Your summer side hustle could earn you hundreds – or cost you thousands. From driving for rideshare services to food delivery or dog walking, many popular ways to make extra money come with insurance coverage gaps that most people never think about until it’s too late. A little knowledge now can help prevent a financial headache later. 

Here’s a look at some popular summer side hustles for educators – and the coverage gaps you should know about before getting started. 

Education-Related Side Hustles

Educators have a natural advantage when it comes to summer work opportunities. Many teachers earn extra income as camp counselors, summer school instructors or test-preparation coaches. Tutoring opportunities can be found through platforms such as Care.com, PrepNow, and Varsity Tutors, or through local community groups and parent networks. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: If you’re employed directly by a school district or camp, you are typically covered by that organization’s workers’ compensation and liability protections while performing your duties.However, if you tutor independently or work as an independent contractor, the situation can be very different. If a parent claims negligence, alleges poor supervision, or accuses you of damaging property during an in-home tutoring session, your personal assets could be at risk. Professional liability insurance can provide an added layer of protection for educators working independently. 

Driving for Rideshare or Delivery Apps

Companies such as Uber, Lyft, Uber Eats, and DoorDash make it easy to start earning money with your vehicle. The flexible schedule allows you to work as much or as little as you’d like. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: Driving for a rideshare or delivery service is one of the most common sources of insurance confusion. Personal auto policies may exclude or limit coverage when a vehicle is used for rideshare or delivery work, and app-based coverage often changes depending on whether you are waiting for a request, driving to pick up an order or passenger, or actively transporting one. Before signing up, review your policy and ask your insurer whether rideshare or delivery coverage, or a special endorsement, is available. Delivery drivers should confirm whether their insurer treats food or package delivery the same as rideshare driving, since coverage rules can differ by activity and state. In the event of an accident, you could be personally liable. 

House Cleaning and House Sitting

House cleaning and house sitting can be flexible ways to earn money while helping neighbors and community members. Many homeowners look for trustworthy individuals to watch their homes, bring in mail, water plants, or care for pets while they’re away. Similarly, house cleaning services remain in high demand throughout the summer months. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: Accidents can happen even during routine tasks. You could accidentally break an expensive item while cleaning, damage flooring while moving furniture, or lose a homeowner’s key while house sitting.Because you’re being paid for these services, damage or liability claims related to your work may not be covered under a standard homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. If house cleaning or house sitting becomes a regular source of income, consider whether a small business policy or liability coverage may be appropriate. 

Lawn Care and Landscaping

If you own a lawn mower and enjoy working outdoors, lawn care can be a relatively easy way to generate extra income. Apps such as LawnGuru can help connect you with customers, or you can advertise through neighborhood social media groups, flyers, and word of mouth. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: Mowing lawns and landscaping can create several potential liabilities: 

• A rock kicked up by a mower shatters a neighbor’s window.
•  A mower damages a parked vehicle.
• You accidentally cut a sprinkler line or damage landscaping.
• A customer trips over equipment left on the property. 

Because you’re performing paid work, personal insurance policies often exclude damage or injuries related to business activities. Without the proper coverage, you could be responsible for repair costs, medical bills, or legal expenses. 

Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Animal lovers may find pet sitting and dog walking to be an enjoyable way to earn extra income. Popular platforms such as Rover and Wag can help connect you with pet owners seeking reliable caregivers. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: Caring for someone else’s pet comes with responsibilities and potential liability.A dog could: 

• Escape while under your supervision. 
• Damage a neighbor’s property. 
• Injure another animal. 
• Bite a passerby or visitor. 

In addition, you may be entrusted with house keys, alarm codes, and access to someone’s property. Many people assume platforms provide complete protection, but that’s not always the case. Companies such as Rover and Wag generally do not cover third-party injuries, property damage, or lost keys. If a claim arises, you may be personally responsible for the costs. 

Content Creation and Social Media Management

If you’re comfortable creating videos, writing posts, or managing social media accounts, content creation can be a flexible side hustle. Businesses, nonprofits, and local organizations are often looking for help with their online presence. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: The insurance risks associated with content creation are generally lower than those of many other side hustles. However, there are still professional considerations.As an educator, remember that your online presence may be viewed by employers, students, parents, and community members. Content that seems harmless today can quickly become public and permanent.If you’re managing accounts for clients, errors, copyright issues, or disputes over content could potentially create professional liability concerns. 

Selling Handmade Goods 

Creative educators often turn hobbies into income by selling handmade jewelry, artwork, home décor, apparel, or customized gifts through platforms such as Etsy. 

Hidden Risks & Coverage Gaps: Many Etsy sellers focus on the creative side of the business but overlook the financial responsibilities.Side hustles typically count as self-employment income. If you’re earning money consistently, you may receive tax documents such as a 1099 and may need to set aside funds for taxes throughout the year.Depending on what you’re selling, there may also be product liability considerations if a customer claims an item caused injury or property damage. Speaking with a tax professional can help ensure you’re prepared for the financial side of your growing business. 

Protect Your Summer Earnings

A side hustle can be a great way to supplement your income, explore a new interest, or save for future goals. The key is understanding the risks before they become expensive surprises. Before starting any money-making venture, take a few minutes to review your insurance coverage and ask questions about potential exclusions. A small investment in knowledge today can help protect the income you’re working hard to earn tomorrow.