What is Credit?

Credit is the ability to borrow money now with the promise to pay it back later. It’s like a financial trust-building exercise that allows you to make purchases even if you don’t have the funds at the moment.

Think of credit as a tool that can help you achieve your goals. For example, if you want to buy a car or go to college, you may need to borrow money from a bank or a lending institution. By establishing and maintaining good credit, you demonstrate to lenders that you are responsible and capable of repaying the borrowed funds.

Types of Credit

Credit cards are not the only type of credit there is. Loans and mortgages are also ways to get money now and pay it back later. Here are the three main types of credit:

Credit Cards – Credit cards are commonly used for purchases and offer a revolving line of credit. They allow you to borrow money up to a specific credit limit, and you must repay the borrowed amount within a given timeframe. There are two types of credit cards:

• Secured credit cards need a refundable deposit as security, and often come with a spending restriction. They help build credit responsibly, as timely payments show good credit behavior. Like training wheels for finances, it’s a stepping stone to unsecured credit cards.
• Unsecured credit cards do not need a deposit. They let you borrow money up to a set limit from the card issuer. Responsible use, like paying bills on time, builds credit history and offers more spending flexibility.

Loans – A loan is money you borrow from a bank or lender. You agree to pay it back over time, often with extra money (interest) added. It helps you afford things like school, a car, or a home, but responsible repayment is important to avoid financial trouble.

Mortgages – A mortgage is a long-term loan used to buy a home. You borrow money from a bank or lender to pay for the house, and you make regular payments, including interest, until the loan is fully repaid. If you don’t pay, the lender can take back the house.

What is a Credit Score?

A credit score is like a money reputation number. It shows how well you handle borrowing and payments. When you pay bills on time and use credit smartly, your score goes up. It’s like getting a good grade in money management. A higher score makes it easier to borrow money in the future and can even make it cheaper. 

The highest credit score you can achieve is typically 850. While reaching the absolute highest score is rare, even scores in the high 700s or 800s are considered excellent and can provide you with the best borrowing terms and opportunities. A bad credit score is generally considered to be in the range of 300 to 579. 

You can keep track of your credit score by using free websites or apps that provide updates regularly. These tools show your score, credit history, and any changes. Set up alerts for unusual activities. Reviewing your credit reports annually from three major credit bureaus also helps ensure accuracy. By staying informed, you can make informed financial decisions and work towards a healthier credit score.

The Importance of Good Credit

Now that you know what credit is, the types there are, and what a credit score is, let’s look at why good credit is so important:

• Lower Interest Rates: A strong credit score means you’ll qualify for lower interest rates on loans and credit cards, saving you money in the long run.
• Easier Loan Approvals: Lenders are more likely to approve your loan applications when you have good credit, giving you access to necessary funds.
• Renting a Home: Landlords often check your credit before renting to you; a good score makes you a more attractive tenant.
• Better Credit Card Offers: With good credit, you can access credit cards with favorable terms, rewards, and benefits.
• Employment Opportunities: Some employers check credit history during the hiring process, and a good score may enhance job prospects.
• Utility Services: A strong credit history can make it easier to establish utility services without hefty deposits.
• Security Deposits: When renting a car or booking a hotel, a good credit score may help you avoid or reduce security deposits.
• Cell Phone Contracts: Cellular providers may offer better plans or even waive deposits if you have good credit.
• Insurance Premiums: Good credit can lead to lower insurance premiums for auto, home, and other types of coverage.
• Financial Freedom: A solid credit score provides the freedom and flexibility to make major purchases and achieve your financial goals with confidence.

What to Do if You Have No Credit

For many teenagers, having no credit is normal. To kickstart your credit journey, consider these effective strategies:

Secured Credit Cards

This type of card requires you to provide a security deposit, which then becomes your credit limit. This ensures that you can’t spend beyond your means, minimizing the risk of accumulating debt. By consistently making on-time payments, you showcase responsible credit behavior and build a positive credit history.

Credit Builder Loans

This type of loan works by borrowing a small amount of money from a lender, which is typically held in a separate account. You then make regular monthly payments, often over a short period, towards repaying the loan. Once the loan is fully repaid, you receive the total amount borrowed, minus any fees or interest. The lender reports your timely payments to the credit bureaus, helping you build a positive credit history.

Become an Authorized User

If a family member or friend with good credit is willing, get added as an authorized user on their credit card. Their responsible credit behavior can have a positive impact on your credit history. Just make sure the card issuer reports authorized user activity to the credit bureaus for it to be effective.

Credit Mistakes to Avoid

Unfortunately, financial mistakes happen, and when they do, your credit score can suffer. Here are four major credit mistakes to avoid:

• Late Payments – Consistently making late payments can lead to negative marks on your credit report and potentially lower your credit score.
• Maxing Out Credit Cards – Maxing out credit cards suggests high credit utilization and may impact your creditworthiness.
• Ignoring Credit Reports – Neglecting to review your credit reports can result in missed opportunities to correct inaccuracies or detect any signs of fraud.
• High credit utilization – Using your credit card close to its limit can negatively impact your credit score. Do your best to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your total available credit limit.

Conclusion

Remember, the key to maintaining good credit is to use it responsibly. This includes making on-time payments, keeping your credit usage low, and avoiding excessive debt. By doing so, you will set yourself up for a bright financial future and open doors to opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to access. So stay hopeful and start building your credit today!

The post Understanding Credit and Credit Scores: A Guide for Teenagers appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Welding: Building a Solid Future

A welder is a tradesperson who fuses or joins materials (usually metal) using heat and specialized equipment. Skilled welders are in high demand across several industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive. With the continuous growth of infrastructure projects and the need for skilled tradespeople, welders can command attractive salaries. Welding certificate programs usually take six months to two years to complete.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for welders is around $47,010. This number is for those without trade school experience. Experienced professionals can earn well over $60,000 per year. 

Electrician: Energize Your Career

Electricians play a crucial role in ensuring the safe installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems. With the increasing complexity of modern electrical systems and the rise of renewable energy, the demand for skilled electricians continues to surge. Electricians can work in residential, commercial, or industrial settings and can earn substantial incomes. Electrician trade school certificate programs typically take four months to one year to complete.

The average annual wage for electricians is approximately $56,180, according to the BLS. Top earners bring in over $96,580 per year.

HVAC Technician: Heating Up Your Earnings

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are integral to maintaining comfortable indoor environments. HVAC technicians install, repair, and maintain these systems, making them indispensable in industrial, commercial, and residential settings. As energy efficiency becomes a priority, the demand for skilled HVAC technicians grows. HVAC trade school programs commonly take two years to complete.

According to the BLS, HVAC technicians can earn an average annual wage of $48,630, with experienced technicians commanding salaries exceeding $77,920.

Commercial Truck Driver: Hitting the Road to Success

For individuals who enjoy being on the move, a career as a commercial truck driver can be highly rewarding. The transportation industry is the backbone of the economy, and qualified truck drivers are in constant demand to ensure the efficient delivery of goods across the country. With the right training and licensing, commercial truck drivers can earn a substantial income. This is one of the fastest careers when it comes to the duration of schooling. Drivers can complete their training program and get their CDL in as little as seven weeks.

The median annual wage for commercial truck drivers is approximately $48,310, according to the BLS. Top earners can surpass $66,840 per year.

Dental Hygienist: Smiling All the Way to the Bank

For those interested in the healthcare field, becoming a dental hygienist can be a lucrative trade school pathway. Dental hygienists work alongside dentists, providing essential oral health care services such as cleaning teeth, examining patients, and educating them on proper dental hygiene practices. With an increasing focus on preventive dental care, the demand for dental hygienists is on the rise. The most direct route to becoming a dental hygienist takes two years.

Dental hygienist is one of the highest paying trades on our list. According to the BLS, they earn an average annual wage of $77,810, with experienced hygienists earning over $103,340 per year.

Construction Management: Building Your Way to Wealth

Construction projects require skilled professionals to oversee and coordinate various aspects of the building process. A trade school education in construction management can open doors to high-paying careers as construction managers. These professionals are responsible for project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and ensuring smooth operations on construction sites. Typically, construction managers need four years of trade school, but they are also the highest-paying professionals on our list.

The BLS reported the 2021 median annual pay for construction managers to be $98,890. Those with more experience can make more than $166,790 per year. Now that’s a fat paycheck.

Aircraft and Aviation Mechanic: Soaring Salaries in the Skies

The aviation industry relies on skilled aircraft mechanics to ensure the safety and proper functioning of airplanes and helicopters. Trade school programs in aviation maintenance can equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to become aircraft mechanics. As air travel continues to grow, the demand for qualified mechanics remains strong. Aircraft and aviation mechanic trade school programs typically run from one to two years.

Aircraft and aviation mechanics earn an average annual wage of approximately $65,550, according to the BLS. Experienced aircraft mechanics can earn well over $100,000 per year.

Plumbing: Piping Profits to Your Pocket

Plumbers are essential in maintaining and repairing plumbing systems, including pipes, fixtures, and appliances. As the demand for clean water and efficient plumbing systems persists, skilled plumbers enjoy steady employment opportunities and attractive pay. Trade school programs in plumbing can provide the necessary training to embark on a plumbing career. 

Plumbers earn a median annual wage of around $56,330, and those with expertise in specialized areas can earn even higher incomes.

Industrial Machinery Mechanic: Maintaining the Wheels of Industry

Industrial machinery mechanics play a vital role in keeping manufacturing plants and industrial facilities running smoothly. These professionals are responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing a wide range of machinery and equipment. With the advancement of automation and technology, the demand for skilled industrial machinery mechanics remains high. Industrial machinery mechanics can get their trade school certificate in as little as seven months.

Trade school education in this field can lead to well-paying jobs. The BLS reported the 2021 median annual pay for industrial machinery mechanics to be $59,380. Top earners can earn over $80,260 per year.

Esthetician: Beauty and Profits in the Beauty Industry

The beauty and skincare industry is booming, and estheticians are at the forefront of providing various skin and beauty treatments to clients. Trade school programs in esthetics can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to provide services such as facials, waxing, and skincare treatments. As people continue to prioritize self-care and appearance, the demand for skilled estheticians grows. The time required to become a certified esthetician is typically around 1,000 hours. If you are a full-time student, programs normally take five to six months to complete. 

Estheticians can earn an average annual wage of around $46,890, according to Glassdoor.com. Those working in high-end establishments or with a loyal client base can make $64,297 per year.

Closing Thoughts

Trade school education offers a practical and efficient route to high-paying careers. By honing their skills in fields such as welding, electrician work, HVAC technology, commercial truck driving, or dental hygiene, individuals can tap into lucrative job opportunities without the need for a traditional four-year degree.  You might also want to check out the 15 Highest Paying Online Jobs Without a Degree.

Moreover, as industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the demand for skilled trade professionals is expected to remain strong. So, if you’re looking to cash in on your skills and secure a fat paycheck, consider these ten trade school pathways as your stepping stones to a prosperous future.

The post Cash In on Your Skills: 10 Trade School Pathways to Fat Paychecks appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

A surefire way of making sure each step towards your dream career is worth taking is by researching which degrees have high demands within the job market. Choosing a degree that leads to a rewarding career that you love, pays well, and is in high demand is vital to ensuring your success. It is also a sure way to find an industry that offers job security.

We searched for the best college degrees that promise great careers. By “promise,” we mean high demand and good pay. Of course, we can’t promise or guarantee that you will get hired right out of school, but choosing the right degree program can greatly help. Here are six of the best college degrees that promise great careers.

Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

Computer systems and software are an integral part of our lives, making for plenty of career opportunities for software developers. In addition, as technology advances and changes, the demand for software will only increase: existing software needs to be updated accordingly, and new programs must be created to meet the needs of new hardware architectures. This makes software engineering a high-demand career.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering is a highly coveted degree that offers students the opportunity to learn how to manage and design software from the ground up. It equips students with a vast arsenal of skills needed to succeed in the tech industry. They gain in-depth knowledge on topics like databases, computer architecture, and operating systems while applying mathematical concepts like algebra and calculus. It is an incredibly valuable degree that can lead to fulfilling and successful career opportunities. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Software Developers was $109,020 per year. That equates to $52.41 per hour. Job growth from 2021-2031 is 25%, much higher than the national average.

Bachelor of Science, Healthcare Administration (BSHA)

Healthcare management is a fruitful career path with lots of room to grow! As populations age, there’s a growing demand for qualified administrators in medical facilities. 

A Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration can lead to a lucrative career in healthcare management. Students learn how to run health facilities like hospitals and clinics. And they gain the skills and knowledge required for the industry’s unique challenges. BSHA graduates can look forward to a satisfying career in business and finance within a healthcare facility.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Healthcare Managers was $101,340 annually. That’s $48.72 per hour. The demand for healthcare administrators from 2021-2031 is expected to increase by 28%, which is much higher than the national average.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree is the best and most direct path to becoming a Registered Nurse. With this four-year program, students can earn their degrees with a combination of general education courses and nursing theory and practice courses. Plus, BSN degrees offer hands-on experience through clinical rotations that give a detailed overview of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and more – all essential skills for a career as an RN. 

BSN programs are designed to provide students with real-life clinical experience. Students work and learn in clinical settings, helping patients and applying the knowledge they’ve learned. This gives them the skills and confidence that they’ll need when entering the nursing profession upon program completion.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Registered Nurses was $77,600 annually. That equates to $37.31 per hour.

Bachelor of Science, Data Science

The field of data science is continually expanding and growing, with so much data to analyze in this digital age. Organizations know the value of having a data scientist look over their collected information; they can make sense of it in otherwise impossible ways. As a result, more and more businesses are looking for qualified data science professionals.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Data Science is an excellent way to get a career with job stability and outstanding wages. Students learn a wide range of skills that will be immensely valuable to businesses and governments in the data-driven world. These include programming, data visualization, machine learning, and more. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Data Scientists was $100,910 annually. That equates to $48.52 per hour.The need for these professionals is expected to increase by 36% through 2031, which is much higher than the national average.

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Pharmacy jobs are some of the highest-paid careers in the healthcare industry. Like most healthcare professions, the demand for pharmacists and pharmacy degree holders is always high. Undergraduate students interested in entering the healthcare industry have a great opportunity with a major in pharmacy. 

A Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree can open many doors, including high-paying positions such as pharmaceutical sales representative, pharmacy technician, and pharmaceutical consultant. In addition to generous salaries, you can feel secure knowing that jobs in the healthcare field are stable and always in demand.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Pharmacists was $128,570 per year. That equates to $61.81 per hour! 

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering is an exciting field that involves the design, development, and construction of air and spacecraft. It is a constantly evolving industry with technological advances leading to increased demand for aerospace engineers. 

For those who want to work in space or employ technology on Earth, a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering can equip you to take on the most complex technical tasks. Students learn how to create new technologies for application in commercial aviation, military systems, and space, with a focus on systems engineering, structural design, navigational guidance and control systems, aerodynamics, and other areas. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2021 median pay for Aerospace Engineers was $122,270 annually. That equates to $58.78 per hour.

Closing Thoughts

This list offers only a fraction of the bachelor’s degrees available that promise great careers. But we hope that it helps you start looking at what path you want to choose. Be sure to check the current job market for the region that you want to work in. This can help you determine your career outlook for the foreseeable future.

It is now more convenient than ever to earn a college degree. Of course, you may wish to have the whole college campus experience. However, colleges and universities nationwide now offer online degree programs to their students. Such programs allow busy, working people to fit their studies into their already tight schedules. And they make earning a degree easier and faster than ever. 

When looking for the best program for you, be sure to choose an accredited and reputable college. Colleges that are not accredited are not taken seriously by hiring managers, so your degree will not be accepted as proof you are capable of the job. Instead, look at well-known colleges with excellent reputations.

The post Thinking of Going to College? Here Are Six Degrees That Can Land You a High-paying Job appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Why is it So Hard for Teens to Make Money?

There are a few different reasons why it can be difficult for teens to make money. For one, many teens are not legally old enough to have a job in their specific state, depending on labor laws. Additionally, if they don’t yet have a car or driver’s license, it can be difficult for teens to get rides to and from work even if they can legally get a job. They may need to depend on their parents or others for transportation. This is particularly true in more rural areas. Additionally, school also takes up a lot of time for teenagers, meaning their availability for jobs can be spotty. 

Are There Risks to Making Money Online?

The only risks to making money online, particularly for teens, come from a lack of being careful with personal information. When trying to find sites where you can make money online, you should first do a lot of research on the gigs you are pursuing. Some sites are not well-secured, so there can be a breach that causes a leak of your secure information. Additionally, some sites are set up to look like trustworthy sources when they are actually scams. So before you put your information or banking info anywhere, look on sites like Trustpilot to be sure a site is secure. 

Legitimate Ways to Make Money Online as a Teen

Now that we’ve discussed why it’s difficult for teens to make money and the risks of making money online, we can discuss several of the legitimate ways that teenagers can make money online. Of course, this list is not exhaustive, and there are truly limitless possibilities these days when it comes to earning money online without leaving your home. However, the list below includes some of the most popular and profitable options for making money online as a teenager. 

Play Games

You may be wondering if you really can make money by playing games online. The answer is yes, you can! On sites like Swagbucks, you can earn money by playing sponsored games and completing daily tasks through the webpage or app. Swagbucks has paid out more than $550 million to its users since its inception, so it’s definitely not a scam. While you may not earn money very fast, you can start saving for the future or stowing money away for something you want. 

Get Cash Back on Purchases

If you’re a teenager, you probably aren’t the one doing most of the shopping in your household. However, you can benefit from the shopping that the rest of your family does by using sites like Ibotta. Ibotta gives you cash back on many of the items you buy already–including household products, groceries, clothing, medicine, and more! Many people have reported earning several hundred dollars monthly using this app. 

Start a Blog

Starting a blog is one job you can do without ever leaving your home, although it may take a little while to get it off the ground. Blogs can be highly profitable once you have a bit of traction, as companies can either pay you to review/talk about their products on your blog or pay you to advertise for them on your webpage. WordPress or Wix are the most popular sites you can use to make a blog for free. 

Start a YouTube Channel

Similar to a blog, a YouTube channel can take a while to get off the ground, but it can be very profitable once you have consistent views and a good base of subscribers. Even if you can only film yourself with your phone camera, start making videos about a subject you’re passionate about! For example, if you love makeup, do tutorials. If you’re a gamer, film yourself playing your favorite video games. Making money on YouTube is an excellent idea for teens since you can work it around your busy schedule. 

Make Stickers

If you have a laptop or tablet, you already have everything you need to start making stickers that you can sell on sites like RedBubble or Etsy. If you have a tablet, download a drawing or design app to start making stickers by hand. On a laptop, use a free graphic design application like Canva to create original sticker designs. Once you’re finished, start uploading these designs to RedBubble or Etsy and watch the money roll in!

Teach a Skill

If you are good at a particular skill, use it to help teach other people and make money! For example, if you know another language or are a talented painter, film yourself doing introductory lessons and upload them onto a website like YouTube or Vimeo on private or unlisted. From there, you can market these tutorials, sell them to people wanting to learn, and then share the link so they can watch on their own time. 

Design Printable Products

Similar to designing stickers, you can use free graphic design or drawing tools with your device to create printable products you can sell. For example, there’s a significant market for things like printable planners, printable art prints, printable teacher supplies, and printable budget trackers. If you have a unique idea for making one of these items or something similar, design it yourself and then sell it on Etsy. 

Sell Your Clothes 

Have a lot of stuff in your closet that’s gone out of style or just doesn’t fit you anymore? Resell your clothing online with apps like Depop, Mercari, or Poshmark to earn instant cash. There’s a market for pretty much any item you’re willing to part with, and listing items at an affordable price will help them sell faster. All you need to do is get an envelope, tape the prepaid label to it, and then leave the item in your mailbox. 

Paid Online Surveys

We saved the best for last! Paid online surveys are one of the best and most consistent ways to make money, especially through a trusted site like Branded Surveys. Taking surveys for cash is a type of side hustle many people are getting into nowadays because you can complete online surveys for cash 24/7, 365 days a year. This is great for teens who have busy schedules and may only be able to work on making money at night or on weekends. Online surveys for money is a highly flexible gig.

Branded Surveys connects teens to reliable researchers who want to pay them to complete various types of questionnaires, providing $1 to $3 per survey completed (sometimes more). Branded protects your data using high-level website encryption and only provides opportunities from trusted companies and researchers. Additionally, Branded only has a $5 minimum for cashing out, so you can start seeing money in your bank account pretty quickly. Finally, you can take cash surveys for Paypal or gift cards through Branded. If you want a consistent side hustle that’s easy to do from home, Branded Surveys is the way to go. 

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When Should You Get a Credit Card?

There’s no perfect time to start building credit. However, things begin to get more important financially once you get into your early twenties or finish school (college or otherwise). At that point, you will want to start looking at buying cars, signing apartment leases, or even buying properties once you have a steady salary and a stable job. That being said, it’s good to start building your credit with a credit card before you get to some of these major financial milestones. That way, you’ll be ready once they present themselves. Therefore, the late teens and early twenties are ideal times to get your first credit card.

Why Is It Important To Get a Credit Card?

Getting a credit card and starting to build up your credit is essential for many reasons. For one, credit cards can help provide you with emergency funds. If something comes up that you need to pay for, but you don’t have enough cash on hand, credit cards can help you offset the cost upfront. Credit cards can also help you finance big purchases you don’t have the money for immediately.

But the key to using credit is being responsible with it. Paying off your credit card purchases in a timely manner contributes to your money management skills and improves your credit score for every on-time payment you make. 

Tips for Choosing Your First Credit Card

Now that we’ve discussed when you should get your first credit card and why credit cards are beneficial, we can talk about tips for actually choosing your first credit card. There are dozens of different cards on the market, and many companies will reach out to you with enticing offers. However, it’s important not to immediately say “yes” to just any card. And always read the fine print before agreeing to any offers, no matter how great they might sound. 

Do All The Research

Before you decide what credit card to get, you should do all the research on the different types of cards that are available. Between travel credit cards, store credit cards, or credit cards with special rewards, make sure you check out every institution and the respective cards they offer. When looking at cards, consider annual fees, rewards percentages, maximum rewards payouts, interest rates, and other benefits. By doing all your research, you can get the best possible deal and benefits from your credit card. 

Make Sure You Have Verifiable Income

In order to issue you a credit card, lenders need to know that you can be trusted with their money. This is because, essentially, credit cards are a bank lending you money that they trust you will repay when the bill comes due. Therefore, you will need to prove that you have steady, verifiable income for lenders to trust you with their money. If you have no money and no credit score, you will likely not be approved for unsecured credit cards. So, your income must be steady.

Read All the Terms and Conditions

When you look closer at the cards you’re interested in, be sure to read all the terms and conditions for each card before applying. Sometimes, interest rates are printed small in the terms and conditions. This is especially true if rates are super high. Institutions don’t want you to notice them! 

Additionally, the terms and conditions are where you will read all of the benefits and rewards percentages. Whether you uncover negative or positive information, reading the terms and conditions will help you uncover a more holistic picture of what your credit card will provide. 

Check Out the Perks and Benefits

As we just mentioned, reading the terms and conditions of your card is very important. Additionally, reading about the perks and benefits available to you is one of the most important parts of choosing a credit card. 

What areas do you spend the most money in? Is it entertainment, food, transportation, or something else? Are those categories the ones that provide you the most rewards with the credit card you’re looking at? These questions are important things to consider. For example, if you never travel, a travel rewards credit card might not benefit you too much. But if dining out is one of your favorite hobbies, a card with cashback at restaurants might be worth looking into. 

Look Into Secured Credit Cards

Secured credit cards are an excellent option for your first credit card, particularly if you have no other credit (student loans, car leases, etc.). Secured credit cards are credit cards where you put down a security deposit, and then your deposit acts as your credit limit. For example, if you put down a $500 deposit, you have a $500 credit limit. This prevents you from spending more money than you can afford, and it also rewards you by improving your credit score as long as you continue to make payments on time.  If you lack self-discipline or the ability to keep your credit cards in check, a secured credit card is a great starting point. 

See Where Your Credit Stands First

It doesn’t affect your credit score if you apply for a credit card and get denied. However, multiple hard inquiries on your credit will. That said, be sure to see where your credit stands before applying for credit cards. If your score is low or you have practically no credit, you will likely be denied by credit cards requiring you to have a higher score or more substantial credit. When searching for your first credit card, avoid applying for cards that require users to have excellent credit. That way, you will avoid getting stuck in a cycle of applying for cards and having hard inquiries on your credit report. 

Pay Back Your Loans

If you have student loans, car loans, or personal loans, a positive payment history on those loans will positively impact your credit and help you appear more trustworthy to credit lenders. While having outstanding loans might seem negative, you can use those to your advantage when applying for credit cards. If you have made steady, reliable payments on your loans, you are considered “low risk” for lenders and can therefore be trusted with an unsecured credit card. 

Become an Authorized User

If you find yourself stuck in terms of getting approved for a credit card or you don’t want to make any more hard inquiries on your credit, becoming an authorized user on another card is a great solution. For example, if your parent, friend, or family member has a credit card with a high limit, they can add you as an authorized user to their card. In this scenario, your credit score can actually benefit from their positive payment history (even if you don’t spend any money)! But beware, always make sure you pay the bill on time. Late payments as an authorized user will not only lower your credit score; they can hurt your relationship too. 

Bottom Line

Getting a credit card as you’re starting out in life is a great way to build a solid financial foundation. However, be sure you find a card with terms that work for you. If you pay your bills on time and never spend more than you can reasonably pay back, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a healthy credit score. Your future self will thank you!

The post How To Get Your First Credit Card appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Of course, you likely won’t be fully financially independent as a teenager living at home, but by using the tips below, you can possibly be set up for meeting your long-range financial goals shortly after high school or college. So, if you want to learn how to become financially independent and take care of your own money, keep reading!

What is Considered “Financial Independence”? 

Many different things could be considered “financial independence,” depending on your age and who you ask. For many parents, their teen would be regarded as “independent” if they used all their own money to purchase anything that wasn’t entirely necessary. While your parents are obligated to provide you with necessities like food, clothing, and housing, it’s always good to make your own money to pay for things like snacks, games, clothes, and hanging out or doing activities with friends. Teenagers are typically not asked to be completely financially independent by their parents, so this is an excellent place to start.

Below are ten significant actions you can take as a teenager to ensure your financial independence for the future. While you may not be able to do all of these things, even knocking out a couple can make a huge difference in your future budgeting goals. 

Get a Job

Getting a job, even a low-maintenance job, is a great start to the path to financial independence as a teen. Whether you work at a retail store, coffee shop, restaurant, or something else, getting a job will teach you the value of your time and the value of a dollar. Additionally, getting a weekly or bi-weekly paycheck will help you learn about taxes and what gets removed from your paycheck every week. If you don’t have transportation to get to your job, you can ask your parents or older siblings to drive you, or you can bike or find a bus route that will take you there. 

Get Good Grades

While getting good grades might not seem like it directly relates to financial independence, doing well in school sets you up to succeed in your future. By doing well in school and excelling in your classes, you will likely get the attention of good colleges that want you to attend. Going to a good college connects you with great students, faculty, and an alumni network who are all rooting for you to succeed. So, as much as possible, keep trying for those A’s!

Start Saving for College

You probably won’t be able to pay your way through college alone, no matter how early you start working and saving in your teen years. However, saving for college using your own money from a job will help take some of the load off of your parents and allow you to use your money more freely while you are away at school. Every week, take a specific percentage of your money out of your paycheck and put it into a savings account designated solely for your college savings. By the time you actually go to school, you will likely have accumulated quite a bit of money. 

Invest

Similar to the last tip, investing your money is another great thing to do for your future financial independence. Whether you choose to invest in the stock market, NFTs, physical assets, or something else, put your money in a stable place by keeping it somewhere other than a savings account (where inflation will eat away at it). One of the best things teens can do is to invest small amounts of money every so often into very stable mutual fund indexes (such as the S&P 500), which will accumulate minimal but stable growth each year. 

Open a Retirement Account

You might be thinking to yourself, “I’m only ____! Isn’t it way too early for me to start saving for retirement?” Well, the answer is absolutely not! There is no age that’s “too early” to start saving for retirement, and compound interest means that the earlier you start putting money away, the more you’ll have once you actually retire. When looking back on their lives, many people wish they’d started saving for retirement much earlier or put more money aside from each paycheck. So, don’t wait! Save for retirement now to ensure a comfortable future. 

Don’t Get Into Debt 

It might be incredibly tempting to enter your favorite store and sign your name for a new, shiny credit card that promises thousands of points and cash back. However, it can also be tempting to use this card for things you cannot afford and wind yourself up in a whole lot of credit card debt. It can be very difficult to get out of debt, and interest can make it even more expensive. At this point, you should only use credit cards to build your credit history and establish a good credit score. To do this, you can charge one small amount each month (something under $20, for example) and pay it off immediately before the bill is due. 

Apply for Scholarships

Applying for scholarships will not only take some of the pressure off of you and your parents when it comes to paying for school, but it will also reduce the overall amount of money you’ll need to save toward school. This is because scholarships are a form of “gift aid” for college that does not need to be repaid, so accumulate as much of it as you can. Scholarships are usually offered by your high school or other private entities. 

Keep Good Money Habits 

All of the habits mentioned on this list are smart money habits, but it’s so important to stay in the mindset of remembering how important your money actually is. Once you have a job, you will understand why it’s vital to say “no” occasionally when invited to dinner or asked to go shopping. Sometimes, the best choice regarding what to do with your money is to save it. 

Budget

Budget, budget, budget! Budgeting is the best tip to help you save money and allocate what you actually need, and there are so many free budgeting tools online to help you do it. Whether you use a printed money planner from a site like Canva or an online spending tracker tool, there are many fun ways to stop buying useless things and instead watch your savings stack up.

Take on a Side Hustle 

A “side hustle” is essentially another job or another form of income outside of your regular paycheck. For students, it can also just be a side job you do outside of school. One of the most popular side hustles in recent years is taking online surveys for money.  This is a gig that can be done 24/7, 365 days a year. One of the best and most popular sites to take surveys for cash is Branded Surveys, which has thousands of positive reviews on Trustpilot and has been around for over a decade. So if you need a side hustle to help you make a little extra cash on nights or weekends, you’ll want to check them out!

Other side hustles include food delivery, selling arts and crafts online, or even tutoring online. There are plenty of ways to boost your income to become more financially independent as a teen. And the sooner you create good money habits, the easier life will flow in the years to come. 

The post 10 Actions Teens Can Take Toward Financial Independence appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Paying for College is Tough

There are so many things to consider when it comes to paying for college. Many unexpected expenses will likely pop up alongside your tuition bill, whether it’s the actual tuition itself, room and board, a meal plan, or books. And a lot of them will require payment up-front of some kind. 

Some of the funds you’ll use to pay for college will need to be repaid later, some are earned, and others are essentially gifts. We will go over each type of payment in the following section.

In-State vs. Out-of-State

Whether you attend school in-state versus out-of-state will also significantly impact what you pay in terms of tuition. While this mainly applies to public schools, some private schools will also have discrepancies in tuition prices for in-state versus out-of-state students. 

While students who attend a college or university in their home state will pay a deeply discounted tuition price, if you attend from out-of-state, you could pay double or triple this tuition rate. Of course, scholarships and grants can help bring this cost down, but overall, it is typically much less expensive to go to school in your home state. 

Public vs. Private

Public colleges and universities will typically offer discounted tuition rates for in-state students. Public universities are usually significantly less expensive than many private institutions because they are funded by the government. Therefore, they require less money from students to continue running. 

Private institutions, however, operate entirely on tuition money and donations from alumni. Private schools, then, will typically have higher tuition costs. This doesn’t always mean that private schools will end up being more expensive than public, though. It really all depends on the financial aid and scholarship money you get. 

Parental/Family Help

One of the primary ways students—especially young students—pay for college is with help from their parents and families. Of course, some people’s parents might have the money to pay for their entire education, but this is not usually the case. 

Despite this, many people will have parents, cousins, siblings, and other family members or close friends help them to pay for their education by giving them money or consistently supporting them throughout their education. 

If you do not have the opportunity to be supported by your family, don’t panic! You can still finance college through several other options. 

Loans

Loans are some of the most popular options for students to pay for their education. Unfortunately, as of March 2022, about 45 million people owed over 1.6 trillion dollars in student loan debt to the federal government–and those are just for federal loans! The reality is that many people carry student loan debt throughout their lives, so it is a resource that should be utilized intelligently. In other words, you’ll want to consider how you will pay it off in the future. Additionally, be sure you know how to use extra student loan money responsibly. 

There are two main types of student loans–federal loans from the government and private loans from banks or other lending entities. 

Federal

Federal student loans are a type of financial aid designed by the US government to help students find access to higher education resources. In 2018, around 70 percent of US students were granted federal student loans that covered either part or the total amount of their education. 

Typically, federal student loans have more flexible repayment options and lower interest rates than private loans. Additionally, federal student loans currently have the possibility of being forgiven, as the US government is presently offering debt relief to students who have taken out federal loans. 

Private

Private loans are essentially the same idea, but they come from private lenders such as banks or other financial institutions. You can apply for private loans at any time, and they can be used for any number of expenses, including books, student housing, and other costs.

Private loans will require that you have a credit check, as they are not based on financial need. This means that you’ll need a decent credit score to be approved. Typically, they also have higher interest rates and more rigid repayment options. 

Scholarships

Scholarships are another type of financial aid and perhaps the most preferred form of financial assistance for most students. Scholarships are “gift aid,” or money for college that does not need to be repaid after graduation. This kind of funding is obviously ideal as you won’t need to worry about how to pay it back. 

Scholarships are typically awarded based on academic excellence, merit, or performance in some other area. For example, if your GPA is one of the best in your high school, you may get some merit-based scholarships. If you are an incredibly great golfer or football player, you may get scholarships based on your athletic achievements. 

Most people are not aware of just how many scholarships are available. You may also receive more than one scholarship. In fact, you could have many scholarships from a variety of sources. So be sure to check every nook and cranny to find out what’s available for you. Websites like scholarships.com or BigFuture are ideal places to find some excellent scholarships. 

Grants

Grants are another type of financial aid similar to a scholarship since they do not need to be repaid. But these are often based on financial need rather than merit or academic excellence. Therefore, grants are typically given to students who need the money the most for whatever reason. 

Many grants are also offered to historically underprivileged groups (BIPOC, LGBTQ+ students, children of single parents, disabled students, or first-generation college students). Getting more than one grant for your education is usually possible, so students can stack this kind of aid. You can also stack grants and scholarships to help you pay for college. 

Work Study

A federal work-study is a type of financial aid from the federal government given to undergraduate and graduate students. It allows them to earn money by working to pay for their education expenses. The government essentially assigns you a job at your university that will enable you to make money to help pay for your schooling.

For example, some of the work-study positions you could be assigned include tour guide, office assistant, intern, barista, research assistant, athletic trainer, and many more. Work-study earnings are yours to keep, and they don’t affect your financial aid eligibility. 

Assistantships

Assistantships are typically for graduate students. They are similar to work-study programs in the sense that your college or university hires you to do a job. Typically, however, universities will offer a tuition waiver in exchange for an assistantship job (you may be a teaching assistant or work another job at the university). This waiver may cover some or all of your tuition. Some positions will also offer an hourly wage on top of the waiver, but this depends on the job. 

Side Gigs

College students have always turned to side hustles to help them fund their education. But now, more than ever before, the side-gig scene is loaded with opportunities. From paid online surveys to online tutoring to selling your stuff online, you can make money if you know what to look for. The Branded Daily Digest has a wealth of information about college students making money with side gigs.

Hopefully, some of these ideas have helped you to brainstorm how you will pay for your college education. But, no matter how you finance your degree, be sure to keep track of your money and how much you will need to repay. Learning good financial habits now will ensure you remain financially stable in the future. 

The post What Are The Different Ways to Pay For College? appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

Why Would I Have Extra Student Loan Money?

There are many different reasons why you might have extra money from your student loans. For one, maybe you enrolled in fewer credit hours than you initially thought, which would significantly reduce your tuition. Additionally, you could have received more scholarship or grant money from the school or from an outside source, which would also lower what you owe for tuition. Overall, if you don’t owe as much tuition money as you thought, it will result in a refund of some of your student loan funding, which will typically go back into your bank account. 

Is It Smart to Use Student Loan Money for Other Things?

Whether it’s wise for you to use a leftover student loan balance for other things depends on your financial situation and what you’re using the money for. For example, if you want to take your excess student loan balance and go on an unnecessary shopping spree, that is obviously not the best use of your money. However, if you were already planning on using your own money for other school-related expenses, why not use the loan money you’ve already taken out for that? Below are some of your options regarding how to use your excess student loan money, although this is not an exhaustive list. 

Create a “Rainy Day Fund”

As a full-time student, you will undoubtedly have some unexpected expenses come up. For example, you might want to take a road trip. In this case, you would need extra money for gas and transportation. A professor may ask that you buy a particular book, attend an event, or do a class project that requires extra materials. A friend may ask you to get lunch with them on campus. Whatever the case, putting extra student loan money aside for emergencies or a “rainy day fund” prevents you from having to dip into savings or use a credit card. 

Buy/Lease A Car

If you don’t already have a car on your college campus, you may want to invest in one for your upcoming school year. Whether you need a car to get to campus from your housing or to get to a job, not every college campus is entirely walkable. Depending on the kind of refund you get from your student loans, it could be enough to put up the down payment on a new car or buy a used one from a local dealer. However, this is a big decision. You should probably consult your family about this, regardless of your refund size. 

Use It For Books

Almost every college course you enroll in will ask that you purchase textbooks. Some might only be $10 or $15 each, and many of these you can even buy used from other students. However, some professors will assign a book that needs to be purchased new because it contains an online access code or other digital materials that can only be used once. In cases like these, you should consider putting a few hundred dollars away each semester for your textbooks, which is a great thing to use student loan funds for. 

Buy a Meal Plan/Dining Money

Depending on the school you attend, a meal plan may or may not be included in the tuition you are already paying. However, some schools offer entirely separate meal plans, allowing you to pay an additional fee to eat on campus. This could be a specific number of meals or unlimited meals. Additionally, many schools offer some form of dining dollars that you can use toward paying for food in locations around campus. If you have a student loan refund from your school and aren’t sure what to use it for, a meal plan could be one great option. After all, you’ll always need to eat.

Pay Off/Down Credit Cards

If you already have credit cards open and carry a balance on any of them, another good option for using your student loan refund is to pay off or pay down those credit card balances. That way, at least any debt that you leave school with will be consolidated into your student loans rather than your credit cards. Generally, interest on student loans is far less than the interest on a credit card. So you would actually be doing yourself a tremendous financial favor. Paying off your credit card balance can also give you a lot of relief regarding finances, as you won’t be carrying a balance and can have an open line of credit.

Store Some Money on Your Student Account

Many schools allow students to save money on their personal student accounts for things like printing, parking fees, vending machines, etc. So one option for using your student loan refund balance is to store it on your student account for those situations where you need to print assignments or otherwise give money to the school directly. This is a great way to start setting and keeping your savings goals. 

Start the Loan Repayment Process

Another thing to do with your loan refund money is to start repaying your student loans before your grace period ends. You’ll often have the option to pay the interest on your student loans while still in school, which can save you a lot of money as you repay the loan after you’ve graduated. In addition, putting your loan refund back into your loan payments can help you pay down your loans faster and have smaller monthly payments after graduation. 

Give It Back To Your Parents

If your parents are currently paying for or helping you pay for your secondary education, one of the best things you can do with your student loan refund is to give that money back to your parents. Your parents will likely appreciate this thoughtful gesture. You could even link their bank account directly to your school account, so any refunds go directly to them. 

Return Money To The Department of Education

If you took out federal student loans, you can return any student loan refunds back to the Department of Education to avoid paying interest fees on that part of the loan. In fact, if you give the money back directly, it will be as though you never borrowed it in the first place! 

Extra student loan money can be a relief or a major hassle, but you must consider your options for what to do with it. Ultimately, try to put any refund money toward something that will advance your education rather than wasting it on things you don’t really need. 

The post What To Do With Extra Student Loan Money appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

How Much Does College Really Cost?

How much your undergraduate or graduate education will cost is dependent on your specific degree and the university or college you choose to attend. Additionally, your total cost of attendance will depend a lot on the financial aid package you receive from the college or university. 

Cost also varies depending on whether you attend a private or public university or are an in-state or out-of-state student. Since a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree are two of the most popular degrees, we will talk about the average cost of those.

Bachelor’s Degree

The average cost of attendance to get a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution is $35,331. Attendance costs encompass everything you will have to pay for during your degree, including room and board, books, meal plans, tuition, and more. The average cost of tuition at any four-year college or university is $28,775. Of course, with things like part-time jobs, work studies, or scholarships, you will likely end up paying significantly less, but this is one number to base your estimates on. 

Master’s Degree

Many people choose to get a master’s degree immediately after graduating with their bachelor’s degree. However, this secondary degree adds additional cost to your overall debt, and master’s degree credit hours are typically more expensive than undergraduate coursework. 

A typical public or private institution costs around $30,000 to $40,000 for a master’s degree. However, if you want to attend a prestigious university with many connections, these costs can go up to $100,000! But, again, this cost depends a lot on how long your degree will take, how many credit hours it is, and what your program of study is. 

In-State vs. Out-of-State

Your cost of attendance for any degree or university will also depend significantly on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. For the most part, this only applies to public universities, which are funded partially by state governments. Private universities and colleges typically do not distinguish between in-state and out-of-state students. 

At a public university, students that live within the state who attend the institution typically have deeply discounted tuition rates compared to students coming from out of state. The institution also might offer additional scholarships or grants to in-state students. Going to a public university within your state of residence can have major financial advantages, but it is not entirely necessary. 

How Can I Possibly Get a College Education When It Is So Costly?

Those costs we showed you above are the “listed prices” of higher education—meaning that’s what you would pay for college if you had to finance it out of pocket. But most people cannot afford to pay for the entirety of their education outright. Are there alternatives? Yes!

Thankfully, there are plenty of alternative ways to pay for a college education. And they can significantly lighten the load for you and your family. In the next section of this article, we will discuss federal and private loans, scholarships, grants, work-study, and side hustles to help you pay for your degree(s). 

Alternative Ways to Pay for College

If you want a college education, you should never let a lack of money hinder you from pursuing your dreams. Many prospective students give up when they discover how much it costs to go to college. Yet there are many programs to help you pay for your higher education. 

Loans

Generally, there are two types of financial aid: money that needs to be repaid and money that does not need to be repaid. Loans are one type of financial aid that does need to be repaid, and the amount of money you end up owing will be dependent on the terms and conditions of the specific loan you take out. There are two main types of loans for education purposes: federal loans and loans from private banks.

Federal Loans

Federal Student Aid, an office within the US Department of Education, is the largest provider of federal student funds in the United States. Federal Student Aid provides financial aid in a variety of different ways, including grants, loans, and work-study funds, but the bulk of money you will be looking at is likely coming from loans. 

Federal student loans get repaid with interest over time after completing your education, so you end up paying back more money than you took out with these added interest costs. Currently, some federal student loans are in the process of being forgiven by the government, so there is an added potential that some loans will not need to be repaid.

Private Loans

Private loans are similar to federal student loans, except that they come from private banks or lending companies. Private student loans give you the added benefit of higher borrowing limits. This can be beneficial if you want to attend a particularly expensive college or university. 

Additionally, private loans give you rewards for better credit, meaning that with every on-time payment, you contribute to your credit score. You can also sometimes get favorable terms with good credit, and you will have a wider variety of lenders to choose from. 

Scholarships

Scholarships are one type of aid that does not need to be repaid. They can be offered by virtually any business, person, website, or other entity. There are millions of dollars in scholarship funds available in your local area and online, so it just comes down to searching for the right scholarships for you!

Scholarships will vary in amount and application process. Some will be lengthy and require essays and interviews, while others might only ask for your personal information and institution. And the good news is you can qualify for more than just one scholarship to help you pay for college. 

Grants 

Grants, similar to scholarships, are a type of aid that does not need to be repaid. While scholarships are typically merit-based or experience-based, grants are usually based on financial need. Grants typically come from government entities or professional organizations. 

Work-Study 

Work-study is a federal program designed to give graduate or undergraduate students part-time jobs to help them fund their education. The program encourages students to work in a field related to their interests and educational goals. 

Jobs are available to students both on and off-campus, and you will make at least the federal minimum wage regardless of what job you perform. You can either be paid by the hour or salaried, but your school must pay you at least once a month. 

Side Hustles

Another option for paying for your education is engaging in a side hustle. A side hustle is a side job or gig that enables you to have another income stream. In today’s gig economy, side hustles are more popular than ever, and many students have more than one. 

One popular side hustle people use to make extra money is taking paid online surveys. This gig is particularly well suited to students because they can take surveys for money 24 hours a day, 365 days a year! While you won’t make enough to pay for your entire education, it can offer you enough extra money to afford lunch at school, buy coffee, or go to the movies. 

Another reason students like the survey gig is because you can get paid to take surveys on your phone. That makes it convenient for students to make a little cash between classes, while lounging around, or any other time their phone is handy. And let’s face it, your phone is always nearby if you’re a student!

Similar side hustles that can help you make money for college include:

• Online tutoring
• Becoming a YouTube influencer
• Pet sitting or dog-walking
• Starting a blog
• Delivering food
• Driving for Uber or Lift
• Cleaning houses 
• Become an Amazon affiliate

Closing Thoughts

Higher education is expensive. But it is also the gateway to better-paying jobs over the long haul. Unfortunately, many people don’t even consider going to college because they assume they won’t be able to afford it. But many colleges offer tons of financial help for students to pay for their education.

With financial aid, scholarships, and a few carefully selected side-hustles, becoming a college student might actually be within reach! So don’t give up before thoroughly exploring all the avenues above. 

The post How to Afford a College Education When You’re Broke appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.

In this article, we’ll talk about how students can make money taking surveys. It’s one of the easiest ways we know of to pull in some extra money or gift cards for essentials. Plus, it’s a gig that can fit into any student’s schedule. Read on for all the details. 

Aren’t Paid Online Surveys Just Another Scam?

Scammers have given the online survey industry a bad name. And there are plenty of fraudulent sites that will make inflated claims about ridiculously high earnings. Some even try to charge membership fees, robbing people of what little they already have. However, real, legitimate survey sites still exist, and they are the perfect chance for college students to make a little extra money for minimal effort.

Why You Need Extra Income in College

Every student’s budget will look different, of course. However, even if you are eligible for financial aid, there are still many expenses that a student loan or financial aid package won’t cover. Here are just a few examples:

Transportation

If you are not living on campus, you will need to factor in the cost of gas or transportation when going back and forth to school. If you have a car, you’ll have to have insurance, and you’ll also need to consider vehicle maintenance and repairs.

Books and Class Supplies

Some books and supplies may be covered by financial aid, while others may not. Books are usually not cheap, so make sure you know the cost of any textbooks and class supplies you may need to pay for outright.

Concerts, Football Games, and Other Campus Events

While there are many free events at most colleges, you still may need some cash to get into certain campus events. Plus, if you want food or drinks, you’ll want to have some spare change on hand for refreshments. The same goes for any off-campus events you wish to attend. 

Room Supplies

If you’re living at home during school, this factor won’t apply. But whether you are renting an apartment or staying in the dorms, you’ll probably want to pick up a few necessities. Bedding, rugs, and lamps are an example. You can decorate cheaply and shop at second-hand stores, but you may still want a few new items to make things cozier. Taking surveys for Amazon gift cards is a great way to furnish your dorm room.

Clothing

At some point during the school year, you’ll probably need to get some new clothes. Shoes wear out quickly if you do a lot of walking, and— depending on the climate—you might need to pick up winter gear, too. Of course, you’ll want to have some cash on hand to purchase necessary clothing items. At the very least, you’ll probably need to replenish socks and underwear.

Can I Earn a Lot of Money With Paid Surveys?

That depends on what you consider a lot. If you’re planning on trying to pay your way through college with surveys, you’re out of luck. But if you need some extra cash to spend on items from the list above, you’ll find paid surveys to be a great option. Surveys typically pay between $1.00 and $3.00 per completed survey, and the extra money adds up fast!

What Are the Most Ideal Jobs for College Students?

The best jobs for students are those that are highly flexible. Schedules change from semester to semester, and during finals week, juggling work and school can be a challenge. Therefore, a job that offers flexible hours and schedules is preferred.

It’s not easy to find a truly flexible part-time gig, but here are a few ideas other students have implemented:

Delivery Driver

Delivering groceries or restaurant food through Fresh Express, Doordash, Grubhub, UberEats, and other platforms can be a decent way to make some cash.

Rideshare Driver

You’ll need to meet the requirements, but some students find Joining Uber or Lyft offers a flexible part-time income.

Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

If you like pets, this can be a great side gig. People are always looking for trustworthy and reliable pet sitters and dog walkers. 

Babysitter

Another tried-and-true gig for college students, babysitting, is a part-time job that never goes out of style.

Sell Stuff Online

If you have a collection of items to unload, consider selling your unwanted things online. Ebay is a great place to sell collectibles, while Poshmark is an excellent platform to make money for clothes you no longer wear.

Paid Online Surveys

We’ll go into more detail below, but we have found the most flexible option of all is for students to take online surveys for money. Keep reading for more information.

How to Balance School and a Job

Balancing college classes and a job is one of the most significant issues facing college students. If you don’t devote enough time to your studies, you won’t do well in school. But if you don’t work, you won’t be able to afford the things you need. The trick is to find a side gig that works with your schedule.

Paid Surveys Are the Best Option

If you’re looking for the most flexible way to make money as a college student, paid surveys are the answer. With a reputable survey site, you can earn cash or even take surveys for gift cards, and you can work on your own time.

For example, if you have 20 minutes to kill between classes, you can do a survey or two then. Or maybe you’re an early bird who likes to enjoy a quiet cup of coffee before starting your day. A survey or two in the morning is a great way to start the day on a bright note. 

You can complete surveys anytime you want, 24/7, and all you need is your computer, a tablet, or smartphone and a data or wifi connection.

How Do Paid Surveys Work?

Paid surveys are part of the larger market research industry. Companies are always looking for input from consumers since it helps them decide what products and services to introduce to the marketplace. Online surveys are the key to obtaining this data, and many companies offer a financial incentive to make sure they get it.

So, how do online surveys work? You only need to join a reputable survey site and start taking surveys right away. The surveys themselves can be all different lengths, and you will be compensated with points that you can convert to cash or gift cards. There’s really no catch—it’s simple to get started. Once you have reached the threshold you’ll need to cash out your earnings; you can do so at any time. The best sites will have multiple ways for you to get paid.

Joining Branded Surveys

Naturally, we think Branded Surveys is the best survey site in the industry. They’ve been around for many years and have been paying college students (and others) consistently for a long time. You always want to ensure that any site you join has solid user reviews to back it up, and Branded Surveys has that. In fact, they have over 41,000 reviews and a rating of excellent on TrustPilot. With so many scammers in the industry, it makes sense to go with a legit survey site that people genuinely trust. 

To get started with Branded Surveys, all you need to do is follow a few simple steps:

• Go to the Branded Surveys Site and sign up using your own information. (If you’ve heard from other sources to use a fake name, those sources are incorrect. Using your factual information is the only way you can get paid.)
• Once you’ve filled out the required information, check your email for confirmation. Once you’ve confirmed your membership, you’re in!
• Now you can start taking surveys. The first surveys available to you will be profile surveys. Fill these out as accurately and thoroughly as possible. Not only will you be paid for these initial questionnaires, but the survey site will use them to match you with the best survey opportunities in the future.
• After you’ve finished your profile surveys, you can start in with regular surveys. Simply choose what looks interesting to you and dive in.
• As soon as you’ve accumulated enough points from taking surveys, you can cash out your earnings. It really is that easy.

Branded will let you take surveys for Paypal money, Branded Pay (an online payment platform), or gift cards. If you choose to go with gift cards, rest assured you will have many to choose from. Not only can you take surveys for Amazon gift cards, but you can also choose from dozens of national retailers, restaurants, coffee shops, movie theaters, services, hotels, and more.

Closing Thoughts

What are you waiting for? As a college student looking for extra cash, you can’t go wrong by checking out a reputable paid online survey site like Branded Surveys. You’ll have the chance to make some spare cash whenever and wherever you want, and you can keep doing it over and over anytime you need some spending money. 

The post Paid Surveys: How To Make Money in College appeared first on The Branded Daily Digest.