getty Looking for something to do that brings in extra money? You’re not alone, no matter what your age. But when you’re retired, finding a side hustle can be both a challenge and easier than ever. How many senior citizens have side hustles? Every month, “nearly 300,000” people start some sort of side hustle. That’s based on an analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data according to Side Hustle Nation . That same study suggests those side hustlers include one in twelve of those between the ages of 55 and 64 as well as one in twenty-five aged 65 and over. It’s not unusual for retirees to take on some sort of side gig to earn extra income . The reasons range from a need to combat inflation to a quest to find something exciting to a curious enthusiasm to extend your hobby beyond mere recreation. Those that work with retirees have seen all sorts of side hustles. “What you pursue really depends on your specific interests and skills,” says Clint McCalla, Senior Wealth Manager at LourdMurray in San Diego. “I’ve had clients start consulting businesses in their area of expertise such as engineering or medicine. I have also worked with individuals who take up a craft such as woodworking or boat restoration. Some have taken on jobs in the area of social work where they may make some small amount, but it is really about giving back and helping those in need.” Don’t rule out working part-time for a bigger company. This offers two advantages over starting your own side hustle. First, you just need to clock in. There’s no need to worry about running the business. Second, the job can be fun for you (in your own way). Still, it’s not unusual for retirees to return to their hearts. Why The Rock’s Social Media Muscle Made Him Hollywood’s Highest-Paid Actor Xbox’s ‘Redfall’ Is Trying To Kill Its Much-Hated Always Online Requirement Recession-Proof Your Leadership With One Important Skill “I jokingly hear about ‘passing out stickers at Walmart WMT +0.2% ,’ but my favorite answer to a post-retirement part-time job was a client who chose to work customer service at the airport,” says Emily C. Rassam, senior financial planner at Archer Investment Management in Charlotte, North Carolina. “He said, ‘it sounds like a fun job to yell at customers all day and receive travel benefits in the process.’ Other clients have chosen to consult part-time in the career field they recently retired from or lean into a hobby or cause they care about.” Working in retirement is all about you because retirement is (or should be) all about you. Your pre-retirement career often guides your choice of a post-retirement side hustle. You can get anything you want . The trick is in knowing what you desire. “Choosing a post-retirement job varies and can depend on your existing skills and knowledge,” says Anna Rappaport, member and volunteer of the Society of Actuaries in Chicago. “For example, retired teachers can substitute […]
