Nine ways to make money in your lunchbreak

When you’re trying to stretch your budget, finding quick and easy ways to earn extra cash can make a big difference. The good news is you don’t need to commit to a second job – there are plenty of creative ways to make money in your lunchbreak.

Here are nine surprising ways to top up your income in under an hour. Perfect for a quiet afternoon or a quick stroll during your break.

1. Take part in paid research studies

One of the quickest and easiest ways to earn is by taking part in online research. Sites like Prolific connect you with academic and behavioural studies that pay between £6 and £15 for around 10–30 minutes of your time. All you need is a phone or laptop – ideal for a quiet lunchbreak.

2. Become a mystery shopper

Apps like BeMyEye and Field Agent let you complete quick jobs in shops near you, like checking a price or photographing a display. Tasks take under 15 minutes and pay £3 to £10, with money landing in your account in a few days.

3. Sell micro-gigs on Fiverr

If you’re creative, you can offer mini services on Fiverr like writing personalised poems, drawing cartoons, or recording short videos. Gigs are usually priced between £5 and £30, and many can be done in 30 minutes or less.

4. Rent out your parking space

If you live in a prime location, e.g. close to a hospital, train station or city centre, you can earn passive income by renting your parking spot through apps like JustPark or YourParkingSpace. You could make £1 to £5 an hour, which is money for nothing if your space sits empty while you’re at work.

5. Post sponsored selfies

Got a small but loyal following on Instagram or TikTok? You could earn £5 to £25 per post by wearing branded clothes or showing off a product. You don’t need to be an influencer; brands often work with people who have just a few hundred engaged followers. Sites like Influencity or TRIBE can help you get started.

6. Test websites and apps

User testing platforms like UserTesting pay you to try out websites and apps, giving feedback as you go. A typical test takes 15–20 minutes and pays £5 to £10, depending on the task.

7. Recycle old tech for cash

Got old phones or gadgets gathering dust? Use your break to check prices on sites like Mazuma or MusicMagpie. You’ll get an instant quote and can post your item for free, with some paying out £10 to £200 depending on what you're selling.

8. Answer surveys and polls

Surveys won’t make you rich, but they’re easy to fit into a spare 10 minutes. Sites like Qmee and Swagbucks offer quick surveys and polls that pay small amounts – typically 20p to £2 per task. Do a few a day and it’ll start to add up.

9. Make sure you’re claiming all the help you’re entitled to

Use our free benefits calculator to check you’re claiming all the financial support you’re entitled to. It takes minutes to complete and, on average last month, we found around an extra £250 that people miss out on.