When Social Security is not enough
Seniors with a fixed income can sometimes find it challenging to make ends meet due to the ever-increasing cost of living. For some, a few extra dollars will help to upgrade a vacation. For others, it would simply put food on the table.
Whatever the case, if you are willing to be innovative and embrace the new economy you can make your situation more tenable. Even if near destitute and hungry, there are answers. All you need is a way to get online and a PayPal account.
I will offer suggestions that can be put into motion today, one of these hustles can even pay you as soon as tomorrow.
No, not a retail job that keeps you out of the house and on your feet all day. I don’t suggest punching a clock at all. This is about finding something to fit your lifestyle and enhancing it.
Surveys….Please, stay with me
I know you’ve seen this one in every “side hustle” article you’ve ever read. It’s not new, and it certainly isn’t for everyone. But hear me out. Taking the time to fill out a few dozen surveys could help you overcome two important hurdles in your life.
Firstly, they will feed you. If you’re hungry and have no idea where your next meal is coming from, go online and create an account on one of the survey sites listed below.
It’s tedious, mind-numbing work. The pay sucks— no more than $4 an hour. What these sites will do is pay you immediately to a PayPal account once you’ve earned a minimum amount ($5 or $10 depending on the site). It’s enough for a meager meal and better than going hungry. You can answer these surveys from the comfort of your easy chair.
I tried it and opted for a direct bank deposit. I received my funds the morning after initiating the transfer.
The second reason to do a few surveys is to get a taste of the gig economy. Interacting with a survey site helps you understand the basics of earning money online. Many people avoid these opportunities because getting set up appears too complicated or they are afraid of the internet boogeyman. Don’t worry. Once you get started, you’ll see a whole new world of opportunities open up. So go ahead and dip your toes in. I promise you’ll start looking around and find something bigger and better.
https://www.surveyjunkie.com/?
Dogs!
My wife and I have been dog-sitting for several years. It all began when we offered to look after a friend’s dog (for free) when they traveled. Their vacations became more frequent and watching their pup so often became a bit of an imposition. We discussed the situation with the owners and decided that if they paid us, it would be more comfortable for both parties. We settled on $20 per night, which is significantly less than what the kennels charged. It was a good solution.
We text a daily picture of their furry baby so they know everything is okay. For some clients, we even bring the dog home so that the pooch is there when they return from their trips. We offer these little extras at no cost, which makes us more valuable. We have raised our rates.
It is a win-win-win! Pet owners have a safe place for their pets, free from the issues of a kennel (overcrowding, disease, and confined spaces), and we have a nice side hustle. And I have to think Rover is much happier staying with you.
Once we established our reliability, several families approached us for other tasks like watering plants and taking in the mail. There are also opportunities to walk dogs in the neighborhood for $15 per 30-minute walk. Busy families have a variety of needs and are willing to pay for such services.
Because of their dependability, senior citizens are a good fit for this type of work.
Trash to treasure
You’d be surprised at how many perfectly usable items are discarded each day, just waiting for someone to give them new life and purpose. From old furniture to sporting equipment, there is cash in that trash.
Pick them up, then spruce them up and sell them online.
You will be making some extra dough on the side, you’ll also be helping reduce waste in our landfills. WIN-WIN!
If this sounds intriguing to you, here are some tips on getting started: First off, keeping an eye out for discarded items on trash days. Then, put together a few basic materials – sandpaper, paint brushes, wood stain – whatever your project requires.
It is important to have an eye for detail and creativity when it comes to refurbishing your finds. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different colors or patterns! And once they’re all spruced up and ready to go, sell them online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or NextDoor.
Here is the key—price your items fairly—make them bargains. If you try to make a killing, it won’t work. Success will come with a quick turnaround. Pick-it, fix-it, move it!
Eventually, you might see that certain items were moving faster than others. For me it was tables. So I started making them out of stock lumber from Lowes and Home Depot. I was able to sell those for a little more.
You will find your own niche.
Blue table I built and sold for $50
Night Stand w/drawer I found and sold 2 days later for $25
Conclusion
There are many side hustles that seniors can take on to earn additional income. The gig economy brought on by our digital world has made it easier than ever. Whether it’s filling out surveys, dog-sitting, or refurbishing discarded items, there are all types of opportunities to make money while also enjoying the work. It’s important to find a side hustle that fits your lifestyle and interests, as well as being within your skill and comfort zone.
Senior citizens are a good fit for many of these side hustles due to their reliability and attention to detail. Additionally, these side hustles can lead to something bigger and better, such as starting your own business or discovering a new passion. With a little bit of effort and creativity, seniors can supplement their fixed income and enjoy more financial security and independence. So why not explore the possibilities and find a side hustle that works for you?
I will discuss other hustles in future blog posts, including the blog. Stay tuned.
senior Scoops 
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