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When I was young I assumed retirees had it easy: no work and a nice nest egg. In reality, many seniors live on tight budgets and can’t take part in activities because they simply don’t have the money. Others have enough income but miss the stimulation and sense of purpose that work provided. Staying active in retirement has real benefits.
Research from the Blue Zones — places with many long-lived people — often points to staying active as a shared habit. Part-time work in retirement can do more than add income: it gives people a reason to get up in the morning, a chance to contribute, and a feeling that they matter.
Take Marciel, a successful business owner who sold his company, bought a condo, and retired. Instead of enjoying retirement, he fell into a deep depression. Golf and card games didn’t help; he missed colleagues, challenges, and the daily structure of work. For many like him, part-time jobs can restore a sense of identity and connection to the community, even when money isn’t the issue.
You might worry that working will reduce your Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration explains that once you reach full retirement age you can earn any amount without having your benefits reduced. If you’re younger than full retirement age, earnings above a certain limit can temporarily reduce benefits until you reach full retirement age. Because of this, it’s generally wise to wait until full retirement age (or later) to claim Social Security if you want the largest monthly benefit.
The idea of multiple streams of income isn’t new. My 80-year-old aunt still runs her small craft business, selling customized gifts and keeping a creative outlet. My uncle stayed on part-time after selling his HVAC business. My mother sold real estate after retiring and earned significant commissions while enjoying travel and time with family. Treating earning during retirement as a mindset opens many possibilities.
Even if health issues limit what you can do, there are plenty of ways to earn extra money from home or with light, part-time work. Start with a quick self-inventory:
– What do you enjoy doing?
– What kind of environment do you like?
If you’re handy, working part-time at a hardware store might suit you. Someone who loves decorating could work in a home furnishings shop. Car lovers can help at auto parts stores. Retail often hires part-time workers, especially during holidays.
Look around locally for simple paid tasks. I once paid a retired handyman $160 for chores. I’ve seen people charge to haul boxes or clean windows. Small jobs add up. Think about your past job: could you consult or do part-time work in the same field? Online marketplaces like Fiverr let you sell skills to people who’ll pay for them.
Here are practical ideas that use common skills:
– Sewing repairs: Many younger people don’t know how to fix jeans or hems. Charging $10 for a quick repair can be a good hourly rate for a short job.
– Building shelving: New homes and unfinished basements often need storage. If you can use basic power tools, assemble shelves and charge for materials plus labor.
– Furniture assembly: Busy families will pay to avoid the hassle of putting furniture together. Flyers for assembly services are common in retail parking lots and on local sites.
– Painting: If you can handle a roller and brush, residential painting is in demand. Charge by the hour or project, and learn faux finishes to increase your rates.
– Handyman chores: Yard work, small repairs, and odd jobs keep people useful and bring in steady pay.
You also have a lifetime of experience and stories to share. Consider writing an eBook—if you have a computer, publishing through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing is free and straightforward. A little online marketing can turn a short book into ongoing income.
Use local classifieds like Craigslist, neighborhood apps, and social media to advertise your services. Think small and practical: many people will gladly pay for help with everyday tasks that save them time or trouble.
Working in retirement is increasingly common as people live longer and traditional pensions become rarer. Whether you need the money or want more purpose, look for ways to align earning with your hobbies and skills.
What are other ideas for part-time work in retirement?
