There are opportunities to add overtime flying to your paycheck, but like Av8tion said, it is really ridiculous pay across the board at regional airlines. Especially first year pay. I dont know if it is possible, but some sacrifice in personal spending and reducing bills might be the best way to make it through the first year at any regional. ALso consider a part time job outside of the regionals to make extra cash. I used to be a waiter for the first few years!

When you are on first year FO pay, it really doesnt make much sense to pick up a 4hour day trip for OT on your day off. At $25/hr youll make $120 before taxes(OT is paid at a 120% rate). Per diem on day trips is taxable, so that really wont add up to much more than $5-10. Being a waiter at a cheesy chain restaurant you can pull in 100-150 easily, and much more if you work a double shift at a nicer place.