Give your bank account a boost without getting a second job

When times are tough, every extra dollar counts. But that doesn't mean you have to take on a second job! There are simpler ways to make extra dough on the side. From watching other people's kids to getting rid of stuff you already own, find out how you can boost your income.

1. Cash in your gift cards.

Resale companies are happy to take them off your hands. You’ll get up to 92 percent of the card’s value, and you don’t have to pay a fee. Check out CardPool.com and PlasticJungle.com.

2. Look through your jewelry box.

With gold prices at more than $1,300 per ounce and silver at $28, now is a good time to turn rarely worn or broken pieces into cash. Many reputable jewelry stores buy gold, and going to a store near you is safer than using online gold buyers since you don’t have to ship your piece to someone before getting paid—or possibly scammed. Call several stores in town to find ones that buy gold. Then go to a few to see who’ll offer the most. Before you make a final decision, check out the store’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau.

3. Babysit.

Put the word out on Facebook, your school listserv and your church website that you’re free to watch kids. For a wider reach, sign up with SitterCity.com. The site connects parents with babysitters in their area. There’s no fee to join and you set your own rates.

4. Cook for cash.

If people rave about your culinary talent, use it to make money. Let friends and family know via social media that you’re willing to make dinner for a tired mom. All she has to do is pick it up. Build the cost of groceries and storage containers into your fee.

5. Clear clutter—and sell it with the tap of an app.

Geolist, a free iPhone and Android app, lets you instantly upload a photo, description and price of whatever you’re selling. The app uses location-based technology, so anyone in your area who accesses it will see your item. Think of it as a virtual local classified ad.