Should I get a Part-Time Job as a Senior?
As a senior, should you get a part-time job? That's a great question. As a retiree, you may not need a job. You’ve put in your time for your career and now you’re enjoying the rewards. But there’s something lacking -- something you miss. We get it. Work is fun. Yes. We said it.
Supplementing Your Income
As a senior, getting a part-time job is a good way to supplement your fixed income. Fixed income is for bills. What about fun? And who doesn't like extra money? Extra money is sometimes fun to have -- especially if you’re eying that Viking River Cruise on the Danube. So much swoon!
With that said, you should consult your accountant or tax professional before getting a part-time job. Some of this income may affect your taxes -- even on your Social Security income.
“For the 2019 and 2020 tax years, single filers with a combined income of $25,000 to $34,000 must pay income taxes on up to 50% of their Social Security benefits. If your combined income was more than $34,000, you will pay taxes on up to 85% of your Social Security benefits.” Amelia Josephson
After you have a chat with your accountant, you can weigh the pros and cons of getting a part-time job. If a part-time job isn’t feasible, consider volunteering. It's a great way to stay active and make friends.
Missing the Camaraderie
Socializing with our peers is one of the best parts of employment -- or the worst. Just kidding. Seriously, many retirees end up missing the office camaraderie, shop talk with peers, and lunches with coworkers. It’s normal to feel a bit lonely in retirement. And you may be sick of your new hobby knitting. Well, maybe your daughters staged an intervention because they don’t need five blankets each -- every year.
There are dozens of part-time jobs available and convenient for seniors. AARP has a great list (https://www.aarp.org/work/job-search/info-2020/part-time-jobs-for-retirees.html) that includes bookkeeping, sales, and even security.
What Type of Part-Time Job Is Best?
Though your career was as an executive, that doesn’t determine what type of job you should look for as a retiree. Think about jobs you always thought would be fun. What about work at a florist or a cute gift shop?
“Rather than retire, older workers sometimes switch from traditional jobs to self-employment, according to a study released last month by the National Bureau of Economic Research that analyzed U.S. tax and survey data. In the process, they often switch occupations as well.” Insurance Journal 2017
Seniors with sales and marketing experience may also go into real estate or the mortgage industry. Former managers may become business consultants and coaches (https://www.thebalancecareers.com/best-part-time-jobs-for-seniors-4138302). Don't forget that the digital space is open for anyone. Remote and freelance work isn’t just for the Millennials.
Working as a Senior
No matter which direction you choose, working part-time as a senior has other benefits. Longevity, independence, and increased self-worth are hidden benefits of employment. And who knows? When the travel industry opens up after the pandemic, you may just have a hankering to take that river cruise after all.
