13 Legit Ways To Make Money Doing Nothing [$14,896/yr]

Last Updated on April 4, 2023 by John Cirelly

So, you want to make money doing nothing? Well, you’re not alone! In this article, I explore the laziest side hustles I could find that require the least amount of work on your part.

For funsies, I added up all of these side hustles and found that realistically you can make $14,896 per year if you did all of them. Not including any of the investment parts of this list. Not too shabby for minimal work.

7 Ways To Make Money Doing Nothing

1. Share Your Internet Data

Sharing your internet data is one way to make money doing nothing. It’s a simple and easy process that anyone can do. Here’s how:

First, sign up for a data-sharing platform such as Honeygain, or Packity. These platforms will pay you for sharing your unused internet data.

Next, download the app on your computer or mobile device, and install it. You can choose to share a portion of your data or your entire data plan.

Once you have installed the app, it will run in the background while you use the internet as usual. The app will use your internet connection to run various tasks such as data analysis, content delivery, and web scraping. The data collected from these tasks will be sold to third-party companies, and you will earn a commission for sharing your data.

How much you can earn by sharing your internet data varies depending on the platform you use and your location. However, on average, you can expect to earn around $20 to $50 per month.

One of the main challenges of sharing your internet data is that it can slow down your internet connection. This can be especially problematic if you have a slow internet connection to begin with. Additionally, you’ll need to be comfortable with allowing a third-party company to access your internet data.

2. Sell Your Personal Data

Selling your personal data is another way to make money without doing anything. It may sound a bit intrusive, but many companies are willing to pay for your personal data, such as your online browsing habits, shopping preferences, and social media activity. Here’s how you can sell your personal data:

First, sign up for a data marketplace such as DataCoup or CitizenMe. These platforms allow you to sell your personal data to interested buyers in a secure and anonymous way.

Next, connect your online accounts such as your social media profiles and online shopping accounts to the platform. These accounts will be used to collect your personal data, which will then be anonymized and sold to interested buyers.

Once your accounts are connected, you don’t need to do anything else. The platform will automatically collect and sell your data on your behalf.

How much you can earn by selling your personal data depends on the type and amount of data you have. However, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per year.

One of the main challenges of selling your personal data is the privacy concerns. You’ll be sharing your personal information with companies that you may not know or trust. Additionally, there’s always a risk that your personal data may be leaked or hacked, which could lead to identity theft or other security issues.

3. Drive Safely With OnMyWay

OnMyWay is a free mobile app that rewards you for driving safely. It’s a simple and easy way to make money doing nothing, except for driving carefully. Here’s how it works:

First, download the OnMyWay app on your smartphone and create an account. You’ll need to provide some basic information such as your name, phone number, and email address.

Next, turn on the app every time you drive. The app will track your driving habits and reward you for every mile you drive safely without using your phone.

For every mile you drive safely, you’ll earn OnMyWay Cash that you can redeem for gift cards from popular retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, and Target.

How much you can earn with OnMyWay depends on how much you drive and how safely you drive. However, on average, you can expect to earn about $0.05 per mile driven.

One of the main challenges of using OnMyWay is that you need to be comfortable with allowing the app to track your driving habits. Additionally, the app only rewards safe driving, so if you’re prone to distracted driving, you may not earn as much as you’d like.

Overall, if you’re a safe driver and don’t mind using an app to track your driving habits, OnMyWay is an easy way to make some extra money. Plus, it’s always good to practice safe driving habits, regardless of whether or not you’re earning money for it.

4. Use In A High-Yield Savings Account

Using a high-yield savings account is an excellent way to make money doing nothing. High-yield savings accounts typically offer much higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, which means your money will grow faster without you having to do anything. Here’s how it works:

First, find a reputable bank or financial institution that offers a high-yield savings account. Some popular options include Ally Bank, Discover, and Marcus by Goldman Sachs.

Next, open a high-yield savings account with the bank of your choice. You’ll need to provide some basic information such as your name, address, and social security number.

Once your account is set up, you can deposit money into it and watch it grow. The interest rate on high-yield savings accounts can vary, but it’s not uncommon to earn anywhere from 3.00% to 5.00% or more on your savings.

One of the main benefits of using a high-yield savings account is that your money is FDIC-insured, which means it’s protected up to $250,000 per depositor, per account type, per bank.

The main challenge of using a high-yield savings account is that your money may not be easily accessible. Unlike a traditional savings account, you may not be able to withdraw money from your high-yield savings account as easily or quickly. Some high-yield savings accounts may also have minimum balance requirements or fees.

5. Get Paid To Poop (yes, really)

Your poop might be worth more than you think…💩

Researchers often need stool samples to study the human microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms that live in our bodies and play a critical role in our health. Here’s how it works:

First, find medical studies or research programs in your area that require stool samples. You can search for these opportunities online or by contacting medical research centers or universities. HumanMicrobes and GoodNature are two popular programs.

Next, sign up for the study or program and provide a stool sample. The researchers will usually provide you with a kit or instructions on how to collect and send your sample.

Once your sample is received, the researchers will analyze it and use the data to further their research. You’ll typically be compensated for your time and the use of your sample. The amount of compensation can vary, but it’s not uncommon to earn several hundred dollars per stool. HumanMicrobes pays $500 per sample!

The main challenge of participating in medical studies or research is that you may not qualify for every study, and the compensation may not be enough to make a significant impact on your finances. Additionally, some studies may require you to follow specific diets or take medications, which may not be comfortable or safe for everyone.

6. Get Paid For Your Steps

If you’re already walking around, why not get paid for it?

There are several apps available that will pay you for walking or running a certain number of steps per day. Here’s how it works:

First, download an app that pays you for your steps, such as Sweatcoin, Avidation, or Stepbet.

Next, connect the app to your fitness tracker or smartphone’s built-in step counter. The app will track your steps and convert them into a virtual currency, which you can then redeem for rewards such as gift cards or cash.

How much you can earn by getting paid for your steps varies depending on the app you use and how much you walk or run. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few cents to a few dollars per day.

One of the main benefits of getting paid for your steps is that it encourages you to be more active and adopt a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, the rewards can be a nice way to earn some extra cash or save money on purchases.

The main challenge of getting paid for your steps is that the rewards may not be significant enough to make a significant impact on your finances. Additionally, some apps may require you to achieve certain goals or milestones before you can redeem your rewards.

7. Get Paid To Get Sent Texts

Getting paid to receive texts is another way to make money doing nothing. There are several apps available that will pay you for receiving and reading text messages from advertisers. Here’s how it works:

First, download an app that pays you for receiving texts, such as McMoney or SMS Profit.

Next, create an account and provide some basic information about yourself, such as your name, email address, and phone number.

Once your account is set up, the app will start sending you text messages from advertisers. You don’t need to reply to the texts or take any other action – just read them.

For every text message you receive, the app will pay you a small amount of money. How much you can earn by getting paid for your texts varies depending on the app you use and how many texts you receive. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few cents to a few dollars per text.

One of the main benefits of getting paid for your texts is that it’s a very passive way to make money. You don’t need to do anything other than receive and read the texts.

The money you can earn may not be significant enough to make a significant impact on your finances. Additionally, you’ll need to be comfortable with allowing advertisers to send you text messages and potentially collect your personal information. While the earnings are small, it can definetly add up if you do other side hustles on this list.

8. Use Reward Apps To Save Money

Using reward apps to save money is just as good as making money doing nothing. These apps allow you to earn cash back, points, or rewards for purchases you would have made anyway. Here’s how it works:

First, download a reward app such as Ibotta, Rakuten, or Honey. These apps offer cash back, discounts, or rewards for shopping at certain retailers or making specific purchases.

Next, create an account and link your credit or debit card. Some apps may also require you to connect your online shopping accounts or receipts.

Once your account is set up, you can start earning rewards for your purchases. For example, you may earn cash back for buying groceries at a certain store, or receive a discount code for shopping online at a specific retailer.

How much you can earn by using reward apps varies depending on the app you use and your shopping habits. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few cents to several dollars per purchase.

I personally enjoy using Ibotta and chose to partner with them. If you’re interested in testing it out you can sign up below to get an extra cash-back bonus.

9. Invest In Dividend Stocks

Investing in dividend stocks is another way to make money without doing anything. Dividend stocks are stocks that pay a portion of their profits to shareholders just for simply holding the stock. You can choose to cash out your earnings or reinvest. Here’s how it works:

First, research and choose a reputable dividend-paying stock or a dividend-focused exchange-traded fund (ETF). Some popular dividend stocks include Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, and Coca-Cola.

Next, purchase the stock or ETF through a brokerage account. You can do this online through platforms like Robinhood.

Once you own the stock or ETF, you’ll receive regular dividend payments. The amount of the dividend payment can vary depending on the stock or ETF, but it’s typically a percentage of the stock’s price.

How much you can earn by investing in dividend stocks varies depending on the stock or ETF you choose and the size of your investment. On average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few cents to several dollars per share of stock.

The best aspect of dividends is that they compound. Meaning the more you reinvest your dividend earning, the larger your payout will be next month.

The main challenge of investing in dividend stocks is that the stock market can be volatile, and the value of your investment can fluctuate. Additionally, some companies may cut or suspend their dividend payments, which can impact your income.

10. Invest In Bonds

If you don’t like the risk associated with stocks, earning interest on bonds might be a good option for you. Bonds are a type of fixed-income security that pays a predetermined interest rate for a set period of time, and are much safer than holding stocks. Here’s how it works:

First, research and choose a reputable bond or bond fund. You can purchase individual bonds through a brokerage account or invest in a bond fund through a mutual fund company. Government bonds such as I Bonds are among the safest assets you can invest in.

I personally maxed out my I Bonds account when interest rates were high. This allowed me to earn a guaranteed 8% on my money to use towards a downpayment on a home.

Next, purchase the bond or bond fund. The bond will pay you interest at regular intervals, such as every six months, for the life of the bond. The bond fund will pay you dividends based on the interest payments it receives from the underlying bonds.

How much you can earn by investing in bonds varies depending on the bond or bond fund you choose and the size of your investment. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few cents to several dollars per bond or bond fund share.

One of the main benefits of investing in bonds is that they’re generally considered a lower-risk investment than stocks. Additionally, some bonds offer a higher yield than other types of fixed-income securities, such as certificates of deposit or savings accounts.

The main challenge of investing in bonds is that the interest rate environment can impact the value of your investment. Additionally, your money will be tied up for a minimum of six months. Cashing out your bonds early could incur penalties defeating the whole purpose.

11. Advertise On Your Car

Did you know companies will pay you to wrap your car in their advertisements or place a decal on your car with their logo or message? All you have to do is drive around. Here’s how it works:

First, find companies that offer car advertising opportunities. Wrapify, Carvertise, and StickerRide are some of the highest-paying platforms I could find.

Next, apply for the advertising opportunity and provide information about your car, such as the make, model, and year.

If you’re selected, the company will provide you with a decal or wrap to put on your car. You’ll need to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the advertisement is installed correctly.

Once the advertisement is installed, you can start earning money. Companies typically pay a flat fee or monthly fee for the duration of the advertising campaign, which can range from a few months to a year or more.

On average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per year. One of the main benefits of advertising on your car is that it’s a very passive way to make money. You don’t need to do anything other than drive your car as you normally would.

The main challenge of advertising on your car is that the advertisement may not be aesthetically pleasing or may clash with your personal style. Additionally, some companies may require you to drive a certain number of miles or in specific areas, which may not be convenient for everyone.

12. Rent Your Storage Space

If you have extra space in your home or garage, you can rent it out to people who need storage space for their belongings. This is much better than having to deal with unruly AirBnB guest and their messes… Here’s how it works:

First, determine how much space you have available for storage and what type of items you’re willing to store. You can store anything from furniture to vehicles to seasonal items like holiday decorations.

Next, advertise your space on online platforms like Neighbor, or StoreAtMyHouse. These platforms connect people looking for storage space with people who have space available to rent.

Once you receive a request for storage space, communicate with the renter and set up an agreement. You’ll need to agree on the price, duration of storage, and any access restrictions or guidelines.

Once the agreement is in place, the renter will bring their belongings to your space and you’ll collect the rental fee. You don’t need to do anything other than provide access to the space and ensure that it’s secure.

How much you can earn by renting your spare space for storage varies depending on the size of the space, location, and demand. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a $30-$200+/mo depending on the storage size and features like electricity, etc.

13. Buy Digital Real Estate

Buying digital real estate, such as blogs or websites, is another way to make money without doing anything. This strategy involves purchasing a pre-existing blog or website that already generates traffic and revenue. Here’s how it works:

First, research and identify blogs or websites that align with your interests or expertise. Look for sites that have a strong following, high traffic, and a track record of generating revenue.

Next, purchase the blog or website through a marketplace like Flippa or Empire Flippers. These platforms connect buyers and sellers of digital real estate.

Once you own the blog or website, you can monetize it through advertising, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, or other revenue streams. If the site already has a revenue stream in place, you can continue to grow it, or just sit back and earn passive income.

How much you can earn by buying digital real estate varies depending on the site’s traffic, revenue, and potential for growth. However, on average, you can expect to earn anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month.

One of the main benefits of buying digital real estate is that you can earn passive income without doing anything other than managing the site. Additionally, if you’re knowledgeable about a particular industry or niche, buying a blog or website can be an excellent way to establish yourself as an authority and build a personal brand.

The main challenge of buying digital real estate is that it can be expensive to acquire a high-quality site with established traffic and revenue. Additionally, you’ll need to monitor your rankings to ensure your revenue continues as planned.

Wrap Up

Who knew it was true you really can make money doing nothing! While these aren’t the best side hustles you can do, they can certainly help you with your monthly expenses with little to no effort.

Do you have any lazy ways to earn some extra scratch? Let me know about them!