28 Under the Table Jobs That Pay Cash

Everyone knows the feeling of getting home from a long work week, seeing their deposit or check, and thinking, “That’s it?” While taxes go to good causes, watching a chunk of your paycheck disappear before you even touch it can feel discouraging. That’s where under the table jobs come in to help boost your cash flow.

I think most of us have taken on cash jobs at some point. Back in the day, babysitting was my go-to. I remember watching the neighbor’s kids on weekends for $40 a night, which felt like a fortune at the time. I’d tuck that cash away for things I really wanted, like going out with friends or saving up for a trip. Those little gigs added up.

Just because you’re older now doesn’t mean you can’t pick up extra work this way. There are plenty of under-the-table jobs out there, from babysitting to yard work. Keep reading to find out more ways to help you stop saying “I need money now!”

What Is an Under the Table Job?

Under-the-table jobs are a fast way to earn cash without jumping through a lot of hoops. You can usually find these gigs and start within the same day or week. These jobs are popping up more than ever thanks to the gig economy. Most are low-skill and don’t pay a huge amount, but walking away with cash after work feels pretty rewarding. The more of these jobs you take on, the more extra money you can bring in, which can help you move closer to financial freedom.

How To Find Under-the-Table Jobs

Whether you’ve been laid off and are collecting unemployment or just need a weekend side hustle, under-the-table jobs can be a great way to bring in extra cash. There are so many ways to find these kinds of gigs online if you know where to look. And if you can get creative and use your skills to help solve problems for others, you’ll find plenty of real opportunities that pay cash.

Here are a few easy ways to find under-the-table jobs that pay.

Facebook Groups

Facebook is one of the easiest places to find under the table jobs in your local area. Many groups are out there, tailored to specific towns or neighborhoods where people post job requests or offer services. You’ll see posts from people needing help with things like cleaning, running errands, or yard work; many of these gigs pay cash.

Like most under-the-table jobs, timing matters. Being one of the first to respond to a post, like someone needing help painting a house, can help you land the gig and start building a steady flow of work. If you’re open to doing odd jobs, Facebook can be a solid place to find opportunities and earn cash quickly.

Reddit Subreddits

Reddit is a great place to find under the table jobs that pay cash. Subreddits like r/WorkOnline offer remote gigs such as graphic design or web development, letting you earn cash quickly without leaving home.

For more under the table jobs, r/ForHire is worth checking out. It often has posts for odd jobs and gig work, though it tends to favor bigger cities. I’ve scrolled through these threads myself and found solid ideas for earning extra income, like helping with simple tasks or offering digital services.

If you want to avoid job fairs and long applications, Reddit makes connecting with people looking for help easy.

Job Websites

There are plenty of ways to find under the table jobs online. Websites like Care.com are great for cash jobs like babysitting or senior care. Many people use these platforms to find reliable help for their loved ones. I’ve actually found a babysitting gig through Care before, and it paid cash at the end of each week.

If tutoring is more your style, sites like Tutor.com can connect you with students in need of help. You can also check job boards like Indeed for short-term gigs that pay cash quickly. Simply upload your resume and set up job alerts to be notified when a new opportunity pops up.

For pet lovers, Rover is an excellent way to make extra money. You can find under-the-table jobs that pay without the wait, from dog walking to pet sitting. These platforms make connecting with people in your community easy and boost your income fast.

The Best Under the Table Jobs For Quick Cash

Finding ways to earn extra cash quickly, whether through daily pay or short multi-day gigs, isn’t always easy. But there are plenty of options—like picking up a delivery driver role, dog walking, or other under-the-table jobs, that let you use what you know to make money quickly.

If you come across a job that feels a little off, review the security of your connection before proceeding. Always track your earnings to stay on top of things at tax time. If you’re unsure about handling cash income, it’s smart to check in with a tax professional.

Ready to explore? Here are some solid cash-paying jobs to consider.

1. Handyman

Do you have a knack for fixing things? If so, there’s a good chance people in your community will pay cash for your help. Whether it’s household appliances, woodworking, electronics, or computers, these types of under-the-table jobs can be a great way to bring in extra income without too much hassle.

I’ve considered offering repair services before, especially when friends struggle with broken coffee makers or laptops. It always crosses my mind that there’s probably a market for helping people with these minor but annoying fixes. Even though I haven’t taken on this kind of work myself, I know how valuable it can be in a neighborhood.

Just be sure you know what you’re doing before completing the action. Taking on a repair without the right skills could leave someone worse off and hurt your chances of getting more cash-paying jobs. But if you’re confident in your abilities, fixing things can be one of the best ways to earn cash quickly while helping out your local community.

2. Babysitting

Babysitting is one of the best under-the-table jobs because parents always need a break. When they head out, that’s where you come in.

Most babysitting gigs are pretty straightforward – ensure the kids are fed, safe, and in bed on time. Younger kids may need more attention, while older ones might need someone to monitor things.

I remember babysitting for a neighbor when I was younger. It was just a few hours on a Saturday night, but I made $40 cash and watched movies after the kids were asleep. Not a bad way to earn extra income.

The hardest part is getting started. Building trust with parents takes time, but these jobs can pay well once you prove yourself. The average hourly rate for a babysitter is $17.73 for one child and $20.30 for two children according to a 2019 study conducted by Urban Sitter.

3. Gardening

Gardening is another great under-the-table job that can pay cash quickly, especially in older neighborhoods where people may need help with yard work. Younger folks might not need the help, but many seniors or busy homeowners would gladly pay someone to take care of that task.

It’s a great way to earn extra cash if you’re comfortable doing basic yard work. You don’t need to be a plant expert – tasks like weeding, watering plants, planting seeds, or raking mulch are easy ways to get started.

According to Cost Helper, these gigs usually pay around $10 to $25 per hour. It’s a fantastic way to spend time outdoors, get some exercise, and make money.

4. Mowing Lawns

Some under-the-table jobs really depend on the season. You won’t be cutting grass in the winter, but once spring and summer roll around, it’s easy to spot overgrown lawns that could use help.

I haven’t actually done lawn mowing for money myself, but I’ve seen how busy some neighbors get with it during the warmer months. It seems easy to earn cash quickly if you don’t mind a bit of hard work.

The only catch is you’ll need a lawnmower. A push mower is cheaper but takes more effort. A self-propelled mower costs more but saves your back. Either way, Thumbtack reports mowing pays around $40 to $50 per session, and bigger yards bring in even more. If you want to keep things rolling in winter, offering snow removal could also be a solid way to keep that extra income coming in.

5. Photography

While babysitting, gardening, and lawn mowing are pretty straightforward tasks, photography requires a certain skill set and an eye for art.

Are you familiar with ISO, F-Stops, and shutter speeds? If so, you might have what it takes to dive into photography.

You’ll definitely need your own camera for this gig, and if you’re looking into photography jobs, you probably already have a camera and some experience. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t brush up on your skills through online tutorials.

There’s no shortage of opportunities for photographers. Events like weddings, birthday parties, and even sports games often need photographers. While larger companies tend to cover big sporting events, smaller leagues, youth teams, and local clubs always need someone to capture the action. The possibilities are endless!

I’ve done a few photography jobs myself and gotten paid under the table. I photographed my cousin’s wedding for $200 – they were on a tight budget, and I love photography anyway!

If you don’t want to work events or gigs directly, you can sell your photos online through platforms like Shutterstock or Pixabay. Just upload your photos, wait for approval, and you could start earning from downloads.

Rates for photography can range from $25 to hundreds of dollars per hour, depending on the event and your skill level. It’s a great way to earn money doing something creative!

6. House Painter

Take a paintbrush to a Bob Ross painting session and you’re a happy little artist. Grab a brush and bucket for a house and now you’re a laborer. But either way, painting is still an art.

I’ve never painted houses, but I’ve seen how relaxing the process can be. A friend of mine takes on painting gigs, and they always talk about how peaceful it feels – just music, a brush, and a fresh wall to work on. It seems like one of those cash-paying jobs where you can zone out and get lost in the task.

Painting can bring in steady cash if you’re up for some physical work. Look for gigs on Craigslist or local Facebook groups. You can even post your own listing and see who responds.

Stay safe while job hunting – always review the security of your connection before proceeding and steer clear of anyone asking for upfront fees. Fixr says house painters make about $50 an hour, and if you do a good job, you could land repeat clients or referrals for more cash jobs.

7. Makeup Artist

These days, everyone wants to look their best for special occasions like weddings, birthday parties, and baby showers. If you’ve got a talent for makeup, it could be a great way to make some extra cash – though it does come with a bit of an upfront investment in quality products.

I’ve noticed that makeup kits can get pretty expensive, but once you have the right tools, you can turn your skill into cash. People are always looking for someone to make them look their best for big events, and they’re willing to pay for a professional touch.

If you’re confident with blending, contouring, and creating stunning looks, makeup artistry could be a solid under-the-table job for you. It takes some investment, but it’s worth it when you see people looking and feeling amazing, plus getting paid for your talent!

8. Dance Instructor

Like photography, becoming a dance instructor takes a lot of skill and dedication. All those years of training and perfecting your moves can help you become a great teacher.

But teaching dance isn’t just about performing; it’s about how well you can break things down for others. Being good at dancing doesn’t automatically mean you’re great at explaining the steps. Interpersonal skills are key to connecting with students and helping them learn.

I’ve always admired people who can teach dance, especially when they are passionate about helping others master the moves. It’s one of those skills that requires patience and a deep understanding of technique.

If you have those abilities, you could either join a small studio or start your own classes. What style of dance do you love teaching? Do you prefer working with kids or adults? Private lessons can offer more value compared to larger group classes.

According to Pay Scale, the average rate for a dance instructor is $23.06 per hour, but the pay can vary depending on how you’re compensated, whether per class or per hour. Either way, being a dance instructor is a great way to earn cash while sharing your passion.

9. Writing

These days, journalists have to get creative to make ends meet. Whether it’s moving into media relations, marketing, or something else, writing full-time isn’t enough anymore.

But writing is still a great way to make money, especially from home. There are tons of remote writing jobs out there, and if you enjoy writing, this could be the perfect way to earn extra cash.

I know a few people who’ve turned their writing into a side hustle, whether it’s blogging about sports, fashion, or even academic writing. The best part? There are so many different areas to explore, so you can write about what interests you. Want to write for a sports blog? Go for it. Have a passion for fashion? There’s a blog for that, too!

To get started, you just need to be a good writer. I’ve found that the more you write, the better you get. And asking for feedback on your work is a great way to improve fast.

Writers usually get paid per word, per hour, or per article. If you’re just starting out, you can expect around 15 cents per word, but that adds up quickly. Keep writing and improving, and soon enough you’ll be landing more gigs and making solid extra money.

10. Graphic Design

Not everyone is skilled in art and graphics, but if you’re good with computers and have an artistic eye, this could be a great side hustle to earn some cash. Many people are willing to pay hundreds of dollars just to get a logo designed or printed on t-shirts. Imagine how much they’d pay if someone did it all for them!

If you enjoy working from home and being creative, graphic design could be a perfect fit for you. Many businesses need help with design, and there are tons of opportunities online too, like designing logos for websites or creating greeting cards. Anything you make can become part of your portfolio, and you can even use your social media to promote your work and attract clients.

Personally, I’ve taken on a few of these jobs and gotten paid under the table. I have designed business cards and flyers for a local business for less than $100. These small gigs helped me build my portfolio while earning extra cash.

11. Selling Used Goods

There’s nothing quite like going through old memories, memorabilia, and video games, especially when you realize you can sell things you no longer care about and make some extra cash.

Old autographed hockey pucks you don’t care about anymore can be sold for over $100. The video game console you haven’t touched in years might go for $200 from someone who’s been looking for it. Even clothes you don’t wear but are still in style can be someone else’s treasure.

After you go through everything, the next question is: how do you sell it? You’ve got options—eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or even a yard sale. Each one has its pros and cons: eBay comes with shipping fees, Facebook involves meeting people in random places, and yard sales take time to set up and usually don’t make much.

But in the end, it doesn’t matter how you sell it—you’re not using it anyway, so why not make a quick buck?

Personally, I’ve made some extra cash reselling thrift store finds on Marketplace. It’s a simple way to earn money and get rid of things you don’t need. And if you can sell what you no longer need, reselling thrift store finds is another way to make good money. The more cash you can make, the better!

12. House Sitting

House sitting can be a pretty easy way to make some extra cash. Many people are willing to pay for someone to check on their home, water plants or trees, pick up mail, and just keep an eye on things while they’re away for work or vacation. It’s a simple job that lets you earn cash without a lot of effort.

I’ve always thought house sitting could be a great side gig, especially since it doesn’t require much work other than just making sure everything’s safe. It’s one of those under the table jobs where you can earn money just by being responsible for someone else’s home for a little while!

13. Walking Dogs

Dog lovers, assemble! Here’s another great under-the-table job for you.

There are plenty of dogs who don’t get the exercise they need to stay healthy. Some dogs, like fox hounds, have an instinct to roam and hunt, but if their owners are older or just can’t provide what they need, the dogs end up stuck inside.

This job might overlap with house sitting if pets are involved, but it can also be its own cash-paying gig. There’s a big demand for people who can walk dogs, and that’s where you come in.

I think being a dog walker would be a blast, especially if you love dogs! You get to spend time with them, get some exercise, and earn cash—all while giving them some much-needed attention. Don’t forget the belly rubs; they love that—and so do we!

Websites like Rover are great for finding local dog walking gigs, or you can put up fliers around your neighborhood. Knowing people who need their dogs walked while they’re at work also helps a lot.

According to Home Guide, dog walkers can charge anywhere from $10 to $35 per walk. Not a bad deal for a little time spent with some furry friends!

14. Snow Removal

Remember the days of asking your parents if you could go outside to play in the snow, getting all bundled up, and sledding down huge hills? That was the best!

Well, now instead of just playing in the snow, you can actually make some extra cash from it. Shoveling snow is one of those tasks no one wants to do, and many people can’t because of back pain or other issues. If you’re willing to grab a shovel, you’ve got a chance to earn.

While the city cares for public roads, people’s driveways are up to them. Many homeowners will let you use their own shovel and still pay you in cash, but investing in your own is a good idea.

I’ve heard from friends who do snow removal that it’s a great way to make extra money during the winter. It’s all about timing, though. You might be out of luck if you don’t have clients lined up before the snow falls. It’s smart to talk to people in your area ahead of time to have a schedule ready when the snow hits.

First Quarter Finance says snow removal jobs can pay anywhere from $25 to $75 per hour, depending on the driveway size. While it’s a seasonal job, it can still bring in decent cash during the winter months.

15. Selling Crafts

If you have a knack for creativity and can assemble some great crafts, you could sell them at local garage sales or art shows. You can also use your skills in woodworking, clothing design, jewelry-making, or any other craft that interests you.

This option takes a little bit of work, since you have to make everything yourself. However, some people make a living by doing this. Whether you’re making custom jewelry or designing home décor, there’s a market for creative work, and you get to be your own boss. Plus, it’s a great way to make cash while doing something you love.

Whether you sell at art shows or garage sales, it’s a chance to earn money from your passion. And the more you refine your craft, the more you can charge, which makes it even more rewarding.

16. Tutoring

Being a good student can pay off, even if you’re not heading into an academic career. You can make extra cash tutoring, helping people who are struggling with subjects you excel in.

Parents of younger kids often look for tutors when their child’s grades slip, and they might turn to websites like Tutor.com or ask older students for help. But tutoring isn’t just for younger students – high schoolers and college students also seek tutors to improve their grades.

I’ve considered tutoring a way to earn some extra cash, especially since it’s rewarding to share knowledge and help others succeed. It’s a great way to work on your schedule and make money when you have some free time.

TutorMe reports that tutors charge between $25 and $56 per hour, depending on your expertise. If you’ve got the knowledge, why not earn from it?

17. House Cleaner

Do you enjoy cleaning your home and find it relaxing? If so, you could turn that into a way to make some extra cash by helping others with their cleaning needs.

The great thing about being a house cleaner is that if the homeowners like your work, you could get consistent gigs, often twice a month, which means steady cash flow.

I’ve always thought house cleaning would be a great side hustle, especially if you enjoy tidying up. Plus, it can be really rewarding to help someone else out while earning money. According to Thumbtack, house cleaners charge anywhere from $25 to $50 per hour, but it can vary depending on whether you’re paid per hour or per clean. Either way, it’s a good way to earn extra money on your terms.

18. Grow and Sell Fruits and Vegetables

The spring and summer are great times to follow your passions of becoming a part-time farmer. Not only can this reduce your meal costs, but you can make some nice money too. If you’ve driven down a country road, you’ve probably seen signs for fresh fruits and veggies for sale. Fresh produce just tastes better, and it’s a great way to attract customers.

Some easy fruits and veggies are cabbage, zucchini, strawberries, and peppers. It can be time-consuming, but it’s rewarding. Plus, if you can sell at a local farmer’s market, it opens up even more opportunities to make money and meet new customers.

I’ve seen many people turn their passion for growing into a profitable side hustle, and it’s a great way to get outdoors, be productive, and make some cash while doing something you enjoy.

19. Pet Grooming

If you have experience with animals, you can make extra cash by grooming pets. Tasks like bathing and trimming nails might seem simple, but many people prefer to pay someone else to do it right.

If you’re good with pets, you can offer your services in your neighborhood. It’s a great way to earn cash under the table, and people will keep coming back if you do a good job.

20. Car Washing

Car washing is another quick way to make cash. You only need ample space to wash several cars at a time, sufficient water and soap, and any other necessary equipment. You might need to keep your other job still keeping in mind days when business may be slow.

However, it is among under the table jobs that will earn you quick money.

21. Baking

Just like kids, adults tend to love some sugary things every once in a while. There’s no harm in boosting your sugar levels anyway.

Do you have what it takes to bake some yummy cakes, cookies or biscuits? If so, you can consider diving into those recipes and creating delicious cakes you can sell to people. You can post photos of your work on your social media platform to market yourself. This will help you reach many people and end up getting an order or two.

Baking is an under-the-table job that pays off really well.

22. Hairdressing

The hairdressing industry is also a good under-the-table job that you can comfortably venture into if you have the skills. Since people want to look good, including men, your skill can really pay you off for a lifetime.

23. DJ Jobs

If you’ve been to a club or party and there was a DJ, you definitely saw how much fun they were having as they played different music genres. If you have the skills of how to go about it, you can look out for gigs that need your services and get paid to play. There’s nothing better than having fun amongst many people but being the one who gets paid for it.

24. Party Planner

Do your friends and family often task you with everything about planning parties? If yes, how about you monetize on that by planning parties at a fee? Part planners help with logistics like the venue, decor needed, number of people coming to the party, and so much more.

Most people want to work with party planners and remain stress-free about their D-day.

25. Survey Sites

Taking an online survey can earn you some money. Some brands pay consumers to get feedback or comments on how they can improve their products and remain relevant in the marketplace. All you have to do is find the highest-paying survey sites, look through the options, and earn money.

26. Car Mechanic

People who own cars are often looking for mechanics to fix their car problems or for services like oil changes and the like. They usually pay cash after they have been served.

If you know your way around with automobiles, you can consider starting your own garage and start earning some good money for the services you will offer.

27. Gutter Cleaning

Gutter cleaning is generally considered a seasonal job, as most people only want their gutters cleaned in the fall. But for those willing to get their hands dirty, you can earn a healthy amount of money cleaning others’ gutters.

Just make sure you take the proper precautions when taking on jobs requiring a ladder or other safety measures to ensure your safety.

28. Car Detailing

If you understand what it takes to make a car shine, this one might be for you. With low startup costs (vacuum, cloth rags, and cleaning supplies), you could earn over $50/hr by detailing cars for people. If you live in an HCOL area, generally, more expensive cars can be found, which fetch a higher dollar amount per detail.

Boost Your Income with Under-the-Table Jobs

Getting an extra income boost is a rewarding experience that can be an alternative to getting a title loan with no job or proof of income. It can also lead to new connections. Not only do you earn cash, but you make an impact in others’ lives. If you’re an introvert, look for jobs that let you work alone rather than those that require lots of interaction.

Remember, while making money under the table isn’t illegal, you must report it on your taxes. Be cautious, having a large sum of cash without a clear source could raise questions.

There are plenty of cash jobs out there, like trade work or being a personal assistant as long as you’re happy with your work and pay. Hopefully, this inspired you to start that under-the-table job and earn extra cash!

Happy findings!

Do you have any under the table job that we missed? Let us know in the comments what under the table job you’ve done, whether as a kid or adult that has helped you achieve some level of financial freedom.