How To Make Money On Maternity Leave: 32 Best Ways

Hey there, determined moms-to-be!

We know you’re juggling a lot right now. From preparing for your newborn’s arrival to navigating the financial uncertainties of maternity leave, there’s plenty on your plate.

But did you know that maternity leave doesn’t have to mean a pause in your income? That’s right! You can continue to earn even while you’re off from work.

This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to make money on maternity leave.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 27% of civilian workers had access to paid family leave in March 2023. That leaves a staggering number of new parents without a steady income during one of the most critical times of their lives.

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

Financial stability is crucial during maternity leave. After all, welcoming a new member to the family comes with its own set of expenses.

The bills can quickly add up, from diapers and baby gear to healthcare costs. And if your income takes a hit during maternity leave, these expenses can become a significant source of stress.

But what if we told you that there are numerous ways to keep the cash flowing during your maternity leave? Better yet, these methods don’t require you to compromise on the precious bonding time with your little one.

This blog post will explore various practical and manageable ways to make money on maternity leave. These aren’t just theoretical ideas; they are actionable steps you can start implementing immediately.

So whether you’re a first-time mom or you’ve been down this road before, read on to discover how to make money on maternity leave and turn this leave into a financially empowering journey!

Why is Maternity Leave Important?

Maternity leave is essential for a new mother’s physical and mental well-being. It provides much-needed rest post-childbirth, promotes bonding between mother and child, and supports better infant health. Moreover, it empowers women to return to work when ready, fostering gender equality.

The Financial Implications of Unpaid Maternity Leave

However, the financial implications of unpaid maternity leave can be daunting. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, only 13% of private sector workers have access to paid family leave. This means many new mothers are left without a paycheck during this critical period, leading to financial stress.

• If your partner is working, you may have to dip into your savings or rely on a single income.
• Major expenses like medical bills and baby supplies can add up quickly.
• Meeting regular expenses like mortgage payments or rent, utilities, and groceries can become challenging without a steady income.

The Need for Extra Income During Maternity Leave

Given these financial implications, it’s clear why learning how to make money on maternity leave is a topic of interest for many new moms. The need for extra income during maternity leave is not just about covering basic expenses. It’s also about:

• Maintaining your financial independence.
• Avoiding the stress of living paycheck to paycheck.
• Saving for your child’s future needs.

Legal Aspects Of Maternity Leave

The legal aspects of maternity leave vary significantly across different regions. In the United States, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) entitles eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year. This includes maternity leave.

However, it’s important to note that not all women qualify for FMLA. Around 40% of women in the U.S. don’t qualify for this Act, which grants 12 weeks of protected job leave, albeit unpaid.

In many cases, women who take maternity leave use a combination of vacation days, sick days, personal days, or short-term disability time to ensure that they can support themselves financially during this period.

Maternity leave policies are different around the world. For instance, some countries provide maternity leave cash benefits to replace a portion of the income lost due to the interruption of the woman’s economic activities.

Despite these policy variations, one thing remains constant: the need for financial stability during maternity leave. This is where learning how to make money on maternity leave becomes essential.

With the right strategies, you can maintain your income stream even while on maternity leave, ensuring a stress-free time for you and your newborn.

Preparing for Maternity Leave

Preparing for maternity leave can be both an exciting and daunting process. Alongside the anticipation of welcoming a new family member, managing finances during this period is also challenging.

Here’s how you can financially prepare for maternity leave:

1. Know How Much You’ll Need

Your new arrival comes with a lot of new costs. From diapers and wipes to formula and childcare, these expenses can quickly add up. It’s crucial to estimate these costs and factor them into your budget.

2. Start Saving Early

One of the best ways to financially prepare for maternity leave is to start saving early. Aim to set aside a portion of your monthly income specifically for this period. This way, you’ll have a financial cushion to fall back on when you’re on leave.

3. Automate Your Savings

To ensure consistent saving, consider automating the process. Set up a regular transfer from your checking account to your savings account. This way, you’ll be saving without even thinking about it.

4. Review Your Spending Habits

Take charge of your spending. Review your bank statements and see where your money is going. Are there areas where you can cut back? Perhaps you can reduce dining out or cancel unnecessary subscriptions.

5. Plan for a Single-Income Household

If your maternity leave is unpaid, you may need to plan for a single-income household. This means adjusting your lifestyle to fit within your partner’s income, if applicable.

6. Create a Budget

Budgeting is essential when preparing for maternity leave. This will help you track your income and expenses and ensure you live within your means. Include all potential costs associated with the baby and maternity leave in your budget.

7. Get Short-Term Disability Insurance

Depending on your situation, you may want to consider getting short-term disability insurance. This can provide a portion of your salary if you’re unable to work due to pregnancy complications.

The goal is to survive maternity leave financially and enjoy this precious time with your newborn without constant financial worry.

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into how to make money on maternity leave in the following sections.

Ways to Make Money on Maternity Leave

Now that you understand the financial implications of unpaid maternity leave let’s explore various ways to make money during this period.

1. Freelance Writing

Ever thought about putting your writing skills to good use and earning some money in the process? Freelance writing could be a great way for you if you’re learning how to make money on maternity leave. 

It’s flexible, allowing you to work around your baby’s schedule, and all you need is a laptop and an internet connection.

Here are a few steps to get started:

1. Identify your niche: What topics are you passionate about? Parenting, health, finance, travel? The more specific your niche, the easier it’ll be to find potential clients.
2. Create a portfolio: Showcase your writing skills with a portfolio. You can start a blog or use platforms like Medium to publish your work.
3. Start pitching: Reach out to blogs, websites, and companies within your niche. Offer your writing services and share your portfolio. You can also use websites like Fiverr or Upwork to find work.

The key to success in freelance writing is consistency and building a strong portfolio. You can even turn this side hustle into a full-time career with time.

2. Virtual Assistant

Another popular option for new moms is working as a virtual assistant. This involves providing various administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients remotely.

Here are some tips for getting started as a virtual assistant:

• Identify your skills: Determine what tasks you’re good at and focus on them. This could be social media management, data entry, or graphic design.
• Create a portfolio: Similar to freelance writing, having examples of your work can help attract potential clients.
• Network: Join online communities or attend networking events to connect with potential clients.
• Consider certifications: Some specialized skills, such as bookkeeping or social media management, may require certification. Consider obtaining these certifications to make yourself more marketable.

3. Online Surveys

One of the simplest ways to make money while on maternity leave is by participating in online surveys. Yes, sharing your opinion can indeed put some extra cash in your pocket!

Online surveys are a legitimate way for brands to gather consumer insights, and they’re willing to pay for it. Websites like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks offer cash or gift cards in exchange for your time and thoughts.

Here’s how you can get started:

• Sign up on reputable survey sites.
• Complete your profile accurately to receive surveys that match your demographics.
• Start taking surveys and accrue points.
• Redeem your points for cash or gift cards.

Every little bit helps when you’re figuring out how to make money on maternity leave. It may not replace your full-time income, but it can certainly help cover some baby-related expenses.

4. Selling Online

Have you ever considered selling online as a way to supplement your income during maternity leave? As we navigate the digital age while learning how to make money on maternity leave, this method of earning has become increasingly popular and accessible.

This approach can be particularly beneficial for new moms, as it offers flexibility and control over your schedule. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re selling handmade crafts, preloved items, or even creating an online course to share your expertise!

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Identify Your Product or Service: What are you passionate about? What skills or resources do you have that others might find valuable?
2. Choose an Online Platform: From Etsy for handmade goods to Udemy for online courses, there are numerous platforms where you can sell your products or services.
3. Market Your Offerings: Use social media and other marketing strategies to attract customers.
4. Provide Excellent Customer Service: This will help you build a loyal customer base and generate positive reviews, which can lead to more sales.

The key to success in online selling is finding a niche and providing value to your customers. Dedication and hard work can make this a profitable venture during maternity leave.

5. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and receiving a commission for sales through your unique referral link. This can be a lucrative way to make money during maternity leave, especially if you have a strong online following.

Here’s how it works:

• Choose a Niche: Pick an area you’re passionate about and knowledgeable in. It could be baby products, maternity wear, or anything else that interests you.
• Sign Up for an Affiliate Program: Big companies like Amazon have affiliate programs you can join. Once you’re an affiliate, you can promote their products on your blog or social media platforms.
• Promote: Share your unique affiliate link with your audience. When someone makes a purchase using your link, you earn a commission.

It’s that simple!

Just make sure to follow ethical guidelines and disclose your affiliate partnerships to your audience.

6. Transcribing

Do you have great listening and typing skills? Consider transcribing as a way to make money on maternity leave. Transcription involves converting audio or video recordings into written form.

Here’s what you need to get started:

1. Good Quality Headphones: A good pair of noise-canceling headphones can help you focus on the audio without any distractions.
2. Transcription Software: Several transcription software are available, such as Express Scribe. These tools make it easier to transcribe and edit your work.
3. Practice: Transcribing can be challenging at first, but you’ll improve your speed and accuracy with practice.
4. Join transcription websites: Websites like Rev and TranscribeMe connect transcribers with clients in need of their services.

Transcribing can be an excellent way to make money on maternity leave, especially if you have a quiet environment at home. You can earn a decent income from transcription work with the right equipment and skills.

7. Babysitting or Childcare

If you’re already caring for your little one, why not consider babysitting or providing childcare for other families as a way to make money on maternity leave?

Here are some options to explore:

• Babysitting: You can offer occasional or part-time babysitting services to local families in your neighborhood.
• Daycare Services: If you have the space and resources, you can consider starting a licensed daycare from home.
• Nanny Services: Some families may prefer to have a nanny for their children instead of sending them to daycare. You can offer your services as a nanny at home or theirs.

Taking care of other children while on maternity leave can be an excellent way to earn some extra income and potentially build long-term relationships with families in your community.

8. Creating An Online Course

If you have expertise in a particular area, consider creating an online course to make money on maternity leave. Online learning is becoming increasingly popular, and people are willing to pay for valuable knowledge. 

With websites like Udemy and Skillshare, creating and publishing an online course is easy.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Choose Your Topic: What subject are you knowledgeable and passionate about?
2. Create Content: Use tools like Thinkific or Teachable to create and host your course.
3. Price Your Course: Consider the value of your content and comparable courses in the market when setting a price.
4. Promote Your Course: Use social media and other marketing strategies to reach potential learners.

9. Creating Paintings or Designs

If you’re creative, selling your artwork or designs can be an excellent way to make money on maternity leave. You can create and sell paintings, drawings, digital designs, or even custom-made products like t-shirts and mugs.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Choose Your Medium: Decide which art form you want to focus on. It could be painting, drawing, graphic design, etc.
2. Build Your Portfolio: Create a collection of your best work to showcase to potential buyers.
3. Sell on Online Platforms: Websites like Etsy, Redbubble, and Society6 allow you to sell your art or designs online.
4. Attend Local Markets and Events: Consider attending local markets and art fairs to sell your products in person.

By monetizing your creativity, you can turn your passion into a profitable business during maternity leave

10. Selling Unwanted or Unused Items

This is a simple and effective way to make money on maternity leave. As a new parent, you may find many items that are no longer needed or used. Selling these items can help declutter your home and earn extra cash.

Here’s how you can do it:

1. Declutter: Go through your home and gather all the items you no longer need or use.
2. Choose a Platform: You can sell your items on websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, or Craigslist.
3. Set Prices and Take Photos: Make sure to set reasonable prices and take clear and high-quality photos of your items.
4. Meet in a Safe Location: When meeting with potential buyers, make sure to do so in a safe public location.

Selling unwanted or unused items can be an easy and convenient way to make money on maternity leave. It’s also a great opportunity to declutter your home and make space for new baby items.

11. Virtual Bookkeeping or Accounting

If you have experience in finance or accounting, consider offering virtual bookkeeping or accounting services to small businesses as a way to make money on maternity leave. With the rise of online businesses, there is a high demand for remote financial services.

Here’s what you need to get started:

1. Accounting Software: Familiarize yourself with popular accounting software like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, or Xero.
2. Market Yourself: Create a professional website and use social media to promote your services.
3. Set Your Rates: Consider your experience and the services you offer when setting your rates.
4. Build Clientele: As you gain experience and positive testimonials, you can build a client base through referrals and online platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.

With the flexibility of remote work, virtual bookkeeping or accounting can be a convenient way to make money on maternity leave and potentially continue as a side hustle post-maternity leave.

12. Testing Products For Money

Companies are always looking for consumer feedback on their products, and you can get paid to test them! This is an easy and fun way to make money on maternity leave while trying out new products.

Here’s how you can sign up:

1. Research Product Testing Websites: Look for reputable websites that offer product testing opportunities like User Testing and Influenster.
2. Create a Profile: Sign up for an account and create a profile that reflects your interests and demographics.
3. Wait for Opportunities: Companies will reach out to you if they have products that align with your profile.
4. Provide Feedback: Once you receive a product, test it out and provide honest feedback to the company. You will usually get paid for your time and feedback.

Testing products for money can be a fun and easy way to make money on maternity leave while also trying out new products for you and your family.

13. Doing Odd Jobs Through TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is an online platform that connects people with local tasks and errands, and you can earn money by completing these tasks! This is a flexible way to make money on maternity leave, as you can choose the tasks and hours that work best for you.

Here’s how it works:

1. Sign Up: Create an account on TaskRabbit and complete your profile with your skills, availability, and location.
2. Search for Tasks: Browse available tasks in your area and choose the ones that interest you.
3. Complete the Task: Once hired, communicate with the client to arrange details and then complete the task as requested.
4. Get Paid: After completing the task, you will receive payment through the TaskRabbit platform.

TaskRabbit can be a convenient and flexible way to make money on maternity leave by completing odd jobs in your local area.

14. Start A Blog or YouTube Channel

Blogging and vlogging (video blogging) have become popular ways to make money online. Creating valuable content can attract a large audience and monetize your blog or channel through advertising, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and more.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Choose Your Niche: Decide what topics you are passionate about and what audience you want to target.
2. Create Content: Create valuable content in blog posts, videos, or both. Remember to use relevant keywords to optimize your content for search engines.
3. Promote Your Content: Share your content on social media and engage with your audience to grow your following.
4. Monetize Your Blog or Channel: Once you have a decent following, you can start monetizing your blog or channel through various methods like advertising and sponsorships.

Starting a blog or YouTube channel can be an enjoyable and lucrative way when you’re learning how to make money on maternity leave while also expressing your creativity and connecting with others.

15. Offering Consulting Services

One lucrative way to make money while on maternity leave is by offering consulting services. This flexible work option allows you to utilize your professional expertise and skills to provide guidance, advice, or solutions to individuals or businesses in need.

Here’s how it can work:

• Identify Your Expertise: What area are you skilled in? This could be anything from business strategy, marketing, human resources, IT, and more. Your knowledge is valuable, and people are willing to pay for it.
• Set Up a Home Office: With the rise of remote work, setting up a home office has never been easier. You only need a quiet space, a reliable internet connection, and a computer.
• Determine Your Rates: Research what other consultants in your field charge and set competitive rates. Remember, you provide expert advice, so don’t undervalue your services.
• Network: Reach out to your professional contacts and let them know you’re available for consulting work. LinkedIn is a great platform for this.

Offering consulting services not only serves as a way to make money on maternity leave but also keeps you engaged with your professional field. So, why not consider this option as part of your plan on how to make money on maternity leave? It could turn out to be a win-win situation!

16. Renting Out Your Car or Home on Airbnb

One innovative way to supplement your income during maternity leave is by tapping into the sharing economy. Have you considered renting out your car or home on platforms like Airbnb?

According to a Business Insider report, some people are making up to $9,500 a month from this passive income stream.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Assess Your Assets: Do you have an extra room, a vacation home, or a rarely used vehicle? These could be your ticket to making money on maternity leave.
2. Sign Up: Create an account on platforms like Airbnb or Turo. They’re user-friendly and provide necessary insurance coverage.
3. Set a Competitive Price: Research what similar listings in your area are charging. Price competitively to attract renters.
4. Promote Your Listing: Share your listing on social media or within local community groups to increase visibility.
5. Provide Excellent Service: Good reviews can boost your listing’s popularity, helping you earn more over time.

By leveraging platforms like Airbnb, you can turn idle assets into a steady income stream, all while enjoying precious time with your new baby!

17. Earn Cashback While Shopping

One surprisingly easy way to make money while on maternity leave is by earning cashback on your everyday purchases. Yes, you can actually earn money while spending!

 Here’s how:

• Use Cashback Apps: Apps like Ibotta and Rakuten offer cashback on purchases from grocery stores, online retailers, and more. Simply check the app before you shop, and earn cashback on your purchases.
• Leverage Credit Card Rewards: Many credit cards offer cashback rewards on your spending. If you have one of these cards, use it to your advantage!

This approach won’t replace a full-time income, but every little bit helps when you’re figuring out how to make money on maternity leave. Plus, you can earn money while doing something you’d be doing anyway — shopping for your family’s needs!

18. Start A Dropshipping Business

One of the most flexible and profitable ways to make money while on maternity leave is by starting a dropshipping business. It’s an e-commerce model where you sell products online, but the supplier handles the inventory and shipping. Sound interesting?

Here’s why dropshipping can be a great fit for new moms:

• Flexibility: You can work from home and set your own hours. Perfect for when the baby is napping, or you have some downtime.
• Low Startup Costs: Buying inventory upfront is unnecessary, which keeps your initial investment low.
• Profit Potential: Dropshipping can be a lucrative way to earn money on maternity leave. You set your retail prices so you control your profit margins.
• No Shipping Hassles: The supplier takes care of packing and shipping orders, leaving you more time to focus on your baby and growing your business.

Starting a dropshipping business can potentially turn your maternity leave into a financially empowering time. So, if you’re wondering how to make money on maternity leave, this could be your answer.

19. Become A Social Media Influencer

Becoming a social media influencer is a fantastic way to make money on maternity leave. It’s a flexible and fun avenue that allows you to share your journey, connect with others, and monetize your influence.

You can promote various parenting, home, or health-related products, earning income through collaborations, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Choose Your Niche: Focus on areas you’re passionate about. This could be motherhood, fashion, fitness, cooking, etc.
2. Build Your Audience: Share quality content regularly and engage with your followers.
3. Network: Connect with brands and other influencers in your niche.
4. Monetize: Once you’ve built a substantial following, you can monetize through sponsored posts, brand collaborations, or affiliate links.

Authenticity is key in the influencer world. Be genuine, be consistent, and most importantly, enjoy the process!

20. Offer Pet Sitting Or Dog Walking Services

One fantastic way to make money during maternity leave is by offering pet sitting or dog walking services. If you’re an animal lover, this could be a win-win situation. You get to spend time with adorable pets and earn money!

You could make as much as $40 per hour. Here’s how you can get started:

• Identify Your Market: Look around your neighborhood. Are there many pet owners who could use your help?
• Set Your Rates: Determine how much you’ll charge for your services. Consider factors like the type of service (dog walking, pet sitting), duration, and any special care the pet might need.
• Advertise Your Services: Spread the word about your new venture. You can start by telling your neighbors, friends, and family or posting about it on local community groups or online platforms.

The pet industry is booming, and with many pet owners looking for reliable care while they’re away, this can be a lucrative opportunity for you on maternity leave. Plus, who wouldn’t want to cuddle with some furry friends for extra cash?

21. Offer Home Organization Services

When you’re on maternity leave, you likely have a lot of downtime at home. Why not use that time to offer home organization services?

Many busy homeowners would appreciate someone coming in and decluttering their space. You can earn money while helping others achieve a more organized and stress-free life. Here’s how:

• Identify Your Niche: Consider the areas you excel in or enjoy organizing. This could range from closets and kitchens to garages and playrooms.
• Set Your Rates: Determine how much you’ll charge for your services, considering factors like the size of the space and the complexity of the organization.
• Market Your Services: Advertise your services through word-of-mouth, social media, or posting flyers in your community.

Home organization is a unique and profitable way to make money on maternity leave, especially if you have a knack for decluttering and creating organized spaces. Plus, it can be therapeutic and help you stay productive during your downtime at home with the new baby.

22. Start A Podcast

The rise of podcasts has offered a new opportunity for individuals to share their knowledge, stories, and expertise with others. If you have a passionate topic or an interesting story to tell, starting a podcast can be a great way to make money on maternity leave.

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Choose Your Niche: Pick a topic that interests you and that you have knowledge or experience in.
2. Plan Your Content: Decide on your podcast episodes’ format, frequency, and length.
3. Record And Edit: You can use a basic recording setup, such as a USB microphone and editing software, to produce high-quality audio for your podcast.
4. Monetize: Once you’ve built an audience, you can monetize through sponsorships, advertisements, or offering premium content for a fee.

Starting a podcast is not only a great way to make money on maternity leave but also a creative outlet that can help you connect with others and share your unique perspective.

23. Writing and Selling Ebooks

The internet has opened up endless opportunities for individuals to share their knowledge and expertise with the world. One way to do this is by writing and selling ebooks.

If you have a story to tell, a skill to teach, or valuable information to share, consider writing an ebook and self-publishing it on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Barnes & Noble Press. Here are some tips for success:

• Choose Your Topic: Pick a topic that you’re passionate about and have expertise in.
• Write And Edit: Create quality content and proofread your ebook before publishing it.
• Market Your Ebook: Promote your ebook through social media, guest blogging, or collaborating with other bloggers or influencers.

Once published, your ebook can generate income for you even while on maternity leave. And with self-publishing, you have complete control over your content and earnings. So put your writing skills to good use and start making money from your words!

24. Offer Personal Training or Fitness Classes

What better time to explore your passion for fitness and share it with others than during maternity leave? You can offer personal training sessions or fitness classes from the comfort of your home, allowing you to earn money while caring for your little one.

Here’s how to get started:

• Certify Yourself: Consider getting certified as a personal trainer or fitness instructor through organizations like NASM or ACE Fitness.
• Create A Workout Program: Design a workout program or routine you can offer clients.
• Advertise Your Services: Promote your services through social media, local community groups, or by word-of-mouth.

Fitness is a growing industry, and with many individuals looking for ways to stay active, offering personal training or fitness classes can be a profitable way to make money on maternity leave. Plus, you’ll have the added bonus of staying fit and healthy while taking care of your little bundle of joy.

25. Renting Out Baby Equipment

A creative and effective way to make money during maternity leave is by renting out baby equipment you no longer need. As your baby grows, there will be items like cribs, strollers, or high chairs that are no longer in use.

Instead of letting them gather dust, why not turn them into a source of income?

Here’s how you can do this:

• Inventory Your Items: Identify the baby gear you no longer need and ensure they are in good condition.
• Set Rental Prices: Research similar items online to set competitive rental prices.
• List Your Items: Use local classifieds, social media groups, or dedicated platforms like BabyQuip to reach potential renters.

It’s not just about learning how to make money on maternity leave – it’s about making the most of what you already have. With some planning and minimal effort, your used baby gear can become a profitable venture during your maternity leave.

26. Start a Meal Prep or Catering Service

You’re at home, and you have a kitchen – why not put it to good use by starting a meal prep or catering service? Many busy families and individuals are looking for healthy, convenient, and delicious meals that they don’t have time to make themselves.

Here’s how to get started:

• Choose Your Menu: Pick a few dishes you excel in making and design a menu.
• Promote Your Service: Spread the word through social media, local community groups, or website creation.
• Deliver Convenience: Offer delivery or pick-up options to make it easier for your clients.

Meal prep and catering services are in high demand, making them a lucrative option for making money on maternity leave. Plus, you can adjust your workload and schedule to accommodate your new baby’s needs.

27. Sell Stock Photos

Do you have a passion for photography and a library of beautiful images? If so, consider selling stock photos online. Websites like Shutterstock, iStock, and Adobe Stock allow photographers to sell their images and earn a commission for each download.

Here are some tips for success:

• Create Quality Images: Ensure your photos are high-quality, visually appealing, and relevant to current trends or events.
• Research Trends: Look at what types of images are in demand and try to capture them in your own unique style.
• Keep Adding Content: Regularly add new photos to your portfolio to attract a wider audience.

Selling stock photos is a great way to earn passive income during maternity leave. With the rise of digital media, there is always a need for high-quality images, making it a sustainable and profitable option for anyone with a passion for photography.

28. Start A Virtual Event Planning Business

Event planning is a popular side hustle for many, and with the rise of virtual events, it’s become even more accessible. As an event planner, you can work from home and offer your services to clients all over the world.

Here’s how to get started:

• Create Your Niche: Decide on the type of events you want to specialize in, such as weddings, corporate events, or virtual conferences.
• Build Your Network: Connect with vendors and suppliers in your niche to create a reliable network.
• Promote Your Services: Use social media, networking events, or industry groups to advertise your services.

Virtual events are a growing trend, and with more businesses and individuals turning to them for gatherings and celebrations, there is a high demand for event planners.

So use your organizational skills and creativity to start a virtual event planning business and make money during your maternity leave.

29. Host Virtual Workshops or Webinars

Another way to capitalize on the growing popularity of virtual events is by hosting workshops or webinars. If you have expertise in a specific field, you can share your knowledge and skills with others online and earn money while doing it.

Here are some tips for success:

• Choose A Topic: Select a topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about, such as career development, parenting, or a hobby.
• Promote Your Event: Use social media, email marketing, or collaborations with other influencers to reach a wider audience.
• Offer Value: Provide valuable and actionable information to your participants to keep them engaged and coming back for more.

Virtual workshops and webinars are a great way to earn money on maternity leave while sharing your expertise with others. With minimal overhead costs and the ability to reach a global audience, it’s a profitable venture you can continue even after your maternity leave.

30. Renting Out Your Parking Space

One unique and relatively effortless way to make money while on maternity leave is by renting out your parking space. If you have an unused driveway or garage, it can be a potential source of income.

According to Spacer, renting out an empty driveway could net around $200 a month, while an indoor spot in a garage could fetch around $300.

Here’s how you can do it:

• List Your Space: Advertise your parking space on online platforms such as Craigslist, Airbnb, or Parkhound. You can also list on platforms like SpotHero or Parkopedia.
• Set Competitive Prices: Research similar parking options in your area and adjust your prices accordingly.
• Ensure Safety: Make sure to have a clear agreement with the renter, including liability details and insurance coverage.

Renting out your parking space is an effortless way to make extra money on maternity leave. It’s also a passive income stream that can generate revenue even after you return to work.

31. Offer Laundry Service

While on maternity leave, you’re likely to have a lot of laundry piling up. Why not turn that chore into a profit by offering a laundry service to others? Many busy individuals and families would appreciate the convenience of having someone else handle their laundry for them.

Here’s how to get started:

• Invest in Equipment: Purchase or rent commercial-grade washers and dryers to handle larger loads.
• Set Your Prices: Research the market and set competitive prices for your services.
• Advertise Your Service: Use social media, word-of-mouth, or post flyers in your local community to advertise your laundry service.

By strategically planning your schedule, you can manage your baby’s routine while running this service from home. Not only does it provide a steady income stream, but it also allows you to stay active and engaged, making it a win-win situation.

32. Trade Stocks

The stock market can be daunting for many, but with the right knowledge and strategy, it can also be a lucrative source of income. You don’t need a lot of money to get started; you can trade stocks with as little as $100.

Here are some tips for beginners:

• Educate Yourself: Research and learn about stock trading through online courses, books, or even free resources like Investopedia.
• Start Small: Begin with low-risk investments and gradually increase your portfolio as you gain confidence and experience.
• Stay Updated: Keep up to date with the stock market trends and news to make informed decisions about your trades.

With some time and effort, trading stocks can be a profitable way to make money on maternity leave. Just remember to start small, educate yourself, and stay informed about the market.

How To Save Money For Maternity Leave

Planning for maternity leave can elicit a mix of emotions, from excitement and joy to worry and concern, especially when it comes to finances. But with proper planning and smart strategies, you can ensure that this special time is not overshadowed by financial stress.

Here’s how you can save money for maternity leave and make the most of this beautiful journey.

Tips To Save Money For Maternity Leave

1. Adjust Your Budget: The first step in saving for maternity leave is adjusting your budget. This means taking a hard look at where your money is going and determining where cuts can be made. Consider using a budgeting app or tool to keep track of your expenses and identify areas for potential savings.
2. Review Joint Finances: If you’re part of a two-income household, now is the time to assess your joint finances. Look at how you can live on one income or reduce your dependence on the second income.
3. Cut Back On Expenses: Analyze your spending habits and find areas where you can cut back. This might mean eating out less, canceling unnecessary subscriptions, or even downsizing your living space.
4. Reduce Your Debts: Paying off your debts before your baby arrives can significantly reduce your financial burden during maternity leave. Prioritize high-interest debts first to save more in the long run.
5. Open a Savings Account: Establishing a dedicated savings account for your maternity leave can help you effectively separate and monitor your funds. Consider opening a high-yield savings account for better interest rates.
6. Maximize Your Benefits: Make sure you’re making the most of any employer and state benefits available to you. This could include paid parental leave, short-term disability insurance, and any other benefits your company may offer.
7. Strategize Baby Registry: Be strategic about your baby registry. Include essential items and consider asking for contributions towards your savings fund instead of non-essential items.

Importance of Saving For Maternity Leave

Saving for maternity leave is more than just a financial decision; it’s a commitment to providing a secure environment for your new baby. Having a solid financial plan in place allows you to focus on what really matters – taking care of your little one and yourself.

Moreover, being financially prepared can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to a healthier and happier maternity leave. It also sets a strong precedent for future financial planning and instills good money habits to benefit your family in the long run.

Saving for maternity leave might seem daunting, but with these tips and strategies, you’re well on your way to achieving financial stability during this significant time in your life. The goal isn’t just to survive maternity leave and thrive during it. And a big part of that is figuring out how to make money on maternity leave.

Wrapping Up

As we wrap up this comprehensive guide on how to make money on maternity leave, let’s revisit the key points we’ve covered:

• Understanding the financial implications of maternity leave, both paid and unpaid.
• The importance of financial planning before maternity leave, including budgeting and saving.
• There are various ways to make money on maternity leave, including freelancing, affiliate marketing, virtual assisting, etc.
• Practical tips on how to save money for maternity leave, such as adjusting your budget, cutting back on expenses, and maximizing your benefits.

Preparing for maternity leave is not just about getting through those few months. It’s about setting the stage for a more secure financial future for you and your baby. And while it may seem daunting at first, with the right planning and strategies, you can turn this period into an opportunity for financial growth.

As we conclude, our final piece of advice is this – take it one step at a time. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is financial security. But with patience, persistence, and smart planning, you can achieve your financial goals, even on maternity leave. You’ve got this, Mom!