I just shelled out way too much money on Christmas presents for those near and dear to my heart. No joke, I think last time I logged in to my bank account to check the remaining balance, I heard the world smallest violin playing in the background. BOOM! SpongeBob reference to keep the spirits high even though my account balance is not. However, I quickly realized that instead of camping out on my couch for these three weeks that I am home for the holidays, I could be making easy cash. You may be thinking “yeah okay cool but where do I start?" Fear not young broke college kid, I have a few ideas to kick start your hustle this holiday season!

Cater/Bartend the local holiday bash.

Every year since I was ten years old I have catered my Aunt’s holiday cookie party. Incredibly easy, super fun, and she pays! Last year I was unable to attend because my finals interfered with the event, but not this year. Catch me bartending and catering tomorrow night! Added benefit, I get tipped with some of the most delicious cookies ever made.

Yard work

No one wants to do it. It is the bane of just about every adults’ existence. This is what makes yard work the perfect candidate for cash. What good does stringing up beautiful lights do to make your house look like Santa’s workshop if there are leaves all over the front lawn, the grass is over grown, and the hedges look like they are staging an invasion? The answer is that there is no point is putting up lights and being festive with all of that deferred maintenance distracting the eye. Odds are you will earn undying gratitude from your parents as well! Get your rake, sheers, and lawn mower ready!

Odd jobs off the “Honey Do” list

All of the things that your mom has written down for your dad, brothers, uncle, friendly neighbor to do while you were away at school could make you rich if you just ask. Touch up the paint around the house. Hang the painting that has been sitting on the floor in the living room for three years. Clean out the cabinets in the office. Help reorganize the Tupperware drawer. Literally anything your mom wants help with could be a money motivator. Odds are high she wants to check the project off her list so badly that she would be willing to compensate you for your time.

Seasonal holiday hours from that summer job.

Retail is famous for needing seasonal employees. Just make sure you have enough will power not to spend your paycheck before you have even left work.

Sit on some babies.

Parents will be desperate for someone to watch their kids while they attend the company holiday party! It is easy money that you can then use to buy Christmas presents or treat yo self.

You can do it! I believe in your ability to make a profit off the holiday season.