Imagine relying on a single source of passive income, only to have it disappear overnight. Putting all your eggs in one basket leaves you vulnerable to financial risk.

Something these inflationary times have clarified is that we could all use a little more money in our bank accounts. It's a simple fact: Life has become much more expensive. Passive income is a way to generate extra money and overcome a hurdle that's getting higher and higher without knocking yourself out.

I own a lot of dividend stocks. They're a big part of my investment strategy. I'm working toward eventually generating enough passive income to cover my basic living expenses. Last year, five stocks supplied me with more than $500 of dividend income apiece.

Everyone wants to build passive income. But not everyone knows what idea to choose. Here are three passive income ideas using skills you already have in 2025.