According to a new survey from NerdWallet, 84% of Americans with a monthly budget say they’ve sometimes exceeded their budget. The survey, conducted online by The Harris Poll on March 31-April 4, 2023, among more than 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, found that around three-quarters (74%) of Americans have a monthly budget.
Key findings
Most Americans overspend, and many use credit cards to cover it. The survey found that 83% of Americans say they overspend, and a similar proportion who have a monthly budget (84%) say they exceed it. Of those who’ve ever gone over their monthly budget, 44% say they usually use a credit card to pay for the additional purchases they make when going over budget.
Youngest U.S. adults are more likely to say their generation has it worse. Nearly 1 in 5 Americans (18%) think their generation is bad at managing money and nearly 3 in 5 Americans (57%) think their generation has had a harder time making ends meet than any other generation, the survey finds. Younger Americans are more likely to make each of these assertions.
Emergency savings is a financial priority for many. Close to half of Americans (48%) say they want to prioritize emergency savings, according to the survey. Other popular financial priorities for Americans are investments (36%) and retirement planning (35%).
“Savings accounts offer a buffer against life’s unexpected twists, from job loss to unplanned expenses,” says Kimberly Palmer, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet. “Funding one can make the difference between relative financial stability or being unable to pay for everyday essentials.”
An emergency fund is a top priority for nearly half of Americans
Most Americans (92%) have one or more financial areas they want to prioritize. The most common of these priorities is emergency savings (48%), followed by investments (36%) and retirement planning (35%).
Millennials (ages 27-42) and Generation Xers (ages 43-58) are the most likely to say they want to prioritize emergency savings, with 56% and 52%, respectively, saying it is a desired area of focus. That’s compared with 38% of Generation Zers (ages 18-26) and 44% of baby boomers (ages 59-77).
Many Americans have very little emergency savings socked away. According to 2022 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data, 24% of Americans have no emergency savings, and an additional 39% have less than one month’s income saved.
After emergency savings, investments (36%), retirement planning (35%), budgeting (34%) and travel savings (34%) rounded out the top five financial priorities. Americans with an annual household income of $100,000 or more want to prioritize investments (48%) and retirement planning (47%) at a much higher rate.
For parents of children under 18, priorities vary, perhaps to account for their children. For instance, holiday savings is a focus for 37% of those parents, compared with 18% of those without children under 18. Similar differences appeared for saving for a home (38% versus 17%) and saving for education expenses (29% versus 8%).
Many common educational savings plans can help savers by giving them some tax advantage. Parents and grandparents can make their educational dollars go further by taking advantage of these plans.
Millennials (36%) and Gen Xers (37%) are more likely to say they want to prioritize paying off credit card debt. Just 29% of boomers and 22% of Gen Zers want to prioritize credit card payments.
What you can do: Set a financial goal or priority if you haven’t yet
If you’re in the 8% of Americans who don’t have a financial area they want to prioritize, now is the time to set your financial goals. Think of it as a spring cleaning for your finances and a way to get yourself set up not just for the rest of the year, but also for the rest of your life.
“Setting clear financial goals makes it easier to determine the small action steps we need to take in order to make them a reality. That could include opening up a new savings account or contributing more to retirement,” Palmer says.
Overspending is common, despite monthly budgeting
Nearly three-quarters of Americans (74%) have a monthly budget. Millennials are most likely to say this — 83%, versus 76% of Gen Zers, 74% of Gen Xers and 67% of baby boomers.
Some Americans are willing to go without a budget. Just 23% of Americans say they feel like they need a budget to get by every month. Boomers are the least likely to need that support. Only 13% feel they need a budget to get by compared with 32% of Gen Zers, 29% of millennials, and 26% of Gen Xers.
A budget isn’t necessarily the solution to overspending. While close to a third of Americans (32%) say they review their budget and spending on a regular basis, 16% say they often spend more than they budget for each month. And when the money isn’t in the budget, it still has to come from somewhere.
Going over budget is nearly universal
According to the survey, of Americans who have a monthly budget, 84% say they’ve gone over budget at some point. More than 2 in 5 of those who have gone over budget (44%) say they usually pay for additional purchases they make with a credit card.
A majority of Americans (83%) say they overspend, at least sometimes. Food is a major reason for overspending — nearly half of Americans (47%) say groceries are among the spending categories they find themselves overspending on most often each month, while 34% say the same about dining out.
Inflation is likely a contributing factor. Over the past year, the cost of food at home has increased by 8.4% and food away from home has increased by 8.8%, as of March 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Holding on to the budgetary reins
About 1 in 6 Americans (17%) say they don’t overspend on any products or services each month. Baby boomers are most likely to make this assertion — 31%, versus 14% of Gen Xers and 7% each of millennials and Gen Zers. Interestingly, baby boomers (67%) are least likely to have a monthly budget, and millennials (83%), who are in their peak earning years, are the most likely to have a budget (compared with 76% of Gen Zers and 74% of Gen Xers).
There’s also a subset of Americans who plan to overspend and set savings aside for it. One in 5 Americans (20%) who have gone over their monthly budget say they’ve dipped into savings specifically earmarked for overspending to pay for additional expenses.
What you can do: Take steps to avoid overspending
There are expenses where many could find themselves with no choice but to overspend, such as for medical costs, food when prices jump, or any number of necessities when a breadwinner gets laid off or switches jobs.
That just means it’s even more important to plan for the things you can control. Almost 1 in 4 Americans (24%) say they’ve often overspent on entertainment streaming services. There are plenty of ways to resist the urge to overspend on those products and services, which will hopefully leave more in the bank for unavoidable events.
Generational beliefs about finances differ
Every generation has its challenges, but not every generation agrees on what those challenges are. Just over half of Americans (57%) say their generation has had a harder time making ends meet compared with any other. Millennials (72%) and Gen Zers (68%) are more likely to agree with that sentiment compared with Gen Xers (56%) and boomers (39%).
About a third of Gen Zers (36%) also say their generation is bad at managing money (compared with 25% of millennials, 14% of Gen Xers and 10% of boomers). Education may play a role in that outlook. Roughly 1 in 5 Gen Zers (21%) think they learned all they needed to know about budgeting when they were a kid. (Millennials, at 18%, feel similarly.)
Baby boomers keep income details to themselves
Overall, 69% of Americans say it’s rude for a person to talk about how much money they make. Baby boomers are the most likely to agree with that sentiment. About 8 in 10 (81%) are put off by the idea of talking about income. Just about half of Gen Zers (47%) think talking about income is rude, and 65% of millennials and 71% of Gen Xers feel the same.
Boomers are also less likely to say they feel societal pressure to spend money. Just about 1 in 5 boomers (18%) say they often spend more than they budget for because of societal pressure from, for example, family, friends or social media. Conversely, 57% of Gen Zers and half of millennials (50%) say the same thing. Gen Xers fall between the poles at 35%.
Thoughts on tipping and fees
About a third of Americans (32%) say sellers’ fees have gone up in the past year. These are the fees companies or individuals add to a purchase that often aren’t reflected in the base price. Fuel surcharges at the airport, airport fees for a ride-sharing app and order processing fees from ticketing companies are examples.
When it comes to tipping, the generations are in agreement. Overall, about a third of Americans (34%) say tipping, when the option is present, is mandatory (35% of Gen Z, 35% of millennials, 31% of Gen X and 35% of baby boomers). About the same proportion of Americans (29%) feel like the pressure to tip more has increased for them over the past year.
Boomers are most likely to want the option to tip as opposed to facing increased fixed costs. About 2 in 5 boomers (41%) say, when dining out, they would prefer to tip versus seeing restaurants increase menu prices so tipping isn’t required (compared with 25% of Gen Zers, 31% of millennials, and 29% of Gen Xers).
Baby boomers (4%) are also the least likely to say they judge their friends based on how much they tip. Gen Zers (11%), millennials (15%) and Gen Xers (7%) are all more likely to be judgmental of friends when it comes to tipping.
Baby boomers feeling pinched
Boomers may be more likely to feel the pinch of inflation. Just 5% of baby boomers say their dollar goes farther now than it did a year ago. About 1 in 5 Gen Zers (19%) say the same thing, followed by 16% of millennials and 10% of Gen Xers.
Baby boomers and Gen Xers are also more likely to say portions at restaurants are getting smaller (42% and 39%, respectively) compared with Gen Zers (29%) and millennials (33%).
Part of that may be boomers having a better understanding of the realities of inflation. When we asked Americans if the annual U.S. inflation rate was above 10% (at the time it was 5%), 44% of boomers correctly identified that it wasn’t. Just about 1 in 5 Gen Zers (19%) and millennials (18%), and roughly 1 in 4 Gen Xers (24%), got it right.
What you can do: Find ways to save, even when times are tight
Managing your money is much more difficult when you don’t have a buffer. Finding a way to save, no matter what generation you belong to, can help you cope when prices increase or attitudes toward costs shift.
“Cutting back on recurring costs such as subscriptions, shopping around when insurance and phone contracts come up for renewal, and timing necessary big-ticket purchases to sales can all help free up money for additional savings,” Palmer says.
You can also take a look at your tipping to better understand what you can and should control. Tipping often feels mandatory because some people rely on tips for a living wage. Knowing what you’re providing and what it means to opt out can help you make better-informed decisions, and can have a positive impact on your spending.
Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by The Harris Poll on behalf of NerdWallet from March 31-April 4, 2023, among 2,070 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this survey, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, contact Sarah Borland at [email protected]
Disclaimer
NerdWallet disclaims, expressly and impliedly, all warranties of any kind, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or whether the article’s information is accurate, reliable or free of errors. Use or reliance on this information is at your own risk, and its completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed. The contents in this article should not be relied upon or associated with the future performance of NerdWallet or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties as indicated by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should” or “anticipates” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may materially differ from NerdWallet’s presentation of information to analysts and its actual operational and financial results.
Over the weekend while attending my town’s Friday night football game, I struck up a conversation with an acquaintance of mine, and we started talking about the market. The fellow I was talking about was a believer in the market, and knew that the current crisis that we are in would eventually pass, and the market would continue to strive as it usually does. What he found most peculiar was with some of the sediments of his fellow co-workers, who were participating in the 401k. His co-worker’s belief was that with the market being as bad as they were, they were going to no longer defer to their 401k, and refrain from taking advantage of the pre-tax contributions into their retirement plan. They were giving up free money! He was stunned by his co-worker’s remarks, and as equally as I, and compared that to a conversation that I had, with some other workers from another local employer. It prompted me to write this blog in regards in to things you should not do when it comes to your 401k.
1. Do not stop contributing to your 401k no matter what.
Just because the markets are down does not mean you should not contribute. In fact if there was a time ever to contribute, this would be the time. The simplest reasons is that right now despite the market’s turmoils, currently the market is at a discount, and what that means is that there are a lot of great companies that exist out there, that are currently “on sale”. This is a time to buy stocks, at a cheap price in hopes to benefit from the appreciation in later years. This strategy can also be called dollar cost averaging, which means as long as you are contributing on a consistent or periodic basis, you’ll take advantage of buying shares at a lower price in down markets, and compare that to buying shares at a higher price in up markets, which should then all balance out for a dollar cost average.
If the market has you completely terrified, then consider changing all future contributions to short or intermediate bonds. At least that way you’re money is making a little interest while the market tries to figure itself out.
2. Do not put all of your 401k into the money market.
While I understand the disbelief in the markets right now to where you want to shift all of your money into the money market, by doing this would be a great mistake. If you believe that making money in the market is to buy low and sell high, then by shifting your money into the money market from your other investments, it would be the exact opposite; buying high and selling low. If you’ve seen your 401k depreciate in the last several months, the only way to get that back is by staying exactly where you’re at. Now, I understand for those nearing retirement, that this can be a compromising situation, but if you visit the rule of 72, meaning that you take 72 divided by the interest rate on your investments, and that will tell you how long it will take to double your money. That also, too, will give you an indicator how long it will take you to recoup the losses that you have incurred. By shifting to the money market, chances are, you are making somewhere in the 2% interest rate, which means it would take you almost 20 to 30 years just to double your money, and to recoup your other money that you’ve lost, would be a great time.
3. Do not borrow against your 401k.
This can be said in an up market or down market, but I had to throw it in there. Borrowing against your 401k is never advisable, especially in a down market. Look to start an emergency fund of some kind so that you can have that to fall back on in case of an emergency. If you don’t have an emergency fund, start one now. There’s no sense in contributing to your 401k if you have to pull it out just pay the bills.
Save more, spend smarter, and make your money go further
Ever buy a Groupon or other daily deal voucher you never used? You have several options: write off the money you spent as a loss, try to sell the coupon on eBay or Craigslist, or take a more targetted approach, thanks to a handful of websites that have recently sprung up to act as a secondary market for those vouchers.
Some charge fees sell your coupons, while others act as free services similar to Craigslist. In many cases you can end up getting face value for your voucher – it would be as if you never bought it in the first place.
“A lot of times people miss out on a deal or bought something they didn’t use,” so creating a secondary market made sense, says Yael Gavish, the chief executive officer of San Francisco, Calif.-based Lifesta.
Lifesta, which launched in July, charges sellers $0.99 and 8% of the sale price on any voucher that gets sold. The process is simple: You upload your coupon and Lifesta sells it for you. You get paid through Amazon Payments, a service similar to PayPal. The money is deposited into your Amazon account as soon as Lifesta is paid. You can then either get the money transferred to your banking account or use it toward Amazon.com purchases.
Lifesta doesn’t impose any restrictions on how you price the voucher, but Gavish says that most sellers post the amount they paid for it, or less if it’s about to expire.
Buyers on Lifesta are also protected. The company offers a sixty-day money back guarantee in case the voucher is fake or has already been used. (It is largely thanks to that guarantee, Gavish says, that Lifesta resells a lot of pricey deals, like sky diving coupons and expensive hair treatments.)
So far, tens of thousands of dollars worth of deals have been uploaded to and sold on Lifesta. The website operates nationwide.
Pay for protection
Chicago, Ill.-based DealsGoRound started out as a free service similar Craigslist, simply connecting buyers and sellers online, but leaving them to make all arrangements of the actual sale. Recently, the website switched to a model in which it facilitates the sale.
“You see something on the site, you buy it and get the email certificate in seconds,” says Kris Petersen, the founder and chief executive officer of DealsGoRound. “There’s no real communications between the buyer and the seller. Once you post you don’t even know who buys it.”
DealsGoRound, which uses PayPal to pay sellers, takes a 10% commission from each sale and has a sixty-day refund policy, but Peterson says in the ten months it has acted as a reseller it has not had even one problem with a voucher. The company has more than 1,000 users and is available nationwide. According to Petersen, vouchers are posted from about 50 different daily deal websites.
While the resellers don’t need the permission of the daily deal websites to resell the vouchers, Petersen says he did contact them when he first launched the service in response to being stuck with unused vouchers for a Segway tour. The result: nothing.
“The most common response was no response,” says Petersen. “The smaller daily deal websites were excited about it.”
CoupRecoup lets you sell for free
CoupRecoup, out of San Francisco, Calif., doesn’t charge users a fee to sell their vouchers, but it also doesn’t provide a money back guarantee or get involved in the sale process at all. Katherine Woo, co-founder of CoupRecoup, says the website was started after she tried to sell a daily deal on Craigslist and got no response.
Unlike the other websites in that space, CoupRecoup doesn’t generate profits. “It’s a public service,” says Woo. “It’s free.” Sellers list their vouchers and then make their own arrangements to meet an interested buyer and complete the transaction. You can set your own price, but there is also an option to accept the best offer.
CoupRecoup is currently available in 62 cities and will add additional ones if there is demand. Woo says the company doesn’t charge money because users haven’t been clamoring for buyer protection. “It’s a pretty low-key model that’s working well,” she says.
Save more, spend smarter, and make your money go further
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In my previous post, I listed three things you need to start investing. Number three was opportunities. Sometimes those opportunities are unique, one-off types of things; however, they can just as easily be something that’s always been out there but you just weren’t aware of them because you weren’t paying attention to investing.
Let’s explore one of those little-known opportunities — one that’s legit, good, and yet often overlooked because it’s a little, well, boring. It’s name, DRIP, doesn’t help either.
DRIP stands for Dividend Reinvestment Program. Simply put, participating companies (and there are hundreds) allow you to use the dividends you earn from them to buy stock directly from the company for little or no commission. (That’s how you reinvest your dividends.)
Actually, it’s not only the companies that offer DRIPs. DRIPs can be run by their stock transfer agents or brokerages. In my case, I use the Etrade’s DRIP program. A DRIP is a set-it-and-forget-it kind of operation, so it doesn’t matter too much who does it.
Related >> How to Get Started Investing
The DRIP Keeps Good Company
DRIPs share a unique corner of the investing space with a few other concepts. The cornerstone of this space is blue-chip stocks. Who hasn’t heard of blue-chip stocks? But what exactly is a blue-chip stock? Can you name, say, five of them off the top of your head? Tricky, isn’t it?
Here is arguably the best investment of all, and most of us simply don’t know all that much about it! That’s because there isn’t a definitive list of the 23 or 57 stocks that make up the “official blue-chip list.”
The closest approximation, and the one probably used most often, is the Dividend Aristocrats. Most blue-chip stocks pay dividends. And only the cream can sustain growing their dividend each year for 25 years or more, through no less than three stock market crashes. (Where were you 25 years ago? That long.) Those few are the Dividend Aristocrats. At the time of writing, there are 51, listed here. Even when the stock market crashes, the dividends keep growing. And, with a DRIP in place, the only effect of a crash is you get more shares. And when the market recovers, like it always does, that puts you in the pound seats, as they say in the Colonies.
Most blue-chip (and other) companies offer a program called a DSPP, which stands for a Direct Stock Purchase Program. A DSPP allows you to buy a few shares from the company itself, not through a broker. That’s right — if you want to invest $25 per month, for example, you can buy shares directly from blue-chip companies like Walmart, for way less in commissions than you would have paid a broker. Most companies’ DRIPs are part of their DSPPs. While DSPP stock purchases typically carry a small fee, most companies do DRIPs for free.
So here’s how all those concepts fit together: The safest stock investments (as a group) are the blue-chip companies called Dividend Aristocrats. If you sign up for their DSPP programs, you can buy into those companies with small amounts each month, for next to nothing in commissions/fees. And if you sign up for their DRIP, you can turn your cash dividends into more shares for no fees or commissions.
Why Do It?
1. You can save money
The low/no commission thing is not trivial. Most discount brokerages will do a purchase for nothing under about $7. If you want to invest, say, $50 a month, the commission alone will eat up 14 percent of your investment. Ghastly. Sign up with, say, Becton, Dickinson (amazing how unknown some blue-chip Dividend Aristocrats are, huh?) and they will charge you zero fees to buy with a DSPP or DRIP. They will charge you $15 per transaction when you sell, though. Almost all DSPP/DRIP companies are linked to Computershare, so that’s a good place to get started. (Good news: They cover many countries besides the U.S.)
2. You can start small
Many people say they’ll begin investing when they get windfalls. The smart ones, however, don’t wait; they start early. Problem with that is the amounts they have to work with are usually small — young-people money. As I wrote earlier, that was my big problem (at least, that’s what I told myself at the time). I would have been a lot better off had I known about DRIPs, because this is where they shine: you can invest as little as $25 per month. And if the company’s stock is, say, $40 a share, they will sell you a fraction of a share — and pay dividends on that fraction! I’m an avid DRIPper, which is why I now have exactly 606.08274 shares of one of my DRIP stocks. That will change in a few weeks as the first quarter’s dividends come in and add a few more shares (and a few more fractions) to that total.
3. It’s automatic
All the smart personal finance coaches tell you to automate. Have the money deducted out of your account, preferably before you even know it’s there. The human brain has an amazing knack to adjust to what’s there. That’s why most people who say they’ll save “what’s left over” never save anything. Most DSPP and/or DRIP plans require an automated, regularly recurring purchase in order to qualify for the low fees. That’s because computers are cheaper than humans — if they can automate the whole thing, they save money and pass it on to you.
And the long-term benefit is all yours.
What Holds People Back?
1. Ignorance.
It’s amazing how many people simply don’t know about DRIPs.
2. It’s not diversified.
Unlike a mutual fund or ETF, you only invest in one company at a time. However, you don’t pay mutual fund or ETF fees, and you can buy smaller amounts that many of those places require. That means you get most of the benefits with none of the cost. Moreover, because you can buy small amounts at each company, you can make up a portfolio of, say, five to 10 companies.
3. It takes time to set up.
And no two companies’ plans are identical. I opted for a brokerage DRIP because they did everything. All I had to do was say, “Yes, please.”
Where Do You Begin?
1. Decide if you even want to do this. DRIP investing is a long-haul thing. If you buy and sell stocks all the time, the savings won’t be worth it for you. DRIPs are perfect for those want to let their dividends be part of the growth of the stock they invest in.
2. Research. Because you’re picking a handful of companies, you want to spend at least 20 or 30 minutes looking at the company itself. Blue chips may be the best investment out there, but they’re still not perfect. Nothing is. A little homework goes a long way.
Google the search terms DRIP, and Dividend Aristocrat, and browse through the Computershare website (link above).
In closing, I’ve been a DRIPper for quite a while now, and I can recommend it as a solid, long-term investment strategy to anyone. Those dividends come in, and the number of shares you own just grows and grows and grows.
What has your experience been with DRIP investing? Would you recommend it too?
Six of the highest-selling prescription medications in the United States will be “off-patent” before the end of 2012. The costs associated with those currently pricey meds will drop faster than the Dow on a bad day.
Here’s one example: The generic form of Lipitor might cost as little as $10 per month, compared to the $150 it can cost now. Yowza!
It’s a very big deal even if you have health insurance. The average co-pay for a generic formula in the U.S. is $6, as opposed to $24 for non-generics with “preferred status” and $35 for non-preferred brand. That doesn’t help much if you use a medication not afforded rock-star status by your insurer — or, worse, if you can’t afford insurance.
As welcome as these new generic formulas will be, you needn’t wait around for prices to tumble. There’s more than one way to cut the cost of medications.
Start With the Cheap Stuff
Plenty of generics already exist. Doctors sometimes prescribe the designer drugs out of habit, but maybe 10 days’ worth of penicillin would vanquish that upper-respiratory infection just as well as a pricier antibiotic. Speak up, already: Explain that you’re on a tight budget and in the market for a just-as-good-but-cheaper formula.
Taking maintenance meds? You can pay as little as $4 for a month’s worth of pills at places like Target, Wal-Mart and Safeway. Visit store websites to find which drugs are available, then ask your doctor which ones will work for what ails you.
Note that while generics generally perform as well as the pricier pills, a few of them might not. If your doctor is adamant about your staying with the name-brand stuff, there might be a good reason. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt to seek a second opinion.
Walgreens has a “Prescription Savings Club” whose $35 annual fee gets you and your immediate family discounts on more than 8,000 different meds. Of those, more than 400 generics are available for $12 for a 90-day supply.
Once you’ve gotten a prescription established, either by bringing it in or having your doctor phone/fax it in, you can refill over the phone or online. The store might even offer free shipping. Ask.
And speaking of the Internet: Sites like Drugstore.com sell prescription medications, as do online pharmacies such as Caremark and Medco Health Solutions Inc.
Caution: The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy recently issued a public health alert about fake online pharmacies, noting that 96% did not comply with U.S. pharmacy laws. The organization recommends buying only from verified internet pharmacy practice sites.
Drugs that Are Free
You might not have to pay for meds at all. Once that strep throat is diagnosed, ask if the doc has any drug samples. Pharmaceutical reps drop off boxes of free meds along with those fabulous calendars, pens and tote bags. Your doctor might reserve these drugs for desperately broke patients — but maybe that’s you. It can’t hurt to ask.
Tip: Some drugs, such as prenatal vitamins and certain antibiotics, are free at Top Foods, Meijer and Publix supermarkets.
If you’re living on a very low income, you might qualify for free medications through patient assistance programs offered by most pharmaceutical companies. Groups such as NeedyMeds, the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, the Chronic Disease Fund and HealthFinder.gov can tell you more.
Several drug companies also joined forces to create the Together Rx Access Program, designed for people under the age of 65 who have no prescription drug coverage. This free, income-based program makes it possible to save 25% to 40% on more than 300 medicines and medical products, and is accepted in most major pharmacies in the United States and Puerto Rico.
Using Less, Buying Big
If the subject is painkillers, you might not need the 20-count dose on the prescription. Ask if you can fill only a few tablets’ worth at a time. Use good judgment on this one, obviously, but I’ve filled pain prescriptions in the past and used only one or two tabs. Infuriating.
You can cut the price of certain meds in half quite literally, by splitting the pills. For example, if you have a 10-mg drug prescription request a 20-mg tablet (the cost is often about the same) and then use a pill splitter to halve the dose. The gadget can be had for as little as $3 on Amazon.com, which means it’ll probably pay for itself the first time you use it.
Caution: Do not cut pills with a paring knife. The dose has to be exact, not almost half. Spring for the pill-splitter now or for an ambulance co-pay later. Your choice.
Again, splitting works only on certain medications.
Or what about bulk discounts? No, you won’t be asking for 50 pounds of Percodan — you’ll be using the power of group buying by getting your meds at Costco or Sam’s Club. You don’t need to be a member to use the pharmacies in those warehouse clubs.
Make ’em Beg
Pharmacies now bid for your business the way travel agencies and insurance companies do. In his new book, Living Large in Lean Times: 250+ Ways to Buy Smarter, Spend Smarter and Save Money, frugal dude Clark Howard suggests a service called BidRx.com. You register and post the drug you need, and independent pharmacies will instantly throw bids at you.
The site is free but you need a referral code to register. The author has his own code, clark, but stresses that he receives zero compensation. BidRx simply set it up after Howard’s mention of the site caused a leap in business.
Brick-and-mortar pharmacies often lure us with gift cards cards for new or transferred prescriptions. Any time you see such offers, clip them out and put them in your wallet. When your spouse gets bronchitis or your daughter breaks her arm during hockey practice, head for the pharmacy with the best signing bonus.
Obviously it’s important to tell the new place about any other meds being taken. One would hope the pharmacist would ask, but maybe s/he won’t. I’ve dropped off ‘scripts and been asked only if I were allergic to any medications, not whether I was on another pill that would clash with the new meds. That’s why some people don’t think it’s safe to hop from pharmacy to pharmacy.
If this makes you uncomfortable, then don’t do it. But back when my health insurance didn’t include discounted drugs, I filled and transferred prescriptions whenever I could get a gift card. It was a nice budget-booster, whether I used the cards for groceries or gewgaws.
Here’s my favorite example. Before a minor health procedure I needed to get two tablets of a tranquilizer (pre-surgery) and an antibiotic (post-procedure). Both were generic and therefore super-cheap, and they earned me a $10 from Target and a $20 gift card from Walgreens. I used part of the Walgreens card for a special offer: Buy four 12-packs of Diet Pepsi for $10 and then get a $10 rebate.
At that time I happened to have coupons for two free 12-packs, which I’d received after calling Pepsi to complain about the tabs snapping off some cans of soda. Thus I wound up paying just $5 for the soft drinks but still getting the $10 rebate.
And in fact, I didn’t even pay the $5. I had the gift card, remember?
Please refer to me by my Latin name, illegitimus frugalis. And yes, I know that diet soda isn’t good for me. But I didn’t care — I was on Valium!
Inside: Learn how much your 80k salary is hourly. Plus find tips to make more money and live the lifestyle you want.
Retirement can be a scary word to those who are not wealthy or afraid of having too much time on their hands.
People in the workforce often don’t know what they will do when their retirement comes around, but it doesn’t have to be that way after all.
For most retirees, there are many reasons they want to work after retirement. And that is 100% okay!
Low stress jobs after retirement make for great part-time careers while still providing enough flexibility to enjoy your personal life. Plus a little extra money is always helpful!
While there is no one “right” answer on which job for you, we compiled a list of 30 great options to consider. All of these jobs offer relatively low stress levels and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
But before you jump on the first one that comes along, you want to consider which will work best and help ease your transition into the world of retirement.
When you retire, you want to find a job that is low stress and enjoyable. That’s why finding a good retirement job is so important!
The benefits of having a low stress job after retirement
After years of hard work, retirement is a time to relax and enjoy life.
However, for some retirees, working part-time or as a side job can provide additional earnings and a sense of purpose. The following jobs are perfect for seniors over 55, or those post-retirement. They have lower stress levels than the average job and offer many opportunities for growth.
Many retirees below starting a second career after retirement would be difficult and are looking for a job that has fewer strings attached. This may be due to the fact that many retirees feel they have reached the pinnacle of their careers and want more time freedom.
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Fortunately, there are many available jobs with increasing demand and most even have lower stress levels than average.
Retirement is a good time to consider additional earnings. This can provide a stream of money for people who want to enjoy life longer and need an additional income. In addition, working can help retirees stay mentally and physically healthy.
Jobs to Do after Retirement
The list is composed of jobs that are perfect for seniors over 55, or even post-retirement. They have lower stress levels than the average job and offer many opportunities for growth.
Some retirees prefer to work part time or as a side job; others want to find a full-time position that will keep them busy and engaged in their community. Whatever your preference, know that there are plenty of great options out there!
Retiring means starting a new life, so it is important to consider this change as the beginning of a new life and not the end of an old one.
So go ahead and take the plunge into retirement! It’s a new beginning full of endless possibilities.
There are plenty of good jobs for retirees!
What are fun jobs after retirement?
There are many fun retirement jobs that pay a small fortune! And what your personality prefers!
Some people choose to continue working in the same field, but in a more relaxed or part-time capacity. Other people choose to use their retirement to try something new and exciting, such as starting their own business, traveling, or taking up a new hobby.
What can I do after retirement to make money?
Now that you’re retired, you may be looking for ways to make some extra money. Luckily, there are plenty of options to make money in retirement available to you!
You could start a business, become a consultant, or tutor students. In addition, you could also look into working from home opportunities or start a blog.
Maybe you want one of the best part time jobs in retirement.
Whatever you choose, make sure you do your research and find something you enjoy so you don’t get bored!
Tips to Making Money in Retirement
The best fun jobs after retirement include working at a theme park, house sitting permanently on a beach or something crazy you never dreamed yourself to do!
One great way to make some money is by selling your skills and experience. For example, interior decorating is a low-stress field that often requires past experience. Alternatively, you could become a real estate agent. Both of these opportunities allow you to use the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired over the years.
Another great option for retirees is to take advantage of the growing gig economy. There are a host of jobs available through online platforms like Uber or Lyft that don’t require a lot of physical activity or travel time. Plus, they typically offer higher pay rates than traditional employment opportunities.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, consider joining one of the many survey sites out there. These sites reward you with a small amount of money for each survey you complete. It may not be much, but it can add up over time!
Finally, if you’re looking for an easy way to make some money, consider something easy like greeting people. This is a great option because it’s so easy and doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge.
Which job is stress free and high paying?
There is no such job that is stress free and high paying. All jobs have their own unique stressors and rewards. It is important to find a job that is rewarding to you and that you find manageable levels of stress.
There are many jobs that are considered “stress free” after retirement.
For example, many seniors are now looking into jobs such as being a consultant or working in customer service. These positions offer a more relaxed work schedule and usually don’t require extensive training.
In addition, the amount of money one earns from a job is directly related to how much work one put into it. If you’re willing to put in the extra effort, you can make significantly more money than those who don’t.
Really Focused on less stress?
Many seniors are also looking for jobs that don’t involve stress or concern. Proofreading is one such position that meets these qualifications. The job requires native-level English proficiency and an excellent understanding of grammar to succeed. In order to be successful in this field, you have to proofread documents that contain no grammatical errors, punctuation mistakes, or syntactic flubs.
You need to find a job that feeds your soul and doesn’t seem like work.
Plus it is fun to tell others what do you do for a living.
Best low stress jobs after retirement
Some people want to use their retirement as a vehicle to start their side hustle and be more relaxed than they were during work hours. This is a great way to spend your retirement! Most cool retirement jobs require little-to-no experience, but some do.
At the end of the day, you must decide if you want to work for yourself and start your own company with a higher earning potential. Or work for someone else with less strings attached and lower pay.
In many cases, you might be stuck working because you didn’t save for retirement, so here are a few jobs that are perfect for seniors over 55 years old, or even after retirement:
1. Freelance writing
Freelance writing can be a good source of income when one has the skills and experience to do so. The best part? You get to set your own hours and take on as much or as little work as you want!
This may not sound like a low-stress job at first, but it’s actually an excellent low-stress job! Being your own boss offers incredible benefits. Best of all, you can do it in a completely stress-free environment by deciding in advance exactly how many hours you want to work.
In fact, my friend over at More Time to Travel does freelance writing for Forbes.
Freelance writing is a great way to make money from home. Be sure to have a strong portfolio and excellent writing skills to land quality freelance writing jobs. Here is a great freelance writing course.
2. Tour guide
This is perfect for someone who loves people and to discuss their worldly knowledge.
A tour guide is someone who accompanies tourists and provides information about the areas they are visiting. They are usually seniors because no special certifications or degrees are required. However, it can be a fun job for anyone who loves meeting people and has a lot of knowledge about their area. Some tour guide jobs offer tips and the opportunity to travel.
A good tour guide will have a deep knowledge of the areas they are touring and will be able to answer any questions the tourists may have. Plus cash tips are always a perk!
3. House Sitter
You can house sit for someone you know, or use a site like Mind My House to find paying gigs. Rates vary depending on the city, but typically you can expect to earn $25-50/day as a house sitter.
It allows you to live in new places without having to commit to long-term leases, and it gives you an opportunity to meet new people and explore new neighborhoods. Plus, it’s a great way to make some extra money on the side as well as lowering your monthly expenses!
If this is something you are seriously considering, then check out this book to learn how to housesit from an expert.
4. Librarian
Librarians are responsible for organizing and managing library collections, helping patrons find information and materials, and providing instruction on how to use library resources. They typically work regular hours in a library setting, and their work is relatively active.
They also need excellent research skills and the ability to stay up-to-date on new technologies.
However, job prospects are good to work in this quiet environment.
5. Customer Service Representative
Jobs in customer service usually don’t require a lot of experience or special training, so they can be a great way to ease into retirement. And since most customer service positions are in the service industry, you’ll likely get to meet new people and help them solve problems every day.
They may work in call centers, retail stores, banks, or insurance companies. In some cases, they may also work remotely from their homes. Customer service reps typically need strong communication and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to stay calm under pressure.
6. Craft seller
Many people don’t have time for their crafts like they wanted when working full-time and raising kids. So, retirement is a perfect time to become an artisans who make and sell their own products.
You can set your own hours, work from home and sell whatever you like. There are many online marketplaces that cater to craft sellers, so you can find a platform that fits your style and interests. In addition, you can attend craft fairs and other events to sell their work in person.
Make sure to price your items competitively and take the time to create an attractive product listing. Plus ship quickly and provide excellent customer service to keep buyers coming back for more!
7. Crossing Guard
It only requires a few hours of work per day, and the pay is decent around $15 an hour.
The job does not require any special skills or training, so it is an ideal way to spend your golden years. Plus you can keep youthful by staying around all of the school-aged children.
8. Blogging
This is a form of expression for most retirees or those thinking about retiring.
It can be a low stress job after retirement, as you can do it from the comfort of your own home and set your own schedule. You don’t need any special qualifications or training to start blogging – all you need is a computer, an internet connection, and something to write about.
Blogging is a great way to create fresh, new content on a regular basis for your website. In fact, my friend over at Tuppennys Fireplace uses blogging to drive extra money to their retirement budget each month.
You can sell advertising space on your blog, use affiliate marketing to promote products and services, or even launch your own product or service. The sky’s the limit when it comes to making money from blogging – so if you have something interesting to say, go for it!
9. Elder Care Services
Services can range from in-home help to full-time nursing care, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
While this may seem odd as a low stress job in retirement, it is a good reminder that you are still youthful in others’ eyes.
These may be simple jobs such as picking up groceries, light cleaning, cooking meals, or companionship during the day. Given the cost of nursing homes and certified nursing assistance, this is an affordable option for families who want extra eyes on their loved ones.
10. Private Island Caretaker
Okay, this is the one I want!
If you are reading this and need a caretaker, I am happy to be the right person for your estate.
A lot of caretaker jobs are in private areas, such as private islands, ski resorts, large estates, and other remote or private areas. This is often because employers need someone they can trust to be on-site full time and take care of things.1) Private Island Caretaker
Caretaker jobs are a great way for retirees to stay engaged and active in their golden years. They can provide a sense of purpose and routine, as well as an opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.
11. Docent or Usher
One low-stress job that retirees can consider is becoming an usher at their local theater or sporting area. This job does not require much training and typically pays minimum wage, but it can be a great way to meet people and see new shows and watch sports.
A docent is someone who has expert knowledge about a certain subject and can teach people about it through guided tours and lectures. They are often found in museums, art galleries, and other places where people can learn about the arts.
For many retirees, these are the perfect jobs to get paid for enjoying their hobbies and events they didn’t have time to see when working full-time.
12. Work at Disney
Jobs at Disney parks can be both fun and challenging, with plenty of opportunities to make new friends and help guests have a great time. You’ll need to be able to work hard and stay cheerful under pressure, but the rewards are many.
If you’re interested in working at one of the happiest places on earth, visit the Walt Disney Company website to learn more about current openings and how to apply.
Perfect for the retiree to stay youthful!
13. Invest in Various Intiatvies through Crowdfunding
When it comes to investments, there are many options to choose from that can fit any personality type.
Crowdfunding was created to help more people invest in various businesses by pooling resources together. This makes it more affordable and less risky for everyone involved.
For many retirees, this is a great way to impact start-up businesses and maybe even have a great ROI on their money.
14. Tutoring
Tutoring can help students learn in a one-on-one environment, and help them to focus on the material. Tutoring can also help build a student’s confidence, and help them to ask questions they may be too embarrassed to ask in a classroom setting.
It’s a great way to help students who are struggling and give them the support they need to succeed. You also get the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping young people achieve their goals. Tutoring can be done in person or online, so it’s a flexible job that you can fit around your schedule.
In today’s society, there are plenty of opportunities to help students achieve faster with tutoring. Most tutors are paid at least $30 an hour.
15. Virtual assistant
There are many low stress jobs that can be found online and Virtual Assistants are one of those jobs.
A virtual assistant is a professional who provides administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from a remote location. Often, virtual assistants work for multiple clients simultaneously, providing a wide range of services including social media management, email management, bookkeeping, and more.
They provide a service to their client through the internet and This is a great way for someone with retirement to start making money fast because most VAs make between $35 and $50 an hour.
Take free training for becoming a virtual assistant!
16. Personal shopper
A personal shopper may work in a store, helping customers find what they need, or they may work remotely for a customer who gives them a list of items to purchase. Either way, personal shoppers usually charge by the hour.
It also pays well, especially if you work for a high-end retailer. And since you’re working with customers one-on-one, this is a great job for someone who enjoys helping others. Perfect for a retiree to get out and about.
17. Personal organizer
They may work with individuals or groups, in both business and personal settings. Personal organizers usually have excellent time management skills, as well as a thorough understanding of the principles of organization.
This type of position is great to keep you moving as well as help others.
18. Animal shelter worker
They may feed, groom, and exercise the animals, as well as administer medication and vaccinations. They also clean cages and kennels, and may handle adoptions. The work can be physically demanding, but it is also very rewarding to help homeless animals find new homes.
For someone who loves animals, this is a perfect opportunity to make money and help neglected animals.
19. Book store assistant
The work is relatively easy, and there are usually no major deadlines to worry about. Plus, bookstores are typically quiet and calming environments, which can be a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
If you’re looking for a relaxed job after retirement, this could be it!
20. Photographer
Some people take up photography as a hobby, some as an art form, and some as a profession. The beauty of photography is that it can be whatever you want it to be. There are so many different types of photography, based on your taste and choice you can choose which area to focus on first.
In addition, photography is a great low stress job after retirement!
It can be done freelance to supplement your income or on a full-time basis. There are many opportunities for photographers, and the work is generally enjoyable.
21. Life coach
After retirement, there are many low stress jobs that a person can take on. One such option is becoming a life coach.
This job involves helping people work through their problems and achieve their goals.
By becoming a mentor for the next generation, you are able to have a lasting impact and legacy. This allows you to share your wisdom and knowledge while also helping someone else in their career path.
As a life coach, it’s important to be a good listener and have strong communication skills. Additionally, new graduates might be able to offer you fresh perspectives on life that you may not have considered before. It’s easy to become a mentor to coworkers or people in your field; all it takes is some time and effort.
22. Consultant
Consulting is a broad term used to describe an area of work. It encompasses a wide range of activities and can be done by anyone with the appropriate skills and experience.
Many retirees choose to focus on the areas they enjoyed at work and avoid stressful parts, becoming consultants in those fields.
Often, retirees are a great resource for companies looking for short-term or project-based work. If you let your network know that you are available for consulting opportunities, they may be more likely to reach out to you when they have a need. Additionally, the average consultant salary is between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience level.
23. Walmart Greeter
Greeters welcome customers, help them find what they need, and provide general information about the store. They may also monitor security cameras and alarms in the store. The position requires little training, and most Walmart greeters are given on-the-job training.
However, greeters must be able to handle stress well, as they are often the first point of contact for customers who are angry or upset. The position also requires being able to work weekends and holidays.
24. Dog walker
Dog walking is a great job for people who love dogs and want to make a difference in the lives of animals. It is also perfect for retirees who want to stay busy and have flexible hours. The work can be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is a low-stress profession.
Dog walkers are typically paid by how many dogs they are watching at any given time, rather than by the hour. There are specific websites where you can find work as a dog walker like Rover and the average pay is $14 an hour.
25. Pet sitter
A pet sitter is a professional who is hired to take care of pets while their owners are away. Pet sitters typically visit the home of the pet owner to feed, water, and exercise the pet. They may also provide additional services such as grooming and medication administration.
For example, many retirees enjoy pet sitting because it allows them to form close relationships with animals while also providing a service to their community.
Find plenty of pet sitting gigs on Rover.
26. Camp Host
After retirement, many people are looking for a low stress job that will allow them to travel, get outside, and see new places. Campground jobs are perfect for this because you can work during the day and explore at night.
Camp hosts are people who work at a campground to provide information and assistance to guests.
Campsites allow for some flexibility in terms of location – you may be able to choose the state or national park you’d like to work in, as well as the dates of your stay. Additionally, many camp hosts have a good deal of control over their schedules, which can be a perk.
They usually work for minimum wage, but can often receive tips from guests.
27. Adjunct Professor
Many retirees take on part-time work as adjunct professors. The position offers a high level of flexibility, good pay, and opportunities for professional development. In addition, adjunct professors often have the opportunity to work with students from diverse backgrounds and help them grow academically.
This can be a great way to share your knowledge and expertise with the next generation of students. Contact your local college and see if they have any openings. Adjunct professors typically earn around $3,000 per class taught.
28. Author
Becoming an author can be a great way to enjoy your retirement years while still earning some extra money on the side. The job doesn’t involve a lot of pressure, and you get to set your own deadlines.
There are a few different ways to get your book published. One option is to work with an agent. However, this may not always be possible, especially if you are writing a non-fiction book. Another option is to self-publish your book. This can be a great way to get your book out there without having to go through a publishing house.
You will finally have time to tell your story from your perspective.
29. Focus group participant
Focus groups are gatherings of people who are brought together to discuss a certain topic. The participants can range from 6 to 12 people, and they are typically held in local hotels or conference centers. During the focus group, the participants will discuss upcoming products, services, trends, and issues.
Focus group participants are typically reimbursed for their time and participation in the discussion. This can be done in a variety of ways but is usually either through cash or gift cards.
30. Furniture flipper
Furniture flipping is a great business for those who want to make some extra money with little stress and no formal education needed. You can do it from the comfort of your own home, as long as you have the necessary tools and space. With a bit of hard work, you could be on your way to making some serious cash.
Furniture flippers are people who buy furniture at a low price and resell it for a profit. They usually start as furniture buyers who love hunting for deals at garage sales or estate auctions. This is a low-stress job that’s also profitable.
For many retirees, it may have been a hobby turned profitable.
31. Delivery driver
Delivery driver is a great job for retirees because it keeps them active and socially engaged. It can be difficult to sit at home all day, so this job is perfect for those who want to be out in the world meeting new people.
Delivering food is a great way to make some extra money in your spare time. It’s a low-stress job because you’re only out of the car for deliveries, and many companies offer drivers up to $20 per hour.
I love Doordash because their sign-up process is so easy–you can be up and running in minutes!
32. Rideshare driver
Ridesharing is a great way for seniors to make some extra money on the side while still having plenty of time for themselves. It’s very flexible, so they can work as much or as little as they want, and it doesn’t require them to take too much time out of their day.
Both Uber and Lyft require relatively little startup capital, and retirees can often make money driving for these companies.
Just make sure you have the proper auto insurance for ridesharing.
33. Taxi Driver
Taxis are in high demand in most cities, so there is always work to be found. In addition, the hours are flexible, so drivers can work as much or as little as they want.
And since driving a taxi is not very demanding physically, it is a good job for those who are no longer able to do strenuous work.
Many people who move to a foreign country find being a taxi driver a highly rewarding and lucrative way to make money.
34. School Bus Driver
There is a severe shortage of school bus drivers across the country.
This may not be a low stress job to many, but you can have a long lasting impact on the students. Right now, our students need positive influences in their lives.
What does the job entail? You must have a valid commercial driver’s license (or find someone who will provide the training) and be clear from moving violations in the last 3 years. In addition, you must pass a background check to work with students.
Many districts are desperate for school bus drivers and providing a signing bonus.
35. Chat moderator
Chat moderators are responsible for monitoring chat rooms and helping to ensure that the conversation remains on topic and respectful. They also work to resolve any disputes that may arise.
They work in a variety of settings, from social media to online gaming platforms.
But for the most part, the job is relatively low-stress, thanks to the ability to take breaks and work flexible hours. Chat moderators also often have the opportunity to learn new technologies and hone their customer service skills.
36. Babysitter & Nanny
Babysitting and nannying is a great way to make some extra money in your spare time. It’s perfect for people who love kids and have a few hours in the afternoon after school lets out. You can help out your neighbors by babysitting their kids or finding families near you who are looking for a nanny.
They offer a lot of flexibility, they’re relatively low stress, and they often come with a set schedule so you know what you’re doing each week. Plus, you can usually work from home, which is a big perk if you want to stay active in your golden years.
The average babysitter in the United States earns a bit less than $15 per hour, but some earn at least $20 an hour. It is easy to find work.
37. Event Staff
Event planning can be a very stressful job, but it can also be a very rewarding one. After retirement, many people look for a flexible job that they can do mostly on the weekends and in the evening. Event staff is a great option for those people.
They may work in a variety of industries, including entertainment, hospitality, marketing or nonprofit organizations.
Event staff often have to wear many hats during an event, handling duties such as coordinating with vendors, setting up event spaces, managing attendees, and serving as liaisons between organizers and other staffers.
This may not be the situation for everyone, but great for someone who likes to be in the action.
38. Research Assistant
After retirement, many people feel lost and without a sense of purpose. A research assistant helps others find information and discover problems to solve. They work with teams or individuals to locate the best information possible and help them use it effectively.
Research assistants are in high demand because they help other people find information and solve problems. They work on a variety of tasks, such as conducting research, organizing data, and writing reports. Their skills are in high demand by companies, governments, and individuals who need help conducting research.
The job is relatively low stress and pays between $18 and $22 per hour. It requires patience, communication skills, and a range of computer skills.
39. Substitute Teacher
A substitute teacher is someone who fills in for a permanent teacher when they are absent. This can be for a variety of reasons, such as paid vacation, maternity leave, or sick leave. It is a great option for retirees because it is one of the most respected and low-stress jobs after retirement.
This is one of the best retirement jobs because you can substitute teach any position within a school.
Substitute teaching can be extremely rewarding, as you are able to help students in need and fill in for teachers who are absent. You may also have the opportunity to work with different age groups and learn new things.
It is now possible to earn around $20 per hour on average as a substitute teacher. In order to become a substitute teacher, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in any academic discipline from an accredited college or university. With the right qualifications, you can enjoy a great deal of flexibility and earning potential while working with children.
40. Airbnb Host
You can earn up to $1,000 per month by listing your home on the site.
It’s also a low-stress job since you don’t have to worry about meeting deadlines or dealing with customers. And, since you’re working from home, you can easily take care of any last-minute changes or emergencies.
If you’re interested in becoming an Airbnb host, check out this guide on how to get started.
41. Proofreading
In this career, you would be reading documents or manuscripts and looking for mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax. You would then mark the errors with a correction symbol and provide a note to the author about the mistake. Proofreading can be done independently or as part of a team.
It is also important to be able to meet deadlines because many publishers require that manuscripts be returned within a certain timeframe.
42. Park Ranger
They enforce park rules, help visitors enjoy their visit, and provide information about the areas they patrol. Park rangers may also conduct educational programs, research projects, and archaeological surveys.
The growing popularity of outdoor recreational activities will lead to more demand for these workers.
Rangers must be able to hike long distances in difficult terrain, often carrying heavy equipment. They also may need to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, during peak visitor seasons.
43. Voiceover artist
Voiceover artists are people who provide the voice for a character or commercial. They must be able to understand and interpret the script, and then deliver the lines in a way that sounds natural and believable.
Voiceover artists are in high demand for their unique ability to provide a voice for various multimedia productions that requires no formal training. This work can be done from anywhere with a good internet connection, making it an ideal job for retirees or those with flexible hours.
44. Real Estate Agent
The work is often exciting, and you can set your own hours. However, it can also be demanding and require long hours during busy times.
They must be knowledgeable about the current market conditions and have strong negotiating skills. In order to succeed in this career, you’ll need to be able to work well independently and be comfortable networking with potential clients.
You’ll also need to develop a strong marketing strategy to attract new clients.
45. Sports Coach
They may also instruct athletes on the rules and regulations of a sport. Sports coaches typically have a college degree in physical education, kinesiology, or a related field.
Coaches often work long hours during the season and must be able to handle criticism from players and parents. However, for those who love sports and enjoy working with people, sports coaching can be an enjoyable and low-stress job after retirement.
46. Artist
Being an artist is a great job to have after retirement because it doesn’t require a lot of stress and you’re free to create whatever you like. The only requirement for the job is that you have some artistic ability, which most people do.
Working as an artist can be perfect for people who are looking to have more flexibility with their hours and want to work on the go. There are many different types of artist jobs that one can find, and the best way to find out what’s available is to do some research online or talk to other artists in your area.
47. Translator
Translation is a great option for those who want to use their second or third language skills in a professional setting.
Many retirees find themselves with time on their hands after retirement and may enjoy doing something that they are good at and can be successful at. Speaking another language can lead to many opportunities, including working as a translator or in a translation services company, or becoming a consultant in foreign affairs.
Translators must be able to understand the source material fully and then accurately convert it into the target language.
48. Interior decorator
Interior decorators are in high demand because they have an eye for design and can help people make their homes look beautiful. This is a low-stress career choice that allows retirees to work anywhere, which is why it is becoming increasingly popular.
Interior decorators are often retirees who have a wealth of knowledge and experience in interior design. They must build up a portfolio of their clients’ homes before they can become an interior designer and be able to charge more for their services.
Interior decorating is a creative line of work that can earn great money, and it’s often a side hustle for people who want to make more money while still having free time. Satisfying customers is another perk of this career!
49. Handyman Services
If you’re looking for a way to make some money after retirement, and enjoy doing hands-on home repair projects, consider working as a handyman. Handyman work can be done on your own schedule, so it’s a great option if you want more flexibility in your life.
Handyman services are becoming more popular because they allow you to set your own rates and work on your own schedule.
This is beneficial for both the worker and the customer, as it allows the worker to charge a fair price for their services and customers can get work done on their time. Additionally, handymen have a variety of skills and can fix many problems around the home, which makes them a valuable asset.
50. Professional cuddler
Cuddling has become a popular service in recent years. Companies like Cuddle Comfort offer professional cuddlers that will come to your house and provide you with a compassionate, understanding listening ear as well as some quality cuddle time.
Some people make a living from professional cuddling. These cuddlers can earn approximately $40 per hour for just being themselves and giving bear hugs. This is a growing industry with many people finding comfort and satisfaction in human touch.
51. Mediator
To become a mediator, you need to have either legal training or a bachelor’s degree in mediation. This gives you the skills needed to mediate and resolve disputes between two or more parties. Mediators usually have a low-stress job because of their flexibility and freedom to work from anywhere.
Mediators come from a variety of professional backgrounds, but the majority have some form of legal background. More than half of certified mediators work as general mediators, charging $100 to $250 per hour.
52. Data entry specialist
A data entry specialist is somebody who enters data into a computer system. This can be a very low stress job, especially if you have basic computer skills and typing speed and accuracy. The work is relatively easy to find and usually does not require any specific qualifications.
Data entry specialists are paid a modest wage for their work, but the pay is reliable and predictable. The job is also relatively easy to find, making it a great option for people who are looking for additional work during retirement or in their spare time.
Being able to type quickly and accurately in order to be successful in this role.
53. Waiter/ Waitress
If you have a gift of gab and service, then this might be the perfect industry for you. Especially as a bar back!
The work hours are flexible, the tips are usually good, and you get to meet new people all the time. Plus this type of job is fun, as it’s not high-stress and it allows someone who just retired or wants a job with flexible hours to stay active socially while they make money.
If you’re looking for an alternative after retirement, waiter or waitress work is definitely a good option.
54. Cook
Many families are looking for healthy options for dinner. What is better than a home-cooked meal?
While working as a cook for a restaurant, you may often work long hours in a hot, noisy kitchen. However, cooking for local families on a small scale may be the perfect scenario.
55. Become a Transcriber
Transcription is a great way to make some money after retirement. You can typically make around $18-$25/hour, depending on your skill level and experience.
The work is relatively low stress, so it’s a great option for those looking for a relaxing way to make some extra income.
56. Retirement planner
Some retirement planners offer training and certification for their employees. The employer might pay for your training and certificate if they feel confident enough in hiring you as an employee after seeing how well you do these tasks.
This may not be the ideal situation for many, but it pays well.
57. Flip Items
Flipping items for profit is a great way to make some extra cash. You can find deals at garage sales and online, and then turn around and sell them for more.
Be sure to look out for scams, however, as there are many people who try to take advantage of those looking to flip items.
To learn how to flip for a side hustle, check out Flea Market Flippers.
58. Professional Volunteer
Charity work is a great way to give back to the community and help those in need. There are many charities that need help, and by donating your time or money, you can make a big difference in someone’s life.
It can also be a great way to ease into retirement. Many charities are always in need of volunteers, and you can often find opportunities that fit your schedule. You may also be able to find paid positions with certain charities.
You will have the opportunity to help others and make a real difference in their lives. You may also find new friendships and learn new skills.
It keeps you social and busy, and it lets you help out in your community. Plus, many organizations offer volunteer opportunities tailored to retirees’ skills and interests.
In fact, many volunteer opportunities turn into paid jobs.
How to find a job that is low stress and matches your skills?
Which best jobs for retirees do you want?
When you’re looking for a job that is low stress and matches your skills, it’s important to consider a variety of factors. For example, employers want employees who can work independently and are well-organized. They also want employees who can communicate clearly. You should have a basic understanding of the job duties as well.
If you have specific skills, you may not need these things as much.
However, employers still want employees who can complete tasks without any help from others. There are a variety of ways to find out about such jobs, including using search engines or social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn.
Also, whoever says you have to wait for retirement?? Find low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree now.
It’s also important to be aware of the pay structure. Often, employers want employees who will be able to work for them on a long-term basis. The pay structure is often predictable and employers know exactly how much work there will be available for each project. This makes it easier for both parties involved.
One way to find a job that is low stress and matches your skills is by using online platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. These platforms offer many data entry jobs that are perfect for those looking for an easy way to make some money after retirement. In order to take advantage of these jobs, you’ll have to learn how to type fast.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
If you’re curious who the top mortgage lenders in Utah are, I’ve got some answers.
Last year, more than 500 lenders in The Beehive State originated nearly $100 billion in home loans.
But one mortgage company far exceeded the others, so much so that it wasn’t even close.
Interestingly, this company isn’t headquartered in the state of Utah, nor does it operate retail locations.
I’m talking about United Wholesale Mortgage, or UWM for short. Read on to see who else ranked in the top 10.
Top Mortgage Lenders in Utah (Overall)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$9.3 billion
2.
Rocket Mortgage
$4.5 billion
3.
Intercap Lending
$3.6 billion
4.
Mountain America CU
$2.9 billion
5.
First Colony Mortgage
$2.9 billion
6.
Homepoint
$2.7 billion
7.
America First CU
$2.4 billion
8.
Academy Mortgage
$2.2 billion
9.
SecurityNational
$2.1 billion
10.
Wells Fargo
$2.1 billion
Yep, a wholesale mortgage lender topped the rankings in the state of Utah, originating about $9.3 billion there in 2021, per HMDA data from Richey May.
As such, we might say that a legion of mortgage brokers is #1, as wholesale lenders rely on these intermediaries to generate all their business.
What’s surprising is the margin above second place Rocket Mortgage, which funded just $4.5 billion there.
This meant UWM doubled the volume of its nearest competitor, who also happens to be the top lender nationwide.
In third was Draper, Utah-based Intercap Lending, which originated $3.6 billion in its home state.
In fourth was fellow Utah company Mountain America Credit Union, a Sandy-based company that funded $2.9 billion.
Rounding out the top five was Orem-based First Colony Mortgage Corp. with a similar $2.9 billion.
It’s not often that you see three of the top five lenders of a particular state headquartered within the state.
But wait, there’s more! After six placed Homepoint’s $2.7 billion came Ogden-based America First Credit Union with $2.4 billion in seventh.
They were followed by Academy Mortgage (yep, also from Utah), SecurityNational Mortgage (also Utah), and finally Wells Fargo
All told, six of the top 10 mortgage lenders in Utah are Utah-based companies, which could be some kind of a record for an individual state.
Top Utah Mortgage Lenders (for Home Buyers)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$3.1 billion
2.
Intercap Lending
$2.0 billion
3.
First Colony Mortgage
$1.5 billion
4.
SecurityNational
$1.3 billion
5.
Academy Mortgage
$1.1 billion
6.
Chase
$921 million
7.
Homepoint
$859 million
8.
Rocket Mortgage
$791 million
9.
Wells Fargo
$681 million
10.
Guaranteed Rate
$677 million
When we fine-tune the list to only consider home purchase lending, UWM once again tops the list with $3.1 billion funded.
While still mostly blowing away the competition, second place Intercap Lending narrowed the gap with $2 billion funded.
In third was First Colony Mortgage with $1.5 billion, followed by SecurityNational Mortgage with $1.3 billion and Academy Mortgage with $1.1 billion.
Once again, Utah-based lenders dominated the list, taking four of the top five spots.
This tells me Utahns really prefer to keep it local when obtaining a home loan, especially a home purchase loan.
The rest of the top 10 included Chase, Homepoint, Rocket Mortgage, Wells Fargo, and Guaranteed Rate.
A lot of big, national brands in there after taking into account the local companies.
Top Refinance Lenders in Utah (for Existing Homeowners)
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$6.1 billion
2.
Rocket Mortgage
$3.6 billion
3.
Mountain America CU
$2.0 billion
4.
Homepoint
$1.9 billion
5.
America First CU
$1.8 billion
6.
Intercap Lending
$1.6 billion
7.
First Colony Mortgage
$1.4 billion
8.
Wells Fargo
$1.3 billion
9.
Freedom Mortgage
$1.3 billion
10.
Pennymac
$1.2 billion
When it came to refinances for existing homeowners, UWM once again took top honors with $6.1 billion funded, a clean sweep of all three categories.
In second was Rocket Mortgage with $3.6 billion, followed by Homepoint with $1.9 billion.
No Utah-based companies in the top three, which isn’t a big surprise as mortgage refinances are typically price-driven.
In fourth was Intercap with $1.6 billion, followed by Mountain America with $1.5 billion.
The rest of the best included First Colony, America First, Wells Fargo, Freedom Mortgage, and Pennymac.
Top Mortgage Lenders in Salt Lake City
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$3.9 billion
2.
Rocket Mortgage
$1.8 billion
3.
Intercap Lending
$1.6 billion
4.
Homepoint
$1.2 billion
5.
Mountain America CU
$1.1 billion
6.
SecurityNational
$1.0 billion
7.
America First CU
$800 million
8.
Chase
$730 million
9.
Academy Mortgage
$676 million
10.
Wells Fargo
$665 million
Top Mortgage Lenders in Ogden
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$1.6 billion
2.
Rocket Mortgage
$975 million
3.
America First CU
$971 million
4.
Academy Mortgage
$866 million
5.
Intercap Lending
$699 million
6.
Goldenwest CU
$601 million
7.
Homepoint
$542 million
8.
Pennymac
$507 million
9.
Freedom Mortgage
$469 million
10.
Wells Fargo
$442 million
Top Mortgage Lenders in Provo
Ranking
Company Name
2021 Loan Volume
1.
UWM
$2.2 billion
2.
First Colony Mortgage
$1.5 billion
3.
Rocket Mortgage
$925 million
4.
Intercap Lending
$724 million
5.
SecurityNational
$680 million
6.
Homepoint
$678 million
7.
Utah Community CU
$615 million
8.
Mountain America CU
$559 million
9.
Chase
$384 million
10.
Pennymac
$380 million
Who Are the Best Utah Mortgage Lenders?
Seeing that the top mortgage lender in Utah was a wholesale lender, you’d need to get the ratings of all the individual mortgage brokers to determine their overall likability.
That would prove too difficult and wouldn’t really tell us much as the broker is likely more important than the lender they work.
Second placed-Rocket has a good 4.48-star rating on Zillow, while third placed-Intercap has a stellar 4.97-star rating.
Mountain America is generally well-liked (America First not as much), though hard to determine if it’s because of their mortgage lending or other banking services. Both are credit unions.
First Colony also has a 4.97-star rating on Zillow, slightly better than Academy’s 4.96 and Homepoint’s 4.89 rating. Meanwhile, SecurityNational Mortgage has a 4.88-star rating.
Then there’s Wells Fargo, which we all know has had its share of mortgage-related controversies, yet is still a go-to for many.
Other Utah-based mortgage companies not in the top 10 include SLC’s own Primary Residential Mortgage Inc. with a 4.98-rating, and Sandy’s Citywide Home Loans with a 4.96 rating.
In other words, there are plenty of good options out there, both big and small, some of which are household names and others relative unknowns.
Put in the time to research a handful of companies before making a decision on one.
As Christians, we are called to be good stewards over the money and wealth with which God has provided to us.
So before we consider investing in stocks, we must find out if it is within God’s will!
Is investing in stocks a God-honoring way to grow our finances, or is it really being careless with God’s money?
What Is Investing In Stocks?
What Investing Is Not
Investing is not the same as gambling! This is actually where a lot of Christians develop a fear of the stock market. Most people who make this assumption do so either out of fear or ignorance. Some are fearful of investing because it seems so complicated, so they assume that no one can understand it and so everyone must be gambling! Others just don’t understand the mechanics of investing, or how much information is available to the common investor. It is beyond the scope of this article to catalog all of the ways in which investing is not gambling. Visit here to learn if the trading websites are legal and licensed.
True investing is not a “get rich quick scheme”. The bible is full of warnings about rushing to make money without any effort such as Proverbs 21:5
The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.
However, the concept of investing is not about throwing your money after something that you don’t really understand, hastily and without a real plan.
What Investing Is
The basic idea of investing in stocks is this: To participate in and benefit from the growth and earnings of a particular company, through purchasing shares of ownership. When someone has extra money and they want to look for legal ways to make that money grow, that is considered investing. The stock market gives individuals the unique opportunity to profit off of the growth and ingenuity of some of the world’s largest companies!
Does Investing In Stocks Show A Lack Of Faith In God?
Now that we have taken a very brief look at what investing is and isn’t, we now must consider whether someone who invests is demonstrating a lack of faith. Matthew 10:5-11:1 is a common passage that is brought up whenever discussing planning for the future, and trusting in God. This is where Jesus sends out his 12 Apostles to preach His word, heal the sick, and perform various miracles throughout Israel.
He gives them instructions on where to go, what to do, and dangers to look out for (and even uses this time to talk about future things). However it is Jesus’ instructions on what items to take along for the journey, that we want to take a look at now…Matthew 10:9-10 says:
Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for the worker is worthy of his support.
As we see here, Christ was teaching them to trust in the Lord for all provision and care. This would be experienced through the kindness of those to whom they ministered in these various towns. They were not to take extra materials with them (planning for their future need), because God would work things out so that they would have all that they need!
This should be a great encouragement to us as believers because we know that God is able to provide for us no matter what our current situation may be.
However, there is something that we need to take notice of when considering this passage. First, Jesus’ words to the apostles were specific for this journey. We can see that from looking at His words to these same men in Luke 22:35-36
And He said to them, When I sent you out without money belt and bag and sandals, you did not lack anything, did you?” They said, “No, nothing”. And He said to them, “But now, whoever has a money belt is to take it along, likewise also a bag, and whoever has no sword is to sell his coat and buy one”.
He is now telling them to use normal means to provide for themselves (storing and planing for the future, buying, selling, etc), rather than just to go out with the bare minimum and count on God’s providence in a more pronounced way (as in the Matthew 10 passage).
This passage in Luke 22 is describing Jesus Christ’s last words to his disciples before he was crucified. He was giving them instructions on how to carry out God’s mission for them after His death. Therefore, it is clear that God was not condemning the concepts of investing, saving, and preparing for the future in Matthew 10, because he then instructs the disciples to make these concepts a part of their lives at the end of His earthly ministry.
So based on a proper understanding of God’s intention when sending the apostles out to preach, we can see that the ideas of investing and faith do not contradict one another.
Another idea that is often brought up is that of God’s general promise of provision negates the need to invest or plan for the future. In Matthew 6:25-33 we find these words:
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:25-33
…But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more, and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need.
1 Thessalonians 4:10b-12
For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either. For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread.
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12
As we can see, God’s normal way of provision is to line up your abilities with someone who is willing to pay for those abilities, so you can work to support yourself. The ideas of God sustaining us and our human efforts go hand in hand. However, we must be certain to look to God not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these.
30″But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! 31″Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ 32″For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
As you can see, Jesus tells his followers not to worry since God will provide the basic necessities of life – if He does it for birds and flowers, He will surely do it for His children (those who seek after His kingdom)! However, this passage does not promote a sinful life of laziness, where we just sit around and pray and read the Bible, and food, money, shelter, and all of our other needs will just fall from the sky. Even the birds have to work to build nests, find food and care for their young, but ultimately, it is God who provides for them all.
God’s provision means a lot more than just raining down the things that we need without us doing any work for them. God oftentimes will provide for us by giving us the ability to earn money – for at all times for His sovereign will to be done in our lives!
Of course, there are more things that can be said about how those common verses that are used to teach that investing and planning for the future is equal to lacking faith in God, don’t teach that at all. However, I think that we’ve seen enough from God’s word to make that clear. Let’s move on to the main question at hand.
What Does The Bible Say About Saving And Investing?
The bible actually has quite a bit to say about investing for the future, but I just want to look at one main example and then give a few verses as well. Let’s take a look at the “Parable of the Talents” to see what God has to say about investing:
14″For it is just like a man about to go on a journey, who called his own slaves and entrusted his possessions to them. 15″To one he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one, each according to his own ability; and he went on his journey. 16″Immediately the one who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and gained five more talents. 17″In the same manner the one who had received the two talents gained two more.
18″But he who received the one talent went away, and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19″Now after a long time the master of those slaves came and settled accounts with them. 20″The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have gained five more talents.’ 21″His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’
22″Also the one who had received the two talents came up and said, ‘Master, you entrusted two talents to me. See, I have gained two more talents.’ 23″His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful slave. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’ 24″And the one also who had received the one talent came up and said, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow and gathering where you scattered no seed. 25’And I was afraid, and went away and hid your talent in the ground. See, you have what is yours.’
26″But his master answered and said to him, ‘You wicked, lazy slave, you knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I scattered no seed. 27’Then you ought to have put my money in the bank, and on my arrival I would have received my money back with interest. 28’Therefore take away the talent from him, and give it to the one who has the ten talents.’
29″For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. 30″Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ~ Matthew 25:14-30
I believe this to be the clearest picture of investing what God has given us in order to bear fruit for His kingdom. The fact that Jesus actually uses money to illustrate this point, should be a clear indication that God has no problem with Christians who take the money that God has given us responsibility over, and wisely invests it! In fact, he expects it!
To be clear, this passage goes way beyond money and points to whatever talents and spiritual gifts we have. The point is that God expects us to use what He gives us, and it is, therefore, a sin to bury them in the ground and fail to use it. Because of our economic system, money is the thing that we use in order to sustain ourselves. In times of surplus, we are to give abundantly and invest and save for the future, so that in times of lack, we will have provision stored up for us!
This was true in Egypt when God led Joseph to plan to save 20% of the harvest for 7 years in preparation of the devastating famine (Genesis 41:33-36). We can also see it in the rebuke of the lazy man in Proverbs 6:6-11:
6 Go to the ant, O sluggard, Observe her ways and be wise, 7 Which, having no chief, officer or ruler, 8 Prepares her food in the summer and gathers her provision in the harvest. 9 How long will you lie down, O sluggard? When will you arise from your sleep? 10 “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest”– 11 Your poverty will come in like a vagabond, and your need like an armed man.
Here are a few more verses about saving and planning & investing for the future:
Proverbs 10:5 – He who gathers in summer is a son who acts wisely, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who acts shamefully.
Proverbs 21:5 – The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.
Proverbs 24:27 – Prepare your work outside and make it ready for yourself in the field; Afterwards, then, build your house.
Luke 14:28-30 – For which one of you, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’
1 Chronicles 22:5 – David said, “My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house that is to be built for the Lord shall be exceedingly magnificent, famous and glorious throughout all lands. Therefore now I will make preparation for it.” So David made ample preparations before his death.
As you can see, God has a lot to say about planning and investing for the future.
Reader Questions:
Why do you think the bible speaks about finances and planning for the future so often?
Do you allow God’s word to impact your investing decisions?
Known as the Home of the Blues, Memphis is a music lover’s paradise, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit this incredible city. You’ll be able to explore its deep history, both in terms of music and the heart of the Civil Rights Movement of the mid-20th century. Plus, there are museums, parks, and more waiting.
Here, you’ll learn more about the best things to do in Memphis, Tennessee, as well as discover ideal times of year to visit. In addition, you’ll get a good idea of the average trip costs so you can budget accordingly.
Best Times to Go to Memphis
Memphis is at its most comfortable during the spring and fall months, typically from late April through the beginning of June and again from late August to the middle of October. For instance, in April, you’ll find temperatures in the 70s during the day, and in October, you’ll experience similarly warm temperatures.
For music lovers, also consider visiting for the annual Beale Street Music Festival, which takes place each May. Some of music’s biggest names perform at this three-day event. 2022’s headliners included Megan Thee Stallion and Van Morrisson, so you know there’s something for everyone.
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Bad Times to Go to Memphis
Summer and winter will be less crowded in Memphis, but the weather is less than ideal for many. Summer travel in Memphis can be hot and humid. The average high temperature in July is in the 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, making that one of the worst times to visit Memphis. Late fall and early winter tend to be cloudy in Memphis, but there’s not a high chance of snow. Rainfall tends to peak in early December and mid-April.
Average Cost of a Memphis Vacation
Before you start making a list of the top things to do in Memphis, get an idea of how much a trip there will cost you once you arrive. According to Budget Your Trip, an individual spends an average of $34 on dining every day. Local transportation is actually more expensive at $47 per day, so you might want to look into renting a car to get around.
Hotels, however, can be reasonably priced at around $134 per night in Memphis, and perhaps even less if you try some hacks to save money on hotels.
Here’s how the costs break down if you plan to spend a week in the city; there will be some incidentals as well:
• One Person Total: $1,172
• Two Person Total: $2,343
One note: You may want to also budget for travel insurance in case the unexpected were to happen, or look into what kind of credit card travel insurance your issuer provides.
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10 Fun Must-Dos in Memphis
As you plan a trip to this Tennessee city, you’ll likely want to map out an itinerary, even if just loosely, to make sure you hit the highlights. Here, culled from top online reviews and seasoned travelers, is advice on the 10 best things to do in Memphis.
1. Pay Homage to the King
We would be remiss to start off a list of best things to do in Memphis without mentioning Graceland, the home of iconic singer Elvis Presley. Open for tours on a daily basis, your ticket gives you access to 120 acres. Explore Elvis’s mansion (including the Jungle Room), his most iconic outfits, and the exterior grounds.
There are also on-site museums dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n Roll’s career and cars. If you really want to make the most out of your time at Graceland, you can also stay at a hotel on the grounds. If staying in the city, consider a rental car or shuttle for the 20-minute drive. Ticket prices range from $28 to $215 for the Ultimate VIP Tour. (If you’re buying the top of the line tickets, you may want to swipe with plastic when paying to earn credit card rewards.) graceland.com/
2. Visit the National Civil Rights Museum
Memphis is also known for another King — civil rights legend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated at the city’s Lorraine Motel in 1968. Now the location has been transformed into the National Civil Rights Museum with interactive exhibits, films, and oral histories cataloging centuries of the quest for freedom and equality in America.
Exhibit material starts with the struggle against slavery in the early 1600s and moves forward through today’s continuing Civil Rights Movement. Walk through a recreation of the Montgomery Bus Boycotts of the 1950s, the Memphis Sanitation Strikes, and more. The museum is closed on Tuesdays so plan your visit in advance. civilrightsmuseum.org/
3. Stroll Down Beale Street
This nearly two-mile stretch of road in downtown Memphis is a celebration of all things music. Considered the official Home of the Blues, you’ll find clubs and restaurants to satisfy any music lover’s thirst for live entertainment.
There’s always something going on at Beale Street. Just show up to explore on your own, or download the official app to create a plan. Note that a security checkpoint goes up on Friday and Saturday nights. Those under 21 must be accompanied by an adult after 9 p.m., and the street is strictly 21+ after 11 p.m. In other words, weekend nights on Beale Street are on the list for fun things to do in Memphis for adults but not kids. bealestreet.com/
4. March with the Peabody Ducks
One of the best things to do in Memphis with kids is to head to the downtown Peabody Hotel for the daily Duck March. Occurring at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day, this decades-long tradition involves five North American mallards who live at the hotel. Each group of ducks lives at the hotel for three months before returning to farm life outside the city.
They’re brought down from their Royal Duck Palace on the rooftop to swim in the lobby fountain. Participants must be at least five years old, and the hotel recommends arriving 30 minutes early to get a seat. Seeing the Peabody Ducks is definitely an affordable family travel option. peabodymemphis.com/peabody-ducks
5. Tour the Belz Museum
What started out as a private art collection has turned into five permanent exhibits displaying Asian and Judaic art, as well as the Holocaust Memorial Gallery. The Belz Museum also brings in special exhibits twice a year.
One of the most comprehensive collections at the museum is the Chinese art exhibit, which is known as the largest such collection in the southeast United States. You’ll see many pieces from the Qing dynasty, which lasted from the mid-1600s through the early 1900s. The Belz Museum is closed Monday and Tuesday.
6. Take in Some Thrilling Basketball
Love basketball? Check out an NBA game at FedExForum, which is home to the Memphis Grizzlies (nba.com/grizzlies/tickets). The season runs from October to April. The stadium also hosts University of Memphis men’s basketball, which is a NCAA Division I. You can also check out the Division I women’s team on campus at the Elma Roane Fieldhouse.
7. Marvel at the Mighty Lights
Put this on your list of free things to do in Memphis: the nightly Mighty Lights on the downtown waterfront. Every evening, the city’s two iconic bridges (the Hernando de Soto and Harahan) are lit up in a huge display of LED lights. You’ll see the show at the hourly and 30-minute marks starting at sundown, followed by a grand final at 10:30 p.m.
Scout out a spot to watch along the Mississippi riverfront parks, or scope out an aerial view in the city. The Fourth Bluff and Mud Island are both good options to check out. mightylights.com/
8. Snap Selfies at Mud Island River Park
Tap into your inner river rat at Mud Island River Park. It takes just a few minutes to walk to it from downtown Memphis, and you’ll enjoy lounging on this Mississippi River island. It’s also a perfect spot for some social media selfies thanks to the huge Memphis sign, which spans 50 feet.
This 52-acre park also features a scale model of the Mississippi River to give you a sense of the true breadth of the world’s third largest river basin. Traveling with pets? Mud Island is also a great location for a long walk with your dog. memphisparks.com/park/mud-island-park/
9. Drop into the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
Not only is Memphis home to the blues and rock ‘n roll, it has also played a pivotal role in America’s soul music scene. The Stax Museum is the original home of the legendary Stax recording studio, which was the recording label of iconic artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, Shirley Brown, and many others.
Explore the rich history of the studio through exhibits and artifacts. You’ll even get the chance to see Isaac Hayes’ custom Cadillac Eldorado, decked out in 24-karat gold trim with a mini-fridge and television on the inside. The Stax Museum is closed on Mondays; tickets are $13 for adults and $10 for kids 9-12; children 8 and under are free. staxmuseum.com/
10. Wander Through Meeman-Shelby Forest
Needa dose of nature? Memphis has that, too! Head 20 minutes outside of downtown Memphis for the enchanting Meeman-Shelby Forest. You can explore 13,000 acres of wilderness that is home to a diverse range of ecosystems. Discover sandy beaches and swamplands (home to the Bald Cypress tree).
There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, including trails, a nature center, and a disc golf course. tnstateparks.com/parks/meeman-shelby
The Takeaway
From a huge music scene to pivotal moments in history, from parks to nightly light shows, Memphis has attractions worth exploring for all ages. It doesn’t matter if you have a few days or a full week — it’s easy to fill your schedule with tons of fun things to do in Memphis on any budget.
FAQ
Is Beale Street worth a visit?
Beale Street is considered a must-visit if you’re visiting Memphis, whether it’s your first time or you’ve vacationed there before. Home of blues music, you’ll get a truly unique flavor of entertainment any time of day or night.
What is the best month to visit Memphis?
If you have a completely open calendar and are ready to head to Memphis at the perfect time of year, consider going either in mid-spring or mid-fall. You’ll miss the heat of summer and clouds of winter, so you can explore the top things to do in Memphis, Tennessee, in the best possible weather.
What is Memphis most popular for?
Memphis is best known for its music scene, both historically and today. It’s considered the home of the blues as well as the hometown of rock ‘n roll (Elvis Presley’s Graceland is there), so you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
Photo credit: iStock/benedek The SoFi Credit Card is issued by The Bank of Missouri (TBOM) (“Issuer”) pursuant to license by Mastercard® International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. 1See Rewards Details at SoFi.com/card/rewards. Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances. Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners. SOCC0223049
Are you 54 and seeking life insurance, chances are you are not doing so for the first time. If it is the case that you are obtaining life insurance for the first time or are simply renewing there are several factors to consider. Today’s day in age with advanced medicine, cheap life insurance rates are surprisingly low for a 54-year-old person.
Time is of the essence when you are in your early 50’s. Once you reach your 60’s, rates jump dramatically from those of someone who is in their 50’s. This of course is all dependent on your health conditions, pre-existing or otherwise.
However, the fact of the matter is that your risk to that of a life insurance company increases with your age, so seeking out insurance now is better than waiting.
Which Life Insurance is Best for a 54 Year Old?
Two of the best types of insurance for someone of age 54 are term life insurance or whole life insurance. If you are the average person, you probably don’t know the difference between the two. Even if you do, you may not know which one is best for your situation.
Term life insurance varies in the amount of time you are covered for. Terms can be anywhere from 10 to 30 years. Of the two term life insurance is the preferred route for many people of this age. Not only is it much more affordable but it also allows for an extent of flexibility that you may not otherwise find with other insurance. Another reason that term life insurance is more popular among 50-year-olds is because their need for life insurance could be coming to an end shortly. There are a lot of people that once they retire, they don’t need life insurance for much longer, which is by buying a shorter-term life insurance policy is so valuable.
Whole life insurance, sometimes referred to as universal life insurance, will continue to cover you for as long as you make the premium payment. It is appealing in that it can be considered an asset of which you can borrow against. It of course is slightly more expensive for this reason. Whole life insurance can actually be as much as 12 times the rates of term life insurance.
If you do not know much about life insurance, there is no shame in seeking the guidance from a life insurance agent. They know how to save you money in the short and long term.
For a $250,000 policy, a 54 year old winds up paying $23.40. A $200,000 policy on the other hand with cost $41.34. A $500,000 policy is a bit pricier, valued at $71.22. For the $1 million dollar policy, the rates go to $125.15.Check these results for a $250,000 term life insurance policy:
Sex
10 Year
20 Year
30 Year
Male
Protective – $35.51/month
SBLI – $60.25/month
Banner – $118.13/month
Female
Protective – $27.81/month
SBLI – $46.76/month
Banner – $85.53/month
These rates of course are all dependent on your level of health. Factors such as pre-existing conditions and newly diagnosed diseases will all take a toll on the rates that you pay. Some insurance companies may ask you to take a medical exam in order to confirm that you are indeed healthy.
Getting the Lowest Life Insurance Rates
When you’re looking to purchase life insurance at 54, you’ll notice monthly premiums are much higher than when you purchased your first policy. That’s because age is one of the biggest factors in calculating your premium. Just because you are a couple years (or couple decades) older than the last time you applied, doesn’t meant that your insurance premiums have to be through the roof. There are several things that you can do to get the lowest life insurance rates possible.
The first is to improve your health. In addition to how old you are, the premium is impacted the most by how healthy you are. Most of the time you have go through a health exam before the policy is approved, and how your results come back will go a long way in the outcome of your premium.
Spend some months working on your health through diet and regular exercise. Being overweight increases your risk of having health problems later in later, which means your risk is higher to the insurance company. Sticking to a diet and getting regular exercise is not only going to help you lose weight, but it will also help lower your blood pressure and your cholesterol, which will lower your premiums even further.
Additionally, one of the best ways for you to save money on your life insurance plan is kicking the bad habits like smoking cigarettes or using tobacco. Marking yes to tobacco on your insurance applications is going to cause your quoted price to double automatically. In some cases, it could even triple. If the time comes to buy another life insurance policy, drop the cigarettes once and for all. Your wallet is going to thank you.
The easiest option to find the most affordable rates is by comparing dozens of different insurance companies before you choose the policy that works best for you. Instead of calling all of the companies yourself, our independent advisors can do all the hard work. Our agents represent dozens of the highest rated companies across the United States, and have access to the lowest rates available.
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If you do not already have insurance, there is no better time to obtain it. The life insurance over 50 policies can go up dramatically when you hit age 55.
Life is unexpected and, tragedy could strike tomorrow. You can’t predict the future, but you can plan for the worst.