In this economy, making money online or part-time is an attractive proposition. It may seem intimidating at first, but don't worry -- you needn't be a design maven, crochet whiz or computer savant to earn a little extra on the side. Here are a few ways to turn what you currently have (stuff, skills, un-skills) into a little extra cash.
Plug your money leaksRemember that while cutting back on expenses definitely helps your budget, the easiest way to save money is to make more. Still, we'll start off with some easy tips to stop bleeding money where it doesn't actually help much.
1. Refinance your mortgageInterest rates are at an all time low, and many families are considering refinancing their home to save on monthly mortgage payments. Determine whether or not refinancing will save you money in the long term by following this guide.
2. Switch providersDon't assume that your cable, phone and Internet bills are locked into a slow but inexorable climb. Taking the first provider that comes along is a great way to waste money that can be saved elsewhere. Once you reach the terms of your contract, get on the phone or in an office and negotiate your bill down – or at least get a few perks thrown in for free.
3. Get rid of cableCable can rack up a hefty bill over a year, especially when you keep pay-per-view, premium channel, and miscellaneous costs in mind. Opt for online providers like Netflix or Hulu Plus that let you stream shows directly onto your computer, mobile device, or TV.
Pro tip: Switch between 30-day trial periods of Netflix, Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime to get a full season of free watching.