How To Make Money Online When You’re Unemployed

Introduction.

Losing a job is tough. It brings on a mix of stress, uncertainty, and, let’s be honest, a little bit of panic.

But instead of letting those feelings overwhelm you, you might be asking: “How can I start making money online when I’m unemployed?” You’re not alone in thinking this way.

More and more people are turning to the internet for side gigs, full-time jobs, and ways to earn extra cash. The good news? The online world is packed with opportunities.

I know, it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. But here’s the thing: there’s no shortage of ways you can make money from the comfort of your own home.

From freelancing to selling products or services, there’s something for just about anyone out there.

So, let’s break it down. In this post, I’ll share practical ways you can start earning money online when you’re unemployed. No complicated jargon, just simple ideas you can start with today. Ready to get started?

Let’s dive in!

How Do I Make Money Online When You’re Unemployed?

1. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is one of the most accessible ways to make money online, especially if you enjoy writing.

You don’t need a fancy degree or years of experience—what matters is that you can communicate well and meet deadlines.

Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger connect freelance writers with businesses that need content. You can write articles, blog posts, product descriptions, and even social media content.

How much can you earn? It really depends on your experience and how many clients you can handle.

Beginners might start at around $15 to $30 an hour, while experienced writers can earn $50 an hour or more. Not bad for a gig you can do from your laptop.

Tips to get started:

• Build a simple portfolio. If you don’t have previous work, consider writing a few sample articles.
• Start with small projects to build your reputation.
• Be consistent and professional with your communication.

2. Virtual Assistant Work

If you’re someone who’s highly organized, great at managing tasks, and enjoys helping others stay on track, working as a virtual assistant (VA) might be a great option.

Virtual assistants help businesses with everything from email management, scheduling appointments, social media, and even customer service. You can find VA jobs on platforms like Belay, Zirtual, and Upwork.

The pay varies depending on the complexity of the tasks you’re handling and the client’s needs. Entry-level VAs can make between $10 to $20 an hour, while experienced VAs can earn up to $50 an hour or more.

How to get started:

• Determine which services you want to offer (administrative tasks, customer support, etc.).
• Create a profile on VA platforms or network with business owners online.
• Be proactive about improving your skills in tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, or other virtual assistant software.

3. Online Tutoring or Teaching

If you’re knowledgeable in a subject—whether it’s English, math, science, or even a foreign language—teaching online is a great way to make money. You can work with kids, college students, or even adults looking to learn new skills.

Platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, and Preply allow you to connect with students who need help.

For instance, VIPKid lets you teach English to children in China, and Chegg Tutors offers tutoring services for high school and college students. Pay can range anywhere from $10 to $40 an hour, depending on the platform and your expertise.

Tips for success:

• If you’re teaching English, having a degree or teaching certification (like TEFL) can be a plus.
• Be patient with your students, and remember that teaching can also be a learning experience for you.
• Ensure your internet connection is reliable for smooth lessons.

4. Online Surveys and Market Research

Online surveys are a quick and easy way to earn some extra cash. While it might not replace a full-time income, doing surveys in your spare time can add up.

Websites like Swagbucks, InboxDollars, and Survey Junkie pay you for sharing your opinions on products, services, and various topics.

You might earn a few cents to a few dollars per survey, depending on its length and complexity. If you complete several surveys a day, you could make an extra $50 to $100 a month. While this won’t make you rich, it’s a simple way to make money without needing special skills or experience.

Pro tips:

• Sign up for multiple survey sites to maximize your chances of qualifying for surveys.
• Be consistent, and look for high-paying surveys to make the most of your time.

5. Selling Products Online

If you’ve got items lying around the house that you no longer use or need, why not sell them? Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Poshmark are great platforms for selling everything from clothes to electronics.

You could even take it a step further and start your own online shop on Etsy, where you can sell handmade goods, vintage items, or craft supplies.

If you’re good at making something (whether it’s jewelry, artwork, or homemade candles), you can build an entire business around selling your creations online. Once your shop gains traction, you could scale up by using social media for promotion.

How to get started:

• Take clear, well-lit photos of your products.
• Write honest and detailed product descriptions.
• Offer great customer service to encourage positive reviews and repeat business.

6. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a way to earn money by promoting other people’s products. When someone clicks on your affiliate link and buys the product, you earn a commission. It sounds simple, but it can take time to build a steady income.

You can find affiliate programs for nearly any niche, from Amazon Associates (which allows you to promote anything on Amazon) to niche-specific programs like Bluehost (for web hosting). Bloggers, YouTubers, and social media influencers often use affiliate marketing to earn passive income.

How to get started:

• Choose a niche that you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in.
• Sign up for affiliate programs and promote links on your blog, YouTube channel, or social media accounts.
• Be transparent with your audience about affiliate links and only promote products you genuinely recommend.

7. Transcription or Translation Services

If you’re good at typing quickly or are fluent in more than one language, transcription or translation work can be a great option.

Transcription involves typing out audio or video content, while translation requires converting text from one language to another.

Websites like Rev, TranscribeMe, and Gengo offer these services. As a beginner, you might earn around $10 to $15 per hour, but experienced professionals can earn much more, especially in specialized fields like medical or legal transcription.

Getting started:

• Take a typing test to check your speed and accuracy.
• Practice listening to audio and transcribing it to improve your skills.
• If you’re translating, ensure your language skills are strong enough to handle various texts.

FAQs

Q: How much money can I realistically make online?

A: It really depends on the work you choose and how much time you’re willing to put in. Some people earn a full-time income, while others make a few hundred extra dollars a month. Start small, and as you gain experience, you can increase your earnings.

Q: Do I need special skills to make money online?

A: Not always. Some jobs (like online surveys or selling items) don’t require much skill, while others (like writing or virtual assistance) may require specific abilities. But many online jobs offer ways to learn and improve your skills on the job.

Q: How do I avoid scams when looking for online work?

A: Stick to well-known platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer, which have secure payment systems. Avoid any “too-good-to-be-true” offers, like making thousands of dollars overnight. Always do your research on the platform and read reviews from other users.

Conclusion

Making money online when you’re unemployed is totally possible. Whether you’re into writing, teaching, or selling products, there are so many options available.

It may take some time to get the ball rolling, but with patience and consistency, you can turn these online gigs into a real income source.

The best part? You have the flexibility to work from home, set your own schedule, and decide how much you want to earn. So, what are you waiting for? What’s the first online gig you’re going to try today?