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FASTag – How to buy and recharge FASTag online & offline

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November 24, 2019

FASTag – How to buy and recharge FASTag online & offline

FASTag is easy to use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag. This tag needs to be fixed on the windscreen of the vehicle screen after activation. FASTag is linked with a bank account. This tag enables automatic deduction of toll charges via RFID when a vehicle passes through a toll plaza. From 15th Dec 2019, FASTag is mandatory for all toll payments at the highway. If your vehicle is not enabled with this tag you need to pay double toll payment at toll plaza.

The introduction of FASTag will surely reduce traffic at a toll plaza. In addition to a reduction in traffic, it will also save a lot of fuel and travel time. It is an ideal solution for a road trips on a national highway. In the first phase, Fastags will be operational at 407 national and state highways in India. It is initiative by the government of India to promote cashless transactions.

So, if you are a frequent traveler via highway, you need to buy this tag. This is to avoid payment of double amount at toll.

Also Read – Top 10 Best Payment Gateways in India for Online Business

What is FASTag?

The FASTag is an RFID sticker for the vehicle. This sticker is linked with the bank account. This sticker enables payment of toll automatically when the vehicle is on the move. This happens via RFID technology. As soon as the amount is deducted from your account, the boom barrier at toll plaza opens automatically. An SMS with date and time, place and amount will be sent to tag owners mobile.

This enables the non-stop movement of vehicles at toll. It also eliminates manual intervention by a human for the opening of boom barrier manually.

All new cars are sold with the enablement of Fastag. If you are using the old car and want to purchase a new tag use the method given below.

Key Features of FASTags

This tag is enabled with RFID technology and linked with the bank account.
It is a prepaid tag that can be recharged via credit card, debit card, RTGS, NEFT, and net banking.
This tag offers attractive cashback benefits.
E-mail and SMS alerts for all transactions.
KYC documents are required for issuing tag.
A security deposit is required for using this tag.
An account with a username and password protection to check statements and transactions.
This tag comes with a validity period. In general validity period of tag/sticker is 5 years.

How to buy and recharge FASTag Online & Offline?

There are three ways to buy and recharge FASTag.

POS / Issuer Agency

The customer can visit any of the Point of Sale locations at Toll Plazas. Another alternative is to call on the customer care number of the issuer.

You need to find nearby POS for Fastag.

You need to submit application for issuing card along with documents such as RC of the vehicle, KYC documents as per category of the vehicle owner, driving license as address proof and passport size photograph.

The original documents are checked at issuers place. Any representative of vehicle owner can also visit POS with required document for getting this tag.

Banks

There are 22 different banks authorized to issue this tag. You can visit nearest bank to issue FASTag. This tag will be linked to your bank account.

Sr No.	Issuing Bank	Customer Care Helpline No
1	Axis Bank	1800-419-8585
2	ICICI Bank	1800-2100-104
3	IDFC Bank	1800-266-9970
4	State Bank of India	1800-11-0018
5	HDFC Bank	1800-120-1243
6	Karur Vysya Bank	1800-102-1916
7	EQUITAS Small Finance Bank	1800-419-1996
8	PayTM Payments Bank Ltd	1800-102-6480
9	Kotak Mahindra Bank	1800-419-6606
10	Syndicate Bank	1800-425-0585
11	Federal Bank	1800-266-9520
12	South Indian Bank	1800-425-1809
13	Punjab National Bank	080-67295310
14	Punjab & Maharashtra Co-op Bank	1800-223-993
15	Saraswat Bank	1800-266-9545
16	Fino Payments Bank	1860-266-3466
17	City Union Bank	1800-2587200
18	Bank of Baroda	1800-1034568
19	IndusInd Bank	1860-5005004
20	Yes Bank	1800-1200
21	Union Bank	1800-222244
22	Nagpur Nagarik Sahakari Bank Ltd	1800-2667183

Source – IHMCL

The process of applying at bank is same. You need to apply using application form. You need to visit bank to complete the formalities.

Online

FASTag can be purchased online using bank website. Let me explain process of buying this tag online on ICICI bank online, PayTM and Amazon.

Visit ICICI Fastag website and click on “Apply Now”.
Fill up personal details, address and vehicle details.
Upload ID proof and provide your mobile number. OTP will be sent on mentioned mobile number for validation.
On confirmation page check all the details mentioned and submit the application.
This method can be used for car, jeep and light motor vehicle only.
Once tag is issued and activated, you will also get customer login id and password. You can use this login for checking balance as well as recharge.

You can even purchase this tag from Paytm website online. You need to login to Paytm website and apply for this tag by uploading RC book copy. If you purchase using PayTM it will be linked with your PayTM wallet. You need to pay security deposit and maintain minimum balance of Rs.150 on your wallet.

This tag can be purchased even from Amazon. The tag purchased via Amazon online can be activated and managed via My FASTag app.

Recharge

For recharging this tag you need to use My FASTag app. This method is applicable for any tag. You can only use UPI ID for recharging tag using this app.

If you have purchased a tag from a bank, you can get a customer login ID and password. You need to login to given customer portal and click on recharge now option. Select the payment method for recharge. You can use RTGS/NEFT for recharging.

How to get Encumbrance Certificate of Property?

Real Estate

Shitanshu Kapadia

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November 20, 2019

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How to get Encumbrance Certificate of Property?

An Encumbrance Certificate is an important document that secures your legal title on the property. People are not aware of the Encumbrance certificate (EC). If you are one of them, let’s go through article explaining about – What is Encumbrance Certificate? & How to get Encumbrance Certificate Copy?

When you are buying a house, flat or land, it is important to verify that property is free from any monetary and legal dues. EC helps you to identify that.

What is Encumbrance Certificate of Property?

The encumbrance certificate is a document that proves that the title of a property is clear and marketable. It also shows if there are any dues on a property with respect to mortgage and legal. It contains a list of transactions taken place on the property for the said period. Encumbrance is charge, liability, lien created on the property. It is created at the time of putting the property as security against a loan or not clearing debt or dues on time.

Most of the bank verify this certificate before giving home loan. This document can be obtained from the sub registrar’s office where the property is registered. Few states also provide a facility for getting this certificate online.

The EC is important while applying for a home loan or getting a loan against property. This document is also required while selling a document. The bank usually asks for 10-15 years EC. However, when you are buying a property it is advisable to check for EC up to 30 years and above.

Also Read – RERA Rules – Before buying any property

What is not covered under EC certificate?

EC certificate does not contain all transactions on the property. This means you need to verify other documents such as sales deed, RR receipt, Index copy and other documents apart from EC certificate. This certificate only displays transactions that are registered with sub-registrar office. The following records deals will not appear in EC.

Any loans taken privately by the property owner from other individuals by doing agreement and keeping property papers with lender will not appear in EC.
If a property owner has mortgaged the property with the bank for taking loan and mortgage deed is not registered with sub-registrar you will not find this information in EC.
EC is always issued for the specific period. This means transactions that is not part of the specified period is not appear in EC.

How to get Encumbrance Certificate Copy – Offline?

The EC certificate copy can be obtained from sub registrar’s office where property is registered. You will get registration detail of property from sales deed. The procedure is given below.

Apply for EC copy request at registrar office in specific format. This form is also known as Form 22. You can obtain this certificate from property registration sites of respective sites.
This application needs to be accompanied with stamp paper, attested copy of address proof, purpose for applying EC and other property details.
Along with application you need to pay required fees.
Once application is submitted at sub registrar office, inspector will inspect all transartictions that has taken placed on the property for the specified period.
The process usually takes 15-30 days. Form 15 is issued with all transaction details. Suppose no transaction detail is found than EC issued with Form 16 (NIL Transactions).
The certificate issued here is in regional language. On special request you can get certificate in English language. You need to pay fees for the translation.

How to get EC Copy Online?

The facility of getting Encumbrance certificate online is available only in few states such as Kerala, Karnataka, Tamilnadu.

The process of applying EC online is very simple. You need to login to website of respective states and apply online. Let’s take example of “Government of Kerala”.

Login to http://keralaregistration.gov.in/pearlpublic/index.php and click on Certificate >> Encumbrance certificate >> Submit Application for EC. The application form will open for applying EC. You need to fill up details such as district, sub-registrar office, property details and search period.

You also need to provide certificate language and mode of payment. The system will calculate fees automatically. You need to enter the purpose of applying for a certificate.

Once all details are filled enter the captcha code and click on submit the application.

Your application will be processed and a certificate will be issued.

5 Best Virtual Trading App and Sites for Stock Trading

Stock Market

Shitanshu Kapadia

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November 18, 2019

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The best way to learn stock trading is via Virtual Trading App or website. We are much luckier than our grandparents, or even parents. We have tools called Virtual Stock Trading Platforms. Usage of modern technologies and IT have helped us a lot in creating a virtual stock trading platform. Many websites and brokerage houses are offering this type of platform.

If you are a beginner or novice investor and want to learn stock trading you should use a virtual trading concept. Virtual Stock Trading helps you to do some practice and hands-on before putting your hard-earned money in the stock market.

In this article, we will be discussing the following topics related to virtual trading.

What is Virtual Trading?
How Virtual Trading Platform works?
Pros and Cons of Virtual Stock Trading Platform
5 Best Virtual Trading App and Sites for Stock Trading

Also Read – Intraday Trading in Stock Market as Career Option

What is Virtual Trading?

Virtual trading means doing trading in a virtual environment. In a virtual environment, you can buy and sell stocks with the use of virtual money. No real money is involved in doing virtual trading. It means Virtual trading platforms let you trade in real-time market scenarios but with fake money. It’s like a flight simulator for stock trading—experience the thrill and challenges without the fear of crashing.

Entire profit and loss are in the virtual environment. It is like a simulator where a trader can practice without using real money. The environment given here is close to the real environment. You can feel the actual environment.

It is a very good idea to use this platform for learning to trade. It eliminates the financial risk that may result from the actual trading decision. There are multiple names for this platform. It is called a stock trading game, stock simulator, virtual trading app or site.

So, whether you’re a newbie or a pro looking to test new strategies, these apps can be a game-changer. Let’s dive into the five best virtual trading apps and sites for stock trading in India.

How Virtual Trading platform works?

The process of using virtual trading platform is very simple. Follow the steps given below.

Logon to website or app and open a free/paid account on a simulating platform.
Apply and get virtual money for buying and selling stock.
Learn stock market basic and trading strategies.
Start buying and selling stocks and applying trading strategies.
Monitor stock portfolio for profit and loss.
Follow above process for few days till you get confidence.
Once you become expert go for real trading.

Pros and Cons of Virtual Stock Trading Platform

Although there are multiple benefits of virtual stock trading platform. There are few drawbacks also. Let’s discus pros and cons of using this platform in detail.

Pros of using Virtual Stock Trading

A platform for learning stock trading in free.
No requirement of real demat or trading account.
Instant virtual stock trading via virtual money.
Risk free way to learn stock trading.
You can make a mistake and learn from it.
No training intervention required for using this platform.
It is a good tool to build confidence in the trader.

Cons of using Virtual Stock Trading

It is a replica of real-life experience. But, in a few cases simulator environment may not be the same as that of real.
The trade here can be unrealistic as it is done using virtual money.
The strategies used in a virtual environment may not work in the real environment due to market conditions and other factors.

5 Best Virtual Trading App and Sites for Stock Trading

#1 Moneybhai

Moneybhai, powered by Moneycontrol, is one of the top virtual trading platforms in India. It provides you with ₹1 crore in virtual cash to experiment with your trading strategies. Sounds pretty sweet, right?

This platform isn’t just about stock trading; you can also dabble in commodities, mutual funds, and bonds. Plus, it hosts contests where you can compete with other traders and climb the leaderboard. It’s not just a learning tool; it’s a way to test your mettle against others.

Who’s it for?

If you’re a beginner or even an intermediate trader looking to get the hang of Indian stock markets, Moneybhai is perfect. It simplifies trading concepts while keeping you engaged with a competitive edge.

#2 NSE Paathshala

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) didn’t just sit back and watch others provide virtual trading platforms—they created their own! NSE Paathshala is as official as it gets, giving you real-time market data to play with.

You don’t even need to sign up to access the basic features, which is a win for anyone looking to dip their toes into trading. However, if you want to personalize your trading journey, creating an account unlocks more features.

Why it stands out

It mimics the exact workings of the Indian stock market, making it ideal for anyone wanting an authentic trading experience. Plus, being backed by the NSE ensures its credibility.

#3 TradingView Paper Trading

You’ve probably heard of TradingView, a global favorite among traders for its robust charting tools and analytical features. But did you know it also has a paper trading feature?

This isn’t just about trading—it’s about honing your technical analysis skills. The platform provides you with powerful tools to analyze stock trends, draw charts, and test strategies in a simulated environment.

Who’s it for?

Technical geeks who love analyzing every blip on a chart. If you’re serious about mastering stock market trends and want a world-class tool to practice trading, this one’s for you.

#4 Zerodha Varsity’s Stock Simulator

Zerodha, one of India’s largest stockbrokers, also offers a unique stock simulator. Integrated with its learning platform, Zerodha Varsity, the stock simulator helps you practice trading while learning the theoretical aspects.

You can explore concepts in real-time, blending education with practical experience. It’s like taking a hands-on class where you can try what you’ve learned instantly.

Who will love it?

Absolute beginners! If you’ve been intimidated by stock trading jargon or complicated platforms, Zerodha Varsity simplifies everything for you while offering a seamless virtual trading experience.

#5 Dalal Street Investment Journal (DSIJ) Stock Market Challenge

The Dalal Street Investment Journal, a household name in Indian trading circles, brings you the Stock Market Challenge. This is where learning meets competition. You get virtual money to invest in stocks, commodities, and other instruments, just like in real markets.

What makes it even more engaging? The leaderboard. Compete with traders across India, earn points, and gain bragging rights as you climb to the top.

Perfect for

Anyone who loves a little competition. If you’re tired of boring practice sessions and want something thrilling, this one ticks all the boxes.

Why Use Virtual Trading Apps?

You might be wondering, “Why should I bother with virtual trading when I can just start trading for real?” Great question! Here’s why –

Risk-free learning: No actual money is at stake. Make mistakes, learn, and grow without the heartbreak of losing real cash.
Test strategies: Whether you’ve read about a new trading strategy or come up with one yourself, these platforms let you test them out.
Get market-savvy: Real-time data and scenarios make these platforms great for understanding how markets move.
Boost confidence: Starting with virtual trading helps you build the confidence to transition into real trading.

How to Select the Right Platform?

Not all virtual trading platforms are created equal. Here’s how to find the one that suits your needs

Beginner-friendly or advanced tools? If you’re new, stick to simpler platforms like Moneybhai or Zerodha Varsity. For advanced users, TradingView is unbeatable.
Specific features: Want to trade more than just stocks? Pick platforms offering a mix of instruments like commodities and mutual funds.
Interface: A clutter-free, intuitive design goes a long way, especially when you’re still learning.

Over to You –

Do you use the Virtual Trading platform for learning stock market trading?

Virtual trading apps and sites are your sandbox—your place to experiment, fail, and succeed without real consequences. Each platform offers something unique, whether it’s the simplicity of Moneybhai, the authenticity of NSE Paathshala, or the analytical depth of TradingView.

Ready to dive in? Start with one of these platforms, and before you know it, you’ll feel ready to take on the real stock market. Who knows? Today’s virtual trading champ could be tomorrow’s market wizard.

FAQs

1. Can I use virtual trading apps for free?
Yes, most virtual trading platforms, like Moneybhai and NSE Paathshala, are entirely free to use. Some may offer premium features for a fee, but the basic trading experience is usually free.

2. Is virtual trading the same as real trading?
Not exactly. While virtual trading mimics real market conditions, the emotional stakes are lower because you’re not risking real money. This can lead to riskier trades that you might avoid in real life.

3. How accurate are virtual trading apps?
Most apps provide real-time market data, so they’re highly accurate. However, factors like execution speed and brokerage fees aren’t always simulated, so keep that in mind.

4. Can I use virtual trading to learn day trading?
Absolutely! Virtual trading is a great way to practice day trading strategies and get comfortable with fast-paced decision-making.

5. Which virtual trading platform is best for beginners?
Moneybhai and Zerodha Varsity are excellent choices for beginners because of their user-friendly interfaces and educational resources.

Now that you’re armed with this info, what are you waiting for? Happy (virtual) trading!

25 Passive Income Ideas for 2025

Money & Wealth

Shitanshu Kapadia

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November 7, 2019

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Let’s be honest, who doesn’t dream of earning money without actively working for it? Passive income isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer for financial freedom. The good news? 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years to dive into this space, with opportunities exploding across digital, real estate, and even AI-driven avenues. Whether you’re looking to supplement your day job or retire early, this guide is packed with creative and actionable passive income ideas tailored for the year ahead.

What is passive income? Which are good passive income ideas for 2025? Well, as you are reading this post, I suppose you are bored with your routine 9 to 5 job and planning to live a free life without the tension of job and boss. Here is a post that will help you in finding unique passive income ideas for 2025.

In India, getting a good job with a decent salary after graduation is an extremely difficult task. The majority of people are either searching for a good job or settled with a low-salary job. The idea here is not to help you in finding a good job but to generate a passive income that lasts long without placing an effort.

All these passive income generation ideas require dedicated efforts and time. You will not get overnight success in any of the passive income ideas given here. You have to do a lot of hard work with passion to get desired results.

What are Passive Income ideas?

Passive Income ideas are ideas that help you to generate constant income with minimum effort. Passive income is a secondary source of income or add-on income. There are many people in the world earning a lot of money using passive income ideas.

There are many instances where the level of passive income has increased and replaced the primary income source. So, start working on passive income ideas, maybe someday your primary income will be replaced by a passive income source.

Sure, it’s not a “set it and forget it” miracle. But with the right strategy, passive income can help you build a financial safety net, invest in your future, or fund that dream vacation you’ve been eyeing.

Benefits of Passive Income

There are multiple benefits of passive income. A few of them are given below.

Freedom – You can live your life freely without fear of losing your job every day.
Flexibility – You will get a lot of flexibility in terms of the time of working as well as creativity.
Recurring Income – You can generate good recurring income using these ideas.
No binding on Time – You can work anytime and there is no binding on time.
More time – You will get more time for your family and friends.
No Boss – You will be free from a boss and all worries.

Looking at the benefits given above you must be excited to know about passive income ideas. So, without wasting much of your time, here are the best passive income ideas.

Best Passive Income Ideas – 25 ways to automate your cash flow

Why Is 2025 the Perfect Time to Start?

The world has changed drastically over the past few years. Technological advancements, shifting work trends, and the rise of AI have opened up doors to opportunities that didn’t exist before. Plus, people are craving financial independence more than ever.

In 2025, the passive income landscape is thriving thanks to:

AI and Automation: Tools that help you earn with minimal oversight.
The Creator Economy: More ways to monetize skills and content.
Digital Nomad Trends: Location-independent income streams.

With the right timing and effort, you can take advantage of these trends to create income streams that last for years.

25 Best Passive Income Ideas for 2025

Online Passive Income Ideas

#1 Start Blogging

The first online passive income idea is blogging. In blogging, you need to write an article on various topics. Select a topic where you have enough knowledge and expertise. Blogging can help you to generate income in the long run. Advertising and affiliate marketing are ways to generate income from blogging.

#2 Freelancing

Freelancing is another idea for generating passive income. In freelancing, you need to complete the project or work assigned to you online. You will need special skills like writing, proofreading, SEO, web designing to generate income. You can use a website such as Fiverr, Upwork to start freelancing.

#3 Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate Marketing is the most popular online method of making money online. You can make constant money using this method. In this method, you need to generate and share a link of products that you will be recommending to people. Famous websites such as Amazon, Flipkart provide a facility for becoming an affiliate marketer. The commission will be paid to you if someone purchases products by the affiliate marketing link provided by you.

#4 Online Course

An online course is another popular option for generating online income. You need to be a subject matter expert to design an online course. You can create your website or you can use a website such as Udemy or Thinkific for an online course.

#5 YouTube Channel

Creating and uploading videos on YouTube is one of the most popular residual income generation options. You need to create a YouTube channel and upload videos to make your channel. Once your channel becomes popular you can apply for an advertising program offered by YouTube.

#6 Dropshipping

Door shipping is an online business model in which entrepreneurs sell products to their customers without ever actually stocking the items themselves. There are many online websites such as Shopify, and Alidropship that provide a facility for generating dropshipping business.

#7 AI Assisted Copywriting Services

Use AI tools to create marketing copy, then sell templates or services. It’s an emerging trend that can generate consistent income with minimal ongoing effort.

Investment-Based Passive Income Ideas

#8 Investment in Mutual Funds & Equity for Dividend

Investment in mutual funds and equity for earning dividends is the simplest form of passive income generation idea. You need not place much effort to earn money via this method. However, you should be an expert in the selection of high dividend-paying stocks and mutual funds.

#9 Peer 2 Peer Lending

Peer 2 peer lending is the next idea on the list. In the P2P lending business, you need to lend money to people looking for a loan. You will get interest income as a lender. This idea is risky and requires a lot of money. You can use an online platform for doing p2p lending.

#10 Create a Business System with Franchise

Another very good passive income generation idea is creating a business model or system that works on a franchise model. This means you have to establish a business with a franchise model. You can earn a lot of money in the long run.

#11 Invest and make interest income

The generation of interest income from available money is next on the list. Here you need to open a special bank account with a higher interest rate or you need to find out investment avenues generating good interest income.

#12 Invest in business as a silent partner

Investing in business as a silent partner is next on the list. Here you will be acting as an investor in good business. The responsibility of running a business and generating income lies with an active business partner. You will get a fixed profit or monthly shares as a part of your investment.

#13 Buy a profitable online Blog

Buying a profitable online blog is next on the list. In this idea, you need to find out good profitable blog online. You must consider the popularity and traffic ranking of the blog before taking any decision. Here the tough task is to convince a blogger for selling his/her blog.

#14 Create and Sell NFTs

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are digital assets that can represent art, music, or collectibles. While speculative, NFTs offer creators a chance to earn royalties every time their work is resold.

Passive Income Ideas from Home

#15 MLM

Multilevel Marketing or MLM is one of the best passive income ideas from Home. Anyone can start an MLM business. In this business, you need to sell the product and services of MLM Company. You will be paid commission income. Your income here also depends on members added by you and business generated by them.

#16 Insurance Agency

Insurance agency is one of the very good passive income generation ideas. As an insurance agent, you need to sell insurance policies. You will be paid commission on the premium paid by the customer. You can sell all types of insurance such as life insurance, general insurance, etc.

#17 Consultancy Business

The consultancy business is next on the list. You can be a tax consultant, investment consultant, property consultant, or business consultant. You require knowledge and expertise for this business. You will get a regular income as a consultant.

Passive Income Ideas by Renting

#18 Rental income from residential property

You can generate rental income from residential property. This idea is useful if you have multiple properties. You need to rent a property and earn a regular monthly income.

#19 Rent your vehicle

Most transportation network companies require a vehicle with a driver. If you have multiple cars you can rent a car and earn a regular income. There are many companies and travel agencies like cleartrip, makemy trip hire a vehicle on monthly rental basis.

#20 Rent other items using an online platform

Any extra or unused items can be rented out online using various portals. Examples of unused items are furniture, music equipment, appliance, electronic equipment, office space, land for farming, etc. Websites like rentomojo can help you in renting various unused items.

#21 Rental income from commercial property

Rent out your commercial property and earning a decent rental is next on the list. This idea works out if you have several commercial properties or you can purchase several commercial properties.

#22 Rental income from Advertising and Hoarding

Your extra space on the terrace or balcony can be used to rent out for advertisement hoardings. There are many companies ready to take hoarding space on a monthly rental basis. It is a very good passive income generation option.

Skill based Passive Income

#23 Write Book or Music Album and collect Royalties

You can write your book and earn passive income. I know it is time-consuming and require a lot of effort for writing a book. But once your book is ready and it goes to the sales stage, it becomes a completely passive venture. If you are good at music you can create your music album and sell it.
If your book or music album becomes popular you will get royalties for the distribution and even for advertisement. The royalties can continue flowing for life long also.

#24 Build Smartphone App

This passive income idea is for the technology expert. You can build your smartphone app and make money via a subscription model or via advertisement. You need to be creative and build an app with a unique idea such as a video editor, image editor, currency converter, messenger, etc. You can earn lifelong passive income by building a smartphone app.

#25 Start a Podcast

Podcasts are booming, and advertisers are paying attention. Create a show around a topic you love, build an audience, and monetize through sponsorships or listener donations.

Final Thoughts

Remember – You become financially free when your passive income exceeds your expenses.

Select a passive income generation idea as per your skill and start working towards becoming financially free.

All the best!