Atlanta is a city that is known for its buzzing energy, southern charm, and a stellar music scene, Atlanta is a city where everyone can find their niche and fit in. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Sweet Auburn, indulging in the food, or taking in the natural beauty of Georgia, Atlanta is a city that welcomes all with open arms.
This article will guide you through ten of the top things that make Atlanta such a desirable place to call home, shedding light on the things locals love about the city.
1. The Birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr.
Atlanta is famously known as the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Visitors can explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which includes his childhood home, the church where he and his father pastored, and his final resting place. This area serves not only as a historical site but also as a source of inspiration, reflecting on the powerful impact of King’s life and teachings on the fight for racial equality in America.
2. CNN Center
The CNN Center is the global headquarters of the Cable News Network, offering visitors a unique look behind the scenes of one of the world’s largest news organizations. Through studio tours, guests can witness the live production of news broadcasts, learn about the history of news media, and even try their hand at being a news anchor. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the inner workings of journalism and broadcast media.
3. Trap Music Museum
Known as “the world’s first hip hop museum,” the Trap Music Museum offers an immersive experience into the world of trap music through art installations, memorabilia, and one-of-a-kind exhibits that depict the history, evolution, and cultural significance of trap music. The museum has sections dedicated to influential trap artists and producers, showcasing their contributions to this relatively new but extremely popular genre.
4. World of Coca-Cola
Atlanta is the birthplace of Coca-Cola, the world’s most famous soft drink. The World of Coca-Cola museum offers a rare experience into the brand’s history, featuring a variety of exhibits that showcase the drink’s secret formula, its global impact, and its memorable advertising campaigns. Visitors can also taste over 100 different beverages from around the globe, making it a fun and fizzy adventure for all ages.
5. The Varsity
The Varsity is an iconic fast-food restaurant located in the heart of Midtown and is famed for being the world’s largest drive-in. Opened in 1928, it has become a landmark and a beloved institution in the city, serving classic American fare like hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, and its famous frosted orange milkshake. The impact of The Varsity on Atlanta goes beyond its menu; it is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, drawing people from all walks of life, including students, tourists, and celebrities.
6. Georgia Aquarium
Home to tens of thousands of animals, including 500 species from around the world and more than 60 habitats, the Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. It provides a breathtaking look into the underwater world, featuring massive tanks, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Highlights include the Ocean Voyager exhibit, where visitors can walk through an acrylic tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and other massive sea creatures. It’s an aquatic experience like no other.
7. Atlanta Botanical Garden
Situated in the Ansley Park area, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a serene oasis that showcases a spectacular collection of plants and flowers from around the world. With its stunning landscapes, seasonal exhibits, and the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot-long skywalk that allows visitors to explore the treetops of the Storza Woods, the garden is a tranquil retreat from the city surrounding it.
8. The Atlanta BeltLine
The Atlanta BeltLine is a comprehensive revitalization effort that transforms the city’s former railway corridors into a network of public parks, multi-use trails, and transit options. It connects neighborhoods, supports sustainable growth, and provides a unique space for outdoor activities, art installations, and community events. The BeltLine is not only a place to get your steps in but also a living example of Atlanta’s commitment to urban renewal and green space.
9. Centennial Olympic Park
Built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is now a hub of activity for those in downtown Atlanta. This 21-acre park serves as a legacy of the games, offering visitors interactive fountains, walking paths, and a calendar filled with concerts and festivals. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike come to relax, play, and celebrate the city’s spirit of unity and achievement.
10. The High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art is one of the top spots to see the works of famous artists in the Southeast, housing an impressive collection of classic and contemporary pieces. Its many exhibits span various mediums and cultures, from Renaissance paintings to modern sculpture and from African art to works by Southern artists. The museum’s striking architecture, designed by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano, provides the perfect backdrop for its extensive collections. The High Museum of Art is not just a place to check out some art; it’s a place to experience the power of creativity and inspiration in its purest form.
Looking for jobs where you can bring your child with you? Yes, some jobs and companies let you bring your child to work. More and more companies are supporting parents by providing on-site childcare facilities. Plus, along with the rise of remote jobs, there are many jobs out there that let you bring your child…
Looking for jobs where you can bring your child with you? Yes, some jobs and companies let you bring your child to work.
More and more companies are supporting parents by providing on-site childcare facilities. Plus, along with the rise of remote jobs, there are many jobs out there that let you bring your child to work, eliminating the costs of paying for childcare.
In this post, we’ll explore different jobs that let you take your child to work, along with a list of remote jobs that give you the flexibility to work at home and take care of your children at the same time.
Whether you want to make extra income or if you are looking for a full-time career, many options may interest you.
Recommended reading: 25 Best Work From Home Jobs To Make $1,000+ Monthly
Best Ways To Bring Your Child To Work
Here’s a list of jobs where you can bring your child to work.
1. Nanny or babysitter
Working as a nanny or babysitter gives you the option of possibly bringing your child to work.
Before bringing your child to work, it’s important to come up with an agreement with the family you work for. Have clear communication and set expectations of what it will be like if you bring your child to work with you.
There are many ways to find nannying and babysitting jobs online, especially with websites like Care.com. I’ve found several nannying and babysitting positions with my free profile on Care.com.
You can also share your services on local Facebook groups, Indeed, and SitterCity. References from past childcare jobs are important, along with offering a background check.
2. Daycare (where you work for someone else)
You may also be able to bring your child to the daycare or preschool that you work for.
You need to consult with your employer about this first and check the daycare’s policies and employee handbook. Many daycares have it in writing whether or not you can bring your children to work with you. Some daycares allow it, while others are strictly against it.
To find a daycare job, search on websites like Indeed or call local daycares near you and see if they are hiring. Childcare work is in high demand and there are always jobs available in this field.
Your child may be in your classroom if they are in your age group, or they may be in another group of children. Typically, the cost is not free, but you may get a discounted rate to bring your kid to the same daycare that you work at if you are a childcare worker.
3. Own in-home daycare (where you run your own daycare)
If you can run your own daycare, this is going to allow more flexibility in bringing your child to work. Many daycare centers are run by parents looking for a more suitable job where they can bring their own kids with them to work.
However, there are still some things to keep in mind. You need to make sure that you are complying with local licensing regulations and requirements for running a daycare, along with maintaining professionalism at work while having your own child at the daycare.
Starting your own daycare from home requires careful planning. You need to think about things like local zoning laws to make sure you can run a daycare in your home and make sure your home is safe for children. You may need certifications and training like CPR and first aid certifications, along with early childhood education courses. Getting the proper insurance to protect your business in case of accidents on your property is important too.
You also need to think about how you’ll attract clients and what kind of marketing you’ll do. Word of mouth is huge, so make sure to always provide the best business and care (plus, these are children we are talking about – so high-quality care is always important!).
4. Drive a school bus
If your child’s school is hiring school bus drivers, this can be a great gig to not only take your child to and from school but also earn extra cash.
Bus drivers need to be 21 or older, have a valid driver’s license, and clean driving record. You may even need to obtain a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License).
The school will also require a background check, and provide school bus driver training, which is provided by the school district or a third-party organization.
The salary for a school bus driver depends on things like location, experience, and the district. The average salary for school bus drivers ranges from $30,000-$40,000, along with getting benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and PTO.
5. Food delivery services
Working as a delivery driver may give you the option to bring your child to work with you.
Some food delivery platforms prohibit from having anyone else in the care of you on food delivery runs, so this is important to find out before bringing your child with you to work.
Getting a job as a food delivery driver is relatively easy as long as you meet the minimum age requirements and have a valid driver’s license. Each platform is going to have different benefits including pay, flexible work schedule, payout time, and sign-up process.
6. Photographer
One way to do photography and be able to bring your child with you is to take stock photos.
Stock image websites are among the most popular platforms for photographers to sell their pictures. These websites allow customers to buy royalty-free photos for personal or business use. Various entities, including websites, TV shows, books, and social media accounts, frequently use stock photos.
A significant advantage of stock photo sites is the potential for passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and potentially earn money from an old photo for months or even years to come.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
7. House cleaner
Working as a house cleaner possibly allows you to bring your child to work depending on the policies of your employer, the nature of the job, and safety considerations. Some employers allow it, while others have strict rules against bringing a child to work.
As a house cleaner, you may be working with cleaning chemicals and heavy equipment, so you need to consider whether it’s suitable to have a child present in this kind of situation. It’s important to have a backup plan in place for times when you cannot bring your child to work.
8. Blogger
I started my blog back in college over 10 years ago and it’s still my full-time job. I’m my own boss, create my own schedule, and get to take vacations whenever I want.
As a blogger, you get to work from home and create your own schedule. This allows you to “bring your child to work” but also maintain a relatively flexible lifestyle when raising a child. This can be great for balancing work and family life.
Building a successful blog takes time and consistency, but when done right, can make income.
Bloggers make money through advertising, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and product sales. You can even make money by offering coaching services on your blog or writing for other popular websites in your niche.
You can learn how to start a blog with the free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).
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In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
9. Proofreader
Another great remote job that lets you stay at home with your child while earning money is proofreading.
A proofreader is someone who is in charge of reviewing written content to identify and correct errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and formatting.
Proofreaders work for all kinds of companies, including advertising agencies, media outlets, government agencies, and even bloggers and other small business owners.
Proofreaders can earn between $15-$50 an hour depending on their experience, type of project, and industry demand.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year)
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
10. Freelance writer
I’ve been a freelance writer for almost a decade and it’s one of my favorite ways to make money. This is because freelance writing can be done on my own schedule. An agency (or whoever is paying me to write the article) will send me what they want the article to be about, how many words to write, and other important information that needs to be included.
Since this job is remote, this means you can work from home and “take your child to work” with you.
So, this can be a great job to look into for a stay-at-home mom or dad of young children.
How much you earn as a freelance writer depends on your skills and experience. If you’re just starting, you may earn between $50-$75 per 500-word article. As you gain experience and get better, you can charge a lot more. The larger and more impressive your portfolio becomes, the easier it gets to land jobs and get paid higher rates.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs
11. Transcriptionist
A transcriptionist is someone who converts spoken audio files into written text (this is what transcription is). Your tasks include listening to audio recordings and accurately transcribing them into a written format. Transcriptionists work in fields like legal, medical, academic, and business-related industries.
Starting pay for a transcriptionist is in the $15 an hour range, with that number increasing once you’ve honed in your skills and experience, and have a wider database of clients who have worked with you in the past and want to hire you again.
Many transcriptionists are stay-at-home parents, and that is because you can get started relatively easily (it is easy to meet the qualifications to become a transcriptionist) and you can work on your own time and create a flexible schedule that works for you and your children’s schedules.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Transcriptionist From Home
12. Virtual assistant
I’ve been working as a virtual assistant for years and it’s one of my favorite jobs. I get to work from home and set my own schedule. Virtual assistants usually work for a person, company, or small business owner doing administrative tasks to help the business run smoothly.
As a virtual assistant, you’re working from home which means your child can stay at home with you while you’re working.
Tasks for virtual assistants include tasks like responding to emails, social media management, customer support, and more.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
13. Customer service representative (at home)
Customer service representative jobs are often remote, therefore you may be able to leave your child at home with you while you’re working.
Customer service representative tasks include assisting and supporting customers with problem resolutions, inquiries on products, order processing, and even offering technical support in some cases.
Finding a job as a customer service representative is easy. Check out job boards like Indeed and type in “Customer Service Representative” and hundreds of jobs will come up. Make sure to look for jobs that are 100% remote, as some of these jobs may be in person.
Typically, to get started, you will just need a computer, phone, and internet access.
14. Mystery shopper
As a mystery shopper, you are grading restaurants, stores, and other businesses on how well they are doing.
My sister was a mystery shopper and often brought me with her on mystery shopping outings. She made around $150 to $200 a month in extra money doing this and she also earned free items as well, like food at restaurants, makeup, and more.
Bestmark is a popular mystery shopping company that connects mystery shoppers with jobs. Mystery shoppers get reimbursed for their time via check or cash and typically get paid out 2-4 weeks after the job is completed.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
15. Newspaper deliverer
As a newspaper deliverer, you may be able to bring your child to work with you when you’re delivering newspapers. Delivery times typically range from 4 AM-6 AM, and in some cases, there are late evening deliveries and weekend deliveries.
Before bringing your child to work, make sure the newspaper company permits you to bring your child with you as some companies may not be okay with this.
16. Gym worker (many jobs have on-site daycares)
Gyms all across the country are now offering free on-site daycares for customers. This is to entice people to come to their gym and also allows parents to workout without having to pay and arrange childcare to get to the gym.
Depending on the location, gyms that offer childcare include EOS Fitness, Life Time, LA Fitness, YMCA, and even local and county gyms.
I have a friend who works part-time hours at a local county gym. She works in the daycare room and gets to bring her toddler and baby with her. This can be a good option to look into if you don’t have school-aged kids, and need to bring your young children to work with you.
17. Find a company that has onsite daycare for their employees
There are many companies out there that provide on-site daycare for their employees.
My husband’s company provides 100% employer-sponsored on-site childcare at work, so anyone who works at the company can bring their children to work and save money on childcare costs. This is a growing benefit that more and more companies are offering to employees.
When searching for new jobs, read the benefits offered at the company and see if on-site childcare is listed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about bringing your child to work jobs.
What are the best jobs where you can bring your child to work?
The best jobs that let you bring your child to work include jobs like nannying and daycares, and remote jobs like blogging, proofreading, or working as a customer service representative. All of these jobs typically let you bring your child to work or you get the benefit of working at home, saving money on childcare costs.
Can you bring your baby to work with you?
Whether or not you can bring your baby to work with you depends on many factors, including:
Company’s policies
Nature of your job
Local regulations
Many jobs have family-friendly policies in place that allow you to bring your kids to work for a certain period, especially during the infant stage. Some employers even have designated areas to support parents who bring their children to work, including on-site childcare facilities, flexible work hours, or remote work options.
Is it acceptable to bring your child to work? Can I take my child with me to work?
Whether or not it’s acceptable to bring your child to work depends on each company and the type of job. Some jobs fully support parents to bring their children to work and even have a 100% company-sponsored childcare facility. Other companies may not allow bringing children to work if such childcare facilities do not exist at the company. It may also be dangerous to bring kids to certain jobs if you work in a field like construction.
Can you work a remote job with a baby?
One of the best ways to work and save money on childcare costs is working remotely. This method of work is becoming increasingly common thanks to technology and shifting attitudes toward flexible work arrangements.
If you do land a remote job, here are some tips for successfully working with a baby:
Establish a schedule that accommodates your work responsibilities and baby’s needs.
Set up a dedicated workspace that is quiet and comfortable where you can focus on work.
Aim to get a job that has flexible work hours, so you can take care of your child when they need it, and perhaps work during naps.
That being said, it doesn’t mean that online or remote jobs are easy, or that working from home and watching a kid at the same time will be easy. It can be hard to manage both at the same time.
Do companies still have bring your kid to work day?
Some companies do still have bring your kid to work day. Keep in mind, this is usually only one day out of the whole year.
If you work at a daycare can you bring your child for free?
If you work at a daycare, you can usually get a discounted rate if you bring your child.
How to find jobs that would welcome children and don’t require a nanny or sitter?
Some workplaces are much more welcoming than others. Finding jobs that already cater to kids (such as daycares) or working from home are two options to start with.
Bring Your Child To Work Jobs – Summary
Being able to bring your children to work is becoming more accepting and even supportive, with companies providing on-site childcare facilities.
There are many child-focused businesses, such as private preschools or daycares, where you may be able to bring your child to work with you.
Along with the rise of remote jobs, you may be able to work at home and take care of your children at the same time. If you work from home, such as by being a proofreader or virtual assistant, you may be able to work a flexible schedule and work in your spare time, such as when your child is napping or sleeping. Working around your children’s schedules is one way to work from home for stay-at-home parents.
Running her own business and deciding on her own hours is how my sister works from home with a child. She is a full-time blogger (she owns the very site that you are reading – Making Sense of Cents).
What do you think are the best kid-friendly jobs for moms and dads?
Earning returns can be exhilarating. But it’s important to remember that they don’t necessarily represent the money that goes in the bank. Commissions, taxes, and other fees impact the returns any investor makes on their investment.
Just how big a bite these investment expenses take out of an investor’s assets isn’t always instantly clear. But by understanding the fees they pay, and the taxes they’re likely to owe, investors can better plan for the money they’ll actually receive from their investments. And they can also take concrete steps to minimize the effects of fees and taxes.
Investment Expenses 101
There are a few different types of investment expenses an investor may come across as they buy and sell assets. Here are the most common ones.
Fund Fees
Mutual funds are a very popular way for investors to get into the market. They’re the vehicles that most 401(k), 403(b), and IRAs offer investors to save for retirement. But these funds charge fees, starting with a management fee, which pays the fund’s staff to buy and trade investments.
Investors pay this fee as a portion of their assets, whether the investments go up or down. (With employer-sponsored retirement accounts, the employer may cover the fees as long as the account holder is employed by the company.) Management fees vary widely, with some index funds charging as little as .10% of an investor’s assets. But other mutual funds may charge more than 2%.
In addition to the management fee, the fund may also charge for advertising and promotion expenses, known as the 12b-1 fee. Plus, mutual fund investors may have to pay sales charges, especially if they buy funds through a financial planner, or an investment advisor. While the maximum legal sales charge for a mutual fund is 8.5%, the common range is between 3% and 6%.
One way to understand how much of a bite these mutual fund fees take out of an investment on an annual basis is to look at the expense ratio. 💡 Quick Tip: Look for an online brokerage with low trading commissions as well as no account minimum. Higher fees can cut into investment returns over time.
Advisor Fees
Investors may also face fees when they hire a professional to help manage their money. Some advisors charge a percentage of invested assets per year. More recently, some advisors have simplified the cost by simply charging an hourly fee.
Broker Fees and Commissions
Even investors who want to manage their own portfolios typically pay a broker for their services in the form of fees and commissions. These fees and commissions may be based on a percentage of the transaction’s value, or they may be rolled into a flat fee. Another factor that may influence the fee: whether an investor uses a full-service broker or a discount broker.
How to Minimize the Cost of Investing
No matter how an investor approaches the market, they can expect to pay some fees. It’s up to each individual to decide whether or not those fees are worth it. For some, paying a professional for hands-on advice is worth the extra annual 1% fee (or more) of their invested assets. For others, minimizing costs may be a priority. Among many options, there are a few investing opportunities that stand out as relatively low-cost.
Index Funds
When investing in mutual funds, one type of fund has established itself as the least expensive in terms of fees: Index funds. That’s because these funds track an index instead of paying analysts and managers to research and trade securities. When it comes to index funds vs. managed funds, proponents typically cite the lower fees.
Automated Investing Platforms
People seeking investing advice or guidance who don’t want to pay typical fees might want to explore automated investing platforms, also known as “robo-advisors.” Some of these platforms charge annual advisory fees as low as .25%. That said, these platforms often use mutual funds, which charge their own fees on top of the platform fees.
Discount Brokerage
Investors who manage their own portfolio may opt for a discount or online brokerage. These brokers tend to charge flat fees per trade as low as $5, with account maintenance fees also often as low as $0 to $50 per account.
How Taxes Eat into Investing Profits
There are typically two kinds of taxes that investors have to worry about. The first is income tax, and the second is capital gains tax. In general, income taxes apply to investment earnings in the form of interest payments, dividends, or bond yields. Capital gains, on the other hand, apply to the returns an investor realizes when they sell a stock, bond, or other investment. (The exception: The IRS taxes short-term investments, which an investor has held for less than a year, at that investor’s marginal income tax rate.)
By and large, capital gains tax rates are lower than income tax rates. Income tax rates for high-earners can be as high as 37%, plus a 3.8% net investment income tax (NIIT). That means the taxes on those quick gains can be as high as 40.8%—and that’s not including any state or local taxes.
The taxes on long-term capital gains are lower across the board. For tax year 2023, for investors who are married filing jointly and earning less than $89,250, the capital gains tax rate is 0%. It goes up depending on income, with couples making between $89,250 and $553,850 paying 15%, and those with income above that level paying 20%.
For tax year 2024, those who are married and filing jointly with taxable income up to $94,050 have a capital gains tax rate of 0%. Couples making between $94,050 and $583,750 have a rate of 15%, and those with income above that have a tax rate of 20%. 💡 Quick Tip: Automated investing can be a smart choice for those who want to invest but may not have the knowledge or time to do so. An automated investing platform can offer portfolio options that may suit your risk tolerance and goals (but investors have little or no say over the individual securities in the portfolio).
Strategies to Minimize Taxes
There are a few ways an investor can minimize the impact of taxes on their investments. One popular way to take advantage of the tax code is by investing through a retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA. All of these plans encourage people to save for retirement by offering attractive tax breaks.
For tax-deferred accounts like a 401(k) or traditional IRA, the tax break comes on the front end. Retirees will have to pay income taxes on their withdrawals in retirement. On the other hand, retirement accounts like a Roth 401(k) or Roth IRA are funded with after-tax dollars, and money is not taxed upon withdrawal in retirement.
Another approach some investors may want to consider is tax-loss harvesting. This strategy allows investors to take advantage of investments that lost money by selling them and taking a capital loss (as opposed to a capital gain). That capital loss can help investors reduce their annual tax bill. It may be used to offset as much as $3,000 in non-investment income.
The Takeaway
Fees and taxes typically do have an impact on an investor’s returns on investments. How much they eat into profit varies, and is largely dependent on what the investments are, how they are being managed, and how long an investor has had them. Other factors include the investor’s income level, and whether they’ve also lost money on other investments.
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For some people, freelancing is the way they earn their living, relishing the freedom and flexibility of this type of work. For others, it’s a smart way to bring in some income in addition to a salary. Regardless of whether you’re managing your freelance business as a full-time endeavor or a side hustle, one fact is true: You’ve got to pay taxes on your earnings.
In this guide, you’ll learn about the steps to take in your situation, including:
• How do you pay taxes as a freelancer?
• Why are freelance taxes higher?
• What are some ways to reduce taxable income?
• What deductions should freelancers take?
• What should freelancers know about tax refunds?
How Taxes for Freelancers Are Different
The first thing to note is that taxes for freelancers are notably different in two major ways: Freelancers pay a larger percentage of their income (because of self-employment tax), and they’ve got to make estimated tax payments every quarter.
What Is Self-Employment Tax?
For the 2023 tax year, self-employment tax is 15.3%. That’s 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare.
That doesn’t mean that’s all that freelancers pay. Self-employment tax is what freelancers pay on top of regular income taxes. The percentage you pay in income taxes depends on what tax bracket you’re in but can range from 10% to 37%.
Why do freelancers pay a self-employment tax? When you’re an employee for a business who receives a W-2 form, your company pays some taxes for you.
But if you’re a freelancer — whether a writer, photographer, dog walker, or consultant — your clients don’t pay any taxes for you, so you’ve got to pick up the slack.
And don’t forget: You may also have to pay state and local taxes, depending on where you live.
What Are Quarterly Taxes?
Most people think of April 15 as the dreaded Tax Day for all Americans, when they have to pay their taxes. But taxes aren’t actually due on April 15: They’re due when you earn the money.
That’s why employers withhold taxes from every paycheck. Tax season is just that special time where the IRS wants you to go over the numbers and make sure the right amount was withheld — and pay up if you actually owe more. (Or, if you overpaid, file your return to claim a refund.)
But since taxes aren’t withheld when freelancers earn revenue from clients, the government expects freelancers to make quarterly tax payments throughout the year.
Freelancers have two options:
1. Pay 100% of the taxes they owed the prior year, split over four payments.
2. Pay 90% of the taxes they’ll owe for the current year, split over four payments.
Note that these percentages may be different if you’re a farmer, fisherman, or high-income earner.
Estimated taxes are among the most complicated parts of being a freelancer, and you can face underpayment penalties if you don’t send Uncle Sam your fair share throughout the years.
You can check out the IRS’s guidelines for estimated taxes , but a tax professional may be worth the cost if you’re confused.
💡 Quick Tip: Typically, checking accounts don’t earn interest. However, some accounts do, and online banks are more likely than brick-and-mortar banks to offer you the best rates.
Paying Taxes as a Freelancer
Now that you understand that freelancers must pay more in taxes and that they need to keep track of more tax deadlines, consider the actual process for freelancer tax filing.
Here’s how to pay freelance taxes in five steps.
1. Determine If You Have to Pay Freelancer Income Tax
First and foremost, it’s a good idea to make sure you actually have to pay freelancer taxes. If you fit the bill of the IRS’s definition of an independent contractor, you’ll have to file as a freelancer and will be subject to self-employment taxes.
The IRS says you’re an independent contractor “if the payer has the right to control or direct only the result of the work and not what will be done and how it will be done.”
It’s a rather broad designation and might fit traditional freelance gigs like writers and graphic designers, but it can also apply to app-based workers, like drivers for Uber and Lyft, and even doctors, lawyers, and veterinarians.
Even if you receive a W-2 from an employer but made other revenue on the side, you’re still subject to freelancer income taxes — and must make estimated payments on that income.
2. Calculate How Much You Earned
As a freelancer, you may receive 1099-NECs from clients for the work you do, detailing just how much money you made from them (as long as you made $600 or more).
Even if you don’t receive a 1099, you still have to report any income you made on your tax return. This means paying taxes if you are paid on Venmo or another platform versus by check or a direct deposit.
If you don’t declare the income, you’re committing tax fraud — and the IRS can find out during an audit.
You may want to use a tax preparation checklist to help you organize these materials. You might start by compiling all your 1099-NECs and any other income forms, including 1099-INTs, 1099-Ks, 1099-MISCs, and W-2s, and then input them on your tax return or into your tax software. If you have additional income not represented by any forms, you’ll be able to report that as well.
3. Compile Your Business Expenses
As a freelancer, you can deduct genuine business expenses from your taxable income. The more expenses you have, the lower your adjusted gross income — and the less you have to pay in taxes.
These are called tax deductions. Many tax filers choose to take the standard deduction: $13,850 for single people or married individuals filing separately and $27,700 for married couples filing jointly. However, freelancers with a lot of business expenses might earn a larger deduction by itemizing all their business expense deductions.
Common Tax Deductions for Freelancers
Business expenses can vary significantly depending on the kind of work you do, but you may be able to to use some of these freelancer tax deductions, like:
• A portion of your rent or mortgage (your home office deduction)
• Phone and internet bills
• Any computer and software expenses
• Automotive expenses, including miles on your car when used for business (and only for business)
• Office supplies
• Travel expenses
• Marketing and advertising expenses
• Continuing education
Freelancers may also be able to take the qualified business income deduction and self-employment tax deduction.
Other Tax Deductions and Tax Credits
Business expenses may apply to freelancers specifically, but independent contractors can take advantage of other common tax deductions and credits.
Other common tax deductions include mortgage interest payments, charitable contributions, student loan interest payments, and the state and local tax deduction.
Tax credits are also a useful tax tool and can greatly reduce your tax bill as a freelancer. Some popular tax credits include the child tax credit, Earned Income Tax Credit, and electric vehicle tax credit.
Recommended: Fastest Ways to Get Your Tax Refund
4. Account for Estimated Payments
If you made estimated tax payments the previous year, don’t forget to apply those to your tax form when filing. After all, if you’ve handed over a chunk of change to the IRS already, you’ll want credit for it.
You’ll add your total payments to line 26 on Form 1040 if filling out the form yourself, but most tax software and accountants should prompt you for this information.
5. File and Calculate Estimated Payments
The last step in how to pay freelance taxes: You’re now ready to complete your forms, and send in your tax return and any payments that you owe. And it’s not necessarily just federal taxes that are needed for freelancer tax filing: Depending on where you live, you may owe state, local, and school district income taxes as well.
After filing, surprise: You’re not done yet. You’ll also need to estimate taxes for the current year. Your first quarterly payment is due on Tax Day in April.
If you’re working with an accountant, they can help you calculate how much you’ll likely owe and print out vouchers for you to mail in with your payments. If you wind up making significantly more or less throughout the year, you can adjust your estimated payments to match. That’s part of learning how to budget on a fluctuating income.
Freelancer Tax-Filing Tips
Freelancing and taxes can seem complicated. Here are tips to help you save money and hit all your deadlines.
Plan for Retirement as a Freelancer
Reducing your taxable income is helpful when you have to pay significantly more in taxes on your earnings. One way to do this — and prepare for your future — is to open a retirement account and make pre-tax contributions.
You can contribute to a traditional IRA, but there are also retirement plans designed for self-employed individuals, including a SEP IRA and a solo 401(k). It’s worth educating yourself about how these work and contribution limits so you can find the best option for your financial situation and aspirations.
Research Deductions
You may be tempted to take the standard deduction when filing, but if you have a lot of business expenses, you may earn a larger tax break by itemizing. Tax software and accountants generally know all the different types of taxes and guidelines. They can help you find all the tax deductions you qualify for, but it never hurts to do some research on your own.
Stay Organized
Organization is crucial when running your own business — and that holds true at tax time. By organizing your bills and tracking your income throughout the year (even on a daily basis), you should have good records of all your revenue and expenses.
Find record- and receipt-keeping systems that work for you. You may also want to set calendar reminders so you never miss a quarterly tax payment deadline.
Work with a Tax Professional
Freelancer income taxes can be challenging and confusing. If you’re overwhelmed and worried about making a mistake, it may be worth the money to hire an accountant or tax preparer.
Plus, the tax-filing fee may count as a deductible business expense for next year.
Understand Tax Refunds for Freelancers
Know that it is unlikely that you’ll get a tax refund as a freelancer. What often triggers a tax refund is that a full-time employee had too much money withheld for taxes from each paycheck and their overpayment comes back to them. (They can adjust their W-4 employee withholding tax form to avoid this situation in the future.)
But as a freelancer, it is unlikely you are overpaying your taxes, especially if you are tracking your income and paying the appropriate amount of quarterly taxes.
Recommended: Maximizing Your Time and Money
The Takeaway
Taxes can get more complicated if you’re a freelancer. You likely will pay more in taxes (thanks to the self-employment tax), and you’ll probably need to make quarterly estimated payments. It’s wise to regularly track and review your earnings and expenses so you can stay on top of how you are doing. For many freelancers, working with a tax professional is the best path forward.
Also worth noting: As a freelancer, you need several tools to stay organized and run your business, including a bank account.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
FAQ
Why is freelance tax so high?
Freelance taxes are higher because they include self-employment tax. This additional 15.3% is what employers traditionally pay on behalf of their employees. In the case of freelancers, they’re both the employer and the employee so they have to cover that amount.
Do I need to declare freelance income?
Yes, you must declare all freelance income. Even if you didn’t make enough to trigger a 1099 from a client — or that client forgot to send you a 1099 — you must report any and all income to the IRS.
What happens if you don’t file freelance taxes?
If you don’t make quarterly tax payments as a freelancer, you could be subject to underpayment penalties when you go to file. If you don’t pay at all, you’ll be subject to Failure to File and Failure to Pay penalties. You’ll owe interest on top of the fines — and eventually could face jail time if you don’t pay.
Can freelancers pay taxes annually?
While freelancers must file taxes annually like everybody else, they are usually required to make quarterly estimated taxes since no taxes are being withheld from their payments throughout the year.
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You’re probably seeing headlines almost daily screaming about layoffs, layoffs, layoffs. The ubiquity of those stories may make you worry about your own job stability.
There was a 10% increase in layoffs last year from the previous year — 19.8 million in 2023 compared with 17.6 million in 2022, according to an analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
But monthly layoffs throughout 2023 were actually slightly below pre-pandemic levels after a massive spike during the start of the pandemic, BLS data shows.
“I’m cautiously optimistic. I think there are some signs that we’ll still see robust demand for workers, be that through hiring or a relative absence of layoffs,” says Nick Bunker, economic research director for North America at the Indeed Hiring Lab, which tracks employment trends.
The current job market is incredibly resilient, and labor market indicators show that workers who are laid off aren’t likely to stay unemployed for long. The unemployment rate has stayed steady between 3.4% and 3.9% since December 2021. Unemployment claims, meanwhile, are largely in line with pre-pandemic claims, Department of Labor data shows. That goes for initial claims — by those unemployed for the first time — and for continued unemployment claims — those who have remained unemployed beyond an initial claim.
“I’m not particularly concerned,” says Elise Gould, an economist at the Economic Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C., think tank.
If economists aren’t panicked, it means you probably shouldn’t be either. Unless, of course, you’re in one of the sectors that’s seen an uptick.
Where are layoffs happening?
Gould and Bunker both say layoffs are largely siloed in the information sector, which includes both tech companies and media companies (hence all those layoff headlines). They say that shedding is likely to continue into 2024.
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In the scope of the entire labor market, tech and media remain the outliers when it comes to layoffs, Bunker says. “This time last year there were concerns about what’s happening to the tech or media industries or the broader information sector. And you could see from the data that layoffs did tick up, but that was not representative of what you saw in the rest of the market — it didn’t spread out.”
The transportation and warehousing industry has also seen a rise in layoffs since companies began downsizing after more rapid expansion during the pandemic. But employment in the sector is still well above pre-pandemic levels.
Among other sectors, a Feb. 1 report by Challenger, Gray and Christmas, an outplacement company, shows the financial industry has had the most job cuts so far in 2024 with a total of 23,238 in January. That’s the highest monthly layoffs among financial companies since September 2018.
Gould says layoffs like these aren’t necessarily signs of industrywide distress. Some reflect the churn that happens in the economy in any given month — jobs lost are offset by jobs added, she says. Throughout 2023, the amount of jobs added often exceeded expectations. That trend remained in January: The amount of jobs added was double what was projected.
“There’s a lot moving,” says Gould.
Some other areas with layoffs include the food industry, which announced 6,656 layoffs, the highest number since November 2012. The retail industry announced 5,364 cuts in January — a 4,776% increase from December. But take that big, scary percentage with a grain of salt: Layoffs happen every year in the retail industry after the holidays are over because companies hire a ton of temporary workers to meet demand.
Layoffs spiked among tech companies in 2023
Last year was not a good one for tech and neither was the one before that. Let’s face it — this year isn’t looking much better. In 2023, more than 1,190 tech companies laid off some 262,000 workers, according to layoffs.fyi, which tracks layoffs in the tech industry.
The biggest layoffs in 2023 were at big-name companies, including Amazon (27,410 workers) Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram (21,000), Google (12,115) and Microsoft (11,158).
But so far in 2024, over 34,000 employees have been laid off among more than 140 tech companies, according to layoffs.fyi. Some of the big names this year include Snap, which owns SnapChat, Zoom, PayPal, Salesforce, Microsoft, eBay, TikTok, Wayfair, Google, Discord, Audible and Rent the Runway.
Job availability may also be dwindling. “Employers are still looking to hire at fairly robust rates across a variety of sectors,” says Bunker. “And that’s not the case for job titles related to the tech sector; they’re still pretty depressed there.”
The downsizing is likely due to some pullback from the hiring spree in the tech industry during the start of the pandemic, experts say. And layoffs in this sector, particularly for highly skilled tech professionals, don’t mean workers stay unemployed for long. They’re likely being gobbled up by other companies pretty quickly, Bunker and Gould say.
“For workers that have higher levels of education, oftentimes their unemployment rates are much lower,” Gould says. “Oftentimes they are able to get back on their feet. Obviously, that average story does not tell everybody’s experience, and there are people that will be worse off.”
Randi Weitzman, executive director of technology talent solutions at Robert Half, an international human resource consulting firm, says workers in tech positions have an in-demand skill set that every company needs.
“It’s not so much we’re seeing the demand in high tech, but in industries like health care, manufacturing, government, retail, hospitality and leisure. We also saw an uptick in professional services. But all of those industries need IT professionals to help them drive their companies,” Weitzman says.
Media layoffs soared as companies struggle to profit
For the media, 2023 was a proverbial bloodbath. The industry, as a whole, announced 20,324 cuts last year — the highest since 2020, according to a report by Challenger, Gray and Christmas, Inc. As a subset of media, news announced 2,681 cuts, which was more than layoffs in 2021 and 2022 combined, according to the report. Bloomberg estimated news media losses even higher — about 3,000.
“I think that is very much a structural story that’s more about long-term trends,” says Bunker.
“The issue for the media is internet.”
Media was once mostly funded by advertising — “they were sort of a one-stop shop for lots of advertisers,” Bunker says. But the advent of the internet changed advertising, and media paid the price. The other issue, Bunker says, is consumer expectations of the price they pay for information, that is, most people don’t want to pay for articles.
“It’s just more difficult for media to be profitable, and so you’ve had a pullback and a decline in employment in that sector of the economy,” Bunker says.
The past year saw cuts at Buzzfeed News (15%), Time Magazine (15%), NPR (10%), Business Insider (8%), Gannett (6%), Vox (11%), Conde Nast (5%), Vice Media (around 10%) and others. The Washington Post completed 240 buyouts last year to avoid laying off workers.
Since the start of 2024, even more news media organizations have announced staff reductions.
On Jan. 17, Conde Nast announced it was laying off staff and folding Pitchfork into the GQ umbrella. On Jan. 19, Sports Illustrated announced it would be giving its entire staff the boot within 90 days. On Jan. 23, the Los Angeles Times announced it was cutting 115 reporters — about 20% of its staff. Back in June, it slashed its workforce by 13%. The paper was reportedly losing somewhere between $30 million to $40 million a year.
Layoffs aren’t just hitting news outlets. Streaming services have disrupted traditional television. On Feb. 13, the TV network giant Paramount announced it was laying off 3% of its staff.
Mass layoffs across the labor market aren’t likely in 2024
Despite some worrisome trends in the information sector, widespread layoffs throughout the labor market still aren’t likely to happen anytime soon under current conditions, experts say.
“The outlook for layoffs is a function of what you think a broader economic outlook is, and we’ve gotten very strong economic growth data as of late,” says Bunker.
While the labor market is tight, and the industries with layoffs are generally contained, it doesn’t mean we won’t see more employment churn coming this year. CEOs aren’t feeling the need to hoard labor as much as they once did: A quarterly survey of CEO confidence released on Feb. 8 by The Conference Board, a think tank, shows 23% of CEOs expect to lay off workers in the next 12 months, up from 13% from the previous quarter.
Los Angeles Times: Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images News via Getty Images
Google: Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images News via Getty Images
Microsoft: Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images News for BIG3 via Getty Images
TikTok: Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images News via Getty Images
Paramount Studios: Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images News via Getty Images
Looking for the best summer jobs for teachers? Teachers, just like students, really enjoy the summer break. It’s a great time for them to relax and feel refreshed. But, this break can also be a chance for teachers to make extra money and even start a new business. I know many, many teachers who have…
Looking for the best summer jobs for teachers?
Teachers, just like students, really enjoy the summer break. It’s a great time for them to relax and feel refreshed. But, this break can also be a chance for teachers to make extra money and even start a new business.
I know many, many teachers who have side hustles in the summer. From part-time gigs to full-time summer businesses, there are many side jobs for teachers that you may want to try out.
Best Summer Jobs for Teachers
There are many summer jobs for teachers listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Flexible way to freelance – Proofreading
Side job for teachers from home – Blogging
How to make passive income as a teacher – Sell printables
Work as much or as little as you want – Flea market flipping
Creative job idea – Dog treat baker
Side job for teachers in summer – Grocery shopper
Camp counselor – If you love the outdoors, being a camp educator can be both rewarding and enjoyable, combining teaching with adventure activities.
Summer school teacher – Many schools have summer classes where you can continue teaching.
1. Teach summer school
One clear way for teachers to earn extra money in the summer is by teaching summer school.
It’s a good way to use your teaching abilities and make some additional income. The best part is that summer school happens during your summer break (big surprise, right?!), so it fits well with your schedule when you’re already off from regular school.
To start, check with your local school districts. A lot of them have summer school programs, and they usually share job opportunities on their websites or local education job boards.
2. Sell educational printables
Selling educational printables is a way for teachers to earn extra money. It’s especially good for those who want to make passive income as a teacher.
Your materials, like worksheets, lesson plans, and activities, are helpful to other teachers and parents looking for high-quality educational content.
Some places to sell your educational printables include:
Teachers Pay Teachers(TPT) – This is a popular site where millions of teachers buy and sell original educational resources.
Etsy – This site is known for handmade items, but also is a great place for selling educational materials and printables.
Educational printables include things like math problems, vocabulary cards, and science experiments. They’re useful for different grades, age groups, and learning goals, making it simple to improve regular teaching or homeschooling. You can share these resources online or print them for in-person classes too.
Recommended reading: How I Make $400,000 Per Year Selling Educational Printables.
Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
3. Flip used items for resale
Trying your hand at flipping items from flea markets and thrift shops can be a fun and money-making summer job for you as a teacher.
Flippers are people who find items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores that are priced lower than their actual value. They then sell these items for a profit.
The summer is a great time to do this because there are typically a lot of yard sales, flea markets, and people just in general decluttering more (so you may find more things that people are giving away), where you can find items to resell.
Some items that you can buy and resell include clothing, antique furniture, collectible toys, sports equipment, electronics, rare books, jewelry, and more.
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This free workshop will teach you how to get into the flipping business. It will teach you how to resell furniture, electronics, appliances, and anything else you can find.
4. Tutor
During the summer, your teaching skills are still needed. Tutoring can be a flexible and fulfilling summer job that lets you work with students one-on-one either online or in person.
You may be able to tutor on subjects like math, foreign language, science, and more. You also may be tutoring kids, teenagers, or even adults.
To begin, you can look for tutoring jobs on online tutoring sites like Tutor.com. You can also sell in-person local tutoring sessions by reaching out to tutoring companies nearby or advertising your services on social media or in local Facebook parent groups for your area.
5. Camp counselor
Becoming a camp counselor could be a rewarding experience for you in the summer. In this job, you’d guide groups of children through indoor and outdoor activities, as well as educational programs at summer camps.
Your daily tasks would include keeping campers safe, organizing games, and giving both educational and emotional support.
Summer camps come in different types, ranging from general adventure camps to specialized ones focusing on sports, arts, or science.
6. Freelance bookkeeping gigs
If you like numbers and you’re a teacher, online bookkeeping can be a way to spend your summer.
A bookkeeper is someone who assists in managing and tracking the financial aspects of a business. They usually keep records of sales, track expenses, and generate financial reports.
People with virtual bookkeeping jobs work from home, handling their responsibilities remotely. Virtual bookkeeping is a great choice for remote work as all tasks can be completed online or with computer software, eliminating the need to go into an office physically.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
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This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.
7. Swim instructor
If you’re a teacher who loves the water, becoming a swim instructor for the summer could be the perfect seasonal job for you. Your educational background gives you the ability to communicate and manage classes, which are important skills for teaching swimming.
To find swim instructor jobs:
Look on websites like Craigslist or Facebook for listings, including summer-specific roles.
Check out local community centers, pools, and summer camps.
Networking can help, so let friends and professional contacts know you’re looking.
Another job similar to this would be to become a lifeguard at a local pool.
8. Tour guide for local attractions
As a teacher, your ability to tell stories and lead can be very useful for a summer job as a tour guide. Your skill in explaining things well makes you a great choice to share history and local stories with visitors.
Check out jobs at museums, historical places, or become an ambassador for your city by guiding people to discover hidden treasures.
9. Pet care jobs
If you’re a teacher who loves animals, you may want to look into summer jobs in pet care, like being a dog walker or pet sitter. Your caring skills can easily transition to taking good care of furry friends while students are on break.
Rover is a website that connects pet owners with pet sitters and dog walkers. You can choose to do this job on weekends throughout the year or only open your schedule during the summer months – it’s your choice.
Starting on Rover is simple – you create a profile sharing your experience with pets and the services you can offer, such as dog walking, pet sitting, and house sitting.
After that, customers will send you requests, and you can discuss pricing. Rover handles the payment process, and you’ll get paid directly into your account.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money
10. Test prep instructor
As a teacher, your knowledge of academic subjects is very helpful, especially in the summer. Becoming a test prep instructor can be a great chance to help students in getting ready for their exams and earn extra money.
Test prep instructor jobs include subjects like math and English, and they cater to different education levels, from elementary school to college.
11. Sell your lesson plans
Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) is a website made just for educators to buy and sell educational items, and it’s a well-liked side hustle for teachers. If you’ve created lesson plans, worksheets, or other teaching tools for your class, you can share them on TPT and make some extra income.
The school year may be over for you, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t create and sell lesson plans – these are bought year-round!
You can sell:
Lesson plans and unit studies
Worksheets and printable activities
PowerPoint presentations and interactive notebooks
Posters, charts, and visual aids
On Teachers Pay Teachers, the typical teacher can earn around an extra $300 to $500. However, some teachers make hundreds of thousands of dollars extra each year.
12. Coach a school sport
If you love sports and you’re a teacher, coaching a school sport during the summer might be a great match for your skills and interests.
Coaching a school sport is a great option within your own school district, as many schools need help with their sports teams. You can try coaching sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Additionally, there are opportunities with after-school clubs such as yearbook, chess, choir, and more that can be a teacher’s side hustle.
13. Run a dog bakery
Beginning a dog bakery can be an enjoyable side job for teachers who adore both dogs and baking. By creating treats for dogs such as cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more, you can earn an additional $500 to $1,000, or even more, each month.
Recommended reading: How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
14. Sell handmade goods on Etsy
Etsy is a popular online marketplace that connects makers and shoppers looking for unique handmade goods. If you’re a teacher with a creative side, this could be a great site for you to showcase and sell your crafts during the summer months.
Some examples of what you can sell on Etsy that are related to school include:
Educational games and activities
Educational materials like lesson planners and printable worksheets
Handcrafted classroom decorations or educational games
Personalized items such as bookmarks, nameplates, or tote bags
But, you don’t have to only sell teaching-related items. You can sell many other things such as furniture, clothing, jewelry, soap, home decor, and more.
15. Work at a restaurant
Many teachers work part-time or full-time at a restaurant during the summer as servers, hosts, bartenders, and kitchen staff.
Working in restaurants can fit teachers well since they have flexible hours that can match your open summer schedule, and you can leave the job easily once school resumes in the fall.
I know many, many people who have done this, and I would say this is one of the top summer jobs for teachers.
16. Proofread
As a teacher, you likely excel at proofreading and can easily catch mistakes. Using these skills, proofreading can be a fantastic side job. By proofreading, you can help authors, website owners, students, and others in their writing while earning extra income.
Even the best writers can overlook errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why having a proofreader can be helpful for nearly everyone.
You can usually set your own hours, which is perfect for the irregular schedules you might have.
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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.
17. House sit
House sitting is a good option for teachers looking to make extra income during the summer months because a lot of people take vacations in the summer. As a house sitter, you are typically responsible for maintaining someone’s home while they are away. This can include watering plants, collecting mail, and making sure the house remains secure.
People hire house sitters to make sure their homes aren’t left empty, as a visible presence can discourage potential thefts.
To begin house sitting, you can join house-sitting websites to find gigs in your area or ask for referrals from friends and family. Starting with people you know for house-sitting and then using their references can expand your job search.
18. Blog
Blogging can be an enjoyable way for you, as a teacher, to earn extra money from home. Many teachers run blogs, and it makes sense – you can blog when you have free time, without sticking to a strict schedule.
To start your blog, first, pick a topic you’re passionate about, maybe something related to your teaching field or a hobby you enjoy. There are plenty of different niche ideas such as personal finance, travel, food, home, pets, and so much more.
You can earn money as a blogger through ways like:
Affiliate marketing – Share links to products or services related to your blog topic and earn a commission for sales made through your referral links.
Advertising – Add display ads or sponsored posts on your blog.
Courses and ebooks – Create courses or ebooks in your expertise area and sell them through your blog.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?
In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.
19. Freelance writing
If you’re looking for remote summer jobs for teachers, then becoming a freelance writer can be a great option.
Freelance writers create content for blogs, websites, magazines, newspapers, advertising companies, and more. You can find writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Also, you can find clients independently by reaching out to websites you are interested in writing for.
I have been a freelance writer for years, and it all started as a side hustle. This is a great side hustle because you can choose to work as much or as little as you want, such as if you are only looking to do freelance writing in the summer months when you are not teaching at a school.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Beginner Freelance Writing Jobs
20. Transcribe
An online transcriptionist’s role involves listening to video or audio files and typing out the content they hear. Various types of transcriptionists exist, including legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job demands solid typing and listening skills, and the flexibility to work from home on your schedule. Transcriptionists typically earn an average of $15 to $30 per hour.
This is another great side hustle because you can choose to work as much or as little as you want, such as if you are only looking to make extra money during the summer months.
I recommend signing up for FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Beginner Online Transcription Jobs To Make $2,000 Monthly
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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.
21. Rent out an unused room in your home
If you have a spare room in your house, you might want to try renting it out over the summer. Platforms such as Airbnb or Vrbo make it easy for you.
I have rented out rooms to others in the past, and it has been a great way to make extra money. If you live in a touristy area, this could even be a gig that you only do in the summers and earn enough to cover your bills or at least pay for some of them.
22. Rent your garage space
If you have available storage space like a garage, driveway, closet, basement, or attic, you might consider renting it out to make extra money. This can be a profitable side hustle without requiring much of your spare time.
Neighbor is a platform where you can list your extra space for rent and potentially earn up to $15,000 per year.
This is a gig that may take up more than just your summer because typically people may store their stuff more long-term. But, you may find some people who only need to store things a few months at a time or perhaps you can also try to turn this into a year-round side hustle.
Recommended reading: Neighbor Review: Make Money Renting Your Storage Space
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You can use this website to list your unused space for rent and make up to $15,000 per year by doing so. With Neighbor, you can rent out your garage, driveway, basement, parking lot, shed, warehouse, carport, attic, street parking, or even a closet.
23. Teach English as a second language
If you’re a teacher looking for a seasonal opportunity, teaching English as a second language (ESL) during the summer can be a rewarding experience.
Many institutions are looking to hire for ESL teaching jobs, ranging from local schools to international language camps and online platforms. Here’s how you can get started and what you might expect:
Typically, ESL teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a teaching credential like TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) certification. Some positions abroad might have additional requirements.
24. Answer online surveys
If you’re looking for a flexible way to earn extra cash during the summer, answering online surveys could be a great fit. Companies are always in search of genuine feedback to improve their products or services, and your opinions are valuable.
Now, this won’t be a full-time job, but you share your thoughts and can make extra money or free gift cards on your own schedule.
The survey companies I recommend are:
Swagbucks
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60 for an hour of your time.
Branded Surveys
American Consumer Opinion
Pinecone Research
PrizeRebel
InboxDollars
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
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User Interviews pays very well for market research studies and these are some of the highest paying online surveys, with each paying $50 to $100 or more. The average pays over $60.
25. Mystery shop
Companies hire mystery shoppers to gain insights into their customers’ experiences. They seek genuine opinions on products, feedback on customer treatment, evaluations of phone call interactions, and more. Mystery shoppers play a key role in providing valuable feedback to companies.
This is a great summer side hustle for teachers because you can simply pick up mystery shopping jobs when you need them. So, it’s completely okay and normal to only accept jobs during the summer.
Here’s what mystery shoppers do:
Visit businesses anonymously.
Complete specific tasks, such as purchasing a product or asking questions.
Record your observations.
Provide a detailed report on your experience.
I have done many secret shopping jobs over the years, and I often got mystery shops that provided me with $100 to cover a free dinner.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper
26. Find gigs on Craigslist
Craigslist can be a goldmine for finding great summer jobs for teachers. It’s a site where individuals and businesses post quick jobs to make extra money.
You can find these gigs by going to the Craigslist website for your city or area. Right on the home page, you’ll spot a section labeled “Gigs.” This is where short-term job offers are posted, ranging from labor-intensive tasks to more skill-specific roles.
Here are some jobs I have found in the past on Craigslist:
Moving boxes to a new house
Deep cleaning a home
Putting together new furniture out of a box
Taking down a shed in a backyard
Handyman
Movie extra
Event parking help
27. Deliver groceries with Instacart
If you’re a teacher looking for flexible summer jobs for teachers, try delivering groceries with Instacart.
Grocery delivery services, like Instacart, are in demand as more people prefer having someone else do their grocery shopping.
Becoming a personal grocery shopper with services like Instacart can earn you an average of $15 to $20 per hour for delivering groceries. You’re paid per order, and you get to keep 100% of your tips. The flexibility allows teachers to choose their schedules, working in the evenings, on weekends, or even exclusively during the summer.
Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
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Instacart is a popular website for people looking to earn extra money shopping for and delivering groceries. Instacart gives you the option to turn your free time into a chance to make some extra money.
28. Real estate agent
If you’re a teacher looking for a productive way to spend your summer months, you may consider becoming a real estate agent.
Some teachers work as real estate agents alongside their full-time teaching jobs. This is possible because you can list and sell homes during weekends, breaks, evenings, and over the summer.
However, selling homes may have some challenges, as clients may occasionally require your full attention during the day, and you might be occupied with teaching. This is something to consider before getting into real estate as a side job.
29. Virtual assistant
If you’re a teacher looking for a flexible summer job that pays well, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) could be a perfect fit. As a VA, you can use your organizational skills and attention to detail to help businesses and entrepreneurs from the comfort of your home.
Some examples of what a VA does include:
Email management – Keep inboxes organized and respond to emails on behalf of your clients.
Scheduling – Manage calendars, arrange meetings, and send reminders.
File organization – Keep digital files in order using online tools like Google Drive or Dropbox.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
30. Drive for Uber or Lyft
Driving for Uber or Lyft can give you a flexible way to earn money during your summer break.
You get to set your own hours and work as much or as little as you desire, meaning you can align this job with your summer plans.
31. Library assistant
As a teacher, your skills are a natural fit for a summer position as a library assistant. Libraries often seek additional staff during the summer months, providing a great opportunity for you to engage in a role that supports literacy and learning in a calm environment.
Your job may include doing things such as:
Organizing books – Keeping the library orderly and materials easy to access
Circulation desk duties – Checking books in and out for people
Helping library users – Helping visitors find books and resources, and answering inquiries
You can simply contact libraries near you to see if they are hiring.
32. Driver’s ed teacher
Teaching driving lessons to teenagers and adults is a popular side hustle for teachers. If you’re interested, you can check if the high school near you needs a teacher for this subject. Alternatively, reach out to a local driving school to inquire about potential teaching opportunities.
Driving instructors make around $20 an hour more or less, depending on where you live.
Back when I was in high school, I actually took my driver’s ed course at my high school in the summer. It was an easy summer credit, and I also got a discount on my car insurance. One of the teachers taught this course and it seemed fairly easy (other than having to deal with a bunch of us high school students over the summer who were wanting to learn how to drive, ha!).
33. Babysitting
Babysitting can be a side job for teachers, and depending on your location, you might earn around $15 to $25 per hour. Parents tend to prefer hiring teachers as babysitters due to their extensive experience with children.
Becoming a babysitter can be a great way to make extra money in the summer as well, as you can choose to sign up for babysitting jobs that are only during this time.
Plus, many families need extra help during the summer because school is not in session, but the parents still have to work. That is where you come in!
Another job similar to this would be elderly companion care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about finding summer jobs for teachers.
Do teachers still make money during the summer?
Yes, many teachers do receive income during the summer, especially if their annual salary is distributed over 12 months. However, if you’re paid only for the months you work, looking for summer employment can supplement your income during this period. Not all teachers have summer gigs, but those who want to make income in addition to their teacher salaries may try to find something in the summer.
What is the best summer job for a teacher?
The best summer job for a teacher often capitalizes on their skill set. Positions like tutoring, educational program coordination, or teaching summer school are highly relevant options. Teachers might also consider roles in curriculum development or educational content creation.
What jobs exist for substitute teachers looking for summer employment?
Substitute teachers can find summer jobs in other educational roles, such as tutoring, mentoring, or working in summer camps. Many community centers and educational institutions also look for qualified professionals to lead summer workshops or help with childcare programs.
What are some summer jobs for teachers from home?
Teachers looking for summer jobs from home can find opportunities such as online tutoring or virtual summer school teaching. Other side gig ideas include writing content for websites, blogging, transcribing, and more.
Best Summer Jobs for Teachers – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on the best summer jobs for teachers.
As you can see, there are many ways to make extra money over your summer vacation.
Teachers have lots of options during the summer. They can stick with education by teaching summer school or tutoring. Or, they can try something new like being a camp counselor or giving local tours.
Teachers who like trying out new things might sell educational printables, sell things for profit, or sell services like pet care or freelance writing.
What do you think are the best jobs for teachers in the summer?
The marketing campaign and advertising blitz to complement that change and bring industry partners on board was an extensive one. “We came up with a lot of strategies to help realtors,” Medve said. “We brought in tons and tons of realtors into the office and trained them. We did a lot of marketing on forums … [Read more…]
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Home » Credit » 6 Ways to Help Your Child Build Credit During College
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These reviewers are industry leaders and professional writers who regularly contribute to reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.
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GoodFinancialCents® partners with outside experts to ensure we are providing accurate financial content.
These reviewers are industry leaders and professional writers who regularly contribute to reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.
Our expert reviewers review our articles and recommend changes to ensure we are upholding our high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
Our expert reviewers hold advanced degrees and certifications and have years of experience with personal finances, retirement planning and investments.
College students have a lot on their plate already, including the need to study to get good grades, participating in any number of on-campus activities and potentially working part-time to have some spending money.
That said, college students should also focus on their financial future, including steps they can take to build credit before they enter the workforce.
After all, having a credit history and a good credit score can mean being able to rent an apartment, finance a car or take out a loan, whereas having no credit at all can mean sitting on the sidelines until the situation changes.
Fortunately, there are all kinds of ways for young adults to build credit while they’re still in school. Some strategies require a little work on their part, but many are hands-off tasks that you only have to do once.
Teach Them Credit-Building Basics
Make sure your student knows the basic cornerstones of credit building, including the factors that are used to determine credit scores. While factors like new credit, length of credit history and credit mix will play a role in their credit later on, the two most important issues for credit newcomers to focus on include payment history and credit utilization.
Payment history makes up 35% of FICO scores and credit utilization ratio makes up 30% of scores.
Generally speaking, college students and everyone else can score well in these categories by making all bill payments on time and keeping debt levels low. How low?
Most experts recommend keeping credit utilization below 30% at a maximum and below 10% for the best possible results. This means trying to owe less than $300 for every $1,000 in available credit limits at a maximum, but preferably less than $100 for every $1,000 in credit limits.
Add Your Child as an Authorized User
One step you can personally take to help a child build credit is adding them to your credit card account as an authorized user. This means they will get a credit card in their name and access to your spending limit, but you are legally responsible for any charges they make. Obviously, this move works best when you have excellent credit and a strong history of on-time payments and you plan to continue using credit responsibly .
While this step can be risky if you’re worried your college student will use their card to overspend, you don’t actually have to give them their physical authorized user credit card.
In fact, they can get credit for your on-time payments whether they have access to a card or not. If you do decide to give them their credit card, you can do so with the agreement they can only use it for emergency expenses.
Encourage Them to Get a Secured Credit Card
Your child can build credit faster if they apply for a credit card and get approved for one on their own, yet this can be difficult for students who have no credit history. That said, secured credit cards require a refundable cash deposit as collateral are very easy to get approved for.
Some secured credit cards like the Ambition Card by College Ave even offer cash back1 on every purchase and don’t charge interest2. If your child opts to start building credit with a secured credit card, make sure they understand the best ways to build credit quickly — keeping credit utilization low and paying bills early or on time each month.
Opt for a Student Credit Card Instead
While secured credit cards are a good option for students with little to no credit get started on their journey to good credit, there are also credit cards specifically designed for college students. Student credit cards are unsecured cards, meaning they don’t require an upfront cash deposit as collateral, but charge interest on any purchases not paid in full each month.
Many student credit cards offer rewards for spending with no annual fee required as well, although these cards do tend to come with a high APR. The key to getting the most out of a student credit card is having your dependent use it only for purchases they can afford and paying off the balance in its entirety each billing cycle. After all, sky high interest rates don’t really matter when you never carry a balance from one month to the next.
Student Credit Cards…
“One of the safest ways for college student to build their credit by learning valuable money skills.”
Help Your Child Get Credit for Other Bill Payments
While secured cards and student credit cards help young adults build credit with each bill payment they make, other payments they’re making can also help.
In fact, using an app like Experian Boost can help them get credit for utility bills they’re paying, subscriptions they pay for and even rent payments they’re making. This app is also free to use, and you only have to set up most bill payments in the app once to have them reported to the credit bureaus.
There are also rent-specific apps and tools students can use to get credit for rent payments, although they come with fees. Examples include websites like Rental Kharma and RentReporters.
Make Interest-Only Payments On Student Loans
The Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) also notes that students can start building credit with their student loans during school, even if they’re not officially required to make payments until six months after graduation with federal student loans.
Their advice is to make interest-only payments on federal student loans along with payments on any private student loans they have during college in order to start having those payments reported to the credit bureaus as soon as possible.
“Making interest-only payments as a student will not only positively affect your credit history but will also keep the interest from capitalizing and adding to your student loan balance,” the agency writes.
Of course, interest capitalization on loans would only be an issue with private student loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans since the U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on Direct Subsidized Loans while you’re in school at least half-time, for six months after you graduate and during periods of deferment.
The Bottom Line
College students don’t have to wait until they’re done with school to start building credit for the future, and it makes sense to start building positive credit habits early on regardless. Tools like a credit card can help students on their way, whether they opt for a secured credit card or a student card. Other steps like using credit-building apps can also help, and with little effort on the student’s part or on yours.
Either way, the best time to start building credit was a few years ago, and the second best time is now. You can give your student a leg up on the future by helping them build credit so it’s there when they need it.
20% APR. Account is subject to a monthly account fee of $2, account fee is waived for the initial six-monthly billing cycles.
College Ave is not a bank. Banking services provided by, and the College Ave Mastercard Charge Card is issued by Evolve Bank & Trust, Member FDIC pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard and the Mastercard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.
About the Author
Jeff Rose, CFP® is a Certified Financial Planner™, founder of Good Financial Cents, and author of the personal finance book Soldier of Finance. He was a financial planner for 16+ years having founded, Alliance Wealth Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisory firm, before selling it to focus on his passion – educating the masses on the importance of financial freedom through this blog, his podcast, and YouTube channel.
Jeff holds a Bachelors in Science in Finance and minor in Accounting from Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. In addition to his CFP® designation, he also earned the marks of AAMS® – Accredited Asset Management Specialist – and CRPC® – Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.
While a practicing financial advisor, Jeff was named to Investopedia’s distinguished list of Top 100 advisors (as high as #6) multiple times and CNBC’s Digital Advisory Council.
Jeff is an Iraqi combat veteran and served 9 years in the Army National Guard. His work is regularly featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Inc.com and Entrepreneur.
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This week, Mortgage Cadence announced that it had appointed longtime reverse mortgage industry professional George Morales to serve on its sales team. The company is aiming to bring more reverse mortgage technology solutions to potential partners already in the industry and those that have yet to enter it.
To understand the dynamics of his new role, RMD sat down with Morales to learn more about his individual and company goals, including the potential for a large national bank to become involved in the reverse mortgage business for the first time since the early 2010s.
Editor’s note: This Q&A has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Chris Clow/RMD: Tell me about the new role and what you’re going to be doing at Mortgage Cadence from now on.
George Morales: My new role is really designed to bring reverse mortgage insights and perspectives to the company. They already have some pretty key people here already who’ve been in reverse for a while, but they needed to broaden and expand that. So, the new role is going from the product management side to the sales side of the business. It’s an interesting role, because I feel like the opportunity for me is to be a “door-opener,” if you will.
I’m standing in a place where I’ve got all this reverse experience, but I’ve also got a lot of forward experience, [having] been in the mortgage industry since 1999. The reverse experience is particularly interesting right now, because we’re seeing traditional forward mortgage companies really starting to come around on the reverse product a little more than we’ve seen in a while. And so for me, I feel like it’s an opportunity to kind of open the door via technology, to how and what is happening in the reverse space.
Clow: What kinds of companies have you, or will you in the future, be talking about reverse operations with?
Morales: We’re in some talks with reverse-only companies that are out there, who are starting to look into expanding into the forward world. That one’s a little more unusual, since we’re normally used to having people “kick the tires” of the reverse business. The whole idea is to just broaden distribution.
I’m part of the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) MISMO work group for reverse, where we’re working on creating some MISMO standards that will apply to reverse. Again, the same goal is to broaden distribution of the reverse mortgage products to anybody who wants it out there. That means that data can be exchanged within technology that’s usable in both forward and reverse. That would be pretty cool to be able to see that data transmitted.
Mortgage Cadence is a great spot for me because it provides that platform where you can do forward and reverse on the exact same tech stack. You don’t really need a forward LOS and then a separate reverse LOS to do both; you can do it all in one space.
There’s a reason that we haven’t gone past that 2% penetration rate in the reverse mortgage industry, and part of that is because we tend to huddle in [with ourselves]. And all these endeavors that I get to be a part of are a lot about cracking that open, inviting the forward lender community into the space, while at the same time providing the reverse folks another outlet into the forward space.
Clow: Does tech provide more of an ability to do that?
Morales: Technology has been a cool way to have those discussions. I can’t say whom yet, but we’re in very, very early stages [of discussion] with a large U.S. national bank, a large bank [that is considering entering] reverse. We’re very early on, but the key for them is to be able to originate [the mortgages] that they do already, and then add reverse without having to make reverse a separate business, per se.
They were looking at making reverse a product that they want to integrate, and how do you do that? You’ve got to have the right technology partner, which I think is why our discussions have gotten off the ground. That would be a big benefit for the reverse industry to have a national banking brand’s marketing, advertising and reach. Talk about broader distribution —that’s going to really help, and hopefully that could invite other big banks and IMBs to get back into reverse as well.
My role as a salesperson is interesting. Sales is an interesting word because my goal at the company is obviously to get some new deals — that’s the bottom line. But in doing that, it’s a lot about having the reverse side and the forward side, liaising between the two in that conversation, and getting us to finally broaden that reach that we haven’t been able to in reverse for a while.
Clow: Getting a big bank involved again would certainly be a seismic development in the reverse mortgage business. Was this entity previously active in the business before?
Morales: No. It would be brand-new blood and brand-new investment. The macroeconomic situation is starting to shift slowly, so that’s signaling to some folks [that they may want to consider] reinvestment. Technology is one spot, but [they may want to] reinvest in different products (e.g., reverse) as well.
Currently, we’re the LOS system of record for Finance of America Reverse (FAR)/American Advisors Group (AAG), the largest reverse lender in the U.S. A large percentage of all reverse mortgages are currently on our platform, so that helps the new players to understand that if they’re going to enter into a new market, this being reverse, and especially a big bank that may have a lot of concerns about information security, they want to make sure that we already know what we’re doing in both forward and reverse.