If you’re looking for ways to earn extra income without jumping through corporate hoops, you’re not alone. I’ve been there — cash, a pile of bills, and a need for quick ways to make money. That’s when I discovered the world of under-the-table side hustles.
Let me be clear: This post isn’t about anything shady or illegal. It’s about practical, real-life ways people make money under the table—that is, they get cash, usually off the books.
Whether you’re between jobs, saving for something big, or just want a little more breathing room each month, making money under the table can be a game-changer.
What Does "Under the Table" Mean, Really?
Getting paid under the table means you get paid directly—often in cash—without going through the traditional payroll or taxation system. Think babysitting, dog walking, tutoring, and house cleaning.
These gigs don’t require a W-2 or 1099 form. They’re straightforward, fast, and often more flexible than regular work.
My First Under the Table Gig: Mowing Lawns
I was 19, broke, and sick of waiting for job applications. So I grabbed my dad’s old lawnmower and started asking neighbors if they needed their lawns mowed. I charged less than my going rate—$15 per yard—and it took off.
That summer, I was cashing in over $300 a week. No time clock. No dress code. Just sweat, hustle, and green bills.
Top 6 Ways to Earn Money Under the Table (That Actually Work)
Let’s get into the meat of it. Here are some legitimate ways to make money under the table that I’ve tried myself or seen others do successfully.
1. Babysitting and Pet Sitting
Yet one of the most common cash under the table gigs. Parents and pet owners are always in need of help. Word of mouth is powerful here—start with friends and family. Sites like Next Door or Facebook groups can help you connect locally.
Pro tip: Offer to do extra work to increase your rate (like light cleaning or pet sitting).
2. Freelance Yard Work and Handyman Jobs
If you have the tools or don’t mind getting dirty, this is gold. Rake leaves, shovel snow, clean gutters—you’d be surprised what people will pay for the convenience.
How I did it: I printed out some cheap flyers and taped them to community boards and mailboxes. I would get weekly texts from people who needed one-on-one help.
3. Cleaning Houses
It takes effort, but it pays well. I cleaned apartments for a few Airbnb hosts over the weekend and got paid $60 cash per unit each time.
Tip: Bring your own cleaning supplies to show professionalism and potentially upsell your service.
4. Selling Homemade Goods
If you’re smart, a little under-the-table tinkering with candles, jewelry, or baking can really take off. Farmers markets, flea markets, or just your social media can turn this into a steady weekend income.
5. Tutoring or Teaching Skills
Got a subject you’re good at? I taught high school math to a neighbor’s kid for $25/hour. You could also teach guitar, painting, or skateboarding. Start again – local.
6. Moving Help or Manual Labor
Young and strong? People will pay you to carry things. I helped a friend move once and was able to get more gigs through referrals. Bring gloves, be polite, and show up on time. Easy re-business.
The Pros and Cons of Making Money Under the Table
✅ Pros
Fast cash – No waiting on paychecks.
Flexibility – Pick your hours and clients.
Low barrier to entry – No resume needed.
Tax buffer – Smaller gigs often don’t meet the reporting threshold.
❌ Cons
No legal protection – If someone ghosts you on payment, you’re on your own.
No benefits – No healthcare, unemployment, or retirement savings.
Not always scalable – Some gigs max out your time quickly.
How to Stay Smart and Legal
While a few bucks here and there usually fly under the radar, the IRS requires you to report income above a certain threshold — even if it’s cash.
Keep track of what you make, and if you’re making more than a few grand under the table, talk to a tax professional.
Tools I Use to Track My Side Hustles
Even though it’s off the books, I treat my under-the-table side like a real business. Here are some tools I use:
Google Sheets: To track income and client info.
Venmo/Cash App: Sometimes clients prefer digital payment (still counts as under the table if it’s peer-to-peer).
Canva: To create flyers or social posts promoting my services.
Final Thoughts: It's Not Just About Money
For me, earning money under the table started as a necessity, but it taught me perseverance, sales skills, and time management. It showed me that I didn’t have to wait for permission to make money. I could make my own way.
If you’re on the fence, try just a small gig. Post a service, ask a neighbor, help a friend. The confidence you gain from making your first cash under the table is intoxicating.
Who else knows? This little hustle could become your main gig someday.
