Have you been dreaming about retirement and making big plans? Maybe you want to visit family, travel, or dive back into your hobbies. One thing’s for sure: you’ll have more time on your hands than ever before.
Many retirees find that after a few months of crossing things off their bucket lists, they’re ready to take on something new. Thanks to today’s digital age, using your free time in retirement to earn extra income has never been easier. This extra cash can help with your retirement expenses and add a bit of fun money to your lifestyle.
Here are some ways to use your spare time to make extra cash during your retirement:
**Freelancing**
If you’re good with words, several websites offer freelancing gigs for copywriting and editing. Sites like Upwork and Problogger regularly post freelance job opportunities. They usually outline the skills and requirements needed, and you can apply by sharing your resume and work samples.
If you’re more technically inclined, you could join platforms like Fiverr to offer video editing or graphic design services.
**Consulting**
You probably retired with some valuable skills. Use them to do consulting work, either on your own or through an agency. For instance, those with accounting backgrounds often find part-time consulting roles as tax advisors or bookkeepers. Local temp agencies can be a good place to look for these opportunities.
You might also consider consulting for your former company. For example, my stepfather retired from the steel industry but now does short-term projects for his old employer. He negotiates his pay and schedule, which benefits both him and the company.
**Driving for Uber or Lyft**
Ride-sharing has made it easier than ever to earn extra income. Signing up to drive for Uber or Lyft is simple—you’ll need a smartphone, a driver’s license, and a clean car.
If you’d rather not have passengers, you could look into food delivery services like DoorDash. The best part is you control your schedule and only work when you want to.
**Pet Sitting or Dog Walking**
If you love animals, why not get paid to spend time with them? Websites like Rover make it easy to sign up for pet-sitting and dog-walking gigs. You can also post on community platforms like Nextdoor to let neighbors know you’re available for pet care.
For example, my pet-sitter earns $50 per overnight stay, providing her with easy cash and giving me peace of mind when I’m away. If pets aren’t your thing, consider house-sitting. Many professionals are happy to pay someone to water plants and collect mail while they travel.
**Teaching Students Online**
Teaching online has never been easier. You could teach English as a second language or tutor students in various subjects. While you’ll need good subject knowledge, a college degree isn’t always required.
Sites like Tutor connect you with students looking for help. Review the listings and apply for the ones you’re confident you can handle. Teaching and sharing your knowledge is both rewarding and a great way to earn money.
If online teaching isn’t appealing, look into substitute teaching at local schools. Many districts don’t require a teaching license for substitute teachers, and you can choose the assignments that interest you.
Think about what you enjoy doing, and you’re likely to find ways to earn money in retirement. Whatever you choose, turning your hobbies or skills into additional income can help fund the things you love most.
Danielle K. Roberts is a member of the Forbes Finance Council and co-founder at Boomer Benefits, where she and her team help retirees navigate their Medicare benefits.