5 Ways to Earn Money and Get Out of Debt

When you are burdened with debt, it can make you feel like you are trapped under a heavy weight. Debt can wreak havoc on your life and even your health--causing stress, loss of sleep and loss of an appetite to name but a few side effects. One of the easiest ways to get out of debt is to increase your income and here are five ways you can earn some extra money. Focus on applying all of the extra money you earn to paying down your debt. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can earn extra money to get out of debt.

1. Sell your stuff online. While sites such as ebay may charge you a small fee to sell items online, there are other classified sites such as Craigslist where you can list items for sale for free. It's like having a virtual garage sale where you sell items you no longer want or need. Depending on what you have to sell, virtual garage sales can rake in some big bucks.

2. Sell what you grow. If you have a green thumb and grow beautiful flowers or delicious fruits and vegetables, turn it into a moneymaker. Sell at the local farmer's market, flea market or if your town permits on the side of the road. Even selling your goods on the weekends may provide you with enough extra income to take a big chunk out of the amount you owe.

3. Have a garage or yard sale. While selling your stuff online allows you to reach a wider audience, a one or two day garage sale can attract quite a gathering of locals. How much you make can vary, but it's not unheard of to rake in a couple hundred bucks or more from a decent size garage sale.

4. Babysit. Offer babysitting services to friends, family members and neighbors. This is an easy way to rake in $10-$20 an hour without ever having to leave the comfort of your own home.

5. Sell your crafts. If you're creative or artsy, you can also turn your hobby into a side business to earn extra income. Whether you make handmade greeting cards and invitations or furniture and jewelery, there are craft markets where you can list items for sale online. You can also build and sell from your own website or attend local craft fairs and church bazaars.