20 Online Side Hustles for Beginners: No Skills or Experience Required 2025

Have you ever thought about how you can get some extra money without moving the couch? Side hustles are blooming in 2025; anyone can learn online how to make passive online cash without advanced degrees or decades of experience. If you want to save up and go on vacation, clear your credit card, or need some extra pocket change, then these starter online workplaces are ideal to help you earn some extra cash as long as you have a little bit of effort to spare.

A survey conducted by NerdWallet in 2025 demonstrated the importance of these opportunities as one in every ten Americans has taken to side hustles to make ends meet. Ranging all the way between survey answering and the development of digital products, people can find something to do. So, what are the best easy side hustles to begin today online that will help you create beginner income streams with minimum fuss? Find out below.

20 Beginner-Friendly Online Side Hustles

1. Taking Online Surveys

Taking online surveys is one of the easiest online side hustles for beginners, requiring no skills beyond basic internet navigation. Companies like EarnLab pay you to share opinions on products, services, or ads, helping them refine their offerings. Each survey takes 5-20 minutes and pays $0.50-$5, depending on length and complexity. It's not a path to riches, but it's a simple online task you can do while watching TV or waiting for a bus. To maximize earnings, sign up for multiple platforms and complete your profile to get more invites. Be patient, because some surveys may disqualify you based on demographics, but consistent effort can lead to steady cash flow.

How to Start:

1. Sign up for free on platforms like EarnLab.
2. Fill out your profile to match surveys to your interests.
3. Dedicate 30-60 minutes daily to complete surveys.
4. Cash out via PayPal or gift cards once you hit the minimum threshold.

2. Microtasking

Microtasking involves completing small online tasks, like data entry or categorizing images, for quick payments. Platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk and Clickworker offer these no-skill online work opportunities, paying $0.01-$1 per task. It's perfect for filling spare moments, and tasks are often simple enough for anyone to handle. For example, you might label photos or verify addresses. While individual tasks pay little, doing several daily can add up. One user on Reddit reported earning $50 a month by spending an hour daily on microtasks, proving it's a viable starter side hustle.

How to Start:

1. Register on Amazon Mechanical Turk or Clickworker.
2. Browse available tasks and select ones you can complete quickly.
3. Work consistently to build a reputation for higher-paying tasks.
4. Withdraw earnings via bank transfer or gift cards.

3. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistance is a fantastic beginner online job for those who are organized and enjoy helping others. You'll handle tasks like email management, scheduling, or social media posting for businesses or entrepreneurs. Platforms like Upwork and Belay connect you with clients needing remote support. You will require a basic computer skills and a knack for staying on top of things. Rates start at $10-$20 per hour, and a few hours a week can easily net you extra cash. It's like being the behind-the-scenes hero for a busy professional.

How to Start:

1. Create a profile on Upwork or Belay.
2. List skills like organization or familiarity with Google Workspace.
3. Apply for entry-level tasks like data entry or scheduling.
4. Communicate clearly with clients to build trust and secure repeat work.

4. Selling on Online Marketplaces

Selling on platforms like Etsy or eBay is a great way to turn unused items or creative ideas into cash. You can sell physical goods, like vintage clothes, or digital products, like printable planners, without needing prior experience. Setting up a shop is free, though platforms charge small fees per sale. A beginner seller on Etsy reported earning $200 a month by selling digital art prints, showing the potential for simple online income. Promote your listings on social media to boost sales, and focus on trending items like eco-friendly products to stand out.

How to Start:

1. Choose a platform like Etsy or eBay.
2. List items with clear photos and keyword-rich descriptions.
3. Promote your shop on Instagram or Pinterest.
4. Respond promptly to customer inquiries to build a good reputation.

5. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing lets you earn commissions by promoting products through unique links on blogs, social media, or videos. Find a platform to share your links, like a free blog or Instagram account to begin. Join programs like Amazon Associates to start. For example, promoting a $50 product with a 5% commission earns $2.50 per sale. It takes time to build an audience, but it's a beginner-friendly online earning method with passive income potential. One YouTuber shared earning $100 monthly after six months of consistent posting.

How to Start:

1. Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or ShareASale.
2. Choose products you're excited about to promote authentically.
3. Share links via social media, a blog, or YouTube.
4. Disclose affiliate links to build trust with your audience.

6. Creating and Selling Digital Products

Creating digital products, like printable planners or eBooks, is an easy side hustle to start today online. Tools like Canva make design accessible to beginners, and platforms like Etsy or Gumroad handle sales. Once created, these products can be sold repeatedly, offering passive income. A beginner seller reported making $150 a month selling budget templates on Etsy. All you need is a creativity and a willingness to learn basic tools. Focus on popular niches like fitness trackers or wedding planners to attract buyers.

How to Start:

1. Use Canva to create digital products like planners or templates.
2. Set up a shop on Etsy or Gumroad.
3. Research trending products to design items that sell.
4. Promote your products on social media or Pinterest.

7. Participating in Online Focus Groups

Online focus groups pay you to share opinions on products or services via video calls or surveys. Platforms like User Interviews and Respondent offer sessions paying $50-$200 each, requiring no expertise, just your honest thoughts. It's a low-effort way to earn, perfect for beginners. One user on Reddit earned $250 for a two-hour focus group on consumer tech. Sign up for multiple platforms to increase opportunities, and be honest in your screening answers to qualify for more studies.

How to Start:

1. Register on User Interviews or Respondent.
2. Complete screening surveys to qualify for studies.
3. Participate in video or written discussions as scheduled.
4. Cash out via PayPal or direct deposit after each session.

8. Transcription

Transcription involves typing out audio files into text, a simple online task for anyone with decent typing skills. Platforms like Rev and TranscribeMe hire beginners, paying $0.30-$1 per audio minute. No experience is needed, though accuracy and attention to detail help. A beginner transcriber reported earning $100 a month by working a few hours weekly. Start with general transcription and move to specialized fields like medical or legal for higher pay as you gain confidence.

How to Start:

1. Apply on Rev or TranscribeMe.
2. Pass a short typing test to qualify.
3. Choose short audio files to start, building speed over time.
4. Check work carefully to maintain high accuracy ratings.

9. Website and App Testing

Website and app testing involves providing feedback on user experience for new digital products. Platforms like UserTesting and TryMyUI pay $10-$20 per 20-minute test, requiring only your honest opinions. You can simply start with a computer or smartphone. It's a fun way to explore new apps while earning money. A tester shared earning $80 a month by completing a few tests weekly. Be clear and detailed in your feedback to secure more opportunities.

How to Start:

1. Sign up on UserTesting or TryMyUI.
2. Complete a sample test to qualify.
3. Test websites or apps, recording your thoughts as prompted.
4. Receive payments via PayPal after each test.

10. Social Media Management

Social media management involves creating and scheduling posts for businesses on platforms like Instagram or Twitter. All you need is familiarity with social media and basic organizational skills. Offer services on Fiverr or Upwork, starting at $10-$20 per hour. A beginner manager reported earning $200 a month managing one small business account. Use free tools like Canva for graphics and Hootsuite for scheduling to make tasks easier.

How to Start:

1. Create a profile on Fiverr or Upwork.
2. Learn basic social media strategies via free online tutorials.
3. Offer to manage accounts for small businesses or influencers.
4. Use tools like Canva for content creation.

11. YouTube Content Creation

Starting a YouTube channel lets you share your interests, from gaming to cooking, with a global audience. No skills are needed, just a smartphone and enthusiasm. Monetize through ads, sponsorships, or merchandise once you hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. A tech YouTuber reported earning $1,500-$3,000 monthly after a year of consistent uploads. Create simple videos and improve editing skills over time using free tools like DaVinci Resolve.

How to Start:

1. Create a free channel on YouTube.
2. Choose a niche you're passionate about, like tutorials or vlogs.
3. Upload regular videos using a smartphone or basic camera.
4. Apply for the YouTube Partner Program once eligible.

12. Print on Demand

Print on demand lets you design products like t-shirts or mugs without holding inventory. Platforms like Printful handle production and shipping. Create designs using free tools like Canva and sell on Etsy or Shopify. A beginner seller earned $100 a month selling quirky pet-themed mugs. People who have creativity and a sense of what's trending, like seasonal graphics or niche slogans, are perfect fit for this.

How to Start:

1. Sign up on Printful or Teespring.
2. Create designs using Canva.
3. Set up a store on Etsy or Shopify.
4. Promote products via social media or ads.

13. Dropshipping

Dropshipping allows you to sell products online without managing inventory. When a customer buys from your store, the supplier ships directly to them. Set up a store on Shopify and source products from Oberlo or AliExpress. It's a beginner-friendly online earning method, though it requires marketing effort. A dropshipper reported earning $300 a month after three months of consistent promotion. Focus on trending products like fitness gear to attract buyers.

How to Start:

1. Create a store on Shopify.
2. Find suppliers on Oberlo or AliExpress.
3. List products with compelling descriptions and images.
4. Market your store via social media or paid ads.

14. Online Tutoring

Online tutoring is a great side hustle if you're comfortable sharing knowledge in subjects like math, English, or even hobbies like cooking. Platforms like Tutor.com and Preply connect tutors with students, requiring no formal teaching experience, just confidence in your subject. Rates start at $10-$20 per hour, and a few hours weekly can yield solid earnings. A beginner tutor earned $150 a month teaching basic English online. It's rewarding to help others while earning from home.

How to Start:

1. Sign up on Tutor.com or Preply.
2. Choose a subject or skill you're comfortable teaching.
3. Set your availability and rates.
4. Use Zoom or platform tools for sessions.

15. Freelance Graphic Design

Freelance graphic design involves creating visuals like logos or social media graphics using beginner-friendly tools like Canva. Platforms like Fiverr and 99designs connect designers with clients. No formal design skills are needed, just creativity and a willingness to learn. A beginner designer earned $100 a month creating simple social media posts. Start with small gigs and build a portfolio to attract higher-paying clients over time.

How to Start:

1. Learn basics on Canva via free tutorials.
2. Create a profile on Fiverr or 99designs.
3. Offer simple design services like social media graphics.
4. Build a portfolio with each completed project.

16. Selling Stock Photos

If you enjoy photography, selling stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock or iStock can be a simple way to earn money. You can start with your smartphone camera that works fine for everyday shots like landscapes or food. Upload photos and earn royalties each time they're licensed. A beginner photographer reported earning $50 a month from casual uploads. Focus on high-demand categories like business or lifestyle to boost sales.

How to Start:

1. Sign up on Shutterstock or iStock.
2. Take clear, high-quality photos with your phone or camera.
3. Upload photos with descriptive tags.
4. Promote your portfolio on social media for visibility.

17. Blogging

Blogging lets you share your passions, from travel to parenting, and monetize through ads, affiliates, or sponsored posts. Start a free blog on WordPress or Wix and write about topics you enjoy. No writing experience is needed, just a willingness to learn basic SEO. A beginner blogger earned $100 a month after six months of consistent posting. It's a slower start but offers long-term potential for passive income.

How to Start:

1. Create a blog on WordPress or Wix.
2. Choose a niche you're passionate about.
3. Write regular posts with basic SEO techniques.
4. Monetize with Google AdSense or affiliate links.

18. Podcasting

Podcasting involves creating audio content on topics you love, like fitness or books. Platforms like Anchor make recording and distribution easy, and you can monetize through sponsorships or donations. No technical skills are needed, just a microphone and enthusiasm. A beginner podcaster earned $80 a month through small sponsorships after a few episodes. Share your episodes on social media to grow your audience.

How to Start:

1. Sign up on Anchor or Buzzsprout.
2. Record episodes using a basic microphone or smartphone.
3. Distribute on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
4. Reach out to brands for sponsorship opportunities.

19. Online Coaching or Consulting

If you have knowledge to share, online coaching or consulting can be a rewarding side hustle. Platforms like Clarity.fm let you offer advice on topics like career planning or hobbies, no formal credentials required. Charge $10-$50 per hour based on your confidence level. A beginner coach earned $120 a month offering study tips to students. It's a great way to help others while earning extra income.

How to Start:

1. Join Clarity.fm or create a website.
2. Identify a topic you're knowledgeable about, like time management.
3. Set hourly rates and availability.
4. Promote services via social media or forums.

20. Renting Out Items Online

Renting out items you own, like cameras or tools, on platforms like FatLlama can turn unused possessions into cash. No skills are needed, just a few items and a willingness to list them online. A user reported earning $100 a month renting out photography gear. Ensure items are in good condition and respond promptly to renters to build trust and repeat business.

How to Start:

1. List items on FatLlama or RentNotBuy.
2. Take clear photos and write detailed descriptions.
3. Set competitive rental prices based on market rates.
4. Communicate with renters to ensure smooth transactions.

Picking the Perfect Side Hustle

With 20 options, how do you choose? Honestly, it's about what sparks your interest and fits your life. Love being creative? Try designing digital products or stock photos. Need something quick? Surveys or microtasking are your best bet. Think about how much time you can commit, as some hustles, like surveys, take an hour a day, while blogging might need a few hours weekly.

Research potential earnings to match your goals; for instance, surveys might earn $50-$150 a month, while affiliate marketing can scale higher with time. Start small to build confidence, and don't be afraid to try a few to see what clicks. The beauty of these side hustles is their low barrier to entry, making them perfect starter side hustles for anyone.

Real People, Real Results

Side hustles are not just a concept, they are being done by actual human beings. According to Reddit, one YouTuber is making $1,500-$3,000 a month once a year of consistent uploads by turning their love of technology into a channel. One other novice sold digital planners on Etsy earning her 200 dollars monthly after three months.

Upwork has a virtual assistant that earns $300 a month with just 10 hours within a week of working in email work, which goes to show that every hour can contribute. Through these stories, it is evident that getting some hustle is all you need to turn carefully thought-out online activities into a source of meaningful income.

Comparison of Side Hustles

Your First Step to Financial Freedom

Starting an online side hustle in 2025 is like planting a seed, it takes a bit of effort to get going, but the rewards can grow over time. These 20 beginner-friendly online earning methods offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for quick cash or a long-term income stream.

The key is to pick one that excites you, start small, and stay consistent. Why wait? Choose a hustle, follow the steps, and watch your bank account grow. Your journey to easy money online starts now!