Start a print-on-demand business today
There are countless ways to make money online – all from the comfort of your home. And no, you don’t need a demanding remote job. With just a computer and some determination, even beginners can start earning.
In this article, we’ll go over how to make money online for beginners – step by step. You’ll find proven strategies, the basics of passive income, and the best resources to get you started.
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
- Diverse opportunities: There are many ways for beginners to make money online, from freelancing and being a virtual assistant to selling products and content creation.
- Low to no investment: Many online money-making methods require minimal or no upfront investment, making them accessible to almost anyone.
- Flexibility and convenience: Work from home on your own schedule, giving you greater control over your time and work-life balance.
- Skill utilization: Use your existing knowledge and interests to generate income, whether through design, writing, tutoring, web development, or other specialized skills.
- Growth potential: With dedication and effective strategies, simple online side hustles can evolve into steady income sources or even full-time businesses.
How to make money online for beginners without investment
We’ve rounded up the most beginner-friendly methods to help you start making money from home – from freelancing and selling products to streaming, teaching, and more.
1. Create an online store with Print on Demand
Opening a print-on-demand (POD) online business with Printify lets you 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 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: Success in POD depends on choosing the right products and niches. Make great designs, stay updated with market trends, use high-quality images, and create a good digital marketing strategy to reach your target customers.
Where to get started: Printify. Create an online store using one of 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 holding inventory. When a customer purchases, the item is shipped directly from the supplier to the customer, eliminating the need for storage or fulfilling orders yourself.
Startup 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: Success in dropshipping depends on choosing the right products and suppliers. Research trends, invest in digital marketing, and use automation tools to streamline order management. Customer service matters, so take the time to build a consistent, friendly tone with shoppers.
Where to get started: 10 Best dropshipping suppliers
3. Sell online courses
If you have specialized skills or knowledge in any subject, consider sharing your insights through online courses as a side hustle.
Startup time: A few weeks to create course content and join educational platforms.
Requirements: Expertise in a subject and the ability to create engaging content.
Tips: Focus on quality content and engaging presentation. With many free courses available, make sure yours stands out with structured, valuable information. Add unique insights, practical examples, and engaging visuals to your course. Promote it on social media and through your network to attract students.
Where to get started: 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 questionnaires is convenient for beginners wanting to make money online from home.
Startup time: Less than an hour to sign up on market research platforms and complete your profile.
Requirements: None
Best for: Individuals looking for a flexible, low-effort way to earn extra money.
Tips: Sign up for multiple survey sites to increase opportunities, be honest in your responses, and complete your profile to get matched with more research. Join reputable platforms to avoid scams.
Where to get started: Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, Pinecone Research.
5. Become a content creator
If you’re overflowing with creativity, making high-quality content is a great way to earn income online with the potential to become a full-time business. Use social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to earn cash online with various types of content, from self-promotions to sponsored posts.
Startup time: A few days to set up your chosen platform and start creating content.
Requirements: Moderate. Needs creativity, consistency, and an understanding of the platform you choose.
Best for: Creatives who enjoy making videos, writing, or sharing unique ideas to engage an audience.
Tips: Focus on a niche you’re passionate about, use eye-catching visuals, and interact with your audience to build a loyal community.
Where to get started: WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace for blogging. YouTube and Twitch for streaming and videos. Instagram and TikTok for short videos, Reels, and creative posts.
6. Try affiliate marketing
Partner with brands to promote products or services and earn a commission for each sale made through your referral link or sponsored post. It’s a popular way to make money online by leveraging your audience on blogs, social media, or other websites.
Startup time: 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 an engaged audience.
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 get started: Printify Affiliate Program, Amazon Associates, CJ Affiliate, ShareASale.
7. Become a virtual assistant
Virtual assistants offer services and online support through chat or email, handling online tasks like customer service, data entry, and social media account management. It’s an ideal gig if you have excellent time management and communication skills.
Startup time: A few days to set up profiles on freelance websites and apply for jobs.
Requirements: Organizational skills, proficiency in communication tools, and any other specialized knowledge clients may need.
Best for: People who excel at multitasking and want flexible, remote work.
Tips: Highlight your skills and experience in your profile. Always seek feedback to improve, and manage your time well to juggle multiple clients. Since this role varies depending on each client’s needs, stay flexible and adaptable. Building a strong reputation will attract more customers – and increase your income.
8. Offer design services
Designing is a fantastic way to earn money online. It involves creating graphics, logos, websites, or marketing materials. You’ll need creativity, proficiency with design software, and a clear understanding of client needs.
Startup time: A few days to build a portfolio and set up profiles on freelance platforms.
Requirements: Design skills and knowledge of design tools.
Best for: Creatives with a knack for graphic design, web design, or branding.
Tips: Build a strong portfolio and keep up with design trends. Network with other designers, seek feedback to refine your work, and offer competitive pricing to build a client base.
9. Write and edit on freelance platforms
Make money online through freelance writing. Create or refine content for blogs, websites, marketing materials, and more. This requires strong language skills, creativity, and attention to detail.
Startup time: A few days to build a portfolio and set up profiles on freelance platforms.
Requirements: Excellent writing and editing skills.
Best for: People with a talent for writing, grammar, and a sharp eye for detail.
Tips: To attract your first clients, consistently deliver well-written content, familiarize yourself with different styles and niches, join writing communities for support, and offer competitive rates.
10. Offer video editing
Create and enhance video content for various online platforms, including social media, YouTube, and marketing campaigns. This requires proficiency in specialized software, creativity, and attention to detail.
Startup time: A few days to build a portfolio and set up profiles on freelance platforms.
Requirements: Video editing skills and knowledge of commonly used tools.
Best for: Creatives with a knack for storytelling through video and proficiency in video editing software.
Tips: Create a strong portfolio showcasing your best work, network with other video editors, keep up with trends, and offer competitive rates to attract initial clients.
Where to get started: Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Behance.
11. Sell images to stock photo websites
Selling stock photos to earn money online involves taking high-quality images and uploading them to stock photography websites. Businesses and individuals purchase these photos for different 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 who want to make extra income from their photos.
Tips: Focus on high-demand categories, use quality equipment, upload new images regularly, and optimize your photos with relevant keywords and descriptions.
Where to get started: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock, Alamy.
12. Transcribe recordings
Transcribe meetings, podcasts, or various audio and video content to make money online without startup costs. This work involves listening to audio files and accurately typing the spoken words.
Startup time: Just a few hours to set up accounts on transcription platforms and familiarize yourself with transcription guidelines.
Requirements: Fast typing and good listening skills.
Best for: Individuals looking for flexible work-from-home opportunities.
Tips: Use transcription software to improve efficiency, invest in good headphones, and practice regularly to increase speed and accuracy.
Where to get started: TranscribeMe
13. Do data entry tasks
Becoming a data entry specialist is one of the easiest ways to make money online for beginners. It involves entering information into a database or computer system.
Startup time: A few hours to find and apply to job listings.
Requirements: Good attention to detail.
Best for: Beginners looking for straightforward online work that doesn’t require specialized training.
Tips: Double-check your work for errors, follow the client’s instructions and preferences, use data entry software to increase efficiency, and set up a distraction-free workspace to focus.
14. Start a podcast
Podcasting is a creative way to make money online by producing audio content on topics you’re passionate about. With a growing audience for podcasts, you can earn through sponsorships, listener donations, and ad revenue.
Startup 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: People who enjoy speaking, storytelling, and sharing knowledge or opinions on various topics.
Tips: Consistent, high-quality content and promotion are key to growing your listener base. Invest in a good microphone, use editing software to enhance audio quality, and promote your podcast on social media and through collaborations.
Get started: Buzzsprout, Podbean, Spotify for Creators.
Make it happen today!
15. Become a social media manager
Manage and grow social media accounts for businesses or individuals. This role includes creating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing performance metrics to improve online presence.
Startup time: A few days to set up profiles on freelance platforms and start networking.
Requirements: Knowledge of social media platforms, content creation, and analytics.
Best for: Individuals 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 initially, and use social media management tools to streamline your work. Stay updated on trends and algorithms, and tailor content to the target audience.
16. Start taking online surveys
Filling out online surveys involves providing your opinions and feedback on different topics. Companies use this information for market research, and you earn money or rewards for participating. It’s an easy way to make extra cash with minimal effort.
Startup time: Most survey sites require a few hours to sign up and complete your profile.
Requirements: None
Best for: People looking for a flexible, low-effort way to earn extra money.
Tips: Sign up for multiple online survey sites to increase opportunities, complete your profile to match with more online surveys, and participate consistently. Only join reputable platforms to avoid scams.
Where to get started: Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, Pinecone Research.
17. Create and sell digital products
Sell eBooks, printables, software, or an online course that can be sold repeatedly with minimal ongoing effort. It’s a scalable way to earn passive income using your expertise and creativity.
Startup time: A few days to weeks to create the 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’re passionate about, invest in good design and content, do thorough market research, and use social media and email marketing to drive sales.
18. Stream on Twitch
Twitch streaming involves broadcasting live content, such as gaming, music, or creative activities, to an online audience. Streamers earn money through subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships. It’s a popular way to monetize your hobbies and build a community.
Startup time: A few days to set up your streaming equipment and create a Twitch account.
Requirements: Basic technical skills and the ability to make engaging content.
Best for: Gamers, musicians, and creatives who enjoy live interaction and have charismatic personalities.
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 equipment to create an enjoyable viewing experience for your audience.
Where to get started: Twitch, Streamlabs, OBS Studio, Discord.
19. Test websites and apps
Test websites, software, and mobile apps by using and reviewing digital products, then provide feedback on usability, functionality, and design. Companies use this feedback to improve their products. It’s an easy way for beginners to make money online with minimal effort.
Startup time: A few hours to sign up on testing platforms and complete initial assessments.
Requirements: Basic computer skills.
Best for: Individuals looking for flexible, low-effort ways to earn extra money online.
Tips: Provide thorough and honest feedback, complete tests promptly, and sign up for multiple platforms to increase your opportunities.
Where to get started: UserTesting, Trymata, Userlytics, Enroll.
20. Sell handmade crafts
Create and sell unique, handcrafted items such as jewelry, home decor, or artwork. This is a great way for artisans and artists to monetize their creativity and reach a broad 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, as well as your own website (optional).
Best for: Artisans and hobbyists who enjoy making handmade items and want to turn their passion into profit.
Tips: Focus on creating unique, high-quality products, post appealing 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 get started: Etsy, Shopify, Amazon Handmade.
21. Become a YouTuber
Create and share video content on YouTube, which can cover a wide range of topics such as vlogging, tutorials, reviews, or entertainment. Earn by landing sponsorships, selling merch, and getting collabs with other YouTubers.
Startup time: A few days to set up your channel and create initial content.
Requirements: Video production skills, creativity, and consistency.
Best for: Individuals who enjoy creating 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 viewers can enhance your channel’s growth. Invest in good equipment, plan your content, use SEO and other marketing strategies for video titles and descriptions, and promote your videos on social media.
22. Offer translation services
Translate documents, websites, books, and more. It’s an ideal way to make money online if you’re proficient in multiple languages.
Startup time: A few days to sign up on freelance platforms and showcase your translation skills.
Requirements: Proficiency in at least two languages and strong writing skills.
Best for: Bilingual or multilingual people with excellent language skills and attention to detail.
Tips: Accuracy and cultural nuances are crucial in translation. Specializing in a niche can increase your marketability and let you set higher rates. Build a strong portfolio, get certifications if possible, and use CAT (Computer-Assisted Translation) tools to improve efficiency.
23. Sell things you no longer need
Selling stuff online is a good way to declutter your home and earn extra cash. This can include clothes, electronics, furniture, and more.
Startup time: A few hours to gather items, take photos, and list them on selling platforms.
Requirements: Basic knowledge of online marketplaces.
Best for: People who want to declutter their homes and make money online.
Tips: Price items competitively, use multiple online platforms to reach a broader audience, and ensure items are clean and in good condition before listing. Good photos and honest descriptions can help sell items faster. Be prepared to handle buyer questions and shipping logistics.
Where to get started: eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark.
24. Become an online tutor
Offer online tutoring services in topics you’re knowledgeable about to make money 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 more money while helping others learn.
Startup time: A few hours to sign up on tutoring platforms and create your profile.
Requirements: Expertise in the subject you wish 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 teaching 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.
25. Resell domain names
Purchase valuable or in-demand domain names and sell them at a higher price. This is a lucrative way to make money online if you have an eye for trending topics and keywords.
Startup time: A few days to research, purchase domain names, and list them for sale.
Requirements: Knowledge of market trends, domain valuation, and negotiation skills.
Best for: Individuals interested in digital real estate, with a keen eye for market trends and valuable keywords.
Tips: Success depends on choosing the right domain names. Be patient, as some domains may take time to sell. Understand the legalities and best practices of domain reselling. Research trending topics, use domain appraisal tools to estimate value, and network with potential buyers in niche forums and online marketplaces.
Where to get started: GoDaddy Auctions, Flippa, Namecheap Marketplace, Sedo.
What’s the easiest way for beginners to make money online?
Selling custom merch online with Print on Demand (POD) is risk-free and easy to start – all you need is some time and creativity.
And the best part? With time and dedication, a POD store can move beyond just a side hustle and become a full-time income source.
Step 1: Sign up
Sign up for Printify for free and create a fun name for your business.
Step 2: Pick your products
Browse our ever-expanding Catalog of over 1,300 products to find the perfect merch for your store and customer base.
Filter products by the fulfillment location, material, or printing method. Choose your favorites and click Start designing.
Step 3: Design your merch
Use our free, beginner-friendly Product Creator to upload an existing image, add photos and text, create patterns, adjust sizing, switch colors, or even generate AI images.
Step 4: Connect a store
Once you’ve chosen a sales channel for your listings and created a store page, integrate it with Printify under My account – My stores – Add new store.
Printify integrates with leading online marketplaces and eCommerce platforms like Wix, Etsy, Shopify, and many more to streamline listing and order fulfillment.
Step 5: Create listings and start selling
Write detailed product descriptions, use high-resolution photos or the mockup photos we provide, and list your custom merch in your online store to start selling.
Once a customer orders from you, our Print Providers will print and ship the items directly to their doorstep. You won’t pay a penny up front for production since every item is created on demand.
FAQ: How to start making money online for beginners
Print on Demand is one of the best ways to make money online for beginners – you start an online store designing and selling custom products without ordering anything beforehand. Sign up for Printify and get creative. If you want to make money online fast, try taking surveys or signing up for freelance gigs on Upwork or Fiverr. You can land simple tasks like editing, translating, or writing.
Wondering how a beginner can make money online? The simplest way is through taking online surveys, testing websites and apps, or selling things you no longer need. These methods require minimal skills and can be done in your spare time.
Becoming a virtual assistant, offering 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.
Combine multiple income streams to increase your daily income.
- Providing several different freelancing services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
- Offering online tutoring and selling digital products related to your area of expertise.
- Creating and monetizing a YouTube channel or social media account.
- Starting a podcast and selling POD merch to your listeners.
- Testing products and answering online surveys.
Make money online as a beginner today
It’s entirely possible to make money from the comfort of your own home with the skills and knowledge you already have. With a computer and some creativity, anyone can start a successful online business and achieve financial freedom!
