9 Easy Ways to Make Extra Money in Retirement

Not everyone can—or wants to—commit to even a part-time job in retirement. But some retirees are looking for extra cash due to inflation, increased property taxes or health expenses that Medicare doesn’t cover. Others want to help out their families by covering some costs like phone plans or college fees.

Here are a few ways to make extra money on your own schedule. In some cases, you won’t even have to leave your home to rake in the bucks.

1. Unload unwanted gift cards

If you have gift cards you know you’ll never use, you can cash in on them. According to a Bankrate.com study, more than half of U.S. adults have gift cards with balances. Resellers such as Raise, CardCash and GiftCash will take them off your hands for up to 95% of the card’s face value.

2. Declutter your closet

Try selling your old professional attire or clothing you no longer need at local or online consignment shops like ThredUP or Flyp. You could earn about 50% of the sale price at physical stores. Consider selling unused items through Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace as well.

3. Join online focus groups

You can earn anywhere from $20 to $250 per hour to be part of focus groups that often meet online. Look for potential focus group jobs on sites like Focuscope, Respondent, OnlineVerdict and FindFocusGroups.

4. Provide pet care

Pet-sitting can be quite lucrative. Use platforms like Rover, Care.com, or PetSitter.com to find clients who need someone to care for their pets while they work or travel.

5. Take online surveys

Participate in surveys from reputable companies such as Pinecone Research, Toluna, and Harris Poll Online to earn extra cash or gift cards. Just be cautious of potential scams that ask for fees or require purchases.

6. Be a house sitter

House sitting can also earn you some extra cash. Use websites like HouseSittersAmerica and House Sit Match to find opportunities, or let your friends and family know you're available.

7. Sell your old electronics

Look for sites like Gazelle and Decluttr to sell outdated electronics. Many of these platforms will even accept non-working items at a lower price.

8. Become a tutor

Using your knowledge in subjects like science or languages can help you earn money by tutoring. Check with local schools or online platforms like Tutors.com for opportunities.

9. Be a “personal concierge”

If you enjoy being organized and helping others, offer services to run errands or help with tasks for busy individuals. Look for opportunities on services like Postmates or Shipt.