or answer common questions in your niche. Focus on clarity and usefulness rather than volume. Learn basic search engine optimization to help people find your content. As traffic grows, explore monetization options such as ads, affiliate links, partnerships, or paid content, and refine your approach based on what readers engage with most.
Blogging remains a popular long-term way to make money online, especially through affiliate marketing, digital products, or e-commerce integrations.
As traffic grows, monetization becomes less about writing more content and more about converting existing visitors. Bloggers who add Shopify-powered stores or product funnels often need tools that help measure reader behavior, optimize offers, and increase average order value without harming user experience.
At this stage, data-driven optimization — from event tracking to smart product bundles — plays a key role in turning content traffic into predictable revenue.
18. Dropshipping
Best for
People who want to start an online business with low upfront costs and no inventory. Suitable for beginners starting from zero who are willing to learn basic e-commerce skills and handle customer communication.
Effort level
Medium. Requires time for product research, store setup, supplier coordination, customer support, and ongoing testing. Effort increases when scaling or managing multiple products.
How to start
Choose a selling platform such as an online store or a marketplace like eBay. Research suppliers on platforms like AliExpress or Temu and select products with clear demand and reasonable shipping times. Create product listings with accurate descriptions and pricing. When an order is placed, purchase the item from the supplier and enter the customer’s shipping details. Monitor trends regularly, test new products, and adjust quickly as demand changes.
Dropshipping is often seen as one of the fastest ways to start making money online, but long-term success depends heavily on data and optimization rather than product sourcing alone.
As competition increases, profitable dropshippers focus on understanding customer behavior, tracking events across channels, and improving order value instead of constantly switching products.
For Shopify-based dropshipping stores, using the right tools to manage pixels, events, and promotional logic helps create a more sustainable business model — especially when scaling ads across Facebook and TikTok. This is why many growing stores rely on Shopify tools for scaling dropshipping businesses to gain clearer insights, optimize conversions, and build a more predictable revenue system.
19. Comping
Best for
People who have free time and are comfortable using the internet regularly. Suitable for beginners starting from zero who are patient, detail-oriented, and willing to follow rules carefully.
Effort level
Low to medium. Requires consistent time spent searching, reading entry requirements, and submitting entries. Effort increases if entering creative competitions.
How to start
Search for reputable competition listing websites and choose one as your main source. Create a separate email address dedicated to competition entries to stay organized. Read each competition’s rules carefully before entering. Start with simple competitions to understand common entry formats, then gradually try creative competitions that require short answers, slogans, or ideas. Track entries in a simple list or spreadsheet to avoid duplicates and to monitor closing dates.
20. Shopping
Best for
People who already shop regularly at supermarkets and are starting from zero with loyalty programs. Suitable for individuals who prefer simple, repeatable actions without technical setup.
Effort level
Low. Ongoing but minimal effort. Requires basic setup once, then passive use during normal shopping.
How to start
Choose one supermarket you visit most often. Register for its loyalty program through the official website or mobile app. Add the loyalty card to your phone app or wallet. Use the card or app every time you shop by scanning it at checkout. Check the app occasionally to review available offers, points balance, or redemption options.
Before launching or scaling a product, sellers need proof of real demand. Amazon’s trending and best-selling items offer one of the clearest signals of what customers are actively buying right now.
Read more: Amazon trending products
