It’s a new year, the economy seems to be improving, and we all deserve the opportunity to pursue a more comfortable lifestyle. There is an exciting amount of options available these days that allow you to boost your income, so you can save up more, get out of debt, and simply enjoy life to its fullest. No matter what your situation is, there are easily accessible opportunities to increase your income you may be missing out on, and many of them don’t involve leaving your current job. Here are several ways to boost your income in 2017:
1) Ask For a Raise
One move that will help you increase your income in 2017 could be simply asking your boss for more money. While you may be hoping your boss has noticed your improving work performance and approaches you for a pay raise, it is more common to receive a pay raise if you ask for it yourself. According to PayScale.com, people who ask for raises earn more in the long run. You may choose to approach this topic during your annual review, or set up a meeting with your boss yourself. If you do decide to ask for a raise to boost your income in 2017, make sure you are prepared. Make a list of your accomplishments over the past year, and be ready to show not only that you are working harder, but that your work is benefitting the company financially. Also, ask your boss for advice on how you can improve in your current job, to show that you want to keep advancing.
2) Re-Evaluate Your Benefits
A fatter paycheck isn’t the only factor that will allow you to boost your income at your current job in 2017. You could be making a high salary but have a good chunk of it taken out of your paycheck for your health insurance and other benefits. Or you may have a high insurance deductible and doctor’s bills are piling up. You also may not be contributing as much as you could to your retirement savings, which will shortchange you of earnings in the long run. Do some research to find out what kinds of benefits are offered to others at your professional level. If you feel your benefits package could be better in some way, increase your income in 2017 by asking your employer if you can get better or less expensive health insurance, more vacation time or contribute some of your income to a 401k plan.
3) Sell Possessions You No Longer Need Online
Chances are you have perfectly good and valuable belongings that you are no longer using and are now simply taking up space in your home. Whether it’s clothing, furniture, electronics, books or something else others could find plenty of use out of, boost your income in 2017 by selling them on websites such as EBay and Craigslist. You can also find good deals on stuff you need for yourself by checking those sites before you go shopping and pay full price.
4) Find a Fun Side Job
Maybe you know a second language, are a good piano player, a math whiz or have a knack for arts and crafts. Why not boost your income by profiting from these skills? You could give lessons, tutor, be a coach or do consulting in your spare time and make an attractive hourly wage while having a blast. If you don’t have a special skill such as these, increase your income in 2017 by driving for Lyft or Uber on nights or weekends. The amount you make depends on where you live, but many Uber and Lyft drivers bring in at least $20 to $30 an hour.
Author: Jessica Cody
Jessica Cody, a native of Fairfield County, Connecticut, has a background in online marketing and public relations. Currently, she works at VHMNetwork LLC in the role of Marketing Analyst. She is a graduate of the University of Connecticut, where she studied Journalism and Political Science. She is also an avid runner with a passion for the outdoors.
