How to come up with some cash when you're unemployed

It goes without saying, but lack of work (or lack of decent pay) can happen when it's least expected and it can happen to anyone. It would be nice if our expenses would also disappear during those times, but they don't. Here's a few ideas you can use to score up some cash to get through your tough time.

Selling unneeded items: We all have some things we can part with if we take a look around the house. There's probably something you haven't used in ages just sitting in the back of a closet or collecting dust somewhere. Depending on the nature of your saleable goods, there are a number of ways to get the most for your selling efforts. If you have musical gear, check the going prices on ebay, and either sell there or on Craigslist. For quick cash, try unloading your gear at an independent, hip music store. The independent ones usually pay a fair price, far more than you'll get from a big chain store such as Guitar Center. If you have time to spare, sell via eBay or craigslist for bigger bucks. Other places to sell: Antique and consignment shops, possibly pawn shops, or at a flea market.

If your unneeded items are inexpensive in nature, or if you have a lot of varied items, try a yard/garage/basement sale. These are great for quick cash. Oftentimes the small local weekly papers will allow free garage sale listings as well.

Scour charity shops/estate sales for goods to resell: This one requires minimal investment (don't buy unless the price is so low you KNOW you can make a profit), but it can be fun and it can really get you out of a tight financial spot. It has helped me on numerous occasions. As above, you can sell on eBay, craigslist, or a sale at your home. This kind of "work" also satisfies the treasure hunter in you.

Clean out garages or basements for others: There are some people who make a good living cleaning out basements and garages for others. Many times people want a room emptied and will let you keep all the "junk" if you haul it away. Often this junk has enough value to make a few quick resale bucks. Plus the homeowner could pay you for your efforts.

Pet sitting/dog walking: There are many people who actually do this as their full-time job. You can earn a decent wage caring for animals, which is wonderful if you like animals anyway. Out-of-town or busy folks appreciate having a responsible adult take care of their pets so they don't have to board them away from home.

Baby sitting: This is another way for some quick cash, especially if you have friends with children.

Tutoring/teaching: if you have skills in math, music, web design, you name it, there's probably a way you can earn a few bucks teaching others what you know.

Picking up change at drive-thrus: This sounds like an odd one, but more often than not, there is spare change lying around outside the drive-thru window at any fast food restaurant.

Metal detecting: if you own a metal detector or have access to one, check out the beaches (in a warm climate) or playground areas. You're bound to find a couple bucks worth of change, at very least.

Snow removal/ lawn care: If you have the means and the tools, there are always people who could use help clearing the driveway or having the lawn mowed or landscape. Try posting a flyer at nearby stores which have bulletin boards.

Writing: Sites like Associated Content are always accepting new writers, so why not give it a whirl? It will help keep your mind off your situation and give you something to look forward to -- cash! They don't pay all that much, but a little something is better than nothing.

Think outside the box and there are always little ways to come up with a little extra cash when you need it most.