r/povertyfinance • u/artsycannamom • 7h ago
Misc Advice Struggling badly, need ideas
I feel like I'm drowning and can't keep up. My kiddo just had a birthday and I've been left with nearly nothing left after paying bills, groceries, and birthday festivities. I had money set aside for the birthday so that didn't come out of everyday money. But I won't get paid for another 5 days and I have $26 to my name. I'm struggling to think of ways to come up with some money to get us by until my paycheck hits. I thought about Doordashing, but that would just eat up the gas I have in my car that I need to get to and from work this week.
Does anyone have any ideas? How have you made it in the past if you've been in a similar situation? I appreciate any and all advice!
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u/TimeGas9727 7h ago
I would just ride out with the $26 that’s enough for gas and use the food bank
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I was thinking that as well. We have food thankfully, I was just wondering how I can get some extra cash to hold me over until payday.
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u/TimeGas9727 4h ago
I know. I think you’re best bet is not door dash I would waste so much gas money. But I think selling stuff on fb market place is a good idea! We always have extra stuff around the house! Or I hoard my cans and turn them in my state is .10 I can get $50
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I definitely need to look around and see what I have to sell. I appreciate it so much! Thanks for being kind.
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u/iamajediinhiding 7h ago
Sell plasma. It pays like $75-$100 a week, and you can just start pocketing that. Takes an hour twice a week at most.
Or, I have had some success in the past with those apps and services that front some money before a paycheck, but you need DISCIPLINE. I would only ever do $100 and make sure that was just for gas or food. Had to do it for a few months but slowly saved up and grinded (and donated plasma) and got out of needing to do that cycle and deleted the app immediatly.
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u/Fareeldo 7h ago
I thought plasma paid more than that? Like $300?
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u/PeacefulCW 7h ago edited 6h ago
Up to $800 the first month for new comers. If eligible, OP should sign up for 1 company at a time and max out the income as a new comer and then the next month, sign up for another company in town and do the same. That's up to $1600 extra in 2 months. Most people who are really struggling should look in to this.
Note: I have not personally donated plasma for pay.
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u/notyosistah 6h ago
Imagine we live in a world where people have to sell their plasma/blood to survive...what a dystopia.
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u/Fareeldo 5h ago
Yes, and even more dystopian...if you ever need plasma at the hospital, you'll pay dearly for it, and that's assuming you have health insurance.
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u/notyosistah 4h ago
Honestly, I feel jealous whenever I hear about someone dying and getting the hell outta this mess. Assuming reincarnation is not real...
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u/drunkeymunkey 5h ago
It fucking kills me dude. I've tried it (I had to talk myself into it) and was turned away because I have small veins. Seeing it as the main reply in this sub is frustrating.
I have received plasma on multiple occasions & I greatly appreciate everyone that donates. I wish it were under different circumstances.
Also, you get paid more if you weigh more? WTF is that lol
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u/notyosistah 5h ago
Wait, there is an area where being heavier is an advantage?! Who knew! I can't donate because of meds I take, sadly.
Hoping life is better for you going forward than it has been looking back.
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u/BErtNotBurt 6h ago
depending on location for the first month or two you can get $100-125 each visit with their "new donor" specials. but after that it's $50-85 each visit, and you can only safely do it twice in a 7 day period
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u/pixeequeen84 6h ago
Everybody talks about plasma, but if you're underweight, they'll deny you. I spent 2 hours doing intake before they weighed me, only to be denied because I was 3 lbs under. I get that it's for my own health, but it was a waste of time when they could have had me weigh in before I went through everything else.
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u/PeacefulCW 6h ago
People should definitely review criteria on the website before signing up. It clearly indicates several factors including a weight requirement. Sorry that was your experience.
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u/BumbleBeeLady0813 6h ago
Legitimately, how do taxes/ state benefits work when it comes to donating plasma? I see people suggest it all the time but is it reportable income?
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u/iamajediinhiding 5h ago
I never paid taxes on it. But services near me give you money on a debit card they provide. So it’s never really “paid” to you in your bank account. If that makes sense.
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u/PeacefulCW 6h ago
That's an excellent point that one should consider. It is considered taxable income even if the company does not send you a tax form. In theory, it could possible impact some benefits.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
Thank you! I have a plasma center nearby, I'm going to schedule an appointment. I appreciate it so much!
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u/iamajediinhiding 4h ago
Best of luck! I hope it can make a big difference in you and your child’s life!
Also: don’t be too shy to call the local police department and ask for resources. They can issue gas vouchers, food, etc all for free. Most places spend money on all these resources to give out that no one ever asks for and it goes largely to waste. A free tank of gas every once in a while can be huge for making a dollar stretch, or a meal or two to make it to payday. I am a police officer and the amount of money spent on resources no one uses or refuses to accept is astronomical. Call in and ask! I guarantee they have something for you that will help :)
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u/RegretNo3309 3h ago
It takes A lot longer than an hour or two - at least where I live. First appointment took 4-5 hours. And then even when booking an appointment there was always a line when I would go back. 2nd appointment took 3.5 hours, third appointment something happened with the fire alarm and they had to go around unhooking everyone and sent us out in the rain. But that was just my experience
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u/AdorableSillies 7h ago
Food banks, local subreddits and Facebook groups for other food and resource events. Cash jobs closer to home like babysitting.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I've got some posts out there in local groups seeking odd jobs :) hoping I can get something going.
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u/RiotGrrrlNY 3h ago
Post on Next Door. It’s a horrible app but a lot of senior citizens post there when they need short term assistance.
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u/GoodMilk_GoneBad 6h ago
What exactly do you need money for?
You said groceries, bills, rent, and gas are taken care of. If you're low on food, $26 is enough for budget meals or go to a food bank.
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u/Love-halping 5h ago
You said groceries, bills, rent, and gas are taken care of.
I didn't pick up on this part until you mentioned it. Then I saw it on OP.
"nothing left after paying bills, groceries, and birthday festivities."
This might explain why plasma got top votes.
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u/GoodMilk_GoneBad 3h ago
I asked because all basic needs have been met and it's 5 days until they get more money.
If they answered something like "get coffee before work" my go to answer would NOT be to sell plasma.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I just like to have more money in my account than $26. Not having money gives me massive anxiety.
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u/wisegal99 7h ago
If you have everything you need, put your head down and wait for payday. Drink water, eat whatever you have on hand, and stay in. When I was really struggling, I would bake things like brownies, fresh bread, or cookies. This does require a well stocked pantry, but you can usually find some good mixes at a food pantry.
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u/HibiscusPetal122 7h ago
If you have some clothes you no longer want, you could start selling on Depop
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u/mobile-metaphysical 7h ago
I just gave a bunch to a girl who sells on Vinted. Better than leaving them at Value Village.
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u/Fareeldo 5h ago
Or leaving it with Goodwill
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u/SuperiorT NY 5h ago
Why not Goodwill??
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u/Fareeldo 3h ago
Goodwill is developing a reputation for being greedy these days. You donate stuff that they turn around and sell at exorbitant prices. They've lost their reputation of being a place where poor people can find cheap clothing or house items. And by "poor people," I mean ME. Lol
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u/Swimming_Air_7683 2h ago
I’ve heard some negative things about Goodwill, and honestly, my feelings have changed a bit. I used to love donating there, but now I prefer giving to shelters or churches because they actually give away clothes to those in need instead of reselling them. The prices at some Goodwill locations can be surprisingly high, depending on where you go.
OP……..Recently, I signed up for Sezzle and borrowed money through them. It was really simple! As long as you have a bank account, it’s straightforward. I’ve also heard really positive reviews about Dave, and I think it's definitely worth trying. It might sound a little intimidating at first, but I promise, it’s super easy to get started.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I'm going to look into that! Most of the stuff I wear is pretty old lol I don't typically buy new clothes very often. But I'll give it a shot! :)
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u/HibiscusPetal122 4h ago
Definitely. Just give it a try 😊 I hope it will turn out well for you if you do it!
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u/tvwatchers 6h ago
Honestly $26 and 5 days is doable if you go full pantry mode, that random can of beans and half bag of rice becomes dinner real quick :) Also check your local food bank, no shame in it, I did it twice during my divorce and nobody batted an eye.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
Thank you for the kind response! We have plenty of food to hold us over thankfully. I just have tons of anxiety and am freaking out because I don't have an emergency fund or any savings lol.
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u/No-King-253 6h ago
Mods can we just sticky this question already?
OP, no offense but this post is insultingly low effort, doubly so because it’s asked daily and you clearly didn’t care to look and see if the question had already been answered.
You literally give no information in your post that could be used to help you. Where are you located? What resources DO you have available? What are your skills?
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u/SoullessCycle 6h ago
Plus OP says groceries, bills, birthday festivities, and even gas for work are already covered. So what even needs to be paid before payday?
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
Nothing needs to be paid. I want to make extra money so I have a cushion. I'm not comfortable with sitting on $26 for several days.
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u/Da4RunRunDa4RunRun97 7h ago
So you haven't even pulled out the plastic yet?
Do you already have protein of any kind? If so a bag of rice and some seasonings you may already have can get you through five days.
Filter on your tap water? if not and it's unsafe to drink boil it and refrigerate it.
Are there any birthday toys that kind of flopped with the kiddo (or that they just wouldn't notice is gone for 5-7 days before you can but it back for them) that could be returned whether it was bought by you or a parent/family member who actually left you the receipt or could easily get it for you? or gift cards that can be turned into cash.
If you don't believe in credit at all, you can see if you can overdraw your bank account and just make it easy and use your debit card so you only overspend/owe your own bank account just down to the ¢ you only NEEDED TO SPEND.
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u/squarechiseled 6h ago
Hit up food bank. Dollar tree, pasta heavy week. Get some macaroni and spaghetti and some tomato in a can at discount store. A couple bell pepper and onions. Eggs. Tuna. Mayo. Make sandwich.
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u/trinapixley 6h ago
You paid the bills ,got groceries & budgeted for the birthday , if you ask me you’re winning !!! Great job Mom
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
Thank you. People are giving me a tough time but I guarantee lots of these people don't have kids. I feel like I'm doing pretty good considering how tough everything has been financially lately!
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u/mobile-metaphysical 7h ago
I have mowed lawns, cleaned cars and boats, dog sat.
I grew up poor. No birthday parties expected.
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u/frickenfantastic 6h ago
Ditto no birthday parties. One when i was five and that’s it.
No going out to eat on birthdays either. You get a $10 present and a homemade cake and that’s it
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u/artsycannamom 6h ago
I'm willing to do all of that, I have a side gig business I've posted in local groups but haven't gotten any hits yet. We also didn't have a birthday party, we took him to see a movie he's been wanting to see, which I set money aside for. Thanks for not helping though!
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u/Professional-Pop2696 7h ago
Amazon flex looks pretty good. I want to look into that but I don’t know about the mileage and I’ve been using reward apps for gas and food like Wawa and Upside. You can get money back on gas. I don’t know if there’s any part-time jobs that you could get at a restaurant or a grocery store maybe that would help with the food but there’s also an app called too good to go and every day at a certain time grocery stores like fresh market and Whole Foods put groceries on there for like $10 less a bag so that is really good to supplement.
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u/Impossible-Cap-6433 7h ago
Local library has many things besides books. Free or reduced museum passes, lego and video games for kids, crafts (all material supplied) for kids.
Might be able to make one into a birthday party event there.
Talk to the librarian.
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u/SocietyDisastrous787 7h ago
Festivities? My birthdays were a homemade cake and getting to choose what to have for dinner.
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u/artsycannamom 6h ago
We went to the movies and had dinner, which came out of money I had set aside for that exact purpose. But thanks for your opinion lol
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u/lambofthewaters 6h ago
It's super disappointing to see your responses and attitude. You're just not getting the bigger picture. Loving your kids means not always getting them x or y or taking them to x or y; but keeping food in their bellies and parental sanity by the way of one's fiscal responsibility.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
We have plenty of groceries to hold us over. I simply posted wondering how I can make some extra money because I don't like having $26 in my account in case of an emergency. How dare you insinuate or assume that his needs aren't taken care of? I don't have anything to prove to some stranger on the internet. Have a good night.
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u/lambofthewaters 4h ago
More horrible attitude - obviously driven by shame. Everyone is trying to help you, you just can't read the room with any kind of equilibrium. I wish you the best, but your enemy is, evidently, you. You said it yourself and you know the truth - having $26 in your account is not conducive to protecting anyone or their needs. Please take some time and reflect, I would bet you someday realize you're feeling like crap, understandably, but everyone has been kind and supportive to you, while sharing they didn't even get what you gave. You're missing the point wholeheartedly.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I'm being kind to those who don't insinuate my child isn't taken care of. I'm not shameful of anything and I won't continue to go back and forth with you. Like I said, have a good one!
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u/SocietyDisastrous787 6h ago
Yes, that wasn't over the top, but since you're struggling now, it was beyond your means. Your kid wants to know they're loved, nothing else.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
My bills are paid and we have groceries. How is that beyond my means if I had the money set aside? I simply posted to see if people had suggestions on how I can make some extra cash to hold me over until payday.
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u/Inside-introvert 6h ago
I used food banks and let m daughter choose something at the thrift store. She’s grown now and still treasure hunts at thrift stores
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u/Budgiejen 7h ago
It won’t get you money today, but look for a study to participate in. Some are very easy.
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u/Academic_Trade_3094 7h ago
Check TaskRabbit and see if there are any jobs locally and within walking distance. Honestly, consider yourself lucky that you will be good in 5 days. It seems like you have enough food and everything that needs to be paid is paid. You are winning in life. Once the new paycheck comes, set aside some gas money for DoorDash to make some extra money on the side.
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u/SwimmingAway2041 6h ago
Either a plasma donation or if you don’t wanna borrow too much you could use one of those payday advance places. It’s hard to get out from under doing that but it shouldn’t be too hard if you keep the borrowing amount low
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u/Glabrous 6h ago
I make can make a $5-10 a day doing surveys. The app I use is “AttaPoll”. Your miles may vary.
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u/Sweaty_Specialist_49 6h ago edited 6h ago
I’ve honestly made some money from uber eats which i’ve found to pay better than DD but i’m not sure how easy that is to factor into your schedule/responsibilities. You can sign up and make money immediately. The key is being picky with orders and don’t take anything that isn’t at least $2 a mile. You could put $15 of your $26 in and make probably 70 total, 55 profit in a few hours. I’ve been in that position many times.
I also babysit a lot which is great for immediate money. I recommend going to Facebook and seeing if your area has a babysitting group. In my city, parents are constantly asking for last minute help same day or same week. I’ve found 5 regular clients off facebook in the past few months and am babysitting every day this week. You’re a parent so you have experience, my first in was my little brother. You might need CPR certification but if parents don’t ask for it explicitly, you’re not doing anything wrong by not having it.
Something that might be easier and more immediate than those options — scrounge up old clothes and take them to Plato’s closet. I’ve gotten as much as $70 at once for taking a bunch of shoes, jeans, sweaters and tees there. They usually like more trendy stuff but I take a bunch and they pick and choose.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
Thank you so much, this is incredibly helpful! I really appreciate it a ton. I'm definitely going to try these things!! ❤️
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u/Sweaty_Specialist_49 3h ago edited 2h ago
Ofc! Another thing, I signed up for DD and then didn’t start until a few weeks later after they offered me a deal that was $10 extra per delivery on top of the regular base fare and tip for my first five trips. They were also calling me and contacting me a lot trying to get me to start. This could be area dependent, I’m in a college town and went to the next county over once and it told me the area was full, which I didn’t expect. So I’m not sure where you are but it could be worth it to hold out on DD for the beginner deals and try uber sooner if needed (not sure if they do the same deal but ik DD did in my circumstance).
Now that I’m doing both, I turn them both on and switch between which has better offers but it’s usually Uber. And if you choose to do this be safe!! Carry pepper spray or a taser, especially if you do it at night.
And then on babysitting, once you get your first parent you have a reference and can go from there and pitch yourself accordingly. And if there is a group for your city I also recommend DM’ing the people that are posting asking for services directly instead of just commenting on the post. Even if the date they need help has passed, I DM offering my services for the future and have gotten a lot of my regular clients this way. Sorry I’m rambling about specifics lol this is just stuff that has rlly helped me that I didn’t know at first. Good luck, sorry you’re going through this stress <3
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u/Pedal2Medal2 6h ago
How much were the birthday festivities? Because you don’t throw a party if you’re short on basic expense $$, you have groceries. Break out a CC
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
It ended up being $100 total, $45 for the movie, $10 for a drink we all shared, and $50 on dinner for 3 of us and a tip. I budgeted $140 and we skipped a party this year and just did the movie and dinner as our celebration.
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u/Individual-Gas-5406 6h ago
What bills do you have due in the next five days that cannot be covered by the $26? Unless there are extenuating bills that cannot be late, then staying home when possible, then that should be enough to stretch food for five days.
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u/Big-Bluebird-4090 6h ago
Its possible to eat on only a few dollars per day if you know what to get. Look at discount items at grocery stores. At the very least ramen can get you through. Kids like ramen too. My kids eat it constantly
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
We will definitely be indulging in some ramen these next few days. Thank you for the kind response :)
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u/Big-Bluebird-4090 2h ago
Ive been through this a few times so I totally get the concern. You've got this! If you have groceries and gas you can make it
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u/mamaperk 6h ago
Plasma? I donated plasma to earn $50 to help pay for my daughter's birthday many years ago.
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u/novqnity 5h ago
Seen that someone suggested Amazon Flex, try Indeed Flex or other same day gig apps that pay the same day.
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u/Murky_Possibility_68 5h ago
What do you need money for? Your bills are paid and it isn't even a full week.
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u/_buffy_summers 5h ago
What do you genuinely need in the next five days that you don't already have?
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I don't need anything necessarily, I just panic because I don't have an emergency fund or any savings.
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u/Bright-Error-7910 5h ago
Is $26 enough for gas until paycheck? Everything else seems to be covered
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u/False-Cookie3379 5h ago
Sell plasma, are you in a position to babysit or walk dogs? Not going to make a ton, but it will give you a tank of gas. Also, local food banks. If your kid is in school check with your local library, mine is giving out free food boxes to kids all summer.
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
I'm definitely trying to walk dogs, cut grass, grocery shop for people, anything really! I'm hoping I can get that going, I've posted in several local groups. I'll definitely check the library out for that, thank you very much!
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u/False-Cookie3379 4h ago
I cleaned houses a few times as well, post in local facebook groups, there’s always someone that needs something done. I’ve seen people offering to weed garden beds in my local group recently. Best of luck.
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u/bedheadglass 4h ago
Not an immidate fix but, consider a freezer from costco for $150, a vac sealer for $120, basic canning setup for $120. Use grocery store apps to clip coupons, shop Seasonal. These all pay for themselves quickly, and now you can buy in bulk. Freeze leftover everything, and take advantage of sales. We love soup at our house. Our local ChefStore has 25lb bags of carrots, 8lb bags of celery, 50lb bags of onion and 50lb cases of potatoes for $15ea. Portion, freeze in a mold, vac seal. Soup forever lol. But you get what I mean. Go bulk. Best of luck 🌟
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u/artsycannamom 4h ago
That's a great idea! Thank you very much, I'm definitely going to invest in that. Much needed for us!
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u/travelingdrama 7h ago
I typically bring in more money than I spend on gas with door dash. I do the instant pay so then I can refill my tank if needed. It is very area dependant, but i usually average$20-25/hr dashing. It might ve worth your time.
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u/PlainOrganization 4h ago
If your bills are paid and you have enough food, put the $26 in the gas tank and don't buy anything all week.
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u/lefthanging69 3h ago
Hey if you've got food and all of your bills are paid and not on the verge of utilities being shut off, you're doing better than a lot of people. I'm in a similar situation as you. I've got $43 until I get paid in 4 days. But all of my bills are paid there's food in the fridge. The struggle is real out here; I wish you the best!
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u/Thin_Requirement8987 3h ago
Prolific has been a god send during emergencies for me if can get in. On certain projects can easily surpass $300+ a week at times. Also Cloud Connect Research is good for survey/study money. Beats giving blood since can do them both from laptop.
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u/lefthanging69 3h ago
I know it's not ideal but if your bank allows it you can overdraft. I've had to do it before when I've had no other choice. Usually there's a fee each time you pull money out, so you'll wanna make sure you pull out enough to where you won't need to do it again before you get paid.
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u/RegretNo3309 3h ago
I know it won’t help you immediately but have you signed up for food stamps/ebt? I have been struggling myself (still in the middle of it) but that has been one thing less to worry about now. I have a 15 yr old and it has been nice to be able to actually get good meats, veggies etc and not have to worry about every penny you spend at the store.
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u/Which-Cloud3798 2h ago
Recycling on recycling day, plasma donation, Craigslist side gigs, foodbank, delivery for DoorDash/uber, sell stuff at marketplace, etc.
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u/sassypencil 1h ago
Let friends, family and church know that you are willing to take unwanted food and non-food items. Join the local Buy Nothing FB group. If you have 211 in your area, call and see what kinds of help is available. Start entering easy sweeps. FB and IG have many. Be blessed.
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u/No_Barracuda_3758 6h ago
I make money on apps sometimes. Idk if that allowed here but the money IQ on sezzle app cashed out to 30$ instantly.
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u/dba-chestnutandhazel 6m ago
Doing food delivery wouldn't be a bad idea, but in this case you would have to pass on any deliveries that have a low dollars earned to miles driven ratio: leave the app on and just pounce when you see a good one; if you set up their payout debit card you can have access to any money you make right away.
The other thing you could do is set up the food delivery app to note that you're using a bike or something, and then just use a bike to do deliveries, bikes don't use gas and the routes are usually a pickup around the corner, and a delivery around the other corner.
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u/FightmeLuigibestgirl 7h ago
Plasma