A Penny Saved

I’m stuck at $0. Getting started is always the hardest part. So I’m asking you for some help.

I got a “we’ll give you $100 if you open an account with $100+ and direct deposit” check from Chase. The only other requirement seems to be that the account stay open for at least months. But what I’m wondering is, what counts as direct deposit? If, for example, I set it up to withdraw $10/month from my savings account and deposit it in my Chase checking account, does that count? Or does it have to be a paycheck? (My office doesn’t offer direct deposit.) Anyone have experience with this offer?

I was just on Amazon, and got a good idea of how much I should be able to get for some used CDs, so that’s good. Here’s a used book question, though: About a year ago, I acquired duplicates of a set of signed graphic novels I ordered. I ordered them, waited a month without them arriving, and emailed the author, who promptly sent new ones, which I received. The original package ended up arriving a few weeks later, looking bruised from its journey but with the contents still intact. Anyway, I kind of want to sell the duplicates, but I’m not sure where to do it. I know Amazon has a collectible option for used books, but the titles are somewhat obscure so I could see them sitting there for a long time. Any suggestions?

I’ve decided to put the Starbucks gift card on Ebay.

I “haven’t gotten around to” submitting my application to freelance for the newspaper yet. How can I be a PF blogger? I thought we were supposed to be all motivated and on top of things. O.o

Does anyone out there have alternative income plans that are going well? Tell me about them. I don’t mind bragging. Inspire me.