💰 10 Ways to Make $500 in a Week on DoorDash

Need fast cash? Whether you’re starting over or saving up, DoorDash can help you bring in $500 in just a week—without working yourself to the bone. I’ve done it, and here are 10 smart strategies to make it happen.

Let’s be real for a moment: this isn’t just about hustle culture or hitting numbers—it’s about life. I started dashing after a divorce when everything I thought was stable came crashing down. For others, it could be job loss, a sudden layoff, a car repair they can’t afford, or simply needing extra cash to get ahead after living paycheck to paycheck. Maybe you’re a mom with grown kids looking for a flexible gig, a college student trying to avoid debt, or someone navigating burnout from a traditional 9–5. Whatever your reason, DoorDash can be a practical and empowering bridge when you’re in transition. And $500? That can be groceries, rent, utilities, or the confidence boost you need to believe in your ability to rebuild.

These tips are just the beginning—what matters most is that you take the first step. If you haven’t signed up with DoorDash yet, go to their official website and complete the driver application. You’ll need a driver’s license, car insurance, and a smartphone. Once approved, download the app and turn it on. That first order might feel scary(this happened to me), but once you complete it, something shifts: you realize you can do this. You can make real money, one delivery at a time. You just need a little hustle, heart, and a solid plan. And you’re not doing it alone—I’m here cheering you on every mile.

🚗 How to Get Started (Even If You’re Brand New)

1. Work During Peak Hours

Breakfast (7 a.m-9 a.m.) Lunch (11 a.m.–2 p.m.) and Dinner (5–9 p.m.) are goldmines. You’ll get higher-paying orders, more tips, and possibly Peak Pay. Plan your day around these hours, even if you’re working part-time.

2. Set a Daily Goal

Break $500 into bite-sized goals: about $85–$100/day. Use a daily tracker (like the free one I created) to keep your eye on the prize. If you miss one day, catch up the next. Don't get discouraged-you may not make $100 a day to start however setting goals will set you up for success. 

3. Know Your Zone

Some areas are just better for dashing. Choose spots with high restaurant density and fast service. Avoid areas with long wait times, traffic bottlenecks, or tricky parking.

4. Decline Low-Paying Orders

Your time is valuable. Don’t waste it on $3 orders that require 20 minutes and 5 miles. Go for orders with a better dollars-per-mile rate. With that said my small town is a 4 mile radius. When you first start don't decline too many low paying offers-take a few so that you don't decline too many. 

5. Stack Orders When It Makes Sense

When you get two orders from the same restaurant or in the same neighborhood, say yes! This saves time and gas, and often increases your hourly pay.

6. Use Challenges and Peak Pay

Check your app every day for promotions. Peak Pay adds extra dollars per delivery, and Challenges offer bonuses for completing a certain number of deliveries in a set time.

7. Dash Consistently

It’s not about hustling 12-hour days. It’s about showing up every day for a few hours, staying focused, and meeting your goal. Utilize this mileage tracker and keep track of your gas receipts. Try Stride for miles and Upside for gas savings. 

8. Maximize Tips

Be kind, follow instructions, and communicate delays. People tip better when you show effort.

9. Track Your Earnings

Use apps like Gridwise or my personal tracker to monitor your average earnings/hour, miles driven, and tips. This helps you adjust for higher efficiency.

10. Stay Encouraged

Some days are slow, others explode. Don’t quit over a dry shift. Show up, stay the course, and watch your totals climb.

You’ve got the map. $500 in a week is real and doable, even if you’re starting from scratch emotionally, financially, or physically. Want my free printable tracker? Grab it below! You’ll get a mini calendar, earnings log, and space to track your goals. These small actionable steps will get you on your way. 

👉 Want the exact tools and snacks I use while dashing?

Check out my ShopMy page and shoot me an EMAIL—I want to hear your success story and cheer you on every mile! Click the link below and get your DoorDash Thrive Kit and get started today! 

✨ Let’s rise up, buttercup. Your comeback starts here.

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