December Side Gigs You Can Start This Week
Compare delivery, task and freelance sign-up rules, fees and tax basics to pick a December gig you can start now.
You can start food delivery, local task work, or online freelance work this week in December. Each uses app-based sign-up and lets you set your own schedule around holiday plans. A side gig here means short paid work you find through an app or marketplace.
You still need to meet eligibility rules and plan for taxes before you count the extra cash.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 03, 2026.
What does delivery driving require right now?
DoorDash Dasher Central states adults 18 or older in most states can dash on their own schedule. Cars, scooters or bikes work in select cities. Motorized dashers need a valid license, insurance, registration, a smartphone and Social Security number plus ID verification and a background check DoorDash sign-up requirements.
Use this quick check before you apply. Holiday demand moves fast, so have documents ready. Evening and weekend blocks often match dinner and shopping peaks.
Keep your phone charged and your insurance card with you on every dash.
- Confirm license, insurance and registration are current
- Have smartphone, ID and Social Security number ready
- Pick the vehicle option open in your city
What local tasks fit a December schedule?
Taskrabbit directs new Taskers to create an account then continue registration in the Tasker app. The company states applicable cities charge a $25 registration fee Taskrabbit registration steps. Taskers offer furniture assembly, moving, cleaning, delivery and other local services.
December requests often center on assembly, mounting, moving help and cleaning before guests arrive. Set a narrow service area to limit drive time. List only tools you own and tasks you can finish in one visit.
How does online freelance compare?
Upwork states freelancer joining is free on Basic. Upwork lists Freelancer Plus at $19.99 per month, with a variable 0-15% service fee on earnings including bonuses Upwork freelancer pricing. The fee is 0% when you bring your own clients to the platform.
Writing, design, data entry and admin support suit short holiday openings. Build a small profile around one clear service. Answer quickly, since clients often hire the first qualified reply.
What should you plan for taxes?
The IRS states gig-economy earnings are taxable and must be reported even from part-time, temporary or side work IRS gig-economy reporting guidance. This applies even without a Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC or W-2. Workers generally owe income and self-employment tax and possibly quarterly estimated payments.
Track miles, fees and payouts each week in one spreadsheet. Save receipts and mileage logs in one folder so January filing is faster.