The holiday season often brings job searching and hiring to a standstill. Whether you're actively seeking employment or simply trying to recover from holiday expenses, the end of the year can feel financially challenging. But here's the good news: this quieter period actually presents a unique opportunity to launch a side hustle and build your financial cushion.
In this post, I'll share three straightforward ways to earn extra income during the holidays and into the new year—no advanced skills required.
Why Side Hustles Work During the Holidays
While traditional job markets slow down, consumer demand for services remains high. People need help with last-minute tasks, emergency repairs, and holiday-specific projects. Meanwhile, you likely have some extra time whether you're between jobs or off work for the holidays.
The side hustles below share three key advantages:
- Simple and fast to get started
- No technical expertise needed
- You can begin earning today
1. Complete Local Tasks on Airtasker
Airtasker connects you with people in your area who need help with various tasks and odd jobs. During the holidays, demand spikes for services that are otherwise hard to find.
How it works:
Sign up as a Tasker and select your service categories. Browse available jobs in your area, submit offers on tasks that interest you, and complete the work. After finishing, request payment through your dashboard. Once the customer confirms completion, funds transfer to your bank account within three to five business days via Stripe.
What you can do:
The platform features diverse opportunities including furniture assembly (especially IKEA), Christmas light installation, gift wrapping, equipment setup, vehicle repairs, cleaning services, and general handyman work.
The holiday timing works in your favor. Many businesses close during this period, creating urgent demand for services. Customers often need immediate help and have limited alternatives, making this prime time for Taskers.
Earning potential:
Tasks range from $50 for quick jobs to $100, $150, $500, or even $1,000 for more complex projects, depending on customer budgets and requirements.
2. Train AI Models Through Data Annotation
AI companies need human input to improve their systems, and you can get paid to provide it—no coding skills necessary.
How it works:
Register with AI training platforms such as DataAnnotation.tech, TELUS Digital, or Mercor. Complete their initial assessments to qualify for projects. Once approved, you'll receive tasks related to reviewing, labeling, or evaluating AI-generated content. Most platforms pay weekly.
Earning potential:
Hourly rates span from approximately $15 to $150, depending on project complexity and whether you qualify for specialized work. Even at the entry level of $15 per hour, a seven-hour day nets you $105.
3. Write Software Reviews on G2
If you use software tools for work or personal projects, you can monetize your experience by sharing reviews on G2, a platform similar to Glassdoor but focused on software products.
How it works:
Think about the tools you use regularly: video conferencing apps, project management platforms, payment processors like PayPal, invoicing software, website builders, or collaboration tools. G2 compensates reviewers with gift cards for sharing honest feedback about these products.
Earning potential:
One reviewer reported earning $70 in just 30 minutes. During periods of high activity, some reviewers have generated $300 to $350 in gift cards for retailers like Amazon and Starbucks.
Keep in mind that review opportunities are limited, and this isn't a source of steady income. However, if you're a professional who regularly uses multiple software tools, it's an easy way to earn gift cards during downtime.
Taking Control of Your Holiday Income
Rather than watching your savings dwindle while waiting for the job market to pick up, these three options let you take charge of your earnings right now. Each platform allows you to leverage existing skills and knowledge without requiring significant upfront investment or training.
The key is to start today. Whether you choose one side hustle or combine all three, you can turn the holiday slowdown into an opportunity to strengthen your financial position and enter the new year on better footing.