45 Ways Moms Can Make Money on Maternity Leave (Without Losing Your Mind or Missing Baby Snuggles)

So… you’re on maternity leave.

You’re sleep-deprived.
You’re in yesterday’s leggings.
You’ve reheated the same cup of coffee four times.

And somewhere between diaper changes and contact naps, you’re thinking:

“Is there a way I can make a little extra money… without leaving my baby or losing my sanity?”

Friend — yes. Yes, there is.

Whether you’re on unpaid leave, partially paid leave, or just want a little cushion for diapers, daycare, or future college funds, this guide will walk you through 45 realistic, flexible, parent-friendly ways to make money on maternity leave — in a fun, manageable way.

Let’s dive in.

Can You Make Money While on Maternity Leave?

In most cases, yes — but it depends on your employer policy and state benefits. If you’re receiving disability pay or paid leave, check your company’s HR policy before starting paid work.

Some income streams (like selling items, passive income, or freelance work done casually) may not conflict — but always double-check.

Now let’s get into the good stuff.

Online & Work-From-Home Ways to Make Money

These are ideal because you can work during nap time, late nights, or while baby-wearing.

1. Start a Blog

Starting a blog is one of the most flexible long-term income ideas.

You can blog about:

• Motherhood
• Budgeting
• Recipes
• Pregnancy
• Faith
• Special needs parenting
• Homeschooling
• Side hustles

Monetization options include:

• Display ads (like Mediavine)
• Affiliate marketing
• Sponsored posts
• Digital products

It won’t make money overnight, but it can grow into serious income.

2. Pinterest Virtual Assistant

Many bloggers and business owners need help managing Pinterest accounts.

Tasks include:

• Creating pins
• Scheduling content
• Keyword research
• Analytics tracking

You can charge $20–$40 per hour once trained.

3. Freelance Writing

Websites, brands, and bloggers always need content.

You can write:

• Blog posts
• Email newsletters
• Product descriptions
• Social media captions

Start on Upwork or pitch small blogs in your niche.

4. Sell Printables on Etsy

Design:

• Meal planners
• Budget trackers
• Chore charts
• Kids activity sheets
• Bible study pages

Create once. Sell forever. Passive income magic.

5. Proofreading

If you’re detail-oriented, this is a quiet nap-time job.

Proofread:

• Blog posts
• Student papers
• eBooks
• Resumes

Many proofreaders earn $25+ per hour.

6. Virtual Assistant

Help small businesses with:

• Email management
• Scheduling
• Customer service
• Social media posting

Flexible and highly in demand.

7. Social Media Manager

Manage Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok accounts for small brands.

Create content, schedule posts, respond to comments.

Perfect for moms already scrolling anyway.

8. Affiliate Marketing

Promote products you already love:

• Baby gear
• Amazon finds
• Books
• Kitchen gadgets

Share links via:

• Blog
• Pinterest
• Instagram
• Email list

Earn commission every time someone purchases.

9. Sell Canva Templates

Design:

• Instagram templates
• Business planners
• Budget sheets
• Wedding invites

Upload to Etsy or Creative Market.

10. Create an Online Course

Teach:

• Breastfeeding basics
• Budgeting for families
• Baby sleep routines
• Organizing small homes

Record once. Sell repeatedly.

Quick Money Ideas (Low Time Commitment)

Sometimes you just need something simple and quick.

11. Sell Baby Items You Don’t Need

Babies outgrow things in five minutes.

Sell on:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Poshmark
• Mercari

Declutter and earn.

12. Participate in Online Surveys

Not glamorous — but easy.

Do during:

• Night feeds
• Contact naps
• Pumping sessions

13. Cash Back Apps

Use apps that give you cashback for groceries.

It’s not “earning,” but it’s saving — which counts.14. Sell Photos

If you love photography, upload stock photos.

Photos of:

• Motherhood
• Flat lays
• Coffee + baby life
• Home scenes

Sell on stock platforms.

15. Flip Items from Thrift Stores

Buy undervalued items. Resell for profit.

Common flips:

• Baby brands
• Books
• Home decor
• Vintage clothing

Creative & Fun Income Ideas

16. Start a YouTube Channel

Share:

• Day in the life
• Budgeting tips
• Baby routines
• Honest motherhood talks

Monetize with ads + affiliate links.

17. Start a Podcast

Talk about:

• Parenting
• Faith
• Marriage after baby
• Real-life motherhood

Low startup cost.

18. Sell Handmade Products

If you’re crafty:

• Baby bows
• Knit blankets
• Crochet animals
• Custom onesies

Sell on Etsy or locally.

19. Bake Custom Treats

If health and local laws allow, sell:

• Cookies
• Cupcakes
• Sourdough bread

Market through local Facebook groups.

20. Teach Online Tutoring

Tutor:

• Elementary reading
• ESL
• Math
• Test prep

Flexible scheduling.

Service-Based Side Hustles

All remote. All flexible. All doable during naps (most days).

21. Resume Writing

If you’ve ever helped a friend “fix” their resume and thought, Why does this look so much better now? — you might have a hidden skill.

Resume writing is in high demand because job seekers often struggle to:

• Highlight accomplishments
• Use keywords for applicant tracking systems (ATS)
• Format resumes professionally
• Showcase measurable results

As a resume writer, you can charge anywhere from $75 to $300 per resume depending on experience. Start by offering services to:

• Recent grads
• Stay-at-home moms reentering the workforce
• Military spouses
• Career changers

You can advertise in local Facebook groups, LinkedIn, or freelance platforms. The best part? You can complete most resumes in 1–3 focused nap sessions.

22. Transcription

Transcription is a great fit for moms who:

• Type quickly
• Have good listening skills
• Don’t mind repetitive work

You’ll listen to audio files and type them into written documents. Common transcription niches include:

• Medical
• Legal
• Podcast episodes
• Interviews

You can work flexible hours — even during late-night feeds with headphones on. Pay typically ranges from $15–$30 per hour depending on speed and accuracy. It’s not glamorous, but it’s steady and beginner-friendly.

23. Data Entry

Data entry involves inputting information into spreadsheets, databases, or online systems. It’s simple, task-based work that usually requires:

• Basic computer skills
• Accuracy
• Attention to detail

Because it doesn’t require creative energy, it’s perfect for days when your brain feels like mashed potatoes from sleep deprivation. You log in, complete tasks, log out.

It’s predictable, flexible, and ideal for short work bursts.

24. Customer Service Chat Rep

Many companies hire remote chat support agents. Instead of answering phone calls, you:

• Respond to customer questions via chat
• Troubleshoot issues
• Guide customers through purchases

This can be less stressful than phone-based roles and often allows flexible scheduling. Some positions are part-time or evening-based, which works well if your partner is home to help with baby.

If you’re patient, friendly, and good at typing quickly, this can be consistent income.

25. Bookkeeping

If you’re organized and comfortable with numbers, bookkeeping is a high-paying remote option.

Small businesses need help tracking:

• Expenses
• Invoices
• Payroll
• Profit & loss statements

You don’t need to be a CPA to get started. Many bookkeepers take short certification courses and work with small local businesses.

Experienced remote bookkeepers can earn $25–$60 per hour. And since most work is monthly or weekly reporting, it’s highly flexible.

Flexible Gig Work

These work best if you have childcare help or can schedule around your partner’s availability.

26. DoorDash or Uber Eats (if you have help watching baby)

Driving for apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats allows you to choose when you work.

You simply:

• Accept delivery orders
• Pick up food
• Drop it off
• Get paid per delivery + tips

It’s flexible because you can log in for just an hour or two. Many moms do dinner rush shifts when their partner is home.

Pro tip: Track mileage for tax deductions.

27. Grocery Delivery

Apps like Instacart allow you to shop and deliver groceries for customers.

You can:

• Choose your schedule
• Accept batches that fit your availability
• Earn tips on larger orders

This can pay more than food delivery, especially during weekends or holidays.

28. House Sitting

House sitting is ideal if you want quiet work.

Responsibilities may include:

• Bringing in mail
• Watering plants
• Staying overnight (if baby-friendly)
• Checking security

You can find clients through local groups or house-sitting websites. It’s low effort and sometimes just requires “being present.”

29. Pet Sitting

If you love animals, pet sitting can be flexible and profitable.

You may:

• Do drop-in visits
• Walk dogs
• Keep pets at your home
• Board animals overnight

Many pet owners are willing to pay well for trustworthy care. Bonus: Your baby grows up around sweet animals (with supervision, of course).

30. Babysitting (watch another child with yours)

If you’re already home with your baby, adding one more child can double your daily income.

You can:

• Offer part-time care
• Help a work-from-home parent
• Provide after-school care

Be sure to check local regulations, licensing rules, and insurance requirements.

This works especially well if your baby is still in the “portable potato” stage.

Passive Income Ideas

Create once. Earn repeatedly.

31. Write an eBook

You can self-publish on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and sell:

• Parenting guides
• Budgeting tips
• Devotionals
• Meal planning systems
• Baby sleep schedules

Short eBooks (30–70 pages) can generate steady royalties. Write during maternity leave, earn for years.

32. Sell Low Content Journals

Low-content books include:

• Gratitude journals
• Planners
• Trackers
• Notebooks
• Log books

Using tools like Canva, you can design interiors and publish through KDP. It’s beginner-friendly and scalable.

33. Create Digital Stickers

Digital stickers are popular for:

• iPad planners
• GoodNotes
• Digital scrapbooking

Once created, they’re 100% passive. Upload to Etsy, market on Pinterest, and let the downloads happen automatically.

34. License Your Photos

If you enjoy photography, upload images to stock platforms.

High-demand niches:

• Motherhood
• Diverse families
• Home offices
• Baby milestones

Every time someone downloads your image, you earn a royalty.

35. Dividend Investing

Dividend investing means purchasing stocks that pay you regularly just for owning them.

While it requires upfront capital, it builds long-term wealth. Many moms use this strategy to:

• Build college funds
• Create passive income streams
• Plan early retirement

Always research carefully and consider speaking with a financial advisor.

Stay-at-Home Mom Business Ideas

These can grow beyond maternity leave if you choose.

36. Start a Cleaning Business

Residential cleaning services are always in demand.

You can:

• Clean during school hours (once baby is older)
• Offer move-in/move-out cleans
• Focus on eco-friendly products

Startup costs are low, and referrals spread quickly.

37. Organizing Service

If you love tidy spaces, become a professional organizer.

Help clients with:

• Pantries
• Closets
• Playrooms
• Home offices

Minimal startup costs, flexible scheduling, and strong word-of-mouth potential.

38. Laundry Service

Busy families often need help with laundry.

Offer:

• Pickup & drop-off
• Wash and fold services
• Ironing

You can run this business from home with minimal equipment beyond what you already own.39. Event Planning

If you’re detail-oriented and creative, event planning can be lucrative.

Plan:

• Baby showers
• Birthday parties
• Small weddings
• Corporate events

Start with small local events and grow through referrals and social media marketing.

40. Childcare from Home

Opening a small home daycare can provide stable monthly income.

Check:

• Licensing requirements
• Insurance needs
• State regulations

It’s structured income while staying home with your own child.

Micro Tasks & Flexible Side Gigs

Perfect for short bursts of time.

41. Test Websites

Companies pay users to:

• Test website usability
• Record feedback
• Complete small navigation tasks

Tests usually take 10–20 minutes and pay per session.

42. Sell Lesson Plans

If you’re a teacher (or former teacher), you can sell lesson plans online.

Upload:

• Worksheets
• Unit plans
• Classroom decor
• Activity packets

Once listed, they generate passive income over time.

43. Sell Educational Resources

Parents are always looking for:

• Homeschool printables
• Special education tools
• Behavior charts
• Reading activities

Create digital downloads and sell through marketplaces.

44. Flip Furniture

Find inexpensive furniture through:

• Garage sales
• Facebook Marketplace
• Curbside finds

Refinish, repaint, or update hardware — then resell for profit.

This can bring in high margins per piece.

45. Rent Out Baby Gear

Traveling families often need temporary baby equipment.

You can rent out:

• Cribs
• High chairs
• Strollers
• Pack and plays

List through local parent groups or rental platforms. It’s a creative way to make money from items you already own.

How to Choose the Best Maternity Leave Side Hustle

Ask yourself:

• How much time do I realistically have?
• Do I need fast cash or long-term growth?
• Do I want active or passive income?
• What skills do I already have?

Start small. One idea. One hour a day.

Tips for Working During Maternity Leave

1. Work during naps only.
2. Don’t sacrifice rest.
3. Automate when possible.
4. Batch tasks weekly.
5. Remember: this season is short.

Your baby will never be this tiny again.8 FAQs About Maternity Leave in the USA

1. How long is maternity leave in the United States?

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave.

2. Is maternity leave paid in the USA?

There is no federal requirement for paid maternity leave. Some employers offer paid leave, and some states provide paid family leave programs.

3. Can I work another job while on maternity leave?

It depends on your employer policy and whether you are receiving disability or paid benefits. Always check HR policies first.

4. Do part-time workers qualify for maternity leave?

Under FMLA, you must meet hour requirements (1,250 hours in the previous year) and work for a covered employer.

5. Can I be fired while on maternity leave?

If you qualify under FMLA, your job is protected. However, exceptions exist for company-wide layoffs.

6. What states offer paid family leave?

States like California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and others offer paid family leave programs.

7. Does maternity leave cover adoption?

Yes, FMLA covers leave for adoption and foster placement.

8. How can I financially prepare for maternity leave?

• Build a savings buffer
• Reduce expenses
• Plan meals
• Explore flexible income streams (like those above!)

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to “Hustle” to Be Worthy

Let’s be clear.

You do not need to monetize every nap.

You do not need to “bounce back.”

You do not need to build an empire while breastfeeding.

But if earning a little extra gives you peace of mind? Confidence? Options?

That’s powerful.

Choose something flexible. Start small. Protect your rest. Enjoy the baby snuggles.

Because this season? It’s exhausting.

But it’s also sacred.

And you, mama, are doing amazing.