Best Part-Time Jobs for Seniors
A Practical Guide to Part-Time Jobs for Seniors: Opportunities, Resources, and Reality Checks
Last updated: August 2025
If You Need Emergency Help
Financial Crisis: Contact United Way at 2-1-1 for immediate assistance with rent, utilities, and food.
Employment Crisis: If you’ve lost your job or face age discrimination, file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) at 1-800-669-4000 within 180-300 days.
Benefits Help: Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for questions about how work affects your benefits.
Career Support: Contact AARP Foundation’s Work Resources Helpline at 1-855-850-2525 for free career coaching.
Key Takeaways
- Growing Trend: 38.3 percent of employed older Americans worked part time in 2024, making this a major employment category.
- Strong Wages: The typical worker age 65 or older earned $22 per hour in 2022, up from $13 in 1987.
- Remote Options: One-third of job postings now offer remote or hybrid work, opening more opportunities for seniors.
- Federal Protection: The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) protects workers 40 and older from job discrimination.
- Support Programs: Free job training and placement programs specifically help seniors find employment.
Understanding the Senior Employment Landscape
The world of work for older Americans has changed dramatically. Numbering roughly 11 million today, the older workforce has nearly quadrupled in size since the mid-1980s. This isn’t just about financial need—many seniors work because they want to stay active, maintain social connections, or find purpose.
Why Seniors Choose Part-Time Work
Financial Reasons:
- The average senior living on Social Security in America receives $1,872 of monthly benefits
- Medical expenses and prescription costs continue rising
- Debt from pre-retirement years may still need paying
- Desire to leave money for family or causes
Personal Reasons:
- Combat loneliness and boredom
- Maintain mental and physical health
- Keep professional skills sharp
- Build new social networks
Reality Check: Not everyone can work. Health limitations, caregiving responsibilities, or lack of transportation can make employment difficult. Don’t feel pressured to work if it’s not right for your situation.
Federal Minimum Wage and Senior Workers
The federal minimum wage for covered nonexempt employees is $7.25 per hour. However, the annual earnings of a single adult working full-time, year-round at $7.25 an hour now fall below the poverty threshold of $15,650.
Important: Many states have higher minimum wages. Always check your state’s requirements, as employees are entitled to the higher of the two minimum wages when both state and federal laws apply.
Top Part-Time Jobs for Seniors
Customer Service Representative
Average Pay: $12-18 per hour
Work Style: Remote or in-person
What You’ll Do: Answer phone calls, respond to emails, help customers solve problems, process orders
Many companies now offer remote customer service positions, perfect for seniors who prefer working from home. You’ll need good communication skills and basic computer knowledge.
Who’s Hiring: UnitedHealthcare, retail chains, insurance companies
Administrative Assistant
Average Pay: $41,000 annually as an administrative assistant (approximately $20 per hour)
Work Style: Often remote-friendly
What You’ll Do: Schedule appointments, organize files, handle correspondence, manage databases
Your years of professional experience make you ideal for these roles. Many positions are part-time and offer flexible scheduling.
Tutoring and Teaching
Average Pay: $15-50+ per hour depending on subject
Work Style: Online or in-person
What You’ll Do: Help students with homework, teach specific subjects, provide test preparation
The global e-learning market will reach $350.00 billion by 2025. Online teaching platforms report growing demand for experienced instructors.
Platforms to Consider:
Retail Sales Associate
Average Pay: $30,600 annually (approximately $15 per hour)
Work Style: In-person, often part-time
What You’ll Do: Help customers, operate cash registers, stock shelves, process returns
Retail offers flexible scheduling and the chance to interact with people. Many stores specifically value mature workers for their reliability.
Bookkeeping
Average Pay: $47,440 annually at entry level for part-time work
Work Style: Increasingly remote
What You’ll Do: Track financial records, process payroll, reconcile accounts, prepare reports
Traditional bookkeeping roles will decline 6% by 2032, but remote and freelance positions now dominate the market.
Virtual Assistant
Average Pay: Virtual assistants earn between $31,871 and $68,250 annually
Work Style: Remote
What You’ll Do: Schedule meetings, manage emails, handle travel arrangements, organize documents
Perfect for seniors who want to use their organizational skills from home.
Work-From-Home Opportunities
Remote work has opened new doors for seniors. 33 percent of postings in the second quarter of 2024 were for hybrid or fully remote positions, an increase of nine percentage points compared with the same period the previous year.
Popular Remote Jobs for Seniors
| Job Type | Average Pay | Requirements | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data Entry | $12-16/hour | Basic computer skills | Flexible hours, no phone work |
| Content Writing | $15-30/hour | Writing experience | Creative outlet, flexible schedule |
| Online Customer Service | $14-18/hour | Good communication, internet | Work from home, stable hours |
| Virtual Bookkeeping | $20-25/hour | Accounting knowledge | Professional work, good pay |
| Transcription | $12-18/hour | Fast typing, good hearing | Work at your own pace |
Companies Offering Remote Senior Jobs
Several companies have signed the AARP Employer Pledge and actively recruit older workers:
- WAHVE – Specializes in connecting experienced professionals with insurance industry jobs
- H&R Block – Offers seasonal tax preparation work
- CVS Health – Remote customer service and healthcare support roles
Warning: Be cautious of “work from home” scams. Legitimate employers never ask for money upfront or request personal financial information during initial applications.
Job Search Strategies for Seniors
Leveraging Your Network
- Reach out to former colleagues and professional contacts
- Join alumni groups from your previous employers
- Participate in community organizations and volunteer groups
- Use LinkedIn to reconnect with professional contacts
Online Job Platforms
- AARP Job Board – Specifically for age-friendly employers
- Indeed – Filter for “part-time” and “remote”
- FlexJobs – Specializes in flexible work arrangements
- Glassdoor – Research company reviews and salaries
Reality Check: Age Discrimination
Despite legal protections, age bias exists. AARP Research reporting that 78% of older workers faced or witnessed such discrimination in 2020.
Combat Age Discrimination:
- Update your resume with recent accomplishments
- Learn new technology skills through free online courses
- Focus on companies known for hiring diverse age groups
- Don’t include graduation dates from decades ago on your resume
Government Programs for Senior Employment
Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is a community service and work-based job training program for older Americans. This federal program provides:
- Part-time paid training positions (average 20 hours per week)
- Participants work an average of 20 hours a week and are paid the highest of federal, state or local minimum wage
- Job placement assistance
- Skills training and development
Eligibility: Adults 55+ with low income who are unemployed
To Apply: Call the AARP Foundation Work Resources Helpline at 1-855-850-2525
Warning: The Department of Labor allowed SCSEP National Grant funding to expire on June 30th without providing the promised funding for the new program year. Check current program availability before applying.
AARP Foundation Programs
BACK TO WORK 50+
- Free career coaching and job search workshops
- Available both online and in-person
- Focuses on age-specific job search challenges
Work for Yourself@50+
- Since it launched in 2016, Work for Yourself@50+ has served more than 52,000 people across the country
- Free tools and resources for starting your own business
- Workshops on self-employment options
Specialized Resources for Diverse Senior Communities
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Challenges: May face double discrimination based on age and sexual orientation/gender identity Resources:
- SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) – 1-877-360-LGBT
- AARP Pride resources
- Look for employers with inclusive policies and diversity training
Veteran Seniors
Advantages: Military experience is valued by many employers Resources:
- AARP Veteran Job Board – Check the “veterans wanted” filter
- Corporate Gray – Veteran-focused job placement
- ReServe – Matches skilled older adults with nonprofits
Benefits: Veterans may be eligible for additional job training programs through the VA.
Disabled Seniors
Rights: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires reasonable accommodations Resources:
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – 1-800-526-7234
- National Disability Rights Network
- AARP Disability Resources
Accommodations may include: Flexible scheduling, modified duties, assistive technology, or workspace modifications.
Tribal-Specific Resources
For Native American Seniors:
- National Indian Council on Aging
- Bureau of Indian Affairs Employment
- Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances (TERO) may provide job preferences
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
Challenges: Limited transportation, fewer local job opportunities, limited internet access Solutions:
- Remote work opportunities that require minimal travel
- Local agricultural or seasonal work
- USDA Rural Development programs
- Mobile job centers and library computer access
Transportation Resources:
- National Aging and Disability Transportation Center
- Local Area Agency on Aging transportation programs
Managing Work and Benefits
Social Security Considerations
Earnings Limits (2025): If you haven’t reached full retirement age, you can earn up to $22,320 annually without affecting Social Security benefits. Above this limit, benefits are reduced.
Good News: Once you reach full retirement age, there’s no earnings limit.
Get Help: Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to understand how working affects your specific situation.
Medicare and Employment
Working past 65 may affect your Medicare enrollment. If your employer offers health insurance that’s as good as Medicare, you might delay Part B enrollment without penalty.
Important: Get professional advice before making Medicare decisions related to employment.
Part-Time Job Market Reality Check
The Good News
- Adults ages 65 and older are projected to be 8.6% of the labor force in 2032, up from 6.6% in 2022
- Remote work opportunities continue expanding
- Many employers value the reliability and experience of mature workers
The Challenges
- Competition can be intense for desirable positions
- Some employers still harbor age bias despite legal protections
- Technology skills may need updating
- Physical demands of some jobs may be challenging
Managing Expectations
Not every job application will result in an interview. The job search process may take several months. Stay persistent and don’t take rejections personally.
Salary and Wage Information Tables
Entry-Level Part-Time Positions
| Position | Hourly Range | Annual Part-Time | Experience Needed | Remote Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Cashier | $12-15 | $12,000-18,000 | None | No |
| Data Entry | $12-16 | $15,000-20,000 | Basic computer | Yes |
| Customer Service | $14-18 | $17,000-23,000 | Communication skills | Often |
| Library Assistant | $13-17 | $16,000-21,000 | High school diploma | No |
| Pet Sitter | $12-20 | Variable | Animal experience | No |
Professional Part-Time Positions
| Position | Hourly Range | Annual Part-Time | Experience Needed | Remote Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper | $18-25 | $22,000-32,000 | Accounting knowledge | Yes |
| Tutor | $15-50 | $18,000-40,000 | Subject expertise | Often |
| Administrative Assistant | $16-24 | $20,000-30,000 | Office experience | Often |
| Consultant | $30-75 | $35,000-75,000 | Professional expertise | Yes |
| Virtual Assistant | $15-30 | $18,000-38,000 | Administrative skills | Yes |
Specialized Part-Time Positions
| Position | Hourly Range | Annual Part-Time | Experience Needed | Remote Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tax Preparer | $15-25 | $3,000-7,500 (seasonal) | Training/certification | Limited |
| Substitute Teacher | $80-150/day | $8,000-15,000 | Teaching background | No |
| Home Health Aide | $13-18 | $16,000-23,000 | Certification required | No |
| Freelance Writer | $20-50 | $25,000-50,000 | Writing portfolio | Yes |
| Handyman | $20-40 | $25,000-50,000 | Trade skills | No |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will working affect my Social Security benefits? A: It depends on your age and earnings. If you’re under full retirement age, earnings above $22,320 annually may reduce benefits. After full retirement age, there’s no earnings limit. Contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 for your specific situation.
Q: Can employers discriminate against me because of my age? A: No. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) forbids age discrimination against people who are age 40 or older. If you experience discrimination, file a complaint with the EEOC at 1-800-669-4000.
Q: Do I need to update my technology skills? A: Most jobs today require basic computer skills. Consider taking free classes at your local library or community center. Many employers provide training, but basic familiarity with email and internet browsing is helpful.
Q: How long does it typically take to find a part-time job? A: The job search can take 2-6 months depending on your skills, location, and the types of jobs you’re seeking. Stay persistent and consider multiple options.
Q: Should I include my full work history on my resume? A: Focus on the most recent 10-15 years unless earlier experience is directly relevant. Don’t include graduation dates from decades ago. Emphasize skills and achievements rather than dates.
Q: Are remote jobs legitimate? A: Yes, but be cautious of scams. Legitimate remote employers never ask for money upfront, don’t require you to buy equipment initially, and have verifiable company information. Use established job boards and research companies thoroughly.
Q: What if I don’t have recent work experience? A: Highlight volunteer work, caregiving experience, or skills from hobbies. Many part-time positions provide training. Programs like SCSEP offer paid training specifically for seniors returning to work.
Q: Can I work part-time and still receive unemployment benefits? A: This varies by state. Generally, part-time work may reduce but not eliminate unemployment benefits. Contact your state’s unemployment office for specific rules.
Q: What should I do if I face age discrimination? A: Document incidents, report to your company’s HR department, and file a complaint with the EEOC within 180-300 days. You may also want to consult with an employment attorney.
Q: Are there tax implications for working in retirement? A: Yes. Your income from part-time work is taxable, and it may affect how much of your Social Security benefits are taxed. Consult a tax professional for guidance based on your total income.
Resources
Federal Agencies
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) – 1-800-669-4000
- Social Security Administration – 1-800-772-1213
- Department of Labor – Senior employment programs
- Medicare – 1-800-MEDICARE
Job Search Platforms
- AARP Job Board – Age-friendly employers
- Indeed – General job search
- FlexJobs – Flexible and remote positions
- Glassdoor – Company reviews and salary information
Training and Support
- AARP Foundation Work Resources Helpline – 1-855-850-2525
- Local Area Agency on Aging – Find local services
- SCORE – Free business mentoring and education
- American Job Centers – Employment and training services
Specialized Support
- SAGE (LGBTQ+ seniors) – 1-877-360-LGBT
- National Indian Council on Aging
- Job Accommodation Network (disability support) – 1-800-526-7234
- Corporate Gray (veterans)
About This Guide
Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors
This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking employment opportunities.
Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (EEOC, DOL, SSA, HHS), the Bureau of Labor Statistics, state government departments, official program documentation, and verified organization resources including AARP Foundation and Pew Research Center.
Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and application processes.
Information Currency:
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: November 2025
Important Note: Government programs and job market conditions can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators and employers before applying.
Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional financial, legal, or career advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying and consider consulting with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available employment opportunities.