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It’s no secret that times are hard, and thousands of Americans are finding themselves declaring bankruptcy to try to start anew amidst financial turmoil. Many are struggling to keep their wallets full, or at least full enough. While it’s hard to beat thrift and moderation as ways to help you revamp your bank account, sometimes coupling these methods with a little extra cash can go a long way in getting you back on your feet.

Chances are, if you’ve thought about ways to make more money, one or more of the following ideas has crossed your mind. That’s wonderful! It means you’re taking the initiative and working hard toward financial security. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to help you get the most out of these tried and true techniques!

1. Declutter

With more people buying used items to save money, it’s more likely than ever that you’ll be able to get rid of your extra “stuff” the lucrative way, instead of just leaving it on the curb or donating it. It’ll take a little time to get everything organized, but it won’t cost you anything else. Here are some hints to make the work worth your while.

DO be brutally honest with yourself about what you need to keep and what you could let go. Sure, that extra TV is great, but do you ever use it? And yes, you love your Coach purse, but can you remember the last time you actually took it somewhere? B e ready to give up items that you love (or used to love). The fact is, a lot of the things you consider keeping are probably the things other people most want to buy.

DON’T be afraid to let go of things like designer clothes and accessories, unnecessary furniture in decent condition, or gently used, past favorite toys. Even if they were expensive, or have some sentimental value, it’s important to keep the big picture in mind, and realize that you need the cash more than you need this “stuff.”

DON’T think that the only way to get cash for your stuff is by holding a garage sale. Selling “big ticket” items on Craigslist is more likely to get you the selling price you want, since garage sale goers are infamous hagglers. Places like Amazon or Half.com are great places to sell books, since you’ll get way more than the 50 cents you’d make at a garage sale. Also, keep your eyes and ears open for friends (or friends of friends) looking for a particular item. Just make sure they know you’re selling it – not giving it away!

2. Freelance

Many people, when looking for supplemental income, are able to turn their skills into freelance work. Writers or artists, especially, look to freelancing as a way to do something “on the side” that could potentially be very lucrative. Computer technicians or web designers are popular freelancers as well. Keep these things in mind when considering taking up freelance work.

DO look for opportunities everywhere! Small businesses are often looking for writers to do freelance work for blogs or press releases. Online review sites sometimes offer monetary rewards for writing product reviews. And, if you’re skilled with computers, a small business or an entrepreneur could probably use your help designing or building a website.

DO get your name out there. Post an ad on Craigslist, or just let your friends and family know that you are always available for freelance work. Chances are, they’ll know someone that could use you!

DON’T take a job just to take it. Make sure that every project you tackle is something you can do well, and that it is going to be worth your while. Consider the topic you’re focusing on, along with how much you are being paid, to make sure a project will really be worth it for you.

3. Your own business

If your skill set doesn’t lend itself to freelance work, you might consider starting your own business. Plenty of Americans are turning their hobbies – including baking, childcare, or crafting – into small businesses. This is a great option that can help ensure that you really love your job! Plus, if your business really takes off, it might become a primary source of income, instead of just something you do on the side. Remember these tips to help keep your new venture profitable, instead of making it overwhelming.

DO do something you love, and are good at. This isn’t the time to try to learn a whole new skill. Think about what you do as a hobby or what your strengths are, and then consider how you could turn that into a profitable business.

DO make sure you’re making money. Don’t sell your famous cookies at such a low price that it costs more to make them than sell them. Think about your expenses, and adjust your prices accordingly.

DON’T let this “side” business become your “main job.” At least at first, it’s important to remember that you’re doing this as a way to make extra money, not as your primary means of income. If your business takes off enough to provide for you and your family, that’s great! But, in the beginning, take it easy and keep your priorities in order.

With focus and determination, any one of these techniques can help you earn a little extra money. Just make sure to keep these do’s and don’ts in mind so that your hard work – and your dreams of more financial freedom – don’t go to waste.

Author: Katie Harris is a freelance writer for JacksonWhite Attorneys at Law. Their Arizona bankruptcy attorneys are dedicated to helping individuals in financial straights experience the relief and fresh start that can come from filing for chapter 7 or chapter 13 bankruptcy in Arizona.

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