How to Make Extra Money While Deployed
Deployments can be a challenging time for service members, both personally and financially. However, with a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can find ways to make extra money while serving your country. Here are some strategies to consider:
Online Freelancing
One of the most flexible ways to make extra money while deployed is through online freelancing. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr offer a wide range of opportunities in various fields, including writing, graphic design, programming, and more. Here’s how you can get started:
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Identify your skills: Assess what you’re good at and what services you can offer. Whether it’s writing articles, creating graphics, or developing software, there’s likely a market for your skills.
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Set up a profile: Create a professional profile on freelancing platforms, highlighting your skills, experience, and portfolio. Make sure to include a clear and concise description of the services you offer.
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Bid on jobs: Start bidding on relevant jobs that match your skills. Be patient and persistent, as it may take some time to secure your first gig.
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Deliver quality work: Once you’ve landed a job, focus on delivering high-quality work within the agreed timeframe. Positive feedback and repeat clients are key to building a successful freelancing career.
Online Surveys and Market Research
Participating in online surveys and market research studies can be a simple way to make extra money while deployed. Many companies are willing to pay for your opinions and insights. Here’s how to get started:
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Sign up for survey sites: Join reputable survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Vindale Research. Be sure to read the terms and conditions to understand how much you can earn and how often you’ll be paid.
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Complete surveys: Once you’ve signed up, start completing surveys and market research studies. Some surveys may take longer to complete and pay more, while others are quicker and pay less.
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Be honest: Provide honest and accurate answers to survey questions. Companies value your opinions and insights, so be as transparent as possible.
Online Courses and Tutorials
If you have expertise in a particular subject, consider creating online courses or tutorials. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Skillshare allow you to share your knowledge with others and earn money in the process. Here’s how to get started:
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Choose a topic: Identify a subject you’re knowledgeable about and passionate about. Whether it’s cooking, photography, or coding, there’s likely an audience for your expertise.
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Create your course: Develop your course content, including videos, quizzes, and other materials. Make sure your course is well-organized and easy to follow.
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Promote your course: Use social media, email marketing, and other channels to promote your course and attract students.
Investing
Investing can be a powerful way to make extra money, even while deployed. However, it’s important to do your research and understand the risks involved. Here are some investment options to consider:
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Stock market: Research individual stocks or consider investing in a diversified portfolio through a low-cost brokerage like Robinhood or TD Ameritrade.
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Real estate: Invest in real estate through platforms like Roofstock or Fundrise, which allow you to invest in properties without owning them outright.
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Peer-to-peer lending: Platforms like Prosper and Lending Club allow you to lend money to individuals and earn interest on your investment.
Part-Time Work
While deployed, you may have access to part-time work opportunities through your military base or local community. Here are some options to consider:
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Military base jobs: Many military bases offer part-time jobs for service members, including positions in food service, maintenance, and administration.
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Local jobs: Check with local businesses in your area for part-time job opportunities. This could include positions in retail, hospitality, or other industries.
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Online part-time jobs: Look for
