DETROIT – If you need a job or some extra money -- and who doesn't? -- this Thrifty Thursday is right up your alley. We're helping you make some easy money.
If you're feeling strapped for cash, you can make a few extra coins easily with a little bit of time and creativity.
First, try becoming a professional friend. This RentAFriend website allows people to literally select a friend to take to an event or show them around a new town. If you're easily likeable and enjoy people, this could be the side job for you. The website has thousands of paid members looking for a good friend, and the relationship is strictly plutonic. The average rate is $20 to $50 an hour, but some friends charge up to $150 an hour.
If hanging out with strangers isn't your thing, but you have a good working car, you can still make a few extra bucks. Turn your car into a billboard and advertise for companies. A company called FreeCarMedia will pay you to display an ad on your vehicle. They're very selective, but if chosen, you could make $400 to $500 a month.
Millennials will do well with this one: an opportunity to get paid to download apps on your phone. Try installing Media Insiders and Google Screenwise. These apps run in the background on your phone and track data, which is then provided to Google and other companies. They can pay up to $200 each year.
Finally, you can cash in on extra space you have in your driveway or basement. Websites such as www.JustPark.com allow you to advertise your unused space online and attract renters. You can make up to $200 per month, especially if you have space near a downtown area, concert venue or sports arena. Airbnb is another option, to rent out rooms or your entire house.
Sign up for ClickOnDetroit Email Newsletters (click here) for more stories like this.
You can also try participating in a mock jury. Lawyers use these to test out arguments or reach settlement agreements before real cases go before a judge. You can find opportunities by searching online.