61 Best Side Hustles for Active Duty Military (Profit Now!)

Are you a service member looking for the best side hustles for active-duty military members?

Well, here we have 61 awesome ways to make some extra cash and some things to consider, such as legal considerations, tips on balancing your primary duties and your side gig, and much more.

So enjoy the helpful read and start making that money!

Best Side Hustles for Active Duty Military “Quick Picks”

Here are three standout side hustle opportunities for active-duty military personnel to consider:

• Most Cool: Podcasting, share your unique perspectives.
• Most Profitable: Coding Services, high demand, high income.
• Most Flexible: Online Surveys, earn cash anytime, anywhere.

61 Great Side Hustles for Active Duy Military Personnel

Graphic Design

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

Dive into the world of colors, shapes, and design with a side hustle as a graphic designer. If you’re creatively inclined and have a knack for visual communication, this could be your ideal way to make some extra income. Graphic design services are in high demand, particularly for businesses looking to enhance their brand identity. You can offer services like logo design, business card creation, or even full branding packages. 

Fiverr allows you to showcase your portfolio and connect with clients. Freelance graphic designers can earn an average of $28 per hour.

Cutting Hair

Estimated Monthly Income: $1500+

Do you have steady hands and an eye for style? Consider a side gig in haircutting. This is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy helping others look their best. You can set up a mini salon at home or offer mobile services. 

Check out websites like Thumbtack to connect with potential clients. Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists earn a median pay of $13.19 per hour. Still, with tips and the flexibility to set your rates, your earning potential can be significantly higher.

Event D.J.

Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+

If you love music and know how to get a party started, consider working as an event D.J. From weddings to corporate events, there’s always a need for someone to provide the soundtrack. You’ll need some initial investment in equipment, but the return can be substantial. 

GigSalad can help you find gigs in your local area. D.J.s typically earn between $30.77 and $206.08 per hour.

Stock Trading

Estimated Monthly Income: Variable

Stock trading can be a profitable side hustle if you’re willing to take the time to understand the market. It’s a flexible option that allows you to make money from anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. 

Apps like Robinhood and websites like E*TRADE make it easy to start trading. However, remember that this side hustle comes with risk and potential loss. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents earn a median pay of $64,770 annually. Still, individual earnings from stock trading can vary widely.

Youth Game Referee

Estimated Monthly Income: $1000+

If you’re a sports enthusiast, working as a youth game referee can be a fun and active way to make extra income. You’ll need a solid understanding of the rules, and some training may be required. 

Check out your local community centers or schools for opportunities. According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay for a Youth Sports Referee is $20 per hour.

Handyman Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

If you’re good with tools and enjoy fixing things, consider offering handyman services. From minor repairs to home improvement projects, there are plenty of opportunities to put your skills to use. 

TaskRabbit can connect you with individuals in need of your services. Handymen earn an average of $20.48 per hour. Still, with the ability to set your rates and take on multiple projects, your earning potential can be much higher.

Bagging Groceries

Estimated Monthly Income: $800+

Bagging groceries might not be the most glamorous job. Still, it’s a reliable way to make extra money. Many grocery stores offer flexible hours, making this a great option for active duty military with changing schedules. 

Websites like Indeed can help you find local opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, baggers earn a median pay of $11.27 per hour.

Babysitting

Estimated Monthly Income: $1500+

Babysitting can be a rewarding and lucrative side hustle if you enjoy spending time with kids. You can offer your services to families in your community or sign up with a website like Care.com to find opportunities. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that childcare workers earn a median pay of $12.24 per hour. Still, rates can vary depending on location, number of kids, and specific responsibilities.

House Sitting

Estimated Monthly Income: $1200+

House sitting is a simple way to make extra cash, especially if you’re comfortable with pets. Responsibilities typically include basic home maintenance and pet care while homeowners are away. 

TrustedHousesitters can connect you with homeowners in need of your services. According to Payscale, house sitters earn an average of $25 per day, but rates can vary depending on location and responsibilities.

Pet Sitting

Estimated Monthly Income: $1200+

Pet sitting is another excellent option for military members. It can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you love animals. You’ll be responsible for looking after pets while their owners are away. This could include feeding them, taking them for walks, and providing companionship. 

Websites like Rover and Petsitter.com can connect you with pet owners who need your services.

Printables Creation

“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.”

– Chris Grosser

Estimated Monthly Income: $1500+

If you have a knack for design, creating printables can be a lucrative side hustle. These could be anything from planners and calendars to decorative art. 

You can sell your designs on platforms like Etsy or Creative Market. It’s a flexible option that allows you to work whenever you have free time.

Running Errands

Estimated Monthly Income: $1100+

Running errands for others can greatly earn extra income, including grocery shopping, picking up dry cleaning, or delivering items. 

Favor connects you with people in your local area who need help with various tasks.

Blogging

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

Blogging can be an excellent side hustle for active-duty military personnel. You could blog about various topics, from your experiences in the military to advice for other service members. 

You can monetize your blog through advertising, sponsored posts, or selling products or services. Platforms like WordPress and Blogger can help you get started.

Delivery Driver

Estimated Monthly Income: $1400+

Working as a delivery driver can be a flexible and rewarding side hustle. You could deliver food for restaurants, groceries, or other items. 

Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Instacart offer plenty of opportunities for delivery drivers.

Remote Work

Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+

Remote work offers a lot of flexibility and can be done from anywhere. This could include customer service, data entry, writing, or virtual assistance. 

FlexJobs lists thousands of remote job opportunities.

Selling Old Stuff

Estimated Monthly Income: $800+

Selling old stuff you no longer need can be a great way to declutter and make extra cash. You could sell clothes, furniture, electronics, or other items. 

eBay and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to list your items for sale.

Grocery Delivery

Estimated Monthly Income: $1300+

Grocery delivery is a growing industry and can be a great side hustle. You’ll shop for and deliver groceries to customers’ homes. 

Instacart and Shipt can connect you with grocery delivery gigs in your area.

Fast Food Delivery

Estimated Monthly Income: $1200+

Fast food delivery is another excellent option for a side hustle. You’ll pick up food from fast-food restaurants and deliver it to customers. 

Apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash offer many opportunities for fast food delivery drivers.

Tutoring

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

Tutoring is a fantastic side hustle for active-duty military personnel. Your expertise in a particular field or subject could be a valuable resource for students. You can offer your services online, allowing you to work from anywhere anytime. 

Websites like Chegg Tutors and Tutor.com connect tutors with students, providing a platform to share your knowledge and earn extra income. According to ZipRecruiter, the average monthly income for online tutors is around $2000.

Fitness Training

Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+

As an active-duty military member, you’re no stranger to physical fitness. Why not turn that into a lucrative side hustle by offering fitness training services? You can offer personal training sessions or even create online workout plans. 

FitnessTrainer allows trainers to connect with clients in their local area. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that fitness trainers and instructors earned a median pay of $40,390 annually in 2020, translating to roughly $2500 monthly.

Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $2200+

Photography could be a rewarding side hustle if you have a keen eye for capturing beautiful moments. Whether it’s event photography, portrait photography, or even selling stock photos online, there are numerous avenues to explore. 

Shutterstock and Adobe Stock allow photographers to sell their images. Freelance photographers earn an average of $22.85 per hour, translating to over $2200 per month, depending on the number of hours worked.

Car Detailing

Estimated Monthly Income: $2800+

Car detailing involves cleaning and restoring a car to its best possible condition. This side hustle could be great for those who enjoy working with their hands and have an eye for detail. 

You could offer your services to individuals or businesses in your local area. According to Indeed, car detailers can make an average of $2800 monthly.

Gardening Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $2300+

If you have a green thumb, offering gardening services could be a fulfilling and profitable side hustle. This could involve lawn maintenance, planting, pruning, and general garden care. 

TaskRabbit can connect you with people in need of these services. On average, gardeners earn around $15 per hour, up to around $2300 monthly.

Personal Chef

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

If you’re a whizz in the kitchen, why not monetize your culinary skills by becoming a personal chef? You could offer meal preparation services to busy families, host cooking classes, or cater small events. 

HireAChef provides a platform for chefs to find clients. Personal chefs can earn anywhere from $200 to $500 daily, potentially making over $3000 a month.

Freelance Writing

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

– Confucius

Estimated Monthly Income: $2700+

If you have a knack for writing, freelance writing could be a great side hustle. You could write articles, blog posts, or even ghostwrite books. 

Fiverr connects freelance writers with clients. Glassdoor freelance writers earn an average of $52,807 annually, roughly $2700 monthly.

Virtual Assistant

Estimated Monthly Income: $2600+

You could offer email management, scheduling, social media management, and more services as a virtual assistant. 

Zirtual and Virtalent connect virtual assistants with businesses in need of these services. The average hourly wage for a virtual assistant is around $15.57, which could translate to over $2600 per month depending on the number of hours worked.

Social Media Management

Estimated Monthly Income: $3200+

If you’re savvy with social media, offering social media management services could be a profitable side hustle. This involves creating content, managing posts, and interacting with followers for businesses. 

Websites like Sprout Social offer tools to help manage multiple social media accounts. The average salary for a Social Media Manager is around $50,000 per year or roughly $3200 per month.

Home Cleaning

Estimated Monthly Income: $2400+

Home cleaning is a side hustle that’s always in demand. You could offer regular cleaning services, deep cleaning, or even specialize in carpet cleaning. 

Handy connects cleaners with clients. According to Indeed, house cleaners can make an average of $24.09 per hour, up to around $2400 monthly.

Carpentry

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

Carpentry can be a profitable side hustle for active-duty military personnel. With a knack for crafting wooden furniture or home decor, you can turn your hobby into a lucrative business. You can create custom pieces or offer repair services in your local community. 

Etsy and eBay allow you to sell handmade items online, expanding your customer base beyond local boundaries. Carpenters earn a median wage of $23.58 per hour, which can translate into a sizeable income depending on how much time you devote to this hustle1.

Computer Repair

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

If you have technical skills, offering computer repair services can be rewarding. This can range from fixing hardware issues to removing viruses or providing I.T. support. 

Sites like Freelancer and Upwork are excellent platforms to advertise your services. The average hourly rate for a computer repair technician is around $15.38. Still, you can charge much more with experience and a good reputation.

Language Teaching

Estimated Monthly Income: $4500+

Suppose you are fluent in more than one language. Teaching a language can be a great way to earn extra income. You can offer one-on-one sessions or group classes in person or online. 

iTalki and Preply allow you to connect with students from all around the world. Foreign language teachers earn a median wage of $25.20 per hour.

Music Lessons

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

If you’re musically inclined, offering music lessons can be a fulfilling and profitable side hustle. Whether it’s guitar, piano, drums, or singing, there’s always someone looking to learn a new instrument. Websites like TakeLessons and Lessonface provide platforms for you to reach potential students. According to Payscale, the average hourly pay for music teachers is around $28.19.

Dog Walking

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

Dog walking can be a fun and rewarding side hustle for those who love animals. 

You can offer services to busy pet owners in your neighborhood or through platforms like Rover and Wag. The average hourly rate for dog walkers is around $14.77.

Tailoring Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

If you have a skill for sewing, offering tailoring services can be a great side hustle. You can provide alterations, custom clothing creation, or even teach sewing classes. 

TaskRabbit is an excellent platform to advertise your services. Payscale shows that the average hourly rate for a tailor is around $14.42.

Personal Shopping

Estimated Monthly Income: $3800+

Personal shopping can be a profitable side hustle, especially for those with a keen eye for fashion or a knack for finding deals. You can help busy individuals by shopping for groceries, clothes, or gifts. 

Apps like Postmates and Instacart allow you to offer services to a wider audience. According to Payscale, personal shoppers earn an average of $15.00 per hour.

 Voice-Over Work

Estimated Monthly Income: $4200+

With a clear, articulate voice, voice-over work can be a lucrative side hustle. You can provide audiobooks, commercials, video games, and more services. 

Websites like Voices.com and Voice123 allow you to connect with clients needing voice talent. Per Payscale, voice-over artists earn an average of $30.34 per hour.

E-commerce Reselling

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+ 

E-commerce reselling involves buying products at a lower price and selling them for a profit online. 

eBay, Amazon, and Etsy are perfect platforms for this type of business. 56% of Amazon sellers make over $100,000 in revenue

Crafting and Selling

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

If you’re crafty, you can turn your creativity into a profitable side hustle by making and selling handmade goods. Whether jewelry, pottery, or knitted items, there’s a market for unique, high-quality products. 

Websites like Etsy and Handmade at Amazon are excellent platforms for selling your creations. According to a survey by Fundera, 74.9% of Etsy sellers run their shops as a side business.

Furniture Restoration

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,500+

Furniture restoration is a fantastic side hustle for active-duty military members. This involves finding old or damaged furniture, fixing it, and selling it for a profit. The beauty of this side hustle is that you can start with a small investment and gradually build up your business. Plus, it’s a skill that can be learned through online tutorials and practice. S

sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace are great platforms to sell restored furniture. HomeGuide says professional furniture refinishers charge between $50 to $150 per hour for their work. So, the potential to earn is considerable.

Home Organizing

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,000+

Home organizing is another lucrative side hustle option. As a home organizer, you’ll help people declutter their homes and create efficient spaces. The demand for home organization services has skyrocketed, especially since the release of Marie Kondo’s book and Netflix series. 

Thumbtack can help you find clients in your area. The average hourly rate for a professional organizer is around $25, but experienced organizers can charge much more.

Airbnb Hosting

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,000+

Becoming an Airbnb host can be profitable if you have a spare room or property. It’s a great way to earn money while meeting people from all over the world. 

Some hosts make up to $6,000 per month. However, your earnings will largely depend on the location and quality of your property.

Car Renting (Turo)

Estimated Monthly Income: $1,500+

Renting out your car via platforms like Turo can be an easy way to earn passive income. Turo allows you to list your car for rent when you’re not using it. Some hosts make over $10,000 per year. 

Your earnings will depend on the make and model of your car, its condition, and how often you’re willing to rent it out.

Ride-Sharing (Uber)

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,500+

Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft can be a profitable side hustle, especially if you live in a busy city. The flexibility of this job makes it a great option for active-duty military members. 

According to Ridester, some drivers make up to $25 per hour, but this varies based on location and peak times.

Cake Baking

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,000+

If you have a knack for baking, selling cakes can be a profitable side hustle. There’s always a demand for custom-made cakes for occasions like birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries. 

Etsy or local farmers’ markets are good platforms for selling baked goods. Some cake decorators make up to $75 per hour.

Jewelry Making

Estimated Monthly Income: $2,800+

Jewelry making is a creative and potentially lucrative side hustle. Handmade jewelry is popular, and you can sell your creations online on websites like Etsy or at local craft fairs. 

Per Indeed, the average earning for a jewelry designer is around $20 per hour, but this can be much higher depending on your skills and the uniqueness of your designs.

Home Brewing

Estimated Monthly Income: $1,700+

Home brewing is a fun hobby that can also become a profitable side hustle. Craft beers are popular, and if you can create unique and tasty brews, you could make a decent income. 

Sites like Brewers Association can provide resources and support for home brewers. According to Craft Brewing Business, some home brewers spend up to $800 per year on their hobby, but with the right marketing, you could earn much more than that.

Personal Training

Estimated Monthly Income: $4,500+

Becoming a personal trainer can be a rewarding and profitable side hustle if you’re passionate about fitness. You can offer your services at a local gym or start your own business and train clients at their homes or online. 

ACE Fitness can provide certifications and resources for aspiring personal trainers. Personal trainers can earn between $10 to $49 per hour.

Drone Photography

Estimated Monthly Income: $3,200+

Drone photography is a rapidly growing industry and can be a profitable side hustle. This involves taking aerial photos or videos for clients such as real estate agents, wedding planners, or construction companies. 

Websites like Droners.io can help you find drone photography jobs. According to The Drone U, some drone pilots make up to $200 per hour.

Resume Writing

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

The art of resume writing can be a lucrative side hustle for active-duty military personnel. With your wealth of experience and understanding of what employers look for, you could offer valuable services to job seekers by helping them craft compelling resumes. You might also assist with cover letters and LinkedIn profiles. 

Upwork is a great platform to start offering your services. And freelance resume writers can earn anywhere from $23 to $100 per hour.

Translation Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, offering translation services could be a rewarding side hustle. You could translate documents, books, and articles or even provide interpretation services. 

Websites like Gengo or Proz can help you get started. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, interpreters and translators earned a median pay of $51,830 annually in 2020.

Video Editing

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

Video content is king in today’s digital world, and skilled video editors are in high demand. If you have the skills or are willing to learn, you could offer your services to individuals and businesses to help them create engaging video content. 

Websites like Freelancer and Mandy are good starting points for finding video editing gigs. Payscale reports that freelance video editors make an average of $29.80 per hour.

Podcasting

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

“The best military side hustles are those that not only put money in your pocket but also engage your passions and utilize your unique skills. – Anonymous

Podcasting can be a fun and profitable side hustle, especially if you share a unique perspective or expertise. You could start a podcast related to military life, personal finance, or any other topic you’re passionate about. 

Monetization can come through sponsorships, donations, or selling related products and services. According to Forbes, successful podcasters can make $20-$50 per 1,000 downloads through sponsorships.

Property Management

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

Property management could be a profitable side hustle if you own a property or consider investing in one. 

You could rent your property for long-term leases or short-term stays through platforms like Airbnb. The average Airbnb host makes $924 per month.

Wedding Planning

Estimated Monthly Income: $4000+

Wedding planning can be a lucrative side hustle for the creative and detail-oriented. As a wedding planner, you’ll coordinate all aspects of a couple’s special day, from venue selection to managing budgets and contracts. You’ll need excellent communication and problem-solving skills, but the rewards can be significant. 

The median annual salary for a wedding planner in the United States is around $48,000. Still, as a side hustle, your income will depend on how many weddings you take. There are several online platforms, such as The Knot and WeddingWire, where you can advertise your services and connect with potential clients.

Affiliate Marketing

Estimated Monthly Income: $2000+

Affiliate marketing involves promoting a company’s products or services and earning a commission for each sale through your referral link. This can be an excellent side hustle for those with a strong online presence or a blog, as you can incorporate affiliate links into your content. 

The affiliate marketing industry is expected to reach $8.2 billion by 2022 in the U.S. alone. Amazon Associates and ClickBank provide numerous opportunities for affiliate marketers.

Mystery Shopping

Estimated Monthly Income: $1500+

Mystery shopping is a fun and flexible side hustle where you get paid to shop or dine out while evaluating customer service at businesses. Companies hire mystery shoppers to ensure their employees are providing quality service. 

Some websites that connect mystery shoppers with opportunities include Market Force and BestMark. The pay varies, but according to Indeed, the average mystery shopper earns around $19.00 per hour.

Online Surveys

Estimated Monthly Income: $500+

Online surveys are a simple way to make extra cash in your spare time. Companies are willing to pay for your opinion on their products or services. While you won’t get rich taking surveys, it can provide a small, steady income stream.

Survey Junkie and Swagbucks offer paid survey opportunities.

Test Scoring

Estimated Monthly Income: $3000+

Test scoring is a flexible side hustle where you’ll evaluate student responses to standardized testing. This job usually requires a bachelor’s degree, and you’ll need to pass a qualifying test to become a scorer. 

Companies like Pearson and ETS hire remote test scorers. Also, the average annual pay for an online test scorer in the United States is $58,329 yearly.

Data Entry

Estimated Monthly Income: $2500+

Data entry is a simple and flexible side hustle you can do from anywhere. It involves inputting information into a computer system from forms or other non-electronic forms of data. Websites like Upwork and Freelancer regularly post data entry jobs. 

According to Payscale, the average hourly pay for data entry clerks in the U.S. is around $13.46.

Bookkeeping

Estimated Monthly Income: $3500+

If you’re good with numbers, bookkeeping can be a profitable side hustle. Small businesses often outsource their bookkeeping tasks, which makes this a great opportunity for those with the right skills. You’ll be responsible for recording financial transactions, updating statements, and checking financial records for accuracy. 

Websites like FlexJobs and Upwork regularly post bookkeeping jobs. According to Payscale, the average hourly wage for a bookkeeper in the U.S. is around $18.25.

Coding Services

Estimated Monthly Income: $5000+

If you have coding skills, offering your services as a freelance coder can be highly lucrative. This could involve web development, app development, and software programming. The demand for these skills is high, and businesses are willing to pay well for quality work. 

Freelance websites like Upwork and Toptal provide plenty of opportunities for freelance coders. According to Payscale, the average hourly wage for a freelance programmer in the U.S. is around $29.09.

Understanding the Unique Challenges for Active Duty Military

Serving in the military is no small feat, and we salute those who choose this noble path. However, life on active duty has challenges that make pursuing a side hustle seem daunting. Let’s break down these challenges:

Frequent Relocations

As a military member, you may find yourself frequently relocating. This nomadic lifestyle can make maintaining a traditional side job that requires a fixed location difficult.

But here’s the thing – we live in a digital age where opportunities are abundant, even if you’re on the move. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr offer various remote work opportunities, allowing you to earn from anywhere.

Limited Free Time

Finding extra time for a side hustle between training, deployments, and day-to-day duties can be tricky. The key here is to look for side hustles that can fit into your schedule, not the other way around. Apps like TaskRabbit let you pick up small jobs based on your availability.

Adherence to Military Policies

Active duty members must adhere to a strict code of conduct. This means any side hustle must not conflict with military policies or values. Always consult your commanding officer or legal advisor before starting a side hustle to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your military commitments.

Evaluating the Suitability of a Side Hustle

Side hustles for Active Duty Military are not all created equal, especially when you’re a service member. Here are some factors you should consider:

Flexibility and Time Commitment

A suitable side hustle for active duty members should offer flexibility. Look for opportunities that allow you to set your hours and don’t require a significant time commitment. The gig economy is booming with flexible options, from freelance writing to pet sitting.

Skill Requirement

Consider your skills when choosing a side hustle. If you’re great at graphic design, consider freelancing on platforms like 99designs. Personal training can be a lucrative option if you’re a fitness enthusiast. Leveraging your existing skills can make your side hustle more enjoyable and profitable.

Income Potential

While passion is important, the income potential of a side hustle should not be overlooked. Research shows that the average monthly income for side hustlers is around $6861. Consider the earning potential of your chosen side hustle and if it’s worth your time and effort.

Legal Considerations for Active Duty Military Side Hustles

Navigating the legal landscape of side hustles while on active duty is crucial. Let’s explore this terrain together.

Military’s Policy on Secondary Employment

In the military, secondary employment is not prohibited but subject to certain rules and regulations. According to the Department of Defense Directive 5500.7, service members must obtain approval from their commanding officer before engaging in outside employment or business activities.

For more information, I recommend checking out the Department of Defense Standards of Conduct Office, which provides detailed information about these policies.

Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest arises when your side hustle interferes with your official duties or exploits your military position for personal gain. A classic example of a conflict of interest would be selling military equipment or using privileged information to gain an unfair advantage in your side business.

To avoid conflicts, always ensure your side hustle is separate from your military duties and does not exploit your position. Consult the U.S. Office of Government Ethics for guidance.

Tax Implications

Taxation can get tricky when juggling a military career and a side hustle. Remember, income from your side hustle is taxable and must be reported on your tax return. Tools like TurboTax or H&R Block can help you navigate this process.

Balancing Military Duties and Side Hustles

Having a side hustle while serving in the military can be rewarding but requires careful balancing. Let’s examine some strategies.

Time Management Strategies

Managing time effectively is key to juggling military duties and a side hustle. Here are some tips:

• Prioritize tasks: Not all tasks are created equal. Identify the most important ones and tackle them first.
• Use digital tools: Apps like Trello or Asana can help you stay organized and manage your time effectively.
• Delegate tasks: If possible, delegate tasks in your side hustle to free up more time for your military duties.

Stress Management

Having a side hustle while serving in the military can be stressful. It’s important to look after your mental health. Consider the following:

• Regular exercise: Exercise is a proven stress reliever. Try to incorporate regular physical activity into your routine.
• Meditation: Apps like Headspace offer guided meditations that can help reduce stress.
• Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors if you feel overwhelmed.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial when juggling a military career and a side hustle. Here are some strategies:

• Set boundaries: Make boundaries between your military duties, side hustle, and personal life.
• Take time off: Don’t forget to take time off to rest and recharge.
• Stay connected: Make sure to spend quality time with loved ones. They are your biggest support system.
• The Ultimate Guide to Side Hustles for Active Duty Military Members.

Resources for Active Duty Military Entrepreneurs

Side hustles for active-duty military members are gaining popularity, and plenty of resources are available to help you get started. Here are some valuable resources:

Business Grants and Loans for Military Personnel

Take note, active duty military personnel! Many grants and loans are available to help you kickstart your side hustle. Here are some you might want to consider:

• The Antares REACH Grant Program offers $20,000 grants to historically underrepresented business owners, including people with military affiliation.
• The Second Service Foundation Grant is another great resource for veterans looking to start their businesses.
• The Military Personnel and Veteran-Owned Small Business Loan Program provides no-interest loans of up to $50,000 for businesses from one to eight years.

Educational Resources and Training Programs

Education and training can differentiate between a successful side hustle and a failure. Here are some resources that provide education and training for military personnel:

• SBA (Small Business Administration) supports veterans as they enter the world of business ownership. They provide funding programs, training, and federal contracting opportunities.
• Warriors Rising is an educational initiative designed to help veterans become entrepreneurs.

Networking Opportunities

Networking is crucial for any entrepreneur. It helps you build relationships, learn from others, and discover new opportunities. As a military personnel, you have access to exclusive networking opportunities:

• Hivers and Strivers is an Angel Investment Group focusing on early-stage investments to support startup companies founded and run by graduates of U.S. Military Academies.

Success Stories of Active Duty Military Side Hustles

Side hustles for active-duty military members are possible and quite successful. Here are some inspiring stories:

Inspiring Examples

• The Military Money Show is a podcast hosted by active duty naval officer and personal finance enthusiast David Pere. Through his show, David helps military personnel achieve financial freedom through side hustles.
• Military Dollar is a blog run by an active-duty Air Force officer who shares her journey toward financial independence while serving in the military.

Lessons Learned

Every success story comes with its own set of lessons learned. These experiences can provide valuable insights and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Tips for Success

Success doesn’t come easy, but with the right tips and strategies, you can increase your chances of building a successful side hustle. Stay tuned for tips from successful military entrepreneurs.

Starting a side hustle as an active-duty military member is not only possible but can be incredibly rewarding. The resources are out there; it’s up to you to take advantage of them!

Best Side Hustles for Active Duty Military FAQ

How can I make extra money in active duty military?

Active-duty military members often look for ways to earn some extra money. They can consider part-time job ideas like remote work for companies, selling old stuff, babysitting, or even delivering groceries and fast food. Another side hustle idea could be pet sitting or dog walking, which is a great way to earn extra cash and can be very flexible. Military members can also consider starting an online course to make money online.

Can I have a side hustle in the military?

Yes, active military members are allowed to have a side job in the military. Some popular side jobs for the military include freelance photography, working as a library assistant, or even bagging groceries. A perfect side hustle for anyone in the military could be graphic design, cutting hair, or being a D.J. for events.

How can I make good money in the military?

To make decent money in the military, one can consider trading stock options or the stock market, which can generate passive income. Building a business is another way to make money, although it’s a riskier option with no guaranteed returns. Sometimes, volunteering for hazardous duty can lead to earning up to $225 extra per month.

How do you get the 50k bonus in the military?

Some branches of the military offer bonuses for specific jobs or tasks. To receive a bonus, you must meet certain qualifications and complete specific duties assigned by your branch. These bonuses are typically paid out in increments over several years.

Can you make 6 figures in the military?

Yes! Many active military personnel have side hustles that bring in six-figure incomes. With hard work and perseverance, achieving financial success while balancing a military career is possible. Some popular high-paying side hustle ideas for military members include writing and publishing books, creating online courses, or offering consulting services.

Best Side Hustles for Active Duty Military Conclusion

The best side hustles for active duty military can provide substantial extra income while serving. It’s a fantastic way for military families and spouses to turn their spare time into a profitable venture, leading to financial stability and independence. Whether house-sitting jobs on a military base or exploring creative ideas for side jobs, there are endless opportunities to make extra money, support the military community, and fulfill housing needs while on active duty service.

These side hustles aren’t just about making money; they also offer an easy way to make valuable connections, develop new skills, and potentially lay the groundwork for a business you can continue after leaving the military. While a side hustle won’t make you rich overnight, it can be an excellent way to make extra cash in your spare time. Idea by idea, you can start making money and gradually grow your side hustle into a significant source of income.

However, it’s essential to remember that every side hustle requires commitment, time management, and dedication. The key to successful side hustle is finding something you enjoy and can manage alongside your duties as a military member. Whether it is a job that aligns with your skills or passion or a venture that fits well within the military pay and veterans’ benefits structure, picking the right side hustle could be your ticket to making a ton of money. Nurturing your side business can start a military legacy of entrepreneurship and financial independence that can inspire many to follow your path.