We’ve all been in a pinch where we need cash- and FAST. Donating plasma not only gives you the money you need in a short time frame, but it also helps save lives! Plasma is the liquid part of your blood and is full of infection-fighting antibodies and proteins that are used to help medical professionals and researchers create medicine that can save lives.
The hardest part of this hustle is that you have to meet all of the needed criteria. Unfortunately, not just anyone can donate plasma! But as long as you meet their criteria, you can donate up to twice a week! Those who donate plasma monthly can make between $360-$1000 monthly. That can add up to an extra $12,000 a year!
Another added benefit of this hustle is that as long as you qualify, this is an easy way for you to get paid. You simply get hooked up to donate your blood and kick back and relax! You are paid monetarily and in knowing that your plasma will help save lives.
Step one: Meet the necessary requirements. You should be at least 18 years old and weigh 110 pounds or more. You must wait to donate plasma if:
- You are pregnant or have recently given birth
- You recently got a tattoo
- You carry a transmittable disease, have had a blood transfusion after 1980, or you’ve had an organ transplant
It’s important to note that if you are over 65 years old, you may not be permitted to donate plasma.
Step two: Schedule an appointment with a reputable plasma center. You want to go to a place where there are good reviews from other donors, so you are sure to have a comfortable experience. A popular center that most people know is the Red Cross. Make your appointment and prepare yourself for the visit.
Step three: Nourish your body. Before your appointment, you want to drink enough fluids, so your body is properly hydrated for an easy blood draw. Eating a healthy breakfast beforehand will also make you less likely to feel faint during and after the process. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol the day before and day of your appointment as this can tamper with your plasma levels.
Step four: Complete the paperwork. When you arrive, you will need to fill out a questionnaire that asks you some medical questions such as recent surgeries, tattoos, medical procedures, and your blood type.
Step five: Pass the physical exam. Don’t worry, you won’t be running or doing jumping jacks! This is a basic physical exam that will take your vitals and confirm your medical history to ensure you are healthy enough to donate your plasma.
Step six: Undergo a blood test. After your physical exam, you can expect the nurse or doctor to take a small sample of your blood. It will be tested for diseases as well as protein, iron, and hemoglobin levels. This is done to be sure you can safely have your blood drawn and not experience harm to your own health.
Step seven: Sit back and relax. Once you are completely cleared to give plasma, you will be hooked up to a machine where your plasma will be separated from your blood, and your blood is returned back to you. This process can take around 30 minutes, so you can scroll on your phone, read a book, or watch your favorite TV show while you wait!
Step eight: Enjoy your paycheck. After your appointment, you will check out at the desk where you will either be given a check, or a card that will be reloadable.
Important note:
This is the section where we normally add tips on how to make more money on the side hustle, but due to the nature of this information, we do not encourage extreme changes to your body to achieve this. With that being said, if you are larger but under 400 pounds, you are typically paid more for your plasma. This is usually because you have more plasma to donate.