Many people find retirement to be a time for new beginnings. While some envision a life of leisure, others crave continued engagement and the opportunity to earn extra income. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help retirees find the perfect job to fit their needs and interests. Follow along and discover how to make extra money in retirement.
This article explores various resources highlighted in recent articles, providing a roadmap for retirees seeking employment after retirement.
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A Roadmap for How to Make Extra Money in Retirement
Retirement isn’t just about slowing down – it’s a chance to redefine success on your own terms! This guide will be your compass as you navigate the exciting possibilities of post-retirement work. Let’s explore how to make extra money in retirement while also finding work that ignites your passions and keeps you engaged.
Retirement isn’t just about slowing down – it’s a chance to redefine success on your own terms! This guide will be your compass as you navigate the exciting possibilities of post-retirement work. Let’s explore how to make extra money in retirement while also finding work that ignites your passions and keeps you engaged.
Step 1: Define Your Destination
Before making decisions with long-term commitments, take a moment to consider your goals. Are you seeking to:
- Boost your income? Supplement your retirement savings with a part-time job or freelance work.
- Bridge to Social Security? Perhaps you need a full or part time job to carry you through until you begin collecting Social Security.
- Stay socially connected? Find a role that allows you to interact with others and build new relationships. Work relationships can be wonderful!
- Pursue a passion? Use your skills and experience to contribute to a cause you care about or explore a long-held interest.
Step 2: Explore the Diverse Landscape
The world of post-retirement work is vast and exciting! Here are just a few options to consider:
- Traditional Part-Time: Offer stability and income, with roles in retail, administrative support, customer service, or data entry.
- Gig Work: Perfect for flexibility and variety, with opportunities in freelance writing, editing, graphic design, photography, ridesharing, food delivery, handyman services, or even things like filling out online surveys for money.
- Freelancing: Provides maximum control as you leverage your skills for independent contracts in writing, editing, web design, marketing, consulting, accounting, or virtual assistance.
- Remote Work: Allows you to work from anywhere with an internet connection, in fields like customer service or insurance adjusting. Many freelance and gig work opportunities are also remote-friendly.
- Volunteer Work: Offers a chance to give back to your community, stay active, and potentially gain new skills in areas like social services, healthcare, education, or environmental causes. While volunteering doesn’t earn money, it can be a path to learning new skills that you can use to earn at a later time!
Consider these additional factors when choosing your path:
- Physical Demands: Some jobs require more activity than others. Evaluate your physical limitations and preferences.
- Time Commitment: How much time are you willing to dedicate to work each week or month?
- Technology Skills: Many jobs require basic computer and internet literacy. Assess your comfort level and consider brushing up on your skills if needed.
Step 3: Choose Your Path and Go!
With a clear understanding of your goals and the work landscape, you will be one giant step closer to discovering how to make extra money in retirement. This guide will help equip you with the tools to navigate the possibilities.
Remember, there’s no single “right” path. Explore, experiment, and find the work that brings you fulfillment in this exciting new chapter.
US News Article Focuses on Jobs for Retirees
Finding a job as a retiree can be made easier with the right tools. U.S. News & World Report highlights several websites and apps designed to help retirees find part-time or full-time work, catering to their unique needs.
- AARP Job Board – Focuses on older workers and age-friendly employers.
- LinkedIn – Offers networking opportunities and job listings tailored to user profiles.
- Indeed – Comprehensive job search engine with filters for part-time and remote work.
- Retired Brains – Specifically targets retirees looking for flexible or part-time positions.
- FlexJobs – Specializes in remote, part-time, freelance, and flexible jobs.
- SimplyHired – Aggregates job listings from various sources, offering a broad search capability.
- CoolWorks – Lists seasonal and part-time jobs, ideal for retirees seeking short-term engagements.
- RetirementJobs.com – Focuses on jobs for people aged 50+, promoting age diversity in the workplace.
- Snagajob – Features hourly positions, which can be ideal for retirees looking for part-time work.
- Workforce50 – Provides job listings, career advice, and resources tailored to older workers.
Using these platforms can help retirees find opportunities that match their skills, preferences, and lifestyle needs.
Source: U.S. News & World Report, “Job Search Websites and Apps for Retirees” (https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/second-careers/articles/job-search-websites-and-apps-for-retirees)
AARP Helps Retirees Seeking Jobs
In the quest for how to make extra money in retirement, retirees often find college-degree requirements a barrier to part-time jobs. A recent ZipRecruiter survey highlighted that 53% of hiring managers require a degree, yet only 19.7%
of people over 55 possess one. However, with low unemployment, more employers, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, are emphasizing skills over degrees.
As an example of the offerings, here are 15 part-time jobs that AARP identified as being suitable for retirees without requiring a degree, offering flexible schedules or work-from-home options:
- Administrative Assistant – $21.29/hour, opportunities for virtual work.
- Customer Service Representative – $18.16/hour, flexible hours, remote options.
- Data Entry Clerk – $16.74/hour, consistent demand for accurate typists.
- Home Health Aide – $14.51/hour, high future demand.
- Insurance Claims Investigator – $34.63/hour, flexible, age-friendly.
- Nanny – ~$22/hour, part-time options available.
- Pet Groomer – $14.32/hour, includes pet sitting and dog walking.
- Real Estate Agent – $25.02/hour, requires licensing.
- Receptionist – $16.33/hour, part-time office roles.
- School Bus Driver – $20.39/hour, suits retirees with free mornings and afternoons.
- Secretary – $21.29/hour, potential for remote work.
- Security Guard – $15.88/hour, flexible shifts.
- Shuttle Driver – $16.83/hour, travel-related roles.
- Tutor – $21.55/hour, high demand for various subjects.
- Web Designer – $38.81/hour, requires some prior experience or training.
For more information, visit AARP’s Job Search.
Source: Kenneth Terrell, AARP: Part Time Jobs for Retirees (/www.aarp.org/work/job-search/retiree-part-time-jobs/)
Best Jobs For Retirees
Kiplinger outlines several jobs that are particularly well-suited for retirees looking to stay active, earn extra income, or bridge to Social Security. These jobs offer flexibility, the opportunity to leverage existing skills, and have minimal physical demands.
- Consultant – Utilizes retirees’ expertise and experience, offering flexible schedules and high pay potential.
- Teacher/Tutor – Opportunities to work part-time, either in schools or online, especially in high-demand subjects.
- Freelance Writer/Editor – Ideal for those with strong writing skills, providing flexibility to work from home.
- Virtual Assistant – Offers administrative support remotely, catering to various business needs.
- Event Planner – Great for those with strong organizational skills, often requiring minimal physical effort.
- Retail Worker – Provides social interaction and flexible hours, with part-time positions readily available.
- Driver – Includes opportunities such as driving for rideshare services or delivery companies, offering flexible schedules.
- Pet Sitter/Dog Walker – Perfect for animal lovers, offering flexible, part-time work with physical activity.
- Handyman – Leverages home repair skills, with the ability to choose projects and work part-time.
- Customer Service Representative – Often includes remote work options, providing flexible hours and requiring good communication skills.
These roles help retirees stay engaged, utilize their skills, and supplement their income.
Source: Kiplinger, “Great Jobs for Retirees” (https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/602951/great-jobs-for-retirees)
Linked In Article Suggests Gig Work Can Reignite Your Professional Passion
LinkedIn discusses how gig work can offer retirees an exciting way to stay active, earn extra income, and find renewed purpose. Gig work, characterized by short-term, flexible jobs, presents numerous advantages for retirees:
- Flexibility – Allows retirees to choose when and how much they work, fitting jobs around other commitments and leisure activities.
- Variety – Offers diverse opportunities, enabling retirees to explore different interests and skills.
- Social Interaction – Provides a chance to meet new people and stay socially engaged, combating isolation.
- Skill Utilization – Lets retirees apply their vast experience and expertise in meaningful ways, keeping their skills sharp.
- Extra Income – Supplements retirement savings and pensions, easing financial pressures.
Popular gig work options for retirees include freelance writing, consulting, tutoring, pet sitting, and ridesharing. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit can help retirees find suitable gig work opportunities.
Engaging in gig work can help retirees maintain a sense of purpose, stay mentally and physically active, and enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
Source: LinkedIn, “Revitalizing Retirement: How Gig Work Can Reignite Your Passion” (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/revitalizing-retirement-how-gig-work-can-reignite)
The New York Times Discusses Entrepreneurship in Retirement
The New York Times explores how many retirees are embracing entrepreneurship, turning retirement into a productive and fulfilling phase of life. Instead of fully retiring, they are starting businesses, leveraging their lifetime of experience and skills.
Key points include:
- Active Lifestyle – Retirees find that entrepreneurship keeps them mentally and physically active, offering a sense of purpose and engagement.
- Financial Benefits – Starting a business can supplement Social Security and other retirement income, providing financial stability.
- Utilizing Experience – Retirees can capitalize on their extensive professional networks and expertise, giving them a unique advantage in their ventures.
- Flexibility – Being their own boss allows retirees to work on their own terms, balancing work with leisure.
Examples of successful retiree entrepreneurs range from consultants and artisans to franchise owners and tech innovators. While starting a business in retirement can be challenging, it also offers immense rewards, making retirement a dynamic and gratifying stage of life.
Source: The New York Times, “These Retirees Have Never Been Busier” (https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/12/business/retirement-entrepreneurs-social-security.html)
FlexJobs Shows Retirees Advantages of Freelance Work
This FlexJobs blog post highlights the advantages of freelancing for retirees seeking work-life balance, continued purpose, and income generation beyond traditional retirement planning.
Key takeaways for retirees considering freelancing:
- Flexibility and Control: Freelancing allows retirees to choose their projects, set their schedules, and work from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility is ideal for balancing leisure activities, travel, or family commitments.
- Continued Engagement: Freelancing keeps retirees mentally stimulated and allows them to utilize their skills and experience. This can be especially beneficial for those who don’t envision a complete withdrawal from the workforce.
- Income Potential: Freelancing offers the opportunity to supplement retirement income or even become a primary source of income. Rates can vary depending on experience and skillset, but freelancers have the potential to earn more than traditional part-time jobs.
- Diverse Opportunities: The freelance marketplace offers a wide range of projects across various industries. Retirees can leverage their existing skills or explore new areas of interest.
The article also acknowledges considerations for retirees interested in freelancing:
- Self-Discipline: Freelancing requires time management skills and the ability to stay motivated without a traditional work environment.
- Marketing and Client Acquisition: Finding freelance work can involve marketing oneself, building a client base, and managing proposals and contracts.
- Financial Planning: Freelancers are responsible for taxes, health insurance, and other self-employment considerations.
Overall, the article presents freelancing as a viable and potentially rewarding option for retirees seeking to extend their careers, generate income, and stay engaged in a flexible work environment.
Source: FlexJobs, “Freelancing as a Retiree: Benefits and Considerations” (https://www.flexjobs.com/Pricing.aspx)
CBS News Give Tips For Easy and Flexible Ways to Earn
This CBS News article offers tips for seniors looking to boost their income. The focus is on quick and accessible options that don’t require a significant investment or time commitment.
Key options for seniors to make extra cash:
- Sell unused electronics: Declutter and earn cash by selling old cell phones, tablets, laptops, or other electronics (even without chargers) online or at consignment shops.
- Take online surveys: Share your opinions and earn points redeemable for gift cards or cash. The article suggests Swagbucks as a survey platform, mentioning potential earnings of $50 to $250 per month.
- Test websites and apps: Put your tech skills to use by testing websites and apps for usability. Sites like UserTesting.com offer payment for completing these tests.
- Participate in online reward programs: Earn points or cash back for everyday activities like shopping online or using specific credit cards.
The article emphasizes that these are just a few examples, and there are many other ways for seniors to generate extra income.
Source: CBS News, “Easy Ways for Seniors to Make Cash Now” (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/great-ways-seniors-can-grow-their-cash-now/)
Now You Know How to Make Extra Money In Retirement...
Whether you’re considering part-time roles, exploring freelancing, or diving into volunteer work, please try finding something that truly excites you and keeps you engaged.
Need more guidance? Check back for future articles with practical advice on easy online work to supplement your income. We’ve personally tested some of these methods and, let me tell you, they’ve led to some amazing experiences – like funding an unforgettable Christmas for our entire family!
For now, check out some of our other articles that talk about how to spend your time now that you have lots of it:
