Explore Self-Employment After 50

For many older adults, self-employment can mean more flexibility and independence. For others, it's a way to earn extra income that helps them make ends meet. If you've ever thought about starting your own business, picking up gig work, or becoming an independent contractor, it could be time for you to take the next step.

Exploring Self-Employment After 50

Older entrepreneurs are brimming with ideas, but they sometimes need help getting those ideas off the ground. Entrepreneurs like Andrew Ziccardi, who came up with a great solution for seniors with hand-strength issues but didn't know how to take his idea from concept to production. AARP Foundation's free self-employment resources put him on a path to success.

Andrew’s product is now for sale in hardware stores and pharmacies in Illinois, as well as on Amazon — an exciting development that he hopes will soon enable him to turn his side hustle into a going concern. “I will pursue this to where I’m successful enough to either pass it on to my children, sell the company, or be semi-retired and work on other projects,” Andrew says. “That’s my dream.”

Not sure you have what it takes to launch your own business? AARP Foundation's free self-employment articles, tools, and resources can help you gain the confidence to explore self-employment — even if you're living on a limited income and decide if it’s right for you.

Whether you have a rough idea you want to develop or are curious about what owning a business is like, decide if it's right for you.

Discover the World of Side Hustles

Not ready to be a business owner? A growing number of older adults are working all kinds of side hustles — gig, freelance, or contract jobs — even in retirement.

Our Self-Employment page is a destination for tips and guidance on gig, freelance, and contract work.

Our resources can help you:

• Learn the difference between gig work, freelancing, and contract jobs
• Find out how to make extra cash with a side hustle
• Explore the types of gigs that fit your goals

Whether you need extra cash to pay the bills or flexible hours that free you up to care for loved ones, we've got tips and guidance to help you find the side hustle that works best for you.