5 holiday side hustles to boost your end-of-year budget

Core Insights - The average consumer plans to spend $890 on holiday-related expenses this year, indicating a significant financial commitment during the holiday season [1] - The holiday season presents opportunities for side hustles, which can help individuals generate extra income to manage holiday expenses [2] Side Hustle Opportunities - Gift Wrapping: Professional gift wrappers in the U.S. earn an average of $18 per hour, with various service options available [4][5] - Grocery Delivery: Workers can earn between $15 to $25 per hour after tips by delivering groceries for services like Instacart and Amazon Fresh [6] - Pet Sitting: Pet sitters can connect with clients through apps like Rover and Wag!, with the potential for higher earnings by working directly with referrals [8][9] - Seasonal Retail: Retailers hire seasonal workers for increased demand, offering positions such as cashiers and stock associates, often with the possibility of full-time employment post-holidays [10][12] - Selling Goods Online: Crafty individuals can sell handmade items on platforms like Etsy or flip thrifted items on eBay and other marketplaces [13] Considerations for Side Hustles - Earnings from side gigs are taxable, and individuals should set aside 25% to 30% for estimated quarterly taxes [14] - It is essential to check for any noncompete clauses with primary employers that may restrict side hustle activities [15] - Individuals should assess the impact of a side gig on their overall situation, considering time management and potential upfront costs [16][17]