It is no secret that everyone wants to make some extra cash — it's probably the reason why you’re on this page today. We’ve tried and tested many ways to make extra cash on the side to give our bank accounts a boost and found that some methods really do work.

Surprisingly, a lot of people don’t talk about the easiest methods. Why?

We believe it boils down to two things:

• People want to keep the best money-making ideas to themselves
• Some of these methods seem risky at first glance and put people off

But with the right knowledge and a sensible approach, many of these lesser-known methods can be easy wins. Here are some of the easiest ways to make extra cash — and why people overlook them.

1. Matched Betting

Matched betting is one of the quickest and easiest ways to make extra cash if done correctly. It’s a legal method that involves using free bet offers from online bookmakers and betting both for and against a sporting outcome to lock in a profit.

It works by placing two bets: one at the bookmaker and one at a betting exchange. Because you cover all outcomes, you don't risk losing money.

We made hundreds in our first couple of months just from welcome offers alone!

Quick wins with matched betting:

• Use sign-up offers from multiple bookmakers
• Take advantage of low-risk reload offers each week
• Earn referral commissions from inviting friends to matched betting platforms
• Use matched betting platforms and software to do all the calculations for you

Why don’t more people do this?
People often confuse matched betting with gambling — but it’s entirely different when done correctly. The fear of risk, misunderstanding the method, or being unsure how to start holds many back. But platforms exist with step-by-step guides to walk you through each bet, making it accessible even for complete beginners.

Matched betting can also appeal to those who already enjoy checking football betting odds at some of the big sites like Boylesports, turning that knowledge into profit through strategic betting rather than chance.

2. Cashback on Everyday Spending

Cashback is often misunderstood. Many believe they need to spend extra or that there’s a catch — but that’s not true. Cashback gives you money back on things you were going to buy anyway.

From supermarket shopping to renewing car insurance and booking holidays, you can earn hundreds of pounds back each year with cashback sites and apps.

Easy ways to earn cashback:

• Use cashback websites when booking insurance, utilities or travel
• Activate in-store cashback offers on grocery shopping apps
• Use browser extensions to get automatic cashback alerts when shopping online
• Check our huge list of cashback websites and apps to get started signing up

Why don’t more people do this?
Some think cashback isn’t worth the effort or mistakenly believe it costs money to use. In reality, cashback is free money that adds up fast — especially on bigger purchases. Once set up, it takes no extra effort and can become part of your everyday spending routine.

3. Sign Up for Free Money Offers

Believe it or not, many companies will give you free money just for signing up as a new customer or referring a friend. These incentives are real and can be a simple way to earn extra cash with little effort.

Free money offers include:

• Bank account switch bonuses
• Refer-a-friend schemes
• Sign-up bonuses from investment or cashback platforms

Why don’t more people do this?
People assume they’re scams or too good to be true. But many major UK companies run these promotions as a marketing tool to attract new users. As long as you read the current terms as offers regularly change and can be pulled, you can take advantage of genuine offers.

👉 Check out our full list of free money offers here

4. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is a great way to turn your writing skills into income. If you enjoy blogging or are confident at explaining things clearly, you could write for others — and get paid!

From writing product descriptions to blog posts for businesses, there’s plenty of work out there for beginners.

How to get started with freelance writing:

• Sign up to platforms like Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, or Upwork
• Create a writing portfolio with sample pieces
• Start a blog to showcase your writing skills

Why don’t more people do this?
Some think they need a degree in writing or years of experience, but that’s not true. If you can write clearly, meet deadlines, and follow briefs, you can find paid work. It’s also flexible and can be done from home.

5. Sell Items You No Longer Need

Selling your unwanted items is one of the simplest ways to make quick cash — and it helps declutter your home at the same time.

Top items to sell:

• Clothes on Vinted or Depop
• Toys, furniture, or household goods on Facebook Marketplace
• Books, DVDs and electronics on Ziffit or MusicMagpie

Why don’t more people do this?
Many assume their old items aren’t worth anything or think it’ll take too long to list everything. But even small amounts add up quickly — and it’s cash in your pocket for things you no longer use.

If you have a lot to declutter an sell and it's overwhelming, start small.  List 3-4 items a day.  After one month, you could have 100 items for sale!

6. Take Online Surveys and Join Research Panels

Taking surveys won’t make you rich, but it’s one of the easiest ways to earn a few pounds here and there. Join the right platforms and you can earn cash, gift cards, or product rewards.

Where to find legit surveys:

• Prolific (higher-paying academic surveys)
• Swagbucks (a variety of small tasks and surveys)
• Market research panels that pay for product testing or online interviews (Respondent is a higher paying panel)

Why don’t more people do this?
Some think all surveys are spammy or not worth the time. While many are low-paying, joining trusted platforms and focusing on higher-value opportunities can make this a decent side earner during downtime.

7. Rent Out What You Own

If you own something useful — a camera, power tool, car, or even a driveway — you can rent it out when you’re not using it and make passive income.

Easy things to rent out:

• Spare room or property (Airbnb)
• Parking space (JustPark)
• Tools or appliances on peer-to-peer platforms like Fat Llama
• Your car (Turo or Karshare)

Why don’t more people do this?
There’s often a fear of damage or not knowing how to get started. But many platforms offer insurance and support, making it easier and safer to try. It’s a great way to earn with little effort.

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Final Word

Making extra cash doesn’t always mean working harder — sometimes it’s about working smarter. These lesser-known ways can be surprisingly effective and are often overlooked due to fear or misconceptions.

Try a few and see what works for you. Whether it's matched betting, cashback, or renting out what you already own, each one has the potential to give your income a nice little boost — often with very little effort.