Maybe you’ve been looking forward to retirement for years, just like many others, with lots of exciting plans in mind. You might be thinking about visiting family, traveling to new places, or diving back into your hobbies. One thing’s certain: you’ll have more free time than you did before.
After ticking off some bucket list items, many retirees find themselves wanting to try something new. In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to use that extra free time to make some additional income. This can really help with covering expenses in retirement and give you some extra fun money for an enjoyable lifestyle.
Let’s explore some ways you can use your spare time during retirement to earn extra cash:
Freelance Work
If you’re good with words, several websites offer freelancing opportunities in writing and editing. Companies often post freelance jobs on popular sites like Upwork or Problogger. They usually list the skills and requirements needed, and you can apply by sending your resume and work samples.
If you have technical skills rather than writing skills, you can join sites like Fiverr to offer services in video editing or graphic design.
Consulting
You’ve probably retired with some valuable skills. You can use these skills for consulting work, either through an agency or independently. For example, if you have experience in accounting, you can do part-time consulting as a tax advisor or bookkeeper. Check with local temp agencies for opportunities.
Consider consulting for the company you retired from. My stepfather, for instance, retired from the steel industry but now takes on short-term projects for his former employer. He negotiates his pay and schedule for each project, which benefits both sides.
Ridesharing
Supplementing your retirement income is now simpler with ridesharing options like Uber or Lyft. Signing up to be a driver is straightforward; you need a smartphone, a driver’s license, and a clean car.
If you don’t want passengers in your car, consider food delivery jobs with companies like DoorDash. The best part is that you set your own schedule and accept rides or deliveries whenever you want.
Pet Sitting
If you love animals, you can get paid to spend time with them through pet-sitting and dog-walking services like Rover. You can also let your neighbors know you’re available to watch or walk their pets by posting on Nextdoor.
My pet-sitter earns easy cash while I’m away, charging $50 per overnight stay, and it gives me peace of mind knowing my pets are cared for.
If you’re not an animal person, consider house-sitting. Many professionals will pay you to water their plants and collect their mail while they’re away.
Teaching Online
Teaching online has never been more accessible. You can teach English as a second language or tutor students in various subjects. While you need a strong knowledge of the subjects you wish to tutor, you don’t necessarily need a college degree.
Websites like Tutor can connect you with students. Review available jobs and apply for the ones you’re confident in teaching. Sharing your knowledge is not only rewarding but also a great way to earn money.
If online teaching isn’t for you, consider becoming a substitute teacher in local school districts. Many districts don’t require a teaching license for substitutes, and you can choose the jobs that interest you.
Think about what you enjoy doing and explore ways to turn that into additional income during retirement. Whatever you decide, there’s likely a method to earn money from it, which you can use to pursue the things you love the most.