All my chars pull in enough pocket change to support themselves, except my cartel pilot (who is losing a lot of expensive ammo while exploding these days).
Anything I need cash for at this time is paid for 100% by illegal smuggling between malta and liberty, on my "DL" 3600-cargo transport (Trains are ugly. I will not fly them. I refuuuuse!) It doesn't pay that well with all the detours I have to make to avoid cops, pirates, and bounty-hungry freelancers - but it pays enough. As far as trading goes, it's also relatively entertaining.