We all look for a way to make a little extra money to help pay the bills and put away for tomorrow. We constantly hear how when we reach our retirement age Social security may not be there for us to count as an income.
The economy is so bad that our 401k have taken a very hard hit. Of course, 401k will recover but how much? People have chosen to be proactive instead of reactive. It’s time to start thinking about it now, planning ahead. A little extra cash to help with the bills is a positive thing.
It can help to pay a little extra on the mortgage, car or credit cards. Lowering the debt and helping to pay most of these off as quickly as possible. Also, the fact that you will be putting some money away for those golden years isn’t a bad idea. After working for so long do we really want to continue working in our. 70’s due to obligation because we can’t make ends meet.
Of course we don’t, we want what we have dreamed of, retiring, relaxing and traveling as much as possible. Being able to have a place to live and if necessary, money to pay for our medical needs, since Medicare is not that great either.
Throughout the internet you will find many different ideas as to what type of a home based business you can start, what you will have to invest and what to expect. Here are just a few ideas to help you out. The startup cost will be $3,000 or less.
NOTARY PUBLIC / JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
To become a notary public or justice of the peace, you don’t have to invest much money. How many times have you had to find a notary to take care of some legal documents? You pay anywhere from $5.00 to $10.00 for their service. A justice of the peace typically performs wedding ceremonies and there are always weddings. It’s true this won’t bring tons of cash but it is a good business to have on the side. A little extra here and there won’t hurt. To do this, check your state office and find out what needs to be done in order to become a notary public and or a justice of the peace.
MOVING SERVICE
Someone is always moving from one place to another and they need someone to move their items to the new residence or business office. Moving is exhausing, we rather pay someone to lift heavy items and move them for us. Place signs everywhere possible and place classified ads. You can place ads in your local newspapers and pass around a few fliers. Get your name out there, maybe place cards or fliers in laundry rooms at apartments around your area. The more you advertise, the better it is for you. Now this particular job will require some nights or weekends. Make sure to note the hours you are available. To get their business, you will have to be flexible.
TAX PREPARER
This particular work is mostly done during the beginning of the year. Everyone wants to get their taxes done and into the IRS as quickly as possible. They need someone to prepare their taxes but not charge them an arm and a leg. Plus there are small business owners out there, looking for someone else to do their taxes and will pay a few hundred dollars a year to have this done. Of course, for this type of job you do need some prep courses. Many franchises will offer courses, seminars and training to get you ready for the tax season. On-line you can also find support for tax preparations. Take the time to take these courses that are offered to you. This is one job you can make a little extra money (good money). Make sure to be competitive with your cost and make sure you have brushed up on everything. If you make one customer happy, he will bring another and so on. Next thing you know, you will have your own list of clients.
SEAMSTRESS
Many women sew as a hobby and are actually quite good at what they do. You can offer your services to others. You can provide a list with what you charge for altering a dress, suit or taking up hems. If you are really good at what you do, then you can also offer your services to create and sew dresses for weddings, brides and bridesmaid, proms, sweet sixteen’s, etc the possibilities are endless. Best way to get the word out that you provide these services is by word of mouth, ads, and fliers. Maybe invest a little in creating business cards and a portfolio. In the portfolio make sure to put in pictures of your very best work. You can also add notes of gratitude from past clients, this is a plus for you.
CLEANING SERVICES
If you want to work hours that no one else will, then this may be the ideal business for you. Many companies hire outside cleaning services to clean their offices. Restaurants will hire cleaning companies to do daily thorough cleanings, making sure they are up to code. You can also find work with apartment complexes or even realtors that need the property cleaned and perfect before renting or selling. Check with your local government to see what you may need. Since you will be offering your services to other companies, you will most likely need to get bonded and insurance. Companies will ask for certain documentation. As your business grows, you may also need additional helpers. As always, be competitive with your prices, you will always have competition.
PERSONAL TRAINER
If you are fitness minded person this could be the perfect business for you. In some states you may need a license, definitely need experience and training. There are many people out there that rather do a one on one training in the privacy of their home instead of a gym. They will pay for your services to help them get fit with exercise and diet tips. Also, this will help them get fit without injuring themselves. Create a website offering your service and make sure to put yourself out there, so that your client list will grow.
PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEO
Everyone has a camera but not everyone knows what they are doing. If you are skilled at taking photographs and videotaping this is the perfect opportunity to use those skills to start your own business. Create a portfolio with your best work, set up a small studio in your home and advertise. Make sure to note your specialties, what type of packages you offer, great quality photos and competitive prices. Make sure you have contracts for your customer to sign; it should all be legal and signed. Be ready to let them know you can also take pictures at their homes or any special event. You have to invest in professional equipment, cameras, camcorders, lighting, etc. The investment will not be huge but the income will be.
WEDDING / EVENT PLANNER
If you are a detailed oriented person and organized this is something you can consider. You have probably helped with quite a few weddings and special events, such as sweet sixteen birthdays, special anniversaries or engagement parties. You are very well known for your great taste, detail and success in helping to create these events into something special. There are numerous online certification courses, including one from Wedding Beautiful. Make sure to take advantage of these to help you start your business the right way.
COMPUTER REPAIR
Do your friends or family call you whenever their system crashes? If this is the cases, make this into a business. You have to make sure you are up to date on the latest programs or problems. Spread the news via flyers, website, cards or signs. Try to make sure you have a good wholesaler for those times you have to build a computer or need specific parts. When building new computers from scratch, make sure you offer competitive prices. Lately, they can find a desktop for very little money. You may have to add some incentives into your deals that will attract clients.