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Ankit Uttam

100 Best Passive Income Ideas That Make Real Money

So this happened: Boss fired his employee and after a day asked about a work update.


Bosses come in all shapes and sizes.


Liek this one where a boss fired an employee and then asked him to tell if he had updated the inventory or not.


Check out the reaction of the employee here.


"I’m still in shock," wrote Reddit user as he shared a screenshot of their conversation.


In the snapshot, you can see the ex boss asking the person about an update on inventory.


To this, the person seems confused and asks his ex-boss if he was fired or not.


Later, the boss replies by saying, "Yes, but you did the inventory and prepped an order on Sunday. Was wondering where it was if at all."


Finally, the person snaps at the ex boss and replies, "Bless your heart. You don't fire someone and still contact them to ask questions about the job because you don't know.


If you too are facing the same issue at your 9-5 job and is ready to break free from the traditional grind and explore a world where your money works for you, not the other way around, then these side hustle ideas can help.


From the classic to the unconventional, these ideas span various industries and require different levels of effort, making them accessible to anyone with the desire to grow their wealth smartly.


Check the image of the boss and employee chat.


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Passive income ideas

100 best passive income ideas


Make Money Uploading Your Photos to Shutterstock


Steps to Do This:

  • Create an account with Shutterstock or other stock photography websites.

  • Take high-quality photos with your phone and upload them.

  • Choose relevant photos for high-popularity tags with low results.

  • Earn money whenever someone uses your photos.

100 top passive income ideas that can make you real money

Start a Blog and Monetize with Affiliate Marketing


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a niche you're passionate about.

  • Create a blog using platforms like WordPress.

  • Write valuable content and incorporate affiliate links.

  • Earn commissions for sales generated through your links.



Invest in Dividend-Paying Stocks


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a brokerage account.

  • Research and invest in companies with a history of dividend payments.

  • Reinvest dividends to grow your portfolio over time.


Create an Online Course


Steps to Do This:

  • Identify your expertise or skills.

  • Develop a comprehensive online course.

  • Host it on platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

  • Earn money as students enroll.



Write an eBook and Self-Publish


Steps to Do This:

  • Write a book on a subject you're knowledgeable about.

  • Self-publish on Amazon Kindle or other eBook platforms.

  • Promote your eBook to reach a wider audience.



Rent Out Your Property on Airbnb


Steps to Do This:

  • List your extra space on Airbnb.

  • Set competitive pricing and offer quality amenities.

  • Host guests and earn money from bookings.



Invest in Real Estate Crowdfunding


Steps to Do This:

  • Sign up on a real estate crowdfunding platform.

  • Browse available properties and invest with others.

  • Earn rental income and potential appreciation.



Start a YouTube Channel


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a niche or topic you're passionate about.

  • Create and upload engaging videos.

  • Monetize through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.


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Purchase a Vending Machine


Steps to Do This:

  • Research high-traffic locations for vending machines.

  • Buy and stock vending machines with popular snacks or drinks.

  • Collect passive income from machine sales.



Invest in Peer-to-Peer Lending


Steps to Do This:

  • Join a peer-to-peer lending platform.

  • Browse loan listings and invest in borrowers.

  • Earn interest on the loans you fund.



License Your Music or Art


Steps to Do This:

  • Create original music or art.

  • License your work on platforms like ArtGrid or Epidemic Sound.

  • Earn royalties whenever your work is used.



Participate in an Affiliate Program


Steps to Do This:

  • Join affiliate programs related to products or services you like.

  • Promote affiliate links through your blog, social media, or website.

  • Earn commissions for sales generated through your links.



Create a Mobile App


Steps to Do This:

  • Develop a useful mobile app.

  • Publish it on app stores like Google Play and Apple App Store.

  • Earn money from ads, in-app purchases, or paid downloads.



Invest in a High-Yield Savings Account


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a high-yield savings account with a reputable bank.

  • Deposit your savings and earn interest with minimal risk.



Rent Out Your Car


Steps to Do This:

  • Use car-sharing platforms like Turo.

  • List your car for rent during idle times.

  • Earn money from rentals.



Start a Print-on-Demand Business


Steps to Do This:

  • Create custom designs for apparel, accessories, or home decor.

  • Partner with print-on-demand providers.

  • Earn profits when customers purchase your designs.



Invest in a REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust)


Steps to Do This:

  • Research and select a REIT.

  • Invest in shares of the trust.

  • Earn dividends and benefit from real estate investments.



Create a Niche Affiliate Website


Steps to Do This:

  • Select a specific niche for your website.

  • Write informative content and add affiliate links.

  • Attract traffic and earn commissions.



Invest in a Roth IRA


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a Roth IRA account.

  • Contribute regularly and invest in stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.

  • Enjoy tax-free withdrawals in retirement.



Sell Stock Photos on Multiple Platforms


Steps to Do This:

  • Capture high-quality stock photos.

  • List your photos on multiple stock photo websites.

  • Earn royalties from each sale.



Create an Amazon FBA Business


Steps to Do This:

  • Source products and create a brand.

  • Use Amazon FBA to handle storage and shipping.

  • Earn profits from product sales.



Write for Revenue-Sharing Websites


Steps to Do This:

  • Join revenue-sharing platforms like HubPages.

  • Write articles and share revenue from ads and views.



Invest in a 401(k) with Employer Match


Steps to Do This:

  • Enroll in your employer's 401(k) plan.

  • Contribute, and benefit from employer match contributions.



Build a Dropshipping Business


Steps to Do This:

  • Create an online store and partner with suppliers.

  • List products without holding inventory.

  • Earn profits from each sale.


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License Your Photography for Merchandise


Steps to Do This:

  • Take captivating photographs.

  • License your photos to be used on merchandise like T-shirts and mugs.

  • Earn royalties from sales.



Invest in a High-Dividend ETF


Steps to Do This:

  • Research and choose a high-dividend ETF.

  • Invest in shares and receive regular dividend payments.



Create an Alexa Skill or Google Action


Steps to Do This:

  • Develop a voice-activated app for Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

  • Publish it and earn money through usage.



Earn Passive Income with a Laundromat


Steps to Do This:

  • Purchase and operate a self-service laundromat.

  • Collect income from machine usage.



Invest in Cryptocurrency Staking


Steps to Do This:

  • Buy and hold cryptocurrencies that offer staking rewards.

  • Stake your holdings and earn interest or rewards.



Start a Subscription Box Service


Steps to Do This:

  • Curate unique products around a specific theme.

  • Build a subscription box business.

  • Earn recurring revenue from subscribers.



Invest in Peer-to-Peer Real Estate


Steps to Do This:

  • Join a peer-to-peer real estate investment platform.

  • Browse and invest in real estate projects.

  • Earn rental income and potential capital gains.



Create a YouTube Tutorial Channel


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a skill or subject you excel in.

  • Record informative tutorial videos.

  • Monetize through ads and sponsorships.



Purchase an ATM Machine


Steps to Do This:

  • Research high-traffic locations for ATMs.

  • Buy and place ATM machines in strategic spots.

  • Collect fees from ATM transactions.



Invest in Treasury Securities


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a TreasuryDirect account.

  • Purchase Treasury bills, bonds, or notes.

  • Earn interest income from your investments.



Become a Silent Business Partner


Steps to Do This:

  • Identify a profitable business seeking investment.

  • Invest capital as a silent partner.

  • Earn a share of the business's profits.



Create and License 3D Models


Steps to Do This:

  • Develop 3D models for games or animations.

  • License your models on platforms like Sketchfab.

  • Earn royalties from usage.



Rent Out Storage Space


Steps to Do This:

  • Offer unused space for storage on platforms like Neighbor.

  • Earn rental income from people storing their items.



Invest in a High-Interest CD (Certificate of Deposit)


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a CD account with a bank or credit union.

  • Deposit your savings for a fixed term.

  • Earn interest over the CD's duration.



Create an Online Printables Store


Steps to Do This:

  • Design printables like planners, templates, or artwork.

  • Set up an online store on platforms like Etsy.

  • Earn money from digital product sales.



Invest in a Health Savings Account (HSA)


Steps to Do This:

  • Open an HSA account with a qualifying high-deductible health plan.

  • Contribute pre-tax income to cover medical expenses.

  • Earn tax-free interest and withdrawals for qualified expenses.



Rent Out Your Outdoor Space


Steps to Do This:


  • List your yard or parking space on platforms like JustPark.

  • Earn rental income from those in need of outdoor space.



Invest in Farmland Crowdfunding


Steps to Do This:


  • Join a farmland crowdfunding platform.

  • Invest in agricultural land projects.

  • Earn a share of profits from farming activities.


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Create a Mobile Game App


Steps to Do This:


  • Develop an engaging mobile game.

  • Publish it on app stores with in-app ads or purchases.

  • Earn money from game-related transactions.



Invest in a Business Fund


Steps to Do This:


  • Research and select a business fund or mutual fund.

  • Invest in shares of the fund to benefit from business profits



License Your Recipes


Steps to Do This:

  • Create unique recipes for dishes or drinks.

  • License your recipes to food brands or cookbooks.

  • Earn royalties from recipe usage.



Participate in Cashback Rewards Programs


Steps to Do This:

  • Sign up for cashback rewards programs like Rakuten or Swagbucks.

  • Shop through these platforms and earn cashback on purchases.



Create an Amazon Merch Store


Steps to Do This:

  • Design custom T-shirts, hoodies, or other apparel.

  • Create an Amazon Merch store to sell your designs.

  • Earn royalties from merchandise sales.


Invest in a Business Franchise


Steps to Do This:

  • Research franchise opportunities in your area.

  • Invest in a franchise business.

  • Earn a share of the business's profits.



Rent Out Your Tools and Equipment


Steps to Do This:

  • List your tools or equipment on platforms like Fat Llama.

  • Earn rental income from people in need of your tools.



Invest in a Robo-Advisor


Steps to Do This:

  • Open an account with a robo-advisor platform.

  • Deposit funds, and let automated algorithms manage your investments.

  • Earn returns based on your chosen investment strategy.



Build a Mobile App Template Store


Steps to Do This:

  • Design mobile app templates for various purposes.

  • Create an online store to sell your templates.

  • Earn money from template sales.



Invest in Renewable Energy Projects


Steps to Do This:

  • Join crowdfunding platforms focused on renewable energy.

  • Invest in solar, wind, or other clean energy projects.

  • Earn returns from sustainable energy generation.



Rent Out Your Boat or Watercraft


Steps to Do This:

  • List your boat on rental platforms like Boatsetter.

  • Earn rental income from boat enthusiasts.



Invest in a High-Yield Money Market Account


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a high-yield money market account.

  • Deposit savings and earn competitive interest rates.



Create and License Sound Effects


Steps to Do This:

  • Record unique sound effects or music tracks.

  • License your audio content on platforms like AudioJungle.

  • Earn royalties from audio usage.



Invest in an Index Fund


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose an index fund that matches your investment goals.

  • Invest in a diversified portfolio.

  • Earn returns based on the index's performance.



Offer Digital Marketing Services


Steps to Do This:

  • Build expertise in digital marketing.

  • Offer services such as SEO, social media management, or content creation.

  • Earn income from client contracts.



Invest in a Business Development Company (BDC)


Steps to Do This:

  • Research BDCs with strong track records.

  • Invest in shares to gain exposure to private businesses.

  • Earn dividends and potential capital gains.



Create a Subscription-Based Newsletter


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a niche or industry you're knowledgeable about.

  • Develop valuable content and offer it through a subscription model.

  • Earn recurring revenue from subscribers.



Invest in a Microloan Platform


Steps to Do This:

  • Join a microloan platform that supports entrepreneurs in developing countries.

  • Fund microloans to small business owners.

  • Earn interest as borrowers repay their loans.


Create an E-commerce Dropshipping Store


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a niche and set up an online store.

  • Partner with suppliers who handle product fulfillment.

  • Earn profits from sales without managing inventory.


Invest in Municipal Bonds


Steps to Do This:

  • Research municipal bonds issued by local governments.

  • Purchase bonds to earn tax-free interest income.


Build an Online Course


Steps to Do This:

  • Identify your area of expertise.

  • Create an online course with platforms like Udemy.

  • Earn money as students enroll.


Start a Niche Blog


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a niche you're passionate about.

  • Write high-quality blog posts and monetize with ads, affiliate marketing, or product sales.


Invest in Dividend Stocks


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a brokerage account.

  • Invest in dividend-paying stocks to receive regular dividend income.


Develop a Mobile App


Steps to Do This:

  • Create a useful or entertaining mobile app.

  • Monetize through ads, in-app purchases, or subscriptions.


Invest in a Crowdfunded Startup


Steps to Do This:

  • Join a crowdfunding platform for startups.

  • Invest in promising businesses.

  • Earn a share of future profits or equity.


Write an E-book


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a topic you're knowledgeable about.

  • Write and self-publish an e-book on platforms like Amazon Kindle.

  • Earn royalties from e-book sales.


Invest in Real Estate Crowdfunding


Steps to Do This:

  • Sign up with a real estate crowdfunding platform.

  • Invest in commercial or residential properties.

  • Receive rental income and potential property appreciation.


License Your Artwork


Steps to Do This:

  • Create digital or physical art.

  • License your artwork to be used in various media.

  • Earn royalties from art usage.


Develop an Alexa Skill or Google Assistant Action


Steps to Do This:

  • Create a voice-activated skill or action for smart speakers.

  • Monetize through in-skill or in-action purchases.


Invest in Collectibles


Steps to Do This:

  • Gain expertise in collectible items like vintage toys or rare stamps.

  • Buy and hold collectibles for potential appreciation.


Rent Out Your Car


Steps to Do This:

  • Use car-sharing platforms like Turo.

  • Earn money by renting your vehicle to others.


Invest in a Self-Storage Business


Steps to Do This:

  • Research self-storage business opportunities.

  • Invest in self-storage facilities and earn rental income.


Create a Vlog


Steps to Do This:

  • Pick an engaging theme for your video blog.

  • Upload videos to YouTube and monetize with ads and sponsorships.


Invest in a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)


Steps to Do This:

  • Open a brokerage account.

  • Invest in REITs to receive dividends from real estate portfolios.


Write and Publish a Paperback Book


Steps to Do This:

  • Expand your e-book into a paperback.

  • Self-publish using platforms like Amazon CreateSpace.

  • Earn royalties from paperback sales.


Host an Online Webinar


Steps to Do This:

  • Select a topic you're knowledgeable in.

  • Host paid webinars and share insights with participants.


Invest in Digital Currency


Steps to Do This:

  • Research cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum.

  • Buy and hold digital assets for potential price appreciation.


Create a Stock Photography Portfolio


Steps to Do This:

  • Take high-quality photos and build a portfolio.

  • Submit your photos to stock photography websites.

  • Earn royalties when your images are downloaded.


Invest in Agricultural Land


Steps to Do This:

  • Research opportunities to buy agricultural land.

  • Lease the land to farmers and receive rental income.


Develop a Voice-Over Talent Profile


Steps to Do This:

  • Record professional voice-over samples.

  • Create a profile on voice-over marketplaces like Voices.com.

  • Get hired for voice-over work.


Invest in a Private Equity Fund


Steps to Do This:

  • Research private equity funds.

  • Invest in businesses outside the stock market.

  • Earn returns from business profits.


Create a YouTube Kids Channel


Steps to Do This:

  • Develop kid-friendly videos.

  • Monetize through ads and sponsored content.

  • Ensure compliance with child safety regulations.


Invest in Art or Antiques


Steps to Do This:

  • Acquire art or antique pieces.

  • Hold and potentially resell them at a higher value.


Buy and Rent Out Equipment


Steps to Do This:

  • Purchase equipment like power tools, cameras, or drones.

  • Rent them out on platforms like Fat Llama.


Invest in a Wine Collection


Steps to Do This:

  1. Gain knowledge of fine wines.

  2. Invest in quality wine bottles and store them properly.

  3. Sell or auction them when their value appreciates.


Build a Stock Trading Algorithm


Steps to Do This:

  1. Develop an automated stock trading algorithm.

  2. Execute trades and potentially profit from market fluctuations.


Invest in Farmland REITs


Steps to Do This:

  1. Research farmland real estate investment trusts.

  2. Invest in agricultural land portfolios and earn dividends.


Create a Stock Market Newsletter


Steps to Do This:

  • Build expertise in stock market analysis.

  • Start a subscription-based stock newsletter.

  • Earn revenue from subscriber fees.


Invest in Renewable Energy Stocks


Steps to Do This:

  • Purchase stocks of renewable energy companies.

  • Benefit from growth in the green energy sector.


Develop a Mobile App Plugin or Extension


Steps to Do This:

  • Create plugins or extensions for popular mobile apps.

  • Sell them on app marketplaces.


Invest in Cryptocurrency Staking


Steps to Do This:

  • Choose a cryptocurrency that supports staking.

  • Stake your coins in a wallet to earn rewards.


Design and Sell Merchandise on Redbubble


Steps to Do This:

  • Create unique designs for various products.

  • List your designs on Redbubble for sale.

  • Earn royalties from merchandise sales.



Invest in a Self-Directed IRA


Steps to Do This:

  • Set up a self-directed IRA.

  • Invest in alternative assets like real estate or private companies.

  • Earn returns within your tax-advantaged account.


Create and Sell Print-on-Demand Products


Steps to Do This:

  • Design custom products like T-shirts, mugs, or phone cases.

  • Use print-on-demand services for production and shipping.

  • Earn profits from sales.


Invest in Commercial Real Estate Syndications


Steps to Do This:

  • Partner with real estate syndication firms.

  • Invest in commercial properties and earn a portion of the returns.


Develop a Niche Stock Photography Portfolio


Steps to Do This:

  • Focus on a specific niche like travel or food photography.

  • Build a portfolio and license your images.


Invest in a Royalty Income Trust


Steps to Do This:

  • Research royalty income trusts in sectors like music or minerals.

  • Invest to receive a share of royalty earnings.


Create a YouTube Channel for Pet Lovers


Steps to Do This:

  • Share videos about pet care, training, or funny pet moments.

  • Monetize through ads, affiliate links, and sponsorships.


In the grand scheme of financial success, there's a powerful adage: "Make your money work for you, and you'll never have to work for money again." Our journey through these 100 best passive income ideas has illuminated the endless possibilities available to those with the vision and determination to seize them.


Remember, building a passive income stream requires dedication, effort, and strategic thinking upfront. It's not a magic bullet, but rather an investment in your financial future. Whether you choose to dabble in the stock market, pen an e-book, or invest in real estate, each endeavor demands consistent nurturing and a willingness to adapt to changing landscapes.


As you embark on your journey towards financial freedom, consider your strengths and passions. Embrace the lessons learned from these ideas and the stories of success that have emerged from them. Some of the wealthiest people in the world have achieved their status through the power of passive income, and now, armed with this knowledge, you're equipped to chart your course.


So go ahead, take that first step. Experiment, refine, and watch your passive income streams flourish over time. Remember that this journey is about more than just money; it's about the empowerment that comes from mastering your finances, gaining control over your time, and opening doors to new opportunities.


The road to passive income might be winding, but the destination is undeniably worth the effort. As you forge ahead, keep in mind that every idea explored here is a potential gateway to financial independence. Your future prosperity begins with action today. Here's to your success and the boundless potential of passive income.



About

My name is Ankit Uttam

I'm an Author (20+ books- A few of them have been on bestsellers charts too), and I'm a solopreneur who is trying to learn each day about how to navigate this growing space and also help a few people along the way.

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