25 Under the Table Jobs That Pay In Cash

If you’re looking for ways to make extra money, there are plenty of side hustle ideas out there. But sometimes you want or need cash quickly, and one of the best ways to get it is through an under the table job.

Cash-paying jobs are quite common. Depending on the job, you may get paid immediately as soon as you do the work, weekly, or at some other interval. But most jobs that pay cash don’t require you to wait very long to get the money in your hands, which is why they’re great for earning good money quickly.

What Are Under the Table Jobs?

Under the table jobs typically pay in cash and may not follow all the legalities and regulations surrounding employment. Your employment may be off the books or undocumented for one of several different reasons.

Other under the table jobs involve doing odd jobs for money rather than working in a traditional employer-employee relationship. We’ll look at a number of these opportunities in this article.

Whatever the case may be, if you’re being paid under the table, it means that taxes are not being withheld from your earnings and the employer is not reporting your compensation to the government. You’re also not likely to be considered an official employee, which means you won’t get benefits like health insurance, a 401(k), and paid time off.

Of course, the IRS requires everyone to report all sources of income, so even if you’re being paid under the table, you’re still legally obligated to pay taxes on your earnings. So while an under the table job can be a great way to get paid quickly in cash, just be sure you’re setting some of that money aside to pay the IRS when tax time comes (and keeping accurate records).

Common Under the Table Jobs That Pay Cash Only

Now, let’s take a look at some of the most popular under the table jobs for earning a quick cash payment.

1. Small Tasks

One of the easiest ways to earn extra income is to complete small tasks or microtasks. There are a number of microtasking websites that allow you to find opportunities to make money in your spare time with small, simple tasks. Some of the options include:

• Swagbucks
• InboxDollars
• 25Clicks
• Clickworker

The details will vary, but these tasks usually take no more than a few minutes and they typically don’t require any specific skills or experience. Many of the tasks are online, so you’ll need a reliable internet connection.

While you’re not going to make a huge amount of money with these small tasks, you can make a supplemental income that helps with bills or filling gaps in the budget.

Each microtask website is different. Some pay weekly and others allow you to withdraw your earnings whenever you choose. For example, with Swagbucks, you can redeem your earnings at any time for cash (paid out via PayPal) or your choice of gift cards.

2. Babysitting

Babysitting is a great option for people who love kids and are looking for a way to earn some extra cash. It’s also a fairly flexible gig, as you can take jobs whenever they fit into your schedule.

Of course, the amount you can earn will depend on how many kids you’re watching and how long you’re babysitting. But if you’re reliable and good with children, babysitting can be a great way to make money quickly.

There are several ways to find babysitting gigs. You can start by asking friends, family, or neighbors if they need a sitter. You could also create a profile at websites like Sittercity or Care.com. Or, post flyers in your neighborhood advertising your services.

There are always parents in need of a reliable babysitter, so work is constantly available with this all-cash job. And once you get some clients, you’ll pick up more jobs through word-of-mouth as people tell their friends about you.

3. Pet Sitting / Dog Walking

If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking can be a great way to earn extra cash with an under the table job. Similar to babysitting, this is a fairly flexible gig that you can do on your own schedule, especially dog walking.

There are several ways to find pet sitting and dog walking jobs. You can start by asking friends, family, and neighbors if they need someone to watch their pets. You could also create a profile on Rover so pet owners in your local area can find you.

Another option is to put up flyers in your neighborhood or local animal shelters advertising your services as a pet sitter or dog walker.

The amount you can earn will depend on how many pets you’re watching and how long you’re pet sitting. Overnight jobs tend to pay the best. But regardless, this can be a great way to make extra money, especially if you love spending time with animals.

4. House Cleaning

If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, house cleaning can be a quick and easy way to make good money. It’s not easy work, but you don’t need any special skills. Anyone in good physical condition can do it.

This job can be done on your own, or you could work for someone else. Doing it independently requires you to find your own clients, but you’ll have better income potential.

You can start by asking family and friends if they know anyone who needs help with their house. You could also look online for housekeeping jobs in your area. Also, advertise your services on Craigslist and local bulletin boards so people can find you.

Do a good job for your clients, and many will hire you again. You could have a handful of clients who pay you for weekly or biweekly cleaning.

The going rate for house cleaning varies depending on where you live, but there’s plenty of potential to earn a decent income, whether it’s part-time or full-time.

5. Yard Work / Landscaping / Snow Removal

For those who enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind manual labor, yard work can be a great way to make money. This could involve mowing, raking, shoveling snow, or doing other types of outdoor work.

Like house cleaning, this job can be done either do on your own or you can work for someone else. If you’re working for someone else, you’ll likely be paid hourly. But if you’re doing it on your own, you can set your own price and work as much or as little as you want.

Another option is to offer your services to local businesses, such as landscaping companies or those that specialize in snow removal. They may be willing to hire you on a per-job basis.

This type of work is especially in-demand during the spring and summer months, or in areas that experience a lot of snowfall in the winter. So there’s potential to earn income year-round, depending on where you live.

There are several ways to find yard work gigs. You can start by asking family and friends if they know anyone who needs help with their yard. You could also put up flyers in your neighborhood advertising your services as a landscaper or snow removal specialist.

6. Flea Market Flipping

Flea markets, yard sales, estate sales, and auctions are great places to find hidden gems that you can resell for a profit. This is known as flea market flipping, and it can be a very lucrative way to make money.

To get started, all you need is a little bit of capital to buy some items to resell. You can then resell those items online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or eBay.

The key to making good money with this method is to find items that are undervalued and in high demand. It’s usually not that difficult since many people hosting yard sales are primarily interested in getting rid of stuff.

However, it definitely helps to know what you’re looking for (see our list of the easiest things to flip for profit). As you get some experience, you’ll be able to identify the items with the most potential.

7. Flipping Furniture

Flipping furniture is similar to flipping other types of items, except that you’re dealing with larger and more expensive pieces. Also, you’re putting in some time and effort to improve the piece by painting, staining, or reupholstering it.

Solid wood furniture is usually the best for flipping because it can be valuable when it’s properly refinished. An old desk, table, or dresser may look amazing with a fresh coat of paint and some new hardware.

Finding old furniture to flip isn’t difficult, but it does take a bit of effort. You might have a piece in your house already that’s perfect for restoring. That’s a great way to start because you won’t have to spend money.

You can also find furniture that’s been put out for the trash, or you can shop at yard sales and flea markets. Also, check Craigslist as it can be an excellent resource.

Fixing up the furniture isn’t hard, and there are plenty of free YouTube videos that will teach you whatever you need to learn.

Once your item is finished, you can sell it on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or through your social media profiles. If you have a truck or van, you can also offer delivery services for an additional fee.

8. Handyman Services

If you’re handy around the house and know your way around some basic tools, you can offer your services as a handyman.

There’s always a need for someone who can fix things or do small home improvement projects. You could offer to do anything from hanging shelves to fixing leaky faucets and other odd jobs.

To start your handyman business, compile a list of services you’re able to offer. You can then start advertising your business by word of mouth or by putting up flyers in your neighborhood. You might also want to create a website or Facebook page to promote your services.

As with any other service-based business, it’s important to build up a good reputation if you want to be successful. Be sure to do a great job on every project, big or small.

9. Painting

If you’re good at painting, you can offer your services to paint the interior or exterior of people’s homes. This is a great way to make some extra money, especially if you’re able to do the job quickly and efficiently.

To get started, you’ll need to invest in some basic painting supplies like brushes, rollers, painter’s tape, drop cloths, and a ladder. Once you have those things, you can start advertising your services online or by word of mouth. You might also want to put up flyers in your neighborhood.

If it’s something you plan to do long-term, creating your own website will be worth the time and effort. You can use your website to showcase your portfolio of past jobs as you get more experience.

10. Graphic Design

For those who are creative and have a good eye for design, working as a graphic designer is a possibility. You can offer your services to businesses and individuals who need help creating logos, business cards, flyers, or other marketing materials.

To start a graphic design side hustle, create a portfolio of your work to showcase to potential clients. You can then start advertising your services online or by word of mouth.

If you don’t have any experience working for clients, complete some projects of your own that you can use in your portfolio. For example, design your own business cards and brochures. You can also offer free or discounted services to local non-profit organizations to gain some experience.

You can work with local clients or clients in other areas. There’s no need to meet face-to-face, so you’re certainly not limited to your local area.

11. Photography

If you’re a talented photographer, there are many ways to make good money with your skills. You could offer to take photos for clients, or you could also sell your photos as stock photography.

If you’re offering services to clients, you can offer headshots, family portraits, maternity or newborn photo, pet photos, etc. You can also do real estate photography (a good way to make money with a drone) or product photography for businesses.

To get started, create a portfolio of your best work to showcase to potential clients. You can then start advertising your services online or by word of mouth. Social networks like Facebook are ideal for offering your services and showcasing your work.

Working part-time as a photographer is an excellent way to earn some extra cash whenever you need it.

12. Musician

If you’re a musician, there are many ways to make money with your skills. You could offer to play gigs at local bars or restaurants, or you could also give music lessons to those who want to learn an instrument.

Playing gigs is a great way to make some extra cash on the weekends or evenings. To get started, reach out to local businesses and ask if they’re interested in having live music. You can start with venues that you know already have live music at certain times.

You can also promote your services online by creating a website or social media page.

Music lessons are another great option for those who want to make some extra money with their musical skills. You can advertise your services online or by word of mouth. You can also promote your services at local music stores.

13. Tutoring

If you’re knowledgeable in a certain subject, you could offer your services as a tutor to students who need help. You can tutor students in person or online, depending on your preference.

To get started, post an ad on Craigslist, advertise on local bulletin boards (bulletin boards at schools and universities are ideal), and tell everyone you know about the tutoring services you’re offering. Also, post about your services on Facebook and other social networks that you use.

Tutoring is a great way to make some extra money and share your knowledge with others. It’s something you could do short-term if you’re just looking to make some quick cash, or it could turn into a long-term side hustle.

14. Personal Assistant

If you’re organized and have good people skills, becoming a personal assistant is another option. You can offer your services to individuals who need help with tasks like scheduling appointments, managing emails, organizing, shopping, etc.

Personal assistants can make a decent hourly wage, and it’s a great way to make some extra money on the side. To get started, advertise your services online or by word of mouth. You can also look for personal assistant jobs on job boards and freelancer websites.

15. Private Tour Guide

Working as a private tour guide is an excellent option, especially if you live in a major city or an area that attracts a lot of tourists and visitors. You can give walking tours, driving tours, or even boat tours depending on the area.

For example, I live near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and if you go to the Civil War battlefield, you’re very likely to see private tour guides leading small groups.

Tour guides can make a good hourly wage, and it’s a good way to share your knowledge of the local area while also making some extra money. If you enjoy meeting new people, you’ll probably find working as a tour guide to be a lot of fun.

To get started, create a list of the tours you’re offering and promote your services online or by word of mouth. It’s a good idea to check local regulations for the areas that you’ll be visiting to see if permits or other licenses are required.

16. Car Detailing

Car detailing is a service that’s always in demand, especially during the warmer months. People are always looking to get their cars washed and detailed, and you can offer your services for a fee.

You don’t need a lot of supplies to get started, but you will need a few things like a hose, bucket, soap, and towels. You can usually find most of these items around your house.

This is an ideal service to promote on Craigslist and local bulletin boards. You can also print flyers to hand out in your area, or even go door to door in your neighborhood. Finding clients usually isn’t that difficult because many people have trouble finding the time to wash their own car or complete a more thorough detailing.

17. Woodworking / Carpentry

If you have experience with woodworking, you can start your own business making and selling wood products. These could be anything from small items like jewelry boxes to larger items like furniture.

You can sell your wood products online through a website or Etsy shop, at local craft fairs and shows, or even door to door in your neighborhood. You can also build a client base by offering your services to others who need custom woodworking done.

To get started, you’ll need some basic woodworking tools and supplies, which you may already have. You’ll also need a place to work, like your garage, shed, or even a rented space.

18. Making and Selling Crafts

Making and selling crafts is a great way to make some extra money, and it’s also a lot of fun. If you’re creative and have the time to spare, there are endless possibilities for the types of crafts you can make.

You can sell your crafts online through a website or Etsy shop, at local craft fairs and shows, or even door to door in your neighborhood. You can also build a client base by offering your services to others who need custom crafting done.

19. Small Engine Repair

If you’re handy with tools and have experience working on small engines, you can start your own business repairing lawn mowers, snow blowers, leaf blowers, and other small engines. This is a great option for those who enjoy working with their hands and have some experience.

You can advertise your services online or by word of mouth. Craigslist is an outstanding resource. You can also put up flyers in your neighborhood or place ads in local publications.

20. Junk Removal

Junk removal is a service that’s always in demand, especially in the spring and summer. People are always looking to clear out their homes, garages, and sheds, and they need someone to haul away the junk.

If you have a truck, van, or trailer, you can start your own junk removal business. Check with the local dump to inquire about rates and regulations for disposing of the junk you remove.

This is another under the table job that doesn’t require specific skills or experience, and the income potential is pretty good.

You can advertise your services online or by word of mouth. Many people search Google or Craigslist for junk removal options in their local area.

21. Rent Out a Room

If you have an extra room in your house, you can rent it out to tenants and earn some extra money. This is a great option for those who need a little extra income and don’t mind having someone else in their home.

You could rent out the room to a long-term tenant, or offer short-term rentals for travelers. The long-term rental demands less of your time because short-term rentals will require you to clean the room between visitors. However, the income potential is higher from short-term rentals if you’re able to keep it booked most of the time.

22. Personal Trainer

If you’re a fitness enthusiast, you could make some extra money by becoming a personal trainer. You can offer your services to those who want to get in shape but don’t know where to start.

As a personal trainer, you’ll need to be able to create customized workout programs for your clients. You should also be available for questions and support outside of scheduled sessions.

This is a great way to make some extra money if you’re already living a healthy lifestyle and working out regularly. Be sure to check the regulations in your local area in regards to certification or licensing.

23. Sell Plants and Trees

If you have a green thumb, you could make some extra money by selling plants and trees. This is a great option for those who love being outdoors and working with plants.

This involves growing the plants or trees until they are ready to be sold. You can sell them online, at local markets and fairs, or at a roadside stand.

The downside to this opportunity is that it’s not great for quick cash. It takes time to grow the plants and trees, so this is more of a long-term option.

24. Sell Your Plasma

If you’re looking for a quick way to make some money, you could sell your plasma. Plasma is the liquid component of your blood, and it can be donated for medical purposes.

The process of donating plasma takes about an hour, and you can usually donate twice a week. Depending on how frequently you donate, you can make up to a few hundred dollars per month.

You can do a simple Google search to find a local plasma center in your city or town. Most of them pay at the time of the donation, so it’s one of the best jobs to make money quickly.

25. Online Surveys

If you’re looking for an easy way to make money online, you could take online surveys. There are a number of companies that will pay you for your opinion. Some of the most popular survey companies include:

• Swagbucks
• Survey Junkie
• InboxDollars
• Rakuten Insight

You can sign up for one or all of them (see a bigger list in our article about paid online surveys) and start earning money today.

Most of these companies pay via PayPal or gift cards. If you want to earn cold hard cash, you’ll need to create a PayPal account if you don’t already have one. Once you’ve signed up, you can start taking surveys immediately.

How to Find Under the Table Jobs

Now that we’ve looked at the most popular types of cash-paying jobs, here are some of the best ways to find these opportunities.

Your Personal Network

The best place to start your search is with your personal network. Ask your friends, family, and neighbors if they know of any opportunities in your area.

You might be surprised to find that someone you know is already doing one of these jobs and can give you some information about it. Or, they may know of someone who is hiring for this type of work.

Even if you don’t end up finding a job through your personal network, it’s always good to let people know that you’re looking. This way, they can keep an eye out and let you know if anything comes up.

Craigslist

Another great way to find a cash paying job is through Craigslist. You can search for opportunities in your local area by visiting the Craigslist website and selecting your city or town.

Once you’re on the site, go to the “Jobs” section and select “All Jobs.” Then, you can use the search function to find specific types of jobs, such as “babysitting” or “dog walking.”

You can also post your own ads for specific services you want to offer.

Facebook

There are a number of local Facebook groups that are great for finding opportunities. And of course, you can also post a message to your wall, or other social media sites, about services you’re offering or your interest in finding opportunities that may be available.

Local Job Boards and Bulletin Boards

Another great way to find under the table jobs is by checking out your local job boards and bulletin boards. These are often located in coffee shops, libraries, community centers, and other public places.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on Under the Table Jobs

Working under the table jobs can be a great way to earn some extra money and get paid in cash quickly. Just be sure to report your income and pay your taxes accordingly. And, if you’re ever in doubt about whether or not something is legal, it’s always best to consult with an attorney or tax professional.