Self Employment

Published February 25, 2015

This fact sheet highlights older workers and why they are more likely to be self-employed.

MORE FROM AARP

Hispanic baker working in commercial kitchen

The Earned Income Tax Credit Age Cap Excludes Older Adults

New estimates show millions of older low-income taxpayers are excluded from the Earned Income Tax Credit due to the age cap.

Two mature business women sitting at desk using laptop and discussing important document. Female office workers studying paperwork in office, collaboration, strategy, teamwork

May 2025 Employment Data Digest

A monthly digest of BLS employment data that examines findings from the Employment Situation Report for people ages 55+

Needs and Challenges of Older Jobseekers

Older jobseekers may face unique challenges due to their longer tenure at jobs and the evolving job market.

Two business persons having a meeting in the office

The Impact of Work on Older Workers' Mental Health

Older workers find work positively impacts mental health but also face challenges like burnout. Paid leave for mental health is available but underused.

A bike mechanic assisting his customer by looking over her bicycle, which is in need of repair.

Older Workers and Self-Employment

Drawing on self-employment data from monthly and annual Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Current Population Survey (CPS) outputs, this Fact Sheet provides details on self-employment trends among various age groups and other demographic groups such as sex, race, and ethnicity, and worker characteristics like education level and income.

FULL REPORT