As you try to reach your personal finance goals, sometimes a little extra money may be the key that you need. When money is tight, an extra $10 or $20 can really make all the difference. If you want a little extra money without going out and getting a side job, recycling is an easy way to start. It is good for your finances and is a great way to do your part to save the planet.

Use What You Have

Many people run out and get extra containers or storage bins before starting to recycle. This completely defeats the purpose. If you are recycling to get some extra money, spending money won’t do you any good. Recycling isn’t a get rich quick scheme. It will take a long time to build up to a small amount of money. Use things you have to maximize your earnings. An old cardboard box or trash can is a great place to start throwing bottles and cans. An empty trash bag will even do the job.

Get What You Pay For

One reason that recycling is such a good idea, is that you really are usually only getting your own money back. In many states bottled goods are charged a deposit. This deposit is encouragement to recycle. You might be paying five cents a bottle at purchase and then have this returned to you when you recycle. By taking your bottles and cans to the recycling center, you are only getting back the money you have already invested.

Little Amounts Add Up

Many people don’t recycle because they feel that the pocket change they are saving doesn’t matter. It is true, you aren’t going to make a ton of money recycling. However, you may be able to get $40 or $50 dollars each year. If you are running low on funds before payday, those bottles and cans might really come in handy. Many supermarkets have recycling centers right outside. This means that you can take your recycling quickly without having to run all across town.

If you are looking for a great way to build up a little extra cash for something you already have laying around, consider doing your part to save by planet by recycling. Don’t just send your extra cash to the dump, take a little time and recycle; it will be worth your effort.

Do you recycle?

Crystal Comments: We don’t have recycling pick up, so Mr. BFS and I only save up aluminum cans in trash bags and newspaper in a couple of cardboard boxes. We stopped drinking soda regularly and only get 2-3 newpapers a week, so we have yet to do anything with our cache. I’m hoping for $10-$20 when I finally drop off the cans.