Top tips: How to Boost your Income
We’ve scoured the internet and swapped tips around the office to find simple (and sometimes a bit cheeky) ways to top up your income. Whether you’re after a quick win or a regular side hustle, here are some ideas to get started:
Make your money work harder
- Cashback credit cards and stoozing tricks mean you can earn just by spending smartly.
- Switching bank accounts often comes with cash rewards and better savings rates. Could it be worth the hassle for free money?
Sell & rent what you don’t need
- Clear clutter by selling on eBay, Vinted, or Facebook Marketplace.
- Rent out your clothes, spare room, or even your whole home. (Film crews often hire everyday spaces as shooting locations!)
Reclaim what’s yours
- From energy credits and tax refunds to travel delay compensation and bank charge refunds, you could be owed money. A quick check is worth your time.
Get paid for your opinions
- Online survey sites, focus groups, and TV research panels can pay anywhere from a fiver up to £250, depending on the gig.
Side hustles from home
- Tutoring, babysitting, ironing, freelancing – there’s plenty you can do from your living room.
- Sites like PeoplePerHour connect freelancers with companies posting projects. You “bid” for jobs, explaining why you’re the best fit and naming your price. Joining and bidding is free, but the platform takes a fee from your earnings. Pay depends on your skills, the project length, and how competitive it is.
Boost your main income
- Don’t underestimate asking for a raise. A good way to frame it is to ask for “inflation + X%.” Inflation just keeps your pay level, while the extra reflects your increased skills and experience.
Help at elections
Councils need temporary staff during general, local, and mayoral elections. Roles include:
- Poll clerks – Set up and run polling stations, distribute ballot papers, and ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s a long day: stations open 7am–10pm, and you’ll need to arrive by 6.30am.
- Counting assistants – Tally up the votes once polling closes. Expect late nights (sometimes overnight) depending on turnout and recounts.
- Runners – Transport ballot boxes from polling stations to the count centre.
It’s a practical way to earn money and support democracy.
Monitor exams
- Schools, colleges, and universities often need exam invigilators, especially during busy exam seasons. You’ll need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, but the work is simple, quiet, and pays around £12 an hour. Search “exam invigilator jobs” near you or ask local institutions and temp agencies.
Try life modelling
- If you’re confident, modelling for art classes can pay surprisingly well. Sessions often pay £10–£20 per hour, sometimes per job, and schools welcome all body types. All you need is the ability to hold poses. Contact local art schools for openings.
Share what you know
- Coaching, tutoring, or creating an online course allows you to earn by sharing your expertise. From exam prep to professional mentoring, knowledge really does pay.
Final thought: While there are plenty of clever ways to boost your income, managing your finances wisely is just as important as earning more. A professional financial adviser can help you make the most of extra cash – whether that’s paying off debt, building savings, or planning for the future.
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