These days, financial security is a touchy topic. Prices of everything are on the rise. Covering needs like housing and groceries is stressful. But what about some financial wiggle room for extras?
While active duty military members are grateful for job stability and a liveable wage, many still seek additional income. Additionally, military spouses may already have full-time employment and want something additional that’s flexible or might want to supplement income. Enter the side hustle.
Turns out, a side hustle while on active duty in the military is doable… for some. While some supervisors or jobs may not allow a service member to pursue additional forms of income, most military members are free to pursue their side hustles in their free time. However, it’s recommended that you seek approval from your supervisor before doing so. Military members must recognize that the needs of the military come first.
Here are 10 side hustles to supplement your military income:
1. DoorDash/food delivery
If you own your vehicle, consider a job delivering food, such as DoorDash, UberEATS, or local pizza delivery. Most delivery jobs don’t factor in car maintenance or gas, so be sure to keep those added costs in mind.
2. Real estate investing
If you have an interest and some knowledge about buying homes, you might consider investing in real estate. There are many ways to do this. You can buy a fixer-upper or a property used for short-term rentals (like Airbnb, VRBO, or even a military crash pad).
But be sure to do your research or talk to someone knowledgeable in this area before fully jumping in.
3. Plasma donation
Donating plasma can earn you between $30 and $70 per donation. Donating plasma saves lives. It has positive effects on not just the receiver; it contains health benefits for the person donating, in addition to financial compensation. Check out the list of exclusions before donating.
4. Handyman work or lawn care
People are always looking for lawn care or odd jobs around their homes. Whether you have extensive knowledge or interest in such, or are just looking for some extra income, someone is likely looking for help.
5. Thrifting or resale (eBay, Amazon, marketplace, etc)
Resale is a hot side hustle lately. And if you’re strategic about it, reselling things can earn you a significant chunk of change. If you enjoy perusing thrift store aisles or hunting for deals, you may consider some sort of resale as a side hustle.
You can often find relatively new items (and sometimes even the holy grail of resale: NWT (new with tags!)) at thrift stores. List them for sale on an online marketplace (and be sure to factor in your shipping). While one or two items might not make much of a dent in your bank account, learning the tricks of this trade can turn a large profit over time.
6. House-sitting or pet-sitting
House-sitting or pet-sitting is a constant need, especially in a military community. Consider pet-sitting either in your home or in others’. Maybe a friend is going on deployment or TDY and needs someone to watch their pet or home long-term. This is an easy way for animal lovers to make some extra money.
7. Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover but your schedule or residence doesn’t allow for long-term pet sitting, try dog walking. Bonus, you get exercise and extra cash.
8. Fitness training
While this side hustle needs some extra education, fitness training is a great option for military members interested in fitness to earn additional income. There are a few ways to get your personal training certificate online. If you’re active duty, you might even get the military to cover the cost of this as a means of continuing education.
9. Photography or other freelance work
One of the many benefits of freelance work is the fact that it’s project-based work. This means it’s flexible work that fits into your schedule. Especially a schedule as complicated as the military. If you have an interest in photography, consider offering your services locally or continuing education in this area.
10. Making and selling a product
While sometimes a side hustle is offering your time or skills, it could also be creating a tangible product. This might be selling handmade furniture, 3D-printed products, or even jewelry. Building one-of-a-kind furniture is a popular side hustle for many active duty members looking to create and sell something to others during their downtime.
Jobs like food delivery, landscaping, resale, and more can provide additional income for service members or their families. Some choose to follow their passions or set themselves up for when they’re out of the military. Others are just looking for a stress-free outlet or a little extra cash. But whatever side hustle you choose while active duty, weigh the pros and cons carefully. Consider the time, resources, and expectations it’ll take to do alongside the job you’re already committed to.