6 Best Ways To Get Cash Now (For Free)
They say there is no such thing as free money, but whoever “they” are should mind their own business, because there is definitely cash being metaphorically left on several tables across the country. Simply put, free money is real -- if you know where to look.
Whether you need to cover a surprise bill or just want a little extra cushion, there are legitimate ways to get cash right now, with no loans, no gimmicks and no strings attached.
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Here are six of the best, and just a few of these together could put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket without spending a dime.
1. Claim Your Unclaimed Money
Start here with the unclaimed money search (seriously, do it right now) and work your way down the list. What is that?
Well, right now, according to the government’s official unclaimed money website, an estimated $70 billion in unclaimed property is sitting in state treasuries across the country, and roughly one in seven Americans are owed money they don't even know about. You’re talking uncashed paychecks, forgotten savings accounts, old apartment deposits and more.
Head to MissingMoney.com or USA.gov's unclaimed money search to check your name, and the bonus is it's completely free. You might not realized how much you’ve invested on your behalf, albeit accidentally.
2. Score a Bank Sign-Up Bonus
Banks aren’t always just for storing your cash, but also scoring some as well, especially if you’re in the market for a new account. Many major banks offer bonuses of hundreds of dollars just for new customers who meet simple requirements, such as opening a new account, setting up direct deposit or making a few transactions.
3. Donate Plasma
If the idea of earning some quick cash, on the same day no less, really gets your blood pumping, then consider donating plasma. According to CSL Plasma, you can typically earn between $30 and $100 per session, with most regular donors making $300 to $400 monthly.
Keep in mind that new donors can earn higher promotional bonuses, potentially upwards of $750 to $800 during their first month. Your actual earnings depend on your weight, the center and current promotions, but this can be a great, quick cash grab at no cost to you.
4. Redeem Credit Card Rewards You Already Have
Loyalty is a commendable trait and should be rewarded. That’s why you need to check your credit card account, as you may be sitting on points or cash-back rewards you've never redeemed.
Programs from Capital One, Chase, and others let you convert those points directly into cash or statement credits, which is basically the same thing as finding a handful of cash in the pocket of a coat you haven’t worn since last season.
5. Max Out Your Employer's 401(k) Match
Speaking of leaving money on the table, if your employer matches retirement contributions and you're not taking full advantage, you're kicking free cash away from yourself every single paycheck.
OK, technically this isn't instant cash, but it's one of the highest-return financial moves you can make, even if that means bumping your contribution up slightly. Just a 2% increase to hit the full match is an immediate 100% return on those dollars.
6. Sell That Junk You Already Own and Don’t Use
Junk may be a strong word, but the stuff collecting dust in your closet, garage or catch-all drawer is probably worth more than you think.
Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and OfferUp let you list items for free and get paid fast, especially if you price items 20% to 25% below market value to move them quickly. Clothes, electronics, furniture and kitchen gear all sell well and will help you earn some money on things you’re just storing for no reason.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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