Ways to earn

A lot of people asking for help would rather earn it. Here are honest places to start, plus free help programs worth knowing about. This list is checked by FreeBeg — members can't post ads here.

On FreeBeg

If you post a private request — the kind you send to family, friends and people nearby — you can add what you can do in return, like mowing, cleaning, babysitting or helping someone move. People who know you may be glad to pay you for a hand with something.

This isn't offered on public requests. Strangers online usually live too far away for a job, and arranging one means sharing your address and phone number with someone you don't know. Public or private?

Finding work

• American Job Centers — free, local help with job searches, résumés and training, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor. Find yours at CareerOneStop.
• Local temp and staffing agencies — often the fastest way to a paycheck. Search “temp agency” plus your city.
• Delivery, rideshare and task apps — flexible, but check what you'd actually keep after gas and fees.
• Sell what you don't need — Facebook Marketplace, local buy-and-sell groups, or a yard sale.

Help with bills and basics

• 211 — call or text 211, or visit 211.org, to find local help with rent, utilities, food and more.
• Food banks — find one near you at Feeding America.
• Energy bills — the federal LIHEAP program helps with heating and cooling costs. Ask your local 211 or utility company.

Red flags: it's a scam if…

• You have to pay anything to start — a “starter kit,” training fee, or equipment deposit.
• They send you a check and ask you to send part of the money back or buy gift cards.
• The job is “reshipping” packages or “processing payments” from home.
• It's recruiting-based: you earn by signing up other people.
• They hire you instantly over text or chat without an interview.

Know a legit resource that should be here? Suggest it.