Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours a week should I spend on a side hustle?
There is no set number, but starting small is usually the safest approach, especially if you have a full-time job or family commitments. An hour or two on weekday evenings, or a couple of half-days on the weekend, is often enough to test an idea without burning out. You can add more time once you know people will pay for what you offer.
Do I have to pay taxes on side hustle income?
Yes. Side hustle income is generally taxable, even if you are paid in cash or through an app and never receive a tax form. The IRS says you must file a return if you have net earnings from self-employment of $400 or more, and you report self-employment tax on Schedule SE. Setting aside part of each payment for taxes can help you avoid a surprise bill.
How can I tell if a side hustle opportunity is a pyramid scheme?
Be wary of any opportunity that charges an upfront fee to join, earns most of its money from recruiting new members rather than selling to real customers, or promises big income for little effort. A legitimate side hustle is built on a skill or product that people outside the program actually want to buy. Research the company independently before you pay anything.
How do I choose the right side hustle for me?
Look for the overlap between something you enjoy and a skill people will pay for. Review the skills you use at work, in past jobs and in your personal life, then test demand on a small scale, for example by offering the service to friends or through word of mouth, before investing in a website or equipment.
About the author
Contributing Writer, Wealthtender
Karen Banes is a freelance writer specializing in entrepreneurship, parenting and lifestyle. She writes articles, website content, ebooks and the occasional award winning short story. Her work has appeared in a range of publications both online and off, including The Washington Post, Life Info Magazine, Transitions Abroad, Brave New Traveler, Natural Parenting Group, and Copia Magazine.
Karen provides copy editing and proofreading services, as well as content creation services, at her website KarenBanes.com.