Are you out of money and feeling like you’re in a bit of a financial pickle?

Don’t panic—I’ve been exactly where you are right now. Life has a sneaky way of throwing unexpected curveballs, but here’s the comforting truth: you're definitely not alone.

I know firsthand just how overwhelming it can be worrying about paying for essentials like food, rent, and bills. Being broke is no fun but by taking some bold yet practical steps, you can get back on track faster than you think. And no, I'm not suggesting you head out to panhandle or vanish off-grid. We’re talking about manageable, impactful changes to give you some breathing room.

Ready? Here are some effective steps to quickly improve your finances:

10 Drastic Ways to Get Money When You're Broke

Drastic Steps to Take To Get Money When You're Broke

Table of Contents

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1. Sell Items You No Longer Need

Ever look around and realize you’ve got clutter that could actually turn into cash? Those old electronics, clothes gathering dust, or books you’ve already read could fetch you some quick money.

Platforms like eBay or Amazon are fantastic places to start, and selling locally can work wonders too. Take inspiration from Maria Carter, who made $740 in six months just by selling her unused clothing online. If she can do it, so can you!

2. Grab Some Odd Jobs

Odd jobs might not feel glamorous, but they're quick ways to earn cash when you’re in a financial bind. Whether it's dog walking, cleaning houses, or running errands, these tasks can quickly add up.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to find odd jobs is by reaching out to people you already know. Ask your friends, family members, and neighbors if they need help with anything—from yard work to running errands. Personal connections can often lead to quick and easy gigs without the hassle of formal applications.

Another great option is to sign up for online platforms that connect freelancers with clients. Websites like Craigslist, TaskRabbit, and Thumbtack allow you to create a profile, list your services, and browse job postings in your local area. You’re in control—you choose which jobs to accept and set your own rates.

One odd job that I’ve found especially convenient is pet sitting. If you enjoy spending time with animals, it can be a fun and rewarding way to earn extra income. According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for a pet sitter in the United States is $16.05. With more experience and positive reviews, many pet sitters are able to command even higher rates.

Take Emma Edwards, founder of The Broke Generation, as an example. She began pet sitting as a side hustle and ended up earning $2,800 in just one year! It just goes to show how a simple odd job can turn into a surprisingly profitable side gig.

If you're looking for more money-making ideas, check out this list of 50 creative ways to $100 a day in your spare time.

3. Barter for Goods or Services

I’m sure you’ve heard all about it before– swapping goods or services with a friend or stranger in exchange for something you want or need.

One of the best things about bartering is that it allows you to get the things you need without having to dish out any cash. This can be especially helpful when you’re in a tight financial situation and can’t afford to take on any more expenses.

You know what’s even better? It helps you avoid getting tangled up in debt. There are no interest rates or late payment fees to worry about.

To start bartering, think about what goods or services you have to offer. This could be anything from homemade baked goods, babysitting services, gardening skills, or even professional services such as graphic design or photography.

Once you’ve identified what you can offer, it’s time to find someone willing to trade with you. You can post on social media, bulletin boards, or websites dedicated to bartering services. Let people know what you can offer and what you’re looking for in exchange.

4. Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions

Letting go of certain conveniences can be a tough decision—especially when you're used to having them just a tap away. But when money is tight, trimming the fat from your budget becomes essential. That often starts with canceling subscriptions that no longer serve you.

Take a moment to review all your recurring services: streaming platforms, meal delivery kits, magazine subscriptions, fitness apps, and gym memberships. Ask yourself—how often do you actually use these services? Are they truly enhancing your daily life, or are they quietly draining your bank account each month?

If the answer leans more toward the latter, it might be time to make some cuts.

Elizabeth Aldrich did just that—and the results were eye-opening. In a story featured by Business Insider, she shared how a simple audit of her expenses revealed hundreds of dollars going to unused subscriptions and recurring fees. By eliminating the ones she no longer needed, she managed to save an impressive $468 a month.

Beyond the financial boost, Elizabeth noted that she felt more empowered and in control of her money. It's a small step that can have a big impact—not just on your wallet, but on your peace of mind.

5. Cut Down on Your Meal Expenses.

According to research, a significant portion of your budget is spent on food. This means that finding ways to save money on meals can make a big difference in your overall expenses.

When you’re looking to save money on your meals, there are plenty of simple ways to do so without having to compromise on nutrition.

One way to cut down on your meal expenses is to replace expensive ingredients with cheaper ones. Instead of using expensive cuts of meat like filet mignon or ribeye, you can opt for cheaper cuts like chicken thighs or pork shoulder. These cuts may not be as fancy, but they can be just as delicious when cooked the right way.

Another way is to repurpose leftovers. Instead of letting leftovers go to waste, why not give them new life by turning them into something different?

I really love repurposing leftovers. It’s like a fun little challenge to see what I can come up with using whatever ingredients I have in my pantry. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to save money. I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration lately from a fabulous blog called Making it Midwest.

Emily, the foodie behind Making it Midwest, is a wizard in the kitchen when it comes to repurposing leftovers into new and exciting recipes. She has a knack for taking the odds and ends from her fridge and pantry and whipping up something absolutely delicious. By repurposing leftovers, she’s able to stretch her grocery budget further and make sure that nothing goes to waste.

6. Sell Your Plasma

Sounds a bit intense, right? Well, selling your plasma can be a pretty easy way to make some extra money when you’re in a pinch. Plus, it’s not as scary as it may seem. But before you rush off to the nearest plasma donation center, let’s take a closer look at what exactly this involves.

Plasma is the yellowish portion of blood that helps carry red and white blood cells throughout your body. It’s packed with all sorts of proteins and antibodies that medical companies can use to create lifesaving medications. The process of donating plasma is generally considered safe, as long as you follow all the guidelines and donate at a reputable center.

Kristia, from the blog Family Balance Sheets, decided to sell her plasma to earn some extra cash. She earned $600 for just rolling up her sleeves and sitting a bit.

Where did she get the idea? It turns out that she learned about it from a friend who donated plasma to fund their summer vacation.

Plasma selling is not for everyone, but you might want to give it a shot! Just remember to stay hydrated and eat a good meal before donating.

7. Cut Back on Utilities

When you’re working with a tight budget, one of the easiest areas to trim is your utility expenses. While often overlooked, utility bills—like electricity, water, and heating—can quietly take a significant bite out of your monthly income.

Fortunately, small adjustments in your daily habits can lead to noticeable savings. Start by being more mindful of your energy consumption: take shorter showers, turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and consider lowering your thermostat by a couple of degrees in winter or raising it in summer. These minor tweaks can add up to a meaningful reduction in your bills over time.

Jason Chen, in a LifeHacker post, shared his experience tackling a surprisingly high $300 electric bill. Determined to cut it down by at least a third, he explored various energy-saving strategies—from unplugging unused electronics to optimizing appliance use. With some effort and awareness, he was able to significantly lower his costs.

If you’re looking to follow in Jason’s footsteps, try implementing some of his practical tips. And if you’re in a particularly tough financial spot, don’t hesitate to contact your utility provider. Many offer programs to help reduce energy costs for low-income households, such as discounted rates, rebates for energy-efficient appliances, or bill payment assistance plans.

Every little bit helps—and cutting back on utilities is a smart, manageable step toward financial relief.

8. Sell Your Car

Selling your car might feel like a drastic move—but when you’re in a financial crunch, bold decisions can lead to real progress.

Let’s face it—cars are expensive to own. Between routine maintenance like tire rotations and oil changes, insurance premiums, registration fees, fuel costs, and the surprise repairs that always seem to strike at the worst times, the expenses add up fast. What starts as a convenient form of transportation can quietly become a financial burden.

Julie from Millennial Boss experienced this firsthand. Although she was initially hesitant to part with her car—after all, it held years of memories—she knew it was time to reassess her priorities. After weighing the emotional attachment against the ongoing costs, she decided to sell. Not only did she make a solid chunk of money upfront, but she also freed herself from the endless cycle of maintenance expenses. With the proceeds, she paid off a significant portion of her debt and found peace of mind in the process. You can read her full story here.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by your finances and searching for ways to cut back, consider going car-free. It may not be an easy decision, but it could be a transformative one. With public transportation, car-sharing apps, biking, and remote work options more accessible than ever, living without a car is a viable—and often liberating—alternative.

Sometimes, letting go of something big is exactly what you need to move forward.

9. Use Public Transportation

While it may not be as convenient—or as glamorous—as driving your own car, public transportation can be a powerful tool for saving money and reducing financial stress.

According to studies, the average American can save up to $10,176 per year by switching to public transportation. That breaks down to approximately $848 per month—a substantial amount that could go toward essential expenses like rent, groceries, or debt repayment.

When you ride the bus, train, or subway, you eliminate many of the hidden costs that come with owning a car: gas, insurance, parking fees, routine maintenance, and unexpected repairs. Instead, you pay a modest fare and let someone else do the driving—no oil changes or flat tires required.

Randalyn from The SideWalk Club captured the charm of public transit perfectly in what she called a “little love letter” to her daily commute. For her, taking the train isn’t just about saving money—it’s about embracing a lifestyle that’s less stressful, more active, and far more affordable.

So, the next time you're planning your route across town, consider skipping the driver’s seat. You might just discover that public transportation isn’t a downgrade—it’s a smart, sustainable upgrade for both your wallet and your well-being.

10. Rent Out Your Stuff — Not Just Your Space

When you're strapped for cash, you may think of renting out a room or home, but most people overlook the earning potential of renting out everyday items they already own. This can include:

Tools (drills, saws, power washers)
Photography gear
Camping equipment
Party supplies (tables, speakers, tents)
Designer clothing or handbags
Bicycles or scooters

Platforms like Fat Llama and ShareGrid make this process simple and secure. This method has almost no upfront cost, and you retain ownership of your assets.

Pro Tip: Check out the reviews on Fat Llama where people are successfully renting out gear like DSLRs, drones, or even laptops for $30 a day or more. Once you get started, you can boost your income by expanding your listings to include other items you own — like tools, audio equipment, or camping gear.

11. Downsize Your Living Situation

If you find yourself in a tough financial spot, one potential solution to consider is downsizing your living situation. This means finding a more affordable place to live that better fits within your budget.

There are a few reasons why downsizing could be a smart move for you when you’re experiencing financial difficulties. Smaller living spaces typically come with lower rent or mortgage payments. By reducing your housing costs, you can free up more money to put towards other essential expenses, such as food and utilities.

Additionally, downsizing can help you cut down on other living expenses. You may find that you don’t need as much furniture or home maintenance when you have a smaller space. This can save you money on things like repairs, renovations, or decorating.

Have you ever thought about downsizing your home? Teri Moore from tmoorehome.com sure did! She and her family decided to downsize, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions they ever made. Not only did they have less cleaning to do, but they also saved money in the process. But perhaps the biggest benefit of downsizing was how it brought their family closer together. Read her full story here.

Being broke and counting every penny can feel overwhelming—but remember, this phase is usually temporary. With a little grit, smart choices, and a willingness to make some tough decisions, you can absolutely turn things around.

It won’t always be easy, but every step you take brings you closer to financial stability and peace of mind. Stay focused, stay resourceful, and most importantly—stay resilient.

Because tough times don’t last, but tough people do.

11 Drastic Ways to Get Money When You're Broke