To make money while you sleep sounds like a dream, but with the right setup, it’s 100% possible. Passive income isn’t just for tech bros and millionaires anymore.
Anyone with a laptop (or even just a phone) can build small income streams that pay you long after the work is done.
In this post, I’ll walk you through 15 real, beginner-friendly ways people are earning cash with little to no effort once it’s set up — plus some tools you can grab on Amazon to make it even easier.
1. Sell Digital Products on Etsy
Create printable planners, checklists, or templates once, and they can sell forever.
Try this Digital Product Creation Book to learn the basics.
2. Publish an eBook on Amazon KDP
Write a short guide or story and publish it for free on Kindle Direct Publishing.
You’ll need a laptop and maybe a blue-light blocking lamp for those late-night writing sessions.
3. Invest in Dividend Stocks
Once you buy shares in dividend-paying companies, they send you money every quarter.
Check out our beginner’s guide to investing to get started.
4. Set Up a Blog
Blogging takes time, but once your content ranks, it keeps bringing in ad and affiliate revenue.
Start with low-cost hosting and use this affordable microphone if you plan to add voice or video.
5. Rent Out Your Stuff
Got an extra room, parking space, or camera gear? Rent it out through platforms like Airbnb or Fat Llama.
A smart lockbox makes handing off keys way easier.
6. Create an Online Course
Teach something you know — like meal prepping or budgeting — and upload it to sites like Teachable or Udemy.
You don’t need fancy gear, just a good ring light and your phone.
7. Sell Stock Photos
Take quality photos with your phone and upload to sites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
This phone tripod helps you get clean, steady shots.
8. Use Cashback and Reward Apps
Apps like Rakuten and Honey automatically give you money back while you shop.
It’s not a ton, but it adds up — and takes zero effort once set up.
9. Start a YouTube Channel with Evergreen Videos
Create videos that answer common questions or tutorials people search for year-round.
Pair your phone with this budget mic kit for better sound.
10. Build a Niche Website
Write helpful articles around one topic (like gardening or travel hacks) and monetize with ads or affiliate links.
Already running a blog? Check out these free SEO tools to grow faster.
11. License Your Music or Beats
If you produce music, you can sell it for use in ads, games, or videos. Sites like Pond5 or AudioJungle make this simple.
12. Create and Sell Notebooks on Amazon KDP
No writing required — just design the cover and upload blank journal interiors.
Use this template bundle for KDP journals.
13. Sell T-Shirts or Merch Without Holding Inventory
Use print-on-demand services like Redbubble or Printful.
All you need is some designs — even free Canva templates can work.
14. Make an Affiliate Pinterest Account
Create pins that link to affiliate products or blog posts with affiliate links.
A Pinterest scheduling tool helps automate this for true passive traffic.
15. Invest in REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)
REITs let you earn rental income without owning property.
Some apps let you start with just $10 — no landlord headaches.
Final Thoughts:
None of these are “get rich quick” schemes, but they are simple ways to build long-term income that doesn’t require you to clock in daily. Start with one or two that feel doable, and grow from there.
💡 Need ideas that don’t cost anything to start? Check out our list of free side hustle ideas.
