“Does anyone know if any legit work-from-home jobs? I’m a stay-at-home-mom but we need some extra income. Anybody have any ideas?”
— Every mom Facebook group ever.
The truth is that there are legitimate work-from-home employers seeking applicants, but they are often drowned out by the loud and proud direct sales consultants offering a similar pitch. I have nothing against direct sales; in fact, I dabbled in them a few years ago. I respect the hustle! But it’s important to remember that direct sales isn’t for everyone, just like teaching isn’t for everyone, being a doctor isn’t for everyone, and being a mom isn’t for everyone.
One size never fits all when it comes to the perfect career. It’s time to highlight the variety of opportunities that exist out there!
Go ahead and clear your tabs and get your pen and paper ready because I’m here to give you some great work at home jobs. These jobs don’t require a buy-in, a fan base, or startup costs. They just require an internet connection, commitment, work ethic, and sometimes a degree and/or experience.
1. Leap Force
Google hires periodically through their Leap Force search engine team. The work may be a bit mundane, but many people report wages ranging from $13-$15 per hour. Click here to get started with LeapForce!
2. Lionbridge
Lionbridge is another company, similar to Leap Force, that uses their workforce to rate and review various search engines and websites. Click here to get started with Lionbridge!
I like to read reviews written by real honest workers before I dive into a job. Check out this reddit thread discussing the two companies, along with their pros and cons.
3. Amazon
Got WiFi and a headset? Amazon has quite a few virtual customer service positions — you can search for jobs in your area here.
4. VIPKID
Teachers! Guess what my favorite side job is? Yes, this one is actually my part time job and I love doing it! I teach English to students in Beijing. Don’t let that last statement intimidate you; it’s mostly “P says Puh! Puh, Puh, Pig!” instruction to begin with. To start, you need a bachelor’s degree in any field, some experience with children, and a bubbly personality. Make anywhere from $14-$22 per hour, and set your own hours. Click this link to get started.
5. At-home business
Are you creative? Start up an ETSY shop or create your own Facebook group to sell whatever it is that makes you happy. Pottery? Vinyl? Custom t-shirts? You might be surprised to learn what people pay for rustic wedding decor and customized teacher gifts. The possibilities are endless here, and if you’re willing to ship, you might be making some hefty profits!
6. So you think you’d like to sell from a product line?
Well, if that’s the case, you’re in luck because there are hundreds of companies from which to choose. I’m sure you’ve heard of the many companies marketing their products through social media. Teeth whitener, body wraps, lipstick, skin regimens, leggings, fitness shakes, candles, makeup, jewelry, more fitness shakes, etc. Hey — some people have great sales talent. If there’s a product out there you absolutely love, you might do well!
7. Love to write?
This one is for my friends who have a knack for writing! Check out the jobs on https://www.upwork.com I got this tip from my friend Jennifer; she makes money writing practice tests and quizzes, writing and developing cosmetology courses, and other work. She also mentioned that she made $300 on one assignment and she loves this opportunity.
Copywriting is also a great way to earn money utilizing your writing skills! Check out this article about getting started.
8. Medical Coding
Work from home doing medical billing! I don’t have experience in the medical field, but I can tell you a simple google search can lead you to a variety of billing and coding jobs.
9. Calling all nurses!
Ever heard of telephone triage? Use your medical knowledge, instincts, and communication skills to assess patients via phone. Here are some openings in Tennessee!
If you’re a physician, you might consider working for a telemedicine service (we use telemedicine ALL THE TIME).
10. Tutoring or childcare services
Let’s be real: Women will continue having babies and children will need help with homework. There’s a market for it and there always will be! If you have an empty room in your home or a love for children, this option might be perfect for you. Advertise yourself on https://www.care.com It’s a tough job, but with the right setup and experience, you could build a great reputation for dependable care in your community.
Hi Autumn!! Thank you so much for your well written blog on SAHM job opportunities! 😊 There are so many that I have never heard of, or even thought about as an option!
I recently started my own business with Rodan + Fields! A definite skeptic at first; I watched my dear friend grow personally & professionally for 2.5 years before deciding to join her! I am beyond thrilled that I have! If there are any Mama’s out there who are curious about R + F, I would love to fill you in on the details so you can see if it would be a good fit for you!! 🤗
Oh how cool! I’m a huge fan of R&F!! I love their UnBlemished line!
This is such a great blog! My name is Susan Kirt and I am also with Rodan and Fields. I have been with this company for 5 years and I work it alongside my full time teaching position in Farragut. I have to tell you that this is a LEGIT company! I started, not wanting to sell a thing, but I love presenting information to people- good information ( that’s the teacher in me). Fast forward 5 years and this business has allowed me to stay home with my little boys for two years, before they started school. I spent MAYBE 10 hours a week building my business ( no inventory) around the nooks and crannies of my day. Now I work this side gig to help pay for family vacations, monthly bills and any unexpected turns life throws at us.
I would love to chat with anyone interested in this business. It’s truly been a blessing for my family!
[email protected]
Hi Autumn, I have a question about VIPKID. I meet all requirements except the one year of teaching experience, but as a certified sign language interpreter I have multiple year in a classroom. Is it worth applying? Thanks!
Hey Kelly! The one year of teaching experience can be any kind of teaching experience (not just in a traditional school setting). They just want to make sure you’ve worked with children before. Any daycare experience, teaching Sunday school, and yes- as a sign language interpreter (how cool is that?!). I actually think you’d be a fantastic fit for this job because using the hands and facial expressions are a key element to keeping ESL students engaged. Feel free to comment back here or email me at [email protected] if you have any more questions. This job is so much fun and I’m happy to help 🙂 -Autumn
Thanks for the tips! Do be careful with Lionbridge. I spent a week studying just to take their application test, spent hours on the test, then due to technical glitch (not my fault) the test screwed up and they wouldn’t allow me to retest or reapply. Their administration and customer service was disorganized and unhelpful as well.
Yikes..That’s good to know! Thanks, Cat!
What about Transcribing for a law firm?
Textbroker is my favorite site for getting started making money writing online. I started there 6 years ago and it has only gone up from there. Also, wahadventures.com posts work at home job leads and tons of reviews so you know if a work at home company is legit… or not.
There are many online transcription jobs. I have personally tried both Rev.com and I now work for Verbal Ink, and there are a ton of other legit companies to which you can apply (just do a google search). There is usually some type of typing and grammar quiz or a transcription sample to submit to get started. Hours are very flexible.
There are plenty of IT JOBS that allow remote working. I myself have been working from home close to 4 years now. It is fulltime , with benefits and insurance.
Thanks for including a link to my copywriting article on The Work at Home Woman — much appreciated!