How to make money online by beginners

How to make money online by beginners, 25 Simple ways to earn money online.

There are countless ways to make money online from the comfort of your home. And, no - you don't need some difficult remote work. Even total beginners can make money online with just an internet connection and dedication.

In this article, we'll discuss how to make money online for beginners step by step. We'll share best practices for making money online, secrets to making passive income, and lists of resources to get you started.

Disclaimer

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no additional cost to you.

Key Takeaways

Various Opportunities: There are many ways for beginners to make money online, from freelancing to selling products and creating content to becoming a virtual assistant.

Low to No Investment: Many online money-making methods require little or no upfront investment, making them accessible to everyone.

Flexibility and Convenience: You can make money from the comfort of your home and on your own schedule, providing flexibility and work-life balance.

Use of skills: Leverage your existing knowledge and interests to generate income, whether it’s through design, writing, tutoring, web development, or other specialized skills.

Growth potential: With dedication and effective strategies, simple online side hustles can become a steady source of income or even a full-time business.

How to Make Money Online for Beginners Without Investment

We’ve put together a list of the best ways to make money online without investment for beginners so you can start earning big from home. From freelancing and selling products to streaming or teaching, there’s a way to turn your skills and resources into a thriving online business.

1. Open a Print-on-Demand Store

How to make money online by beginners, 25 Simple ways to earn money online.

Opening a print-on-demand (POD) online business with Printify allows you to sell personalized products like custom hoodies, stickers, consumer products, home decor, and even custom-printed pint glasses without holding inventory or spending anything upfront.

Design and list unique items, and when customers make a purchase, Printify’s partner network handles the printing, packaging, and shipping.

Startup Time: A few days to set up your online store and design products.

Requirements: None

Best for: Entrepreneurs and creatives looking to start an online retail business with minimal upfront investment.

Tips: POD success depends on choosing the right product and niche. Create great designs and stay up-to-date with market trends, use high-quality images, and develop a good digital marketing strategy to reach your target customers.

Where to start: Printify. Create an online store using our popular integrations, such as Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce.

Make it happen today!

2. Start a dropshipping business

Dropshipping is an online business model where you sell products without keeping inventory. When a customer makes a purchase, the product is shipped directly from the supplier to the customer, eliminating the need for warehousing or fulfilling your own orders. Prioritize those eBay listings with products that come to you directly from China.

Start time: A few days or weeks to set up an online store and find reliable suppliers.

Requirements: Basic knowledge of ecommerce platforms and marketing.

Best for: Entrepreneurs looking to start an online retail business with minimal upfront investment.

Tips: The success of dropshipping depends on choosing the right products and suppliers. Research trends, invest in digital marketing, and use automation tools to streamline your order management process. Customer service is crucial, so take the time to develop a consistent, friendly communication style with buyers.

Where to start: 15 Best Dropshipping Suppliers

3. Start selling online courses

If you have a niche or knowledge of a specific topic, consider sharing your insights through online courses.

Start time: A few weeks to create course content and join an educational platform.

Requirements: Expertise in a topic and the ability to create engaging content.

Tips: Focus on quality content and engaging presentations. There are many free courses available, make sure yours is well-structured with valuable information. Add unique insights, practical examples, and engaging visuals to your courses. Promote your courses on social media and within your network to attract students.

Where to start: Skillshare, Teachable.

4. Participate in market research

Provide feedback through surveys, focus groups, and product testing. Companies use this data to improve their products and services. Answering research questions is convenient for beginners who can work online from home.

Startup Time: Less than an hour to sign up for a market research platform and complete your profile.

Requirements: None

Best for: Individuals looking for a flexible, low-effort way to make extra money.

Tips: Sign up for multiple survey sites to increase your chances, be honest in your responses, and complete your profile to match more research. Join reputable platforms to avoid scams

5. Become a Content Creator

If you’re bursting with creativity, creating high-quality content is a great way to make money online and has the potential to turn it into a full-time business. Use social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to make money online by getting creative with a variety of content types, from self-promotion to sponsored posts.

Startup Time: A few days to set up your chosen platform and start creating content.

Requirements: Moderate. Creativity, consistency, and an understanding of your chosen platform are required.

Best for: Creatives who love to create videos, write, or share unique ideas to engage their audience.

Tips: Focus on a niche you’re passionate about, use eye-catching visuals, and engage with your audience to build a loyal community.

Where to start: WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace for blogging. YouTube and Twitch for streaming and video. Instagram and TikTok for short videos, reels, and creative posts.

6. Try affiliate marketing

How to make money online by beginners, 25 Simple ways to earn money online.

Partner with brands to promote products or services and earn a commission for every sale made through your referral link or sponsored post. This is a popular way to make money online by leveraging your audience on blogs, social media, or other websites.

When to start: Take a few days to sign up for affiliate programs and integrate referral links into your content.

Requirements: Content creation skills and the ability to drive traffic to your links.

Best for: Bloggers, influencers, and website owners with engaged audiences.

Tips: Choose high-quality products that align with your niche, create honest and detailed reviews, and use multiple channels to promote your affiliate links. Build trust with your audience to increase conversion rates.

Where to start: Printify Affiliate Program, Amazon Associates, CJ Affiliate, ShareASale.

7. Become a Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants provide service and online support via chat or email, handling online tasks like customer service, data entry, and social media account management. This is an ideal gig if you have excellent time management and communication skills.

Start time: A few days to set up a profile on a freelance website and apply for jobs.

Requirements: Internet access, organizational skills, and proficiency in communication tools, as well as other specialized knowledge clients may require.

Best for: Organized individuals with strong multitasking abilities and a desire for flexible, remote work.

Tips: Highlight your skills and experience in your profile, ask for feedback on improvements, and manage your time efficiently to handle multiple clients. This role can vary greatly depending on the needs of the client, so be flexible and adaptable. Building a good reputation will attract more clients, increasing your income.

Where to start: Fiverr, Upwork.

8. Offer design services

Designing is a great way to make money online and includes creating graphics, logos, websites, or marketing materials. It requires creativity, design software skills, and an understanding of client needs.

Startup time: A few days to build a portfolio and set up a profile on a freelance platform.

Requirements: Design skills and knowledge of design tools.

Best for: Creatives with skills in graphic design, web design, or branding.

Tips: Build a strong portfolio and stay on top of design trends. Network with other designers, seek feedback to refine your work, and offer competitive pricing to build a client base.

Where to start: Fiverr, Upwork, Dribbble.

9. Freelance Writing and Editing

A woman freelances on her laptop from the beach.

Make money online for free with freelance writing. Create or edit content for blogs, websites, marketing materials, and more. It requires strong language skills, creativity, and attention to detail.

Startup Time: Online freelancing requires a few days to build a portfolio and set up a profile on a freelance platform.

Requirements: Excellent writing and editing skills.

Best for: People with writing talent, grammar, and a keen eye for detail.

Tips: Provide consistently well-written content, get familiar with different genres and niches, join writing communities for support, and offer competitive rates to attract your first clients.

Where to start: Dribbble, Fiverr, Upwork.

10. Video Editing

Create and enhance video content for a variety of online platforms, including social media, YouTube, and marketing campaigns. This requires specialized software, creativity, and attention to detail.

Startup Time: A few days to build a portfolio and set up a profile on a freelance platform.

Requirements: Video editing skills and knowledge of commonly used tools.

Best for: Creative and proficient in video editing software with the ability to tell stories through video.

Tips: Build a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, network with other video editors, stay on trend, and offer competitive rates to attract early clients.

Where to start: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Behance.

11. Sell Stock Photos

Selling stock photos to make money online involves taking high-quality photos and uploading them to stock photography websites. Businesses and individuals purchase these photos for a variety of uses, providing you with a steady stream of passive income.

Startup Time: A few days to take and edit photos, then upload them to stock photo websites.

Requirements: Photography skills and an understanding of what makes a marketable image.

Best for: Photographers looking to monetize their work and hobbyists looking to make extra income from their photography.

Tips: Focus on high-demand categories, use high-quality tools, upload new images regularly, and optimize your photos with relevant keywords and descriptions.

Where to start: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock, Alamy.

12. Transcribe Recordings

Transcribe meetings, podcasts, or a variety of audio and video content to make money online with no startup costs. This job involves listening to audio files and accurately typing out spoken words.

Getting Started: Just a few hours to set up an account on a transcription platform and familiarize yourself with transcription guidelines.

Requirements: Fast typing and good listening skills.

Best for: People with good listening and typing skills looking for a flexible work-from-home opportunity.

Tips: Use transcription software to improve your skills, invest in good headphones, and practice regularly to increase speed and accuracy.

Where to start: TransscribeMe

13. Get a data entry job.

Becoming a data entry specialist is one of the easiest ways for beginners to make money online. It involves entering information into a database or computer system.

Start time: A few hours to find job listings and apply.

Requirements: Good attention to detail.

Best for: Newbies looking for simple online work that doesn’t require specialized training.

Tips: Double-check your work for errors, follow client instructions and preferences, use data entry software to improve your skills, and set up a distraction-free workspace to focus.

Where to start: Indeed, FlexJobs.

14. Podcasting

How to Make Money Online for Beginners: 25 Easy Ways 3

Podcasting is a creative way to make money online by creating audio content on topics you’re interested in. With a growing audience for podcasts, you can earn through sponsorships, listener donations, and ad revenue.

Start time: A few days or weeks to get recording equipment, plan episodes, and publish your podcast.

Requirements: Good communication skills, basic audio editing knowledge, and consistency.

Best for: Those who enjoy talking, telling stories, and sharing knowledge or opinions on a variety of topics.

Tips: Consistent, high-quality content and great promotion are key to growing your audience base. Invest in a good microphone, use editing software to improve audio quality, and promote your podcast on social media and through collaboration.

Get started: Buzzsprout, Podbean, Spotify for Podcasters.

Make it happen today!

15. Become a social media manager.

Manage and grow social media accounts for businesses or individuals. This role involves creating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing performance metrics to improve your online presence.

Startup time: A few days to set up a profile on a freelance platform and start networking.

Requirements: Knowledge of social media platforms, content creation, and analytics.

Best for: Someone with strong communication skills, creativity, and an understanding of social media trends.

Tips: Build a strong personal social media presence as a portfolio, offer competitive rates early on, and use social media management tools to streamline your work. Stay up to date on trends and algorithms, and create content for your target audience.

Where to start: Fiverr, Upwork, Hootsuite, Buffer.

16. Take Online Surveys

Completing online surveys involves providing your opinions and feedback on a variety of topics. Companies use this information for market research, and you earn money or rewards for participating. It’s an easy way to earn extra cash with minimal effort.

Getting started: Most survey sites take a few hours to sign up and complete your profile.

Requirements: None

Best for: People looking for a flexible, low-effort way to make extra money.

Tips: Sign up for multiple online survey sites to increase your chances of matching with more online surveys and participate consistently. Only join reputable platforms to avoid scams.

Where to start: Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, Pinecone Research.

17. Create and sell digital products

Sell an e-book, printable, software, or an online course that can be resold over and over again with minimal ongoing effort. This is a scalable way to generate passive income using your skills and creativity.

Start time: A few days to weeks to create a product and set up a sales platform.

Requirements: Moderate design skills.

Best for: Creatives, educators, and professionals looking to monetize their knowledge and skills.

Tips: Focus on a niche you love, invest in good design and content, do thorough market research, and use social media and email marketing to drive sales.

Where to start: Etsy, Gumroad, Shopify.

18. Twitch Streaming

How to Make Money Online for Beginners: 25 Easy Ways 4

Twitch streaming involves broadcasting live content, such as gaming, music, or creative activities, to an online audience. Streamers make money through memberships, donations, and sponsorships. It’s a popular way to monetize your hobbies and build a community.

Getting Started: A few days to set up your streaming equipment and create a Twitch account.

Requirements: Basic technical skills and the ability to create engaging content.

Best for: Gamers, musicians, and creatives who enjoy live interaction and have a charismatic personality.

Tips: Stream regularly, engage with viewers through chat, use social media to promote your streams, and collaborate with other streamers to grow your audience. Use quality tools to create an enjoyable viewing experience for your viewers.

Where to start: Twitch, Streamlabs, OBS Studio, Discord.

19. Test websites and apps

Test websites, software, and mobile apps by using and reviewing digital products, then providing feedback on usability, functionality, and design. Companies use this feedback to improve their products. It’s an easy way to make money online with minimal effort.

Getting started: A few hours to sign up for a testing platform and complete an initial assessment.

Requirements: Basic computer skills.

Best for: Individuals looking for a flexible, low-effort way to make extra money online.

Tips: Be thorough and honest in your feedback, complete tests promptly, and sign up for multiple platforms to increase your opportunities.

Where to start: UserTesting, TryMyUI, Userlytics, Enroll.

20. Sell handmade crafts

Create and sell unique, handcrafted items like jewelry, home decor, or artwork. It’s a great way for artisans and artists to monetize their creativity and reach a wider audience online.

Startup Time: A few days to create your crafts and set up an online store.

Requirements: Crafting skills and some knowledge of ecommerce platforms and marketplaces, your own website (optional).

Best for: Craftsmen and hobbyists who love making handmade items and want to turn their passion into profit.

Tips: Focus on creating unique, high-quality products, post eye-catching photos on social media to showcase your work, tailor your marketing to your target audience, and participate in online craft fairs to gain exposure.

Where to start: Etsy, Shopify, Amazon Handmade.

21. Become a YouTuber

Create and share video content on YouTube, which can cover a variety of topics, such as vlogging, tutorials, reviews, or entertainment. Make money by landing sponsorships, selling merchandise, and collaborating with other YouTubers.

Start time: A few days to set up your channel and create basic content.

Requirements: Video production skills, creativity, and consistency.

Best for: Individuals who enjoy making videos, have a specific niche or passion, and are comfortable in front of the camera.

Tips: Consistency and quality content are key to building an audience. Understanding YouTube’s algorithm and engaging with your audience can boost your channel’s growth. Invest in good tools, plan your content, use SEO and other marketing techniques for video titles and descriptions, and promote your videos on social media.

Where to start: YouTube, TubeBuddy, Canva, Patreon.

22. Translation

How to Make Money Online for Beginners: 25 Easy Ways 5

Translate documents, websites, books, and more. This is an ideal way to make money online if you’re fluent in multiple languages.

Start time: A few days to sign up for a freelance platform and showcase your translation skills.

Requirements: Proficiency in at least two languages and strong writing skills.

Best for: Bilingual or multilingual individuals with excellent language skills and attention to detail.

Tips: Accuracy and cultural nuance are crucial in translation. Specializing in a niche can increase your marketability and command higher rates. Build a strong portfolio, get certified if possible, and use CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools to improve your skills.

Where to start: ProZ, Upwork, Fiverr.

23. Sell stuff you no longer need

Selling stuff online is a great way to declutter your home and earn some extra cash. This can include clothes, electronics, furniture, and more.

Startup time: A few hours to gather items, take photos, and list them on a selling platform.

Requirements: Basic knowledge of online marketplaces.

Best for: Those looking to declutter their homes and make money online.

Tips: Price items competitively, use multiple online platforms to reach a wider audience, and make sure items are clean and in good condition before listing. Good photos and honest descriptions can help items sell quickly. Be prepared to answer buyer questions and handle shipping logistics.

Where to start: eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark.

24. Become an online tutor

Offer online tutoring services on topics you know how to make money on in your spare time. This can range from academic subjects like math and science to languages and music. An online tutoring business is a flexible way to earn extra money while helping others learn.

Start time: A few days to sign up for a tutoring platform and create your profile.

Requirements: Expertise in the subject you want to teach and good communication skills.

Best for: People with teaching experience or subject matter expertise who enjoy helping others learn.

Tips: Consistent, high-quality tutoring can lead to more referrals and repeat students. Prepare lesson plans and materials in advance to enhance the learning experience. Highlight your qualifications and experience in your profile, offer a free trial lesson to attract students, and ask for feedback to improve your teaching methods.

Where to start: Wyzant, Preply, VIPKid.

25. Resell domain names

How to make money online by beginners, Buy valuable or in-demand domain names and sell them at a higher price. This is a profitable way to make money online if you have an eye for trending topics and keywords.

Startup Time: A few days to research, buy, and list domain names for sale.

Requirements: Knowledge of market trends, domain valuation, and negotiation skills.

Best for: People interested in digital real estate and keeping an eye on market trends and valuable keywords.

Tips: Success depends on choosing the right domain name. Be patient, as some domains can take time to sell. Understand the legalities and best practices of domain reselling. Research trends, use domain valuation tools to estimate prices, and network with potential buyers on specialized forums and online marketplaces.

Where to start: GoDaddy Auctions, Flippa, Namecheap Marketplace, Sedo.

What is the easiest way for beginners to make money online?

Young, smiling woman holding a phone and a credit card.

Selling custom products online with Print on Demand (POD) is risk-free and easy to get started with - all you need is some time and creativity.

And the best part? With time and dedication, a POD store can go beyond just a side hustle and become a full-time source of income.

Step 1: Sign Up

Step 2: Choose Your Product

Browse our ever-expanding catalog of over 1,000 products to find the perfect merchandise for your store and customer base.

Filter products by fulfillment location, material, or printing method. Choose your preferences and click Start Designing.

Step 3: Design Your Merchandise

Use our free, beginner-friendly product builder to upload an existing image, add photos and text, create patterns, adjust sizes, change colors, or even create AI images.

Step 4: Connect a Store

Once you've chosen a sales channel for your listing and created a store page, connect it to Printfy under My Account - My Store - Add New Store.

Printfy integrates with leading online marketplaces and ecommerce platforms like Wix, Etsy, Shopify, and more to streamline listing and order fulfillment.

Step 5: Create a Listing and Start Selling

Write detailed product descriptions, use high-resolution photos or mockup photos provided by us, and list your custom products on your online store to start selling.

Once a customer orders from you, our print providers will print the items and ship them directly to their doorstep. Since each item is made on demand, you don’t have to pay a dime for production.

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Start Making Money Online for Beginners

What are the easiest ways to make money online?

Wondering how a beginner can make money online? The easiest ways are to take online surveys, test websites and apps, or sell things you no longer need. These methods require minimal skills and can be done in your spare time.

How can I make a living from home?

Becoming a virtual assistant, online tutoring, freelance writing, starting a POD or dropshipping business, or creating and selling digital products are all great ways to make money from home. These jobs require some initial setup and dedication but can lead to a steady income over time.

Which platform is the best for making money online?

The best platform depends on your skills and interests, but here are some common platforms that beginners use to make money online.

For freelancers: Upwork and Fiverr.

For selling handmade crafts: Etsy.

For selling digital products: Shopify and Gumroad.

For online tutoring: Preply and VIPKid.

How can I make $100 a day online?

Combine multiple income streams to increase your daily income.

Offer a variety of freelancing services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.

Offer online tutoring and sell digital products related to your area of expertise.

Create a YouTube channel or social media account and monetize it.

Start a podcast and sell POD products to your audience.

Test products and answer online surveys.

Make money online today as a beginner

It is entirely possible to make money from the comfort of your own home with the skills and knowledge you already have. With an internet connection and some creativity, anyone can start a successful online business and achieve financial freedom!

How to make money online by beginners, 25 Simple ways to earn money online

How to make money online by beginners