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If you can’t afford to furnish your home or apartment — or you just don’t want to shell out thousands on new furniture — you’ll be happy to learn there are lots of ways to get free furniture, likely in your community.  

Wealthysinglemommy.com founder Emma Johnson was dismayed when she was unable to even give away a vintage Roche Bobois sectional in excellent condition when she moved out of her New York City apartment. New couches from the famous French designer can retail for $10,000 or more.

“It was in excellent condition, I got tons of compliments on it and our building even had an elevator to move it!” she said. Johnson ended up putting it on the street. “I just hope someone took it and is enjoying it.”

Johnson is not the only person in the United States tossing out perfectly good desks, chairs, tables and beds — begging people to take them. Each year, Americans throw away more than 12 million tons of furniture, most of which winds up in landfills, accounting for about 5% of landfill contents, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

If you know where to look, you can get this furniture — for free. From furniture vouchers and giveaways to Freecycle and Craigslist, we’ve put together a list of the best places to get free furniture for your home. 

Free furniture for low-income families

Other creative ways to score free furniture

  1. Keep your eyes on the curb on trash day 
  2. Reach out to your network 
  3. Head to a local college on move-out day
  4. Ask your voice assistant

Free furniture for low-income families

If you have a low income and need help furnishing your home — or if you’re transitioning from homelessness or experiencing a hardship — your household may qualify for free furniture programs.

Furniture banks ‘near me'

A furniture bank is a charity or nonprofit organization that has an inventory of gently used, donated furniture. Furniture banks often have showrooms so that you can walk through and pick out what you like best.

Depending on the furniture bank, these items may be free or offered at a low cost to families in need. Furniture banks typically work with social service or community agencies to identify people who could benefit from their furniture inventory.

Furniture banks depend on help from volunteers to move furniture, so if they are short-staffed, you may need to make arrangements to get furniture delivered to your home.

If you’re looking for a furniture bank in your community, you can search furniture banks ‘near me’ or use a resource like the Furniture Bank Network.2

google-maps-usa-image

To get an idea of what to expect when you visit a furniture bank, check out this video:

Furniture voucher programs

A furniture voucher is a coupon for free furniture and other home goods you can use at participating stores or furniture banks. These vouchers are usually offered by charities and nonprofit organizations. 

For example, at the Salvation Army in Canton, Ga., residents are eligible for furniture vouchers if they fill out a needs-based application and can demonstrate why they need basic household furniture.1 

Some reasons for needing a furniture voucher can include:

  • Recovering from a fire or disaster
  • Unable to afford furniture
  • Family members sleeping on the floor
  • Just moved to a new place
  • New household member

To get a free furniture voucher:

  • Search for furniture vouchers “near me”
  • If you receive government benefits, ask your case worker or social worker 
  • Contact local furniture banks to ask if they offer furniture vouchers
  • Reach out to local nonprofits, churches, and charities like The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul to find out if they offer furniture assistance

Need help moving? Check out our post on affordable movers.

Charities that help with furniture

These are some nonprofits that are known for giving away free furniture, offering furniture vouchers, providing low-cost furniture, or partnering with community organizations for free furniture giveaways:

  • The Salvation Army: Provides furniture vouchers and has discount furniture and home goods in their stores
  • St. Vincent de Paul: Offers a voucher system to those in need for furniture and other household or personal items 
  • Goodwill: Sells low-cost, gently used furniture
  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Sells gently used or new furniture for less than retail prices
  • Heroes Warehouse: Offers free furniture for veterans transitioning from homelessness
  • Catholic Charities: Depending on the region, local branches of this charity may provide free furniture
  • United Way: This organization can help you find free furniture options near you when you dial 211 or visit 211.org

You can also contact smaller charities and nonprofits that serve your region to inquire about furniture assistance. 

For example, Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta provides free furniture and household goods to individuals and families moving out of homelessness, living with HIV/AIDS, or fleeing a home because of domestic violence.

Programs for free beds ‘near me'

Do you need a free bed or mattress for yourself or your children? You can ask people you know or check resources like Freecycle or Facebook Marketplace for leads. If you meet eligibility requirements, there are programs and charities that offer free beds, as well.

The Hope to Dream program works in partnership with Ashley Furniture to provide a free twin bed frame, twin mattress, and bedding to qualified children. Since 2010, Hope to Dream has donated more than 140,000 beds to children.

To qualify, you must be:

  • Underserved child between the ages of 3 and 16 who does not have a bed
  • Living in poverty, in a low-income household, or transitioning from homelessness
  • Nominated by a school social worker, case manager, church, or other charitable organization

Ideally, you’ll want a new mattress, still sealed for your health and protection. In some states, it is actually illegal to buy or sell used mattresses. 

If you find a used bed, inspect it carefully outdoors before taking it into your home. Older wood bed frames with cracks or those with fabric headboards can become hiding places for bed bugs. 

To avoid bringing bed bugs into your house, be sure to vacuum and steam clean any upholstered fabric on the bed frame. Check the bed frame for signs of bed bugs or eggs. You can purchase bed bug spray as a precaution from a home improvement store or Amazon.

Just remember, if you don’t feel comfortable or confident that the bed is free of bed bugs, do not bring the item into your home.

These Reddit users share tips on avoiding bed bugs and roaches when getting free furniture, such as:

  • Knowing how to spot signs of pests
  • How to kill bed bugs with heat
  • Sealing up furniture and leaving outside of the home to check for bugs before bringing it indoors
  • Discarding cardboard boxes furniture came in
  • Avoiding furniture with cushions, fabric, or crevices
How to avoid bed bugs and roaches when picking free furniture?
byu/Lilat0692 inFrugal

Freecycle network

Freecycle Network is a nonprofit movement made up of people who want to reuse and recycle items. You can sign up for a free account on the Freecycle website or app and choose a town to search for items. You can also create a friends circle to share with people you know.

After signing up, you can search for specific free furniture items, such as sofas, tables, chairs, beds or Little Partners montessori furniture for kids. You can also make a post about what you are looking for. To get an item, you’ll coordinate a meetup with the person giving the item away.

Related: Do you have furniture you want to get rid of? We've got a post on that too: How to get rid of used furniture

Craigslist for free furniture

Craigslist is an online classifieds site and mobile app that allows people to list unwanted furniture and other items for local pickup or dropoff. There is a free category under the “For sale” section

You can enter what you're looking for in the search bar, whether you’re looking for free beds, free sofas, or free dining room sets. 

When you’re picking up an item from a Craigslist seller, follow best safety practices:

  • Meet in a public place
  • Don’t go into a stranger’s home
  • Make sure someone you trust goes with you
  • If you must go alone, tell your friends and family where you are meeting the person
  • Never share any financial or other personal information
  • Create a separate email address or proxy voice number (like Google Voice or Whatsapp) for communication

Craigslist does not offer a voicemail service. If you get an email or text message telling you to click a link or dial a number to check your Craigslist voicemail, this is a sure sign of a scam.3 

Gumtree is another website similar to Craigslist.

Check out this Reddit thread where users offer tips for searching for free furniture on Craigslist such as:

  • Clicking on the free category instead of just searching for furniture
  • Searching zip codes where wealthy people live to get nicer stuff
When shopping on Craigslist, include the “Free Stuff” category in your searches.
byu/tgeliot inlifehacks

Other places to check for furniture giveaways

Looking for more places for furniture giveaways? Check out these online resources you can access on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop:

Furniture stores

Check with local furniture stores and ask about furniture sweepstakes and giveaways.

Buy Nothing Project

The Buy Nothing Project offers a free community-based app you can join to give or get items like free furniture and free home furnishings. There are also Buy Nothing and swap groups on Facebook, though they are not officially run by the Buy Nothing Project.

Once you join, you can find a group in your area and then make posts about items you no longer want or items you need. Because you are giving or getting items from your area, it makes it easier to pick up or drop off items as agreed. 

Facebook Marketplace 

Facebook Marketplace is another place where you can find free furniture if you have a Facebook account. Along the left side navigation, click the category for Free Stuff, then type in what you're looking for in the search field. 

If you find something you want, message the person listing the furniture to arrange pickup. 

You may also be able to snag a free appliance.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is an app where you can learn about what’s going on in your neighborhood, such as community events and news. It’s like a community social media site where you can post messages for your neighbors and respond to what others share.

It offers a for sale and free section where you can set a filter to only show free goods. You can also use the search feature to specify what you are looking for, such as a free bed. 

Offerup

OfferUp is another potential source for free furniture. You can create a free account to get started. Members can post up to 200 items per month for free, using the app (there is a fee for extra posts). Even though it’s a buyer-seller marketplace, members list free items. So, you can enter ‘free furniture’ in the search field to see what’s available in your area.

Freebie Alerts

The Freebie Alerts app, available on the App Store and Google Play, sends you a notification every time your neighbors are giving away free stuff including all kinds of furniture, large and small. 

The app monitors:

  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Nextdoor
  • OfferUp
  • TrashNothing

You can choose to receive alerts from all or some of these sources of free stuff. 

If you want specific items, you can use the whitelist feature to notify you of offers with certain furniture, like sofas or end tables. When you want an item, just tap on it in the app to communicate with the person giving it away. You can also post items you would like to give away.

Get the Freebie Alerts app

Other creative ways to score free furniture

To get the furniture you need, you might have to get creative. Here are more ideas on how to get free furniture for your apartment or house:

1. Keep your eyes on the curb on trash day 

Look around your neighborhood before trash day, when some people might put out furniture they no longer want. They may even put a sign on it to let you know it is free. However, it’s a good idea to ask about the furniture if you know the neighbor since the item may be broken or otherwise unusable. 

This Reddit user recommends going to the wealthiest areas near where you live to look for high-quality furniture:

A tip for getting nice free furniture
byu/svadhisthana inFrugal

You can also try dumpster diving.

2. Reach out to your network 

Send out a text or post on social media asking if anyone you know is getting rid of any furniture. Check with your family, friends, co-workers, business partners, other moms from your child’s school, church members, or any other group you belong to.

3. Head to a local college on move-out day

Do you live in a college town or near a college? Move out day is the perfect time to find free furniture. Students who no longer want their furniture or who don’t have the means to transport it often leave it by dumpsters, or in front of their dorm or apartment building. 

This Reddit user shares tips on scoring free furniture from colleges, like:

  • Looking around dumpsters by dorms and college apartments
  • Checking Facebook Marketplace if you live in a college town
  • Join college Facebook college groups to find leads on free furniture
PSA: College Students Moving Out = Furnish Your Place on a Dime
byu/Fuzzy_Slippers_1357 inFrugal

4. Ask your voice assistant

Ask Alexa, Siri, Google, or any other voice assistant: “Where can I find free furniture?” If there are options nearby, you just might get an answer that helps you find exactly what you need.

Also check out these other ways to get free stuff:

$500 monthly single mom grantFree car
Free money for billsSecurity deposit assistance
Free gasFree toys
Free clothesFree laptops
Free gift cardsFree food
Free car seatFree baby stuff
Free housingFree internet

SOURCES

  1. “Durable Goods: Product-Specific Data” Environmental Protection Agency, Dec. 3, 2022. https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/durable-goods-product-specific-data#FurnitureandFurnishings
  2. “Family and Social Services – Furniture Vouchers” Salvation Army Canton Service Center https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/canton-ga/family-and-social-services/
  3. “The Furniture Bank Network” https://furniturebanks.org/
  4. “Avoiding Scams” Craigslist https://www.craigslist.org/about/scams

After a layoff a few years ago, I came across FlexJobs, an online membership site that posts work-from-home, hybrid, and flexible schedule jobs. FlexJobs allows users to filter jobs by category, remote work level, work schedule, and more filters (like whether the job requires travel).

While I ended up landing my first client through word-of-mouth referral, I had a positive experience using FlexJobs and was pleasantly surprised to find out that it’s still going strong in 2024. 

If you’re looking for an easy way to find legit work-from-home jobs, I suggest checking out FlexJobs for a few reason: 

  • Better Business Bureau accredited since 2008, A+ rating
  • Excellent rating on Trustpilot
  • Hand-screened job leads for remote work in 50+ careers
  • Features top employers such as Dell, Capital One, and Apple

Keep reading for my full FlexJobs review. 

Is FlexJobs legit?

How does FlexJobs work?

Features of FlexJobs

Do you have to pay to use FlexJobs?

Can I get a FlexJobs free trial?

How much does FlexJobs cost? 

Does FlexJobs have a guarantee?

What kind of jobs can I find on FlexJobs?

FlexJobs reviews

Pros and cons of FlexJobs

FlexJobs alternatives

Is FlexJobs worth it?

Is FlexJobs legit?

Yes, FlexJobs is not a scam, and is 100% legit:

  • 14-day, low-cost trial
  • 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot
  • Featured in top media including TIME magazine, CNN, Wall Street Journal, and USAToday
  • Founded in 2007 by Sara Sutton Fell — a mom who wanted to help other parents find flexible, work-at-home careers and jobs that pay well
  • 14-day money-back guarantee
  • FlexJobs recruiters vet, interview and make sure 100% of the positions they post are legit and high-quality

To learn more about this legit way to find work-at-home jobs, check out Emma Johnson’s  interview with FlexJobs founder, Sara Sutton Fell:

Learn whether it's worth going back to school at 30 or 40.

How does FlexJobs work?

FlexJobs is a premium job board: You pay for access, while the service provides resources and actively works to help land you a position that fits by:

  • Offering vetted, screened remote jobs from legitimate companies
  • Giving you access to a weekly Q&A with a FlexJobs career coach
  • Displaying new jobs that fit your interests daily on your dashboard
  • Offering a job search checklist that provides valuable information to help you navigate the site, build an effective resume, enhance your interviewing and networking skills, and much more
  • Increasing your marketability by taking advantage of discounts on apps and services, such as learning a foreign language with Babbel or improving your writing with Grammarly
  • Providing resources such as webinars and LinkedIn learning video courses to help you expand your knowledge
  • Offering skills tests you can display on your FlexJobs resume profile to market your skills to potential employers
  • Providing a real-time chat or email to ask questions about getting the most out of your membership

FlexJobs even helps you better understand what kind of work you’ll excel at.

Even though I’m a freelance writer, I like that these at-home jobs aren’t limited to creative work like blogging, copywriting, and graphic design. The career opportunities run the gamut.

I found positions like digital marketing specialist, research toxicologist (chemistry degree, anyone?), and global operations manage, as well as niche positions like gaming software project manager and foster care specialist.

With more than 50 career fields, FlexJobs features positions in engineering, education, computer and IT, human resources, software development, and more.

Employers post opportunities to FlexJobs, but the staff stays busy actively seeking out even more listings.

FlexJobs goes through and researches online listings to make sure they are legit, and NOT scams.

If you’ve ever wasted time pursuing an opportunity that was really a ploy (like that “entry-level marketing assistant” job on Indeed that turned out to be a door-to-door sales position), you know that’s an awesome feature.

FlexJobs uses your preferences to help make a match, and then you apply.

However, you should be prepared to do work upfront. Think of this as an online dating profile. You can’t just jump onto the platform and snag a gig — you’ll need to take the time to play up all the things that make you an ideal job candidate.

Bonus: The company will give you a refund if you’re not satisfied within 14 days.

Features of FlexJobs

FlexJobs has features to help you find your next job, learn new skills, and increase your marketability to help you get hired:

Skills testing

There are more than 200 tests you can take to show off your skills, including email writing and etiquette, accounting principles and vocabulary.

If you score higher than 70%, your score gets added to your profile so employers can check out your skills. If you fall a little short on the first try, you can take any test again after 24 hours.

FlexJobs has more than 200 professional skill tests you can take to enhance your career profile.

Educational content

There is a straight-up treasure trove of blog posts, articles, webinars, courses, and other helpful content aimed at helping you build a successful career.

Right after you sign up, FlexJobs suggests content to check out — motivational TED Talks or quick job-search tactics, for example.

FlexJobs has online learning courses to help you sharpen or learn new skills.

Career events and weekly Q&A

FlexJobs offers weekly webinars where members can ask questions to career and hiring experts.

All sessions are delivered via live webinar but are available to watch back later if you can't make the live stream.

FlexJobs offers weekly webinars and other resources to help you with your job search.

My job categories

You can choose as many job categories as you like, and FlexJobs will show you all jobs that fit your preferences.

Use FlexJobs categories to see all jobs that fit your career search.

One-on-one career coaching

For an extra fee, you can get personalized career coaching and resume help. However, because there are a set number of coaches, sometimes the services may be temporarily unavailable. 

FlexJobs offers one-on-one career coaching for an extra fee.

Do you have to pay to use FlexJobs?

Yes, you must pay to use FlexJobs. The initial cost is $2.95 for 14 days of access. It is enough time to try it out to make a decision about whether it is a good fit for your remote job search.

Can I get a FlexJobs free trial?

FlexJobs does not have a free trial, but you can sign up for 14 days for $2.95. If you follow FlexJobs on social media or Google FlexJobs coupon codes, you might also be able to get a discounted membership. If a friend refers you, you can get up to 30% off a FlexJobs membership.

How much does FlexJobs cost? 

After your 14-day trial, the price for FlexJobs is $23.95, billed every four weeks. Or, you can choose a one-year membership for $71.40 ($5.95 per month):

Current pricing for a FlexJobs membership.

Tips for maximizing your membership

Test the waters. Use the 14-day trial. While every penny counts, a one-month subscription to FlexJobs costs less than 80 cents per day when you break it down.

If you can find $23.95 in your budget, you can get a lot out of one month. And if you don’t get what you want in that time (or you find you’re just not using FlexJobs as much as you thought you would), then you know it’s not for you.

If you decide to stick with FlexJobs after one month, switching to an annual plan can save you $18 per month ($71.40 billed annually comes out to $5.95 per month).

Unless you specify that you want to change (or cancel) your plan, your initial subscription will renew automatically at $23.95 per month.

FlexJobs' also offers career coaching services at an additional cost.

FlexJobs career coaching and resume reviews

FlexJobs offers career and resume consulting for affordable rates:

  • Career Coaching: 30-minute call for $74 that includes resume advice, job search strategies, Q&A, and a custom report for career success
  • Resume Review: Get your resume reviewed and updated for $149 via email so you can tailor it for the jobs you want
  • Career Coaching and Resume Review bundle: For $199, you can get a 30-minute coaching call and one resume review and update
  • Mock Interview: For $74, you can practice interviewing skills for 30 minutes with a career coach via phone or video and get real-time feedback
  • Career Change Coaching: If you want to switch careers, FlexJobs offers a self-assessment tool and a 30-minute call with a career coach for $119 where you’ll gain tips on how to prepare yourself for a new career

Does FlexJobs have a guarantee?

FlexJobs has a 100% money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied for any reason. You can cancel your subscription within 14 days and request a refund (via phone, email, or virtual chat).

What kind of jobs can I find on FlexJobs?

You can find jobs in almost any industry on FlexJobs and for a number of job types — full-time, part-time, contract, work-from-home, etc. According to FlexJobs.com, these are some of the most popular job categories: 

  • Customer service
  • Writing
  • Computer and IT
  • Accounting and finance
  • Marketing
  • Project Management 
  • Administrative
  • Medical and health care

42 recession-proof jobs to keep cash flowing during economic downturn

No background check jobs: 11 background friendly jobs

FlexJobs reviews

Until recently, FlexJobs had an excellent A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. It has dropped to a A+ rating, with many complaints about billing practices.

However, Flexjobs has maintained an excellent rating on Trustpilot, where a total of 5,274 reviewers give the job site an average of 4.3/5 stars:

FlexJobs gets mixed reviews from job seekers on Reddit:

Is flexjobs worth paying for?
byu/EarthQuackShugaSkull inRemoteJobs
Is paying for FlexJobs.com worth it?
byu/itsausername321 indigitalnomad
Is flexjobs worth the money?
byu/enby-deer incscareerquestions

Pros and cons of FlexJobs

Pros of using FlexJobs

  • Affordable 14-day trial
  • Highly vetted listings — 100% of the companies and 100% of the job postings are hand-reviewed by FlexJobs
  • No scams or weird postings, all jobs are rea and from quality companies
  • Highly customizable search by type of work, location, full- or part-time, etc.
  • Email alerts for new postings
  • Online job-seeker portal allows you to create a profile with a resume, skills test results and other info to make it easy to interact with employers and land a job
  • No ads
  • Referral program — get a free month when you get a friend to sign up (your friend gets up to 30% off the membership price
  • There are so many resources available through FlexJobs: webinars, skills courses, articles, job-hunting tips, videos and checklists to make sure you’re on the right track in your online job search
  • In fact, FlexJobs claims to have info on more than 50,000 companies that hire for remote, freelance, part-time, and flexible schedule jobs (Knowledge is power, mama!)
  • Members have access to over 60 partner offers, including deals like a 30-day trial of Audible (which includes a free audiobook)
  • 1:1 job coaching and resume consulting, for fees starting at $74 for 30 minutes
  • 100% 14-day money-back guarantee
The FlexJobs search portal allows you to browse remote and flexible jobs.

Cons of using FlexJobs

  • The BBB rating of A+
  • It’s not free but that’s the trade-off for having FlexJobs staff comb through jobs online and not being pestered by ads
  • FlexJobs may cut a few steps out of the job-hunting process, but you still have to keep an eye on things and log in fairly often to get the work you want
  • You can’t always apply directly through the site, but that’s to be expected: Many employers have their own processes in place for screening applicants
  • FlexJobs offers tips and does its best to tell you the most direct way to apply, but you often still have to go through the employer directly, so keep a copy of your resume and some talking points in a convenient spot, like your computer’s desktop

FlexJobs alternatives

There are paid and free alternatives to FlexJobs:

FlexJobs alternatives (for fee)

If you are looking for an alternative to FlexJobs, you can check out Virtual Vocations. Founded in 2007, it has an A+ rating and was accredited with the BBB in 2014. Virtual Vocations also offers a membership for remote job searches, but unlike FlexJobs, it also offers a free membership.

Membership options include:

  • Free: You get limited access to job leads, can save and apply for jobs, view your application history, upload resumes, download a free telecommuting guide, and set up alerts for new remote listings based on your interests
  • Premium: You get the benefits of the free membership plus access to all job leads, priority alerts for new jobs that might interest you, a free interview guide, and access to online courses and resources to help you get the job

Premium memberships start at $19.99 per month You can save money with a three-month plan ($49.99) or a six-month plan ($69.99). 

Virtual Vocations offers:

  • Free membership (All FlexJobs options are paid)
  • 30-day money back guarantee (FlexJobs gives you 14 days)
  • Access to over 40 career categories (FlexJobs has 50+)
  • Online courses for premium members (FlexJobs’ online courses are for all members
  • Payment through PayPal or credit card (FlexJobs doesn't accept PayPal)

Free FlexJobs alternatives

While FlexJobs is a niche jobs site primarily for remote and flexible work, there are a number of free alternatives to FlexJobs where you can apply to similar (or even the same) jobs: 

  • Remote OK
  • Remote.co
  • We Work Remotely
  • NoDesk
  • JustRemote
  • Outsourcely
  • Indeed
  • SimplyHired
  • LinkedIn
  • ZipRecruiter
  • Glassdoor
  • Monster
  • Upwork
  • Fiverr

Bottom line: Is FlexJobs worth it?

Verdict: FlexJobs is worth it.

You get up to 14 days to search and apply for work-at-home and flexible jobs for just $2.95. In my experience, this is enough time to decide if FlexJobs has enough job listings for your specific career field.

FlexJobs delivers on its promise: a quality job board devoted to thoroughly screened postings for high-quality positions from vetted companies for those that are qualified and legitimate. 

Should you decide to choose a monthly or annual membership, it’ll pay for itself and then some if you land one of the quality, high-paying professional positions the site posts.

What is FlexJobs?

FlexJobs is an online membership site that posts work-from-home and flexible career-level jobs. Flexjobs allows users to filter jobs by job category, remote work level, work schedule, and more filters (like whether the job requires travel).

Is FlexJobs legit?

Yes, FlexJobs is not a scam, and is 100% legit with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and 14-day money-back guarantee.

Is FlexJobs worth it?

FlexJobs delivers on its promise: a quality job board devoted to thoroughly screening postings for high-quality positions from vetted companies for those that are qualified and legitimate.

Can I get a FlexJobs free trial?

FlexJobs does not have a free trial. However at $2.95, the 14-day trial is affordable. FlexJobs also offers a 100%, 14-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied.

How much does FlexJobs cost?

FlexJobs starts as low as $5.95 a month with an annual subscription. You have to choose a paid plan when you make your account.

Does FlexJobs have a guarantee?

FlexJobs has a 100%, 14-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied for any reason. You can cancel your subscription and request a refund.

As a single mom of twins, my body was wrecked from pregnancy. 

But even before that, I struggled with my weight. I’d tried every diet and exercise program in the book, including an intensive bootcamp program where I could barely get through a class. 

I was 37 and unmarried when I decided to get bariatric surgery, a decision that ultimately allowed me to have a healthy pregnancy via IVF using a sperm donor.

Callie Carmichael shares how to feel sexy when overweight.

However, after a year of living in survival mode — making unhealthy choices, and putting myself last — I fell back into old habits and gained some of the weight I had initially lost. 

While I was determined to make little changes to better my health, I had to accept that extra weight, stretch marks, and a c-section scar would be part of a new me — a me I’d have to learn to love. 

Although I’m still not 100% happy with the way I look, I’m finally starting to feel sexy in my skin, and I might even start dating again soon. 

I asked some moms on Facebook how they feel sexy in their bodies: 

“For me, it was accepting that my body had changed after growing this amazing little person and to ditch the old clothes and just go buy stuff in larger sizes that fit.” — Alice

“Confidence is a state of mind. No matter your body, you should feel confident in it. Nothing is sexier than confidence, no matter your shape or size.” — Lisa

“Nothing helped me feel confident in my body more than connecting with, accepting, challenging, and loving my body through my self-embodiment practices (yoga, meditation).” — Jessica

I wanted to share some things that have helped me learn to love my body and embrace who I am at any size:

Table of contents

1. How to feel sexy: Spend some time naked

I’ve started avoiding the urge to cover up immediately after hopping out of the shower. I have a massive mirror in my bathroom, and I used to find myself grabbing the towel as quickly as possible to cover my body so I wouldn’t have to face it. 

Even if I’m still not 100% at peace with my body, I have so much respect for all the places this body has taken me. This body has completed three triathlons, traveled the world, and produced two whole human beings at once. 

My scars and my soft belly were part of that story, which I now embrace. They’re evidence of all the things I went through to achieve motherhood. 

Callie Carmichael shares how to feel sexy when overweight.

Ladies, stop and check yourself out. Take a look and embrace all of your glorious parts — even the ones you tend to want to hide. 

Advice from women on Reddit: 

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2. Book a boudoir photo shoot

If you want to take yourself a step further outside your comfort zone, consider booking a boudoir photo shoot. There are plenty of plus-size friendly photographers whose job it is to make you feel beautiful just as you are. 

If you don’t want to spend the money or don’t feel comfortable stripping down in front of a stranger, you can set up your own little photo shoot in your bedroom with a cell phone stand and some creative lighting. Have fun with it, and be playful. 

Pro-tip — most phones allow you to keep your sexy photos hidden from the rest. You can keep these photos to yourself and peek at them when you need a little reminder of just how hot you really are.

Advice from women on Reddit: 

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3. Vamp up your undergarments 

Even if you work from home in sweats or you’re rocking spit-up as an accessory, try slipping into something a little sexy underneath. 

Buying something that makes you feel hot can boost your confidence, even if you don’t have a partner. 

There’s something powerful about walking into the grocery store with a messy bun and hoodie, knowing I am absolutely rocking it under the hood.

Advice from women on Reddit: 

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4. Try sensual meditation, mindfulness, and naked yoga

Mirrors, scales, and size charts are the worst at telling you how to feel. You are your own best advocate for loving your body as-is. What better way to hone in on self love than a great guided meditation and mindfulness exercises.

“Mindfulness is about coming back to center, and understanding what is vs. what our minds and conditioning, trauma, etc., tell us is real, or what our perceived reality is,” says Katrina Tschirhart, founder Mindful Movement Studios in Marietta, Ga. 

When it comes to body acceptance, Tschirhart says mindfulness practices allow us to see ourselves through a lens of love and compassion vs. how we see ourselves as a result of social conditioning and traumas.

One of my favorite meditations is from Women’s Meditation Network1, and it focuses on healing, pleasure, and joy. 

The host, Katie Krimitsos, starts the meditation by saying, “You deserve sexual pleasure, no matter your history, no matter your size, no matter what anyone else has told you.”

If you think yoga is only for thin people…think again. One of my favorite influencers, authors, and yoga instructors is Jessamyn Stanley. She’s also the author of “Every Body Yoga.” 

As a self-described “fat person,” she focuses on inclusivity for all body types. Last year, she launched an OnlyFans account that offers live naked yoga classes. 

In one of her videos, says:

“Practicing yoga naked is actually more freeing mentally than a lot of people think. Of course, it can naturally feel good not to be restrained by clothing, but to develop a mindset that believes your body is your home — you’ll see yourself differently.”

Learn more self care strategies, plus things to do by yourself for a fuller life.

Advice from women on Reddit: 

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5. Dress in an outfit that makes you feel sexy

Some women avoid dressing sexy because it feels uncomfortable. But ladies, there are so many options that feel great and are also smokin’ hot. But ladies, there are so many options that feel great and are also smokin’ hot — from figure-flattering leggings to a breezy linen skirt that highlights your shape while keeping you comfortable. Splurge on some fancy leggings that accentuate your rear. 

Dia & Co. is one of my favorite go-to clothing brands. They also have a try-before-you-buy option for those of us who don’t have time to go to the store (or just prefer trying things on at home).

Dressing with a sense of joy can also make you feel hot. I have a swim cover up with pom poms that I adore. 

It doesn’t necessarily show off a particular part of my body that I love or dislike, BUT the pom poms are to die for. They make me happy. 

I spoke with Atlanta stylist Lillian Charles2, and she offered this advice for feeling good in your clothes: 

  1. Understand and dress for the body you have now. She says articles on how to dress a curvy body may not be right for your curvy body.  Figure out what’s right for your body at this stage in your life by trying on different types of clothes and researching your body shape — pear, apple, hourglass, etc.
  2. Choose one thing you love about the way you look right now. Build your outfit around the thing you’re most proud of. “It could be your collarbone, or your toes. It could be your new highlights,” she says. “If you’re walking your kid in a stroller and your legs are looking extra good, love on that part of yourself.”
  3. Look for something that pops in every outfit you wear. “So many moms wear all black, and I get that — guilty as charged. It could be a big pair of earrings or fun colorful streetwear sneakers like the Adidas Superstar. Get a sleek new bag instead of the tired saggy bag you’ve been carrying pre-baby.”

“Really focus on what you can do today,” Charles says. “There’s a solution for every body at every stage at every age.” 

If you're looking to clear out some items you no longer work learn about selling on consignment, and read our reviews of popular online consignment sites Thredup, Poshmark, and Mercari.

Advice from women on Reddit: 

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Confidence starts with how you care for yourself

 Sexy isn’t just about the clothes you wear — it’s about how you feel in your own skin. Small self-care rituals can make a huge difference in your confidence, from skincare to grooming. For some women, finding electrolysis hair removal near me has been a simple, long-term way to feel smoother and more comfortable, letting them fully embrace their favorite outfits and enjoy their body without worry.

6. Focus on health

While bariatric surgery allowed me to lose weight, I ultimately wanted the surgery to get healthy enough to get pregnant. Weight loss surgery is certainly not for most people, but for me, having a sleeve gastrectomy was life changing. 

However, five years post-surgery with babies, life and stress, I still have to put in the work. Bariatric surgery was just a tool in my health toolbox that is part of so many other tools I use to stay healthy. 

Another science-backed tool some women explore are modern weight loss medications, such as GLP-1 agonists. If you're researching personalized options, there are online platforms that offer a compounded semaglutide prescription with alternatives tailored for various health disclosures and preferences. This can be one more strategy—paired with sustainable movement and mindful nutrition—to help you feel stronger, confident, and sexy in your own skin.

For individuals managing busy schedules and family life, achieving consistent fat loss can be a challenge. Some people include supportive supplements options like WOWMD Night Time Fat Burner in their wellness routines to help maintain progress even during rest. When paired with mindful eating and light physical activity, it can act as an added element in a balanced approach to health and self-care.

I recently invested in a Peloton as another of my healthy toolbox tools. I’ve got great legs and always have. I’ve found that focusing on a part of my body that I love has made me feel so much stronger and healthier. 

What I love about the Peloton is that you can take 10-minute classes to start out, which is what I did. You’re not going to lose weight or get toned with these short workouts, but it’s a great way to kick off a healthy habit that can evolve into something that will make you feel and look healthier.

Plus, read our tips on easy meal planning for moms.

Advice from women on Reddit: 

I started to focus on my happiness and lost weight without trying
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7. See what makes other women feel sexy

Reddit is full of women asking for and giving advice about how to feel sexy at any size. I compiled some of their best advice: 

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How to feel sexy again FAQs

How to feel sexy when you’re overweight?

These are some things you can do to feel sexy when you’re overweight: 

  • Splurge on some sexy underthings that make you feel amazing
  • Find parts of yourself you love and accentuate them with flattering clothes
  • Get in touch with your body through mindful meditation
  • Try dancing or another fun aerobic workout that allows you to get in touch with your sexy side

What to wear when you feel uncomfortable with your body?

If you don’t feel comfortable with your body, try to find just one part of your body you do love, and emphasize it with a piece of clothing that makes you feel great. 

“Try to understand the shape you are in now, and dress for the body that you’re in now,” Charles says.

If you love your shoulders, show them off in an off-the-shoulder top. Love your feet? Wear a colorful pair of heels or sandals. Your eyes? Find a bold necklace that matches or contrasts to your eye color — orange can make blue eyes pop. 

Will sexy lingerie help with body positivity?

Anything you wear that makes you feel sexy can boost body positivity. Sexy lingerie doesn’t have to show a ton of skin. If you feel more comfortable in a full-piece leotard that squeezes you in all the right places, start with that. If you feel sexiest wearing a pair of high-waisted spanks, wear that. 

Take it a step further and snap some pics of yourself wearing lingerie that you love. When you’re feeling the frump, take a peek at those sexy pics as a reminder of how sexy you really are.

How can I feel attractive in my body?

Don’t berate yourself in the mirror. Focus on the parts you love and look for ways you can feel sexy and healthy. There’s a body for every age and every stage. Instagram influencer and body positivity champion Megan Jayne Crabbe challenges the idea that our bodies are problems to solve. 

In her “No More Trash Talk Challenge” she posts, “Spend some time saying ‘Thank You’ to the parts of your body you’re not OK with — and try to really mean it.”

SOURCES

  1. “Morning Meditation for Women,” Women's Meditation Network. https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/morningpodcast/
  2. https://www.lilliancharles.com/

What happens to my kids if I die?

Whether you’re a single parent of teens, or have recently welcomed a new baby into your life, chances are you’ve asked this question: What happens if I die?

Have you done everything possible to care for your children in the future?

Creating an estate plan is one of the best ways to provide for your children. 

We asked single moms on Facebook to share their thoughts on creating an estate plan, and responses ranged from fear to empowerment:

“I have lots of fears and anxiety, because I have nothing in place.”

Jacquie O.

“If you own a home, make sure you file the homestead protection papers for your state (or that your realtor did). Put as much as you can in your 401k at least to get full benefit of employer matching, 401k as well as homestead offer protections against creditors. Work: your social security benefits are also protected. When you are choosing when to borrow: Federal student loans are forgivable upon either the borrower’s or student’s death or disability (unlike mortgages, car loans etc). I got a living trust and put my real property in its name. I did it when my ex died. One of my best friends has the docs and can help out (is a named Trustee). I also have a law firm engaged to help administer should something happen to me.”

Kate A.

“I stress because I haven't done it yet. I meant to this year, but we've had so much going on. My dad died, I bought a house, my child was diagnosed with a chronic illness, it just feels too overwhelming at the moment.”

Janelle J.

“Part of my journey as a SMC meant stipulating my assets via her trustees when she was born. It gave me piece of mind lining up all her key players, getting consent and having those important conversations while I was pregnant. But this is just my experience.”

Julia C.

Whether you have an estate plan in place and want to fine tune the details or you’re just getting started, this post offers education and guidance to make sure that your wishes are honored, and decisions about your children’s future are not left up to the courts.

This post will answer the following questions to help you get an enforceable estate plan in place:

What is estate planning?

Estate planning is the legal process of transferring your wealth after death. However, an estate plan can also include a living will to carry out your wishes if you are no longer able to make decisions or give consent.

“A good estate plan covers it all — from now through incapacity and all the way through death,” says Attorney Candace Dellacona, a shareholder and Practice Group Leader of the Estates and Trusts practice group (North) at Offit Kurman in New York. She is also the host of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, a podcast that covers topics like estate planning, self-care, raising children, and caregiving for aging parents.1

Estate planning can cover how to handle:

  • Life insurance and beneficiaries
  • Care for minor children or dependents
  • Setting up  a trust
  • Philanthropic acts
  • Investments
  • Real estate
  • Items of sentimental and monetary value

Estate planning can also include strategies for minimizing the sum of taxes your heirs will pay on any inheritance.

What documents are essential for estate planning?

Essential parts of an estate plan include:

  • Advanced directive: Establishes legal responsibility for decision-making in terms of your health and finances
  • Will: Spells out what happens to your property when you die
  • Living will: A type of advance directive that carries out your wishes if you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions
  • Trust: A legal entity into which property or funds are transferred, and then managed
  • Living trust: A legal entity that holds and manages your property or funds while you are alive and distributes them after death

You might be familiar with a will or a trust but have you heard of an advanced directive? They are another key part of a complete estate plan.

“Everyone needs advanced directives, which are the documents that cover your health care wishes in the event that you’re alive but unable to speak for yourself,” she says, adding that, in many states, an advanced directive can also be called a health care proxy or a power of attorney for health care.

“A second advanced directive is a power of attorney for finances,” Dellacona says. “This document is vital in the event that you’re alive but unable to handle your finances due to illness or incapacity.”

Dellacona explains that, to direct your assets upon your death, a will or a trust is required. These documents state who is in charge of your assets when you die and who should inherit those assets.

Do I need an estate planning attorney?

Yes, an estate planning attorney can be a great resource for several reasons:

  • They know state laws concerning estate plans
  • They can help you choose what’s right for you and your family
  • They can ensure that your estate plan is valid and enforceable

“While there are some ‘DIY' options online, you’ll never get the context/importance of each document and how important the details are without someone to guide you,” Dellacona says. “I often tell people that a DIY estate plan is much like looking at WebMD to diagnose a serious illness — it just shouldn’t be done.”

If you still plan to create your own plan or if you have already created one using online forms, it is advisable to have an attorney review your estate plan to make sure it will be enforceable in your state.

Add this: Engaging an estate planning lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of estate planning. Their expertise ensures that your will and other estate documents comply with state laws, helping to prevent potential disputes and facilitating a smoother probate process for your beneficiaries.

What is a will?

A will, short for last will and testament, is a legal document that:

  • Details how you want your property to be distributed when you die
  • Appoints an executor to carry out those wishes
  • Includes a provision that outlines how your estate will care for minor children or dependents and names a preferred guardian 

A will controls your assets that don’t have instruction on where to go when you die. For example, Dellacona says, a bank account with a named beneficiary or a jointly-owned home cannot supersede a will.

In the case of the beneficiary, that person becomes the owner of the account upon your death. And if you jointly own property, the co-owner has rights of survivorship, meaning that the will can’t control who gets the house because it already has an owner.

Co-owning a home can also create complications during life. If a co-owner tries to take out a new mortgage or HELOC without your consent, the lender’s lien may not attach to your share, but it can still cloud title, jeopardize equity, and complicate your estate plan. To understand your rights and options—including how to force a sale, refinance, or otherwise restructure ownership—and to learn how to get out of a joint mortgage, see this guide on co-owner consent and what happens when a co-owner stops paying.

What should a single parent will include?

A will defines the handling of assets and debts, but as a single parent, your will must cover how your children will be cared for and by whom.

“A single parent’s estate plan is vital, especially when it comes to guardianship,” Dellacona says. “It is so important that you name a guardian for your minor child (who may or may not be their other parent) and perhaps a trustee for the funds that you leave to your child.”

According to Dellacona, a single parent will should include:

  • Naming someone you trust as executor who will carry out the terms of your will (also name a successor executor in case the original successor is not available)
  • A statement that addresses how the estate is to be distributed after identified debts, expenses, and taxes are paid
  • Language that defines who gets what (if you haven’t already named beneficiaries or established joint ownership on assets such as real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, life insurance, and personal belongings (Don’t have life insurance yet? Read: Where single parents can find the best, affordable life insurance)
  • Specifics about how you want your assets to be allocated to care for your children 
  • Naming a person as a guardian to take care of your kids if you and the other parent pass away or if the children’s other parent is not part of their lives. 
  • Naming alternative guardians in the event your first choice for legal guardian is unwilling or unable to care for your child
  • Creating a pet trust to make sure your family pet is taken care of and naming a guardian to care for them after you’re gone (you can add a pet trust to a will or living trust)

As far as allocating assets to your children, Dellacona says you can ask your estate planning attorney to set up a trust in your will called a testamentary trust, or you can do this in your own revocable trust to direct how the funds should be distributed to your children.

For example, you can dictate whether they get assets at a certain age or decide if funds should be used for specific actions like going to college or starting a business.

Do you need a lawyer to make a will?

It helps to have an attorney guide the process because it ensures that you will have an enforceable will. If you don’t have many assets or debts, you can also use a reputable online legal service to get the job done.

However, if you have multiple children, a large estate that includes property, or challenging family dynamics, an attorney’s expertise will be essential in the estate planning process.  

Dellacona says you should proceed with caution when using an online legal service. 

“Laws differ greatly from state to state, and most states have stringent signing requirements,” Dellacona says. “If you do not follow the strict protocol, your will may not be valid. Estate planning is so important – it protects your family after all, and it is best left to a professional.”

Should you decide to use an online legal service, Find out if they also offer a service to have an estate planning attorney review your will to ensure it is executed properly.

For example, LegalZoom offers a will and estate planning package that also includes two weeks of attorney help and a full review of the will or complete estate plan to ensure everything is correct.2

Searching for “will lawyer near me?” Enter your zip code here:

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What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement that gives a third party, known as a trustee, the authority to hold assets on behalf of a beneficiary or a group of beneficiaries.

Dellacona says that a trust can also be a substitute for a will because it takes the place of a will and avoids probate. For this reason, it can be a great option.

“A trust must be funded with your assets before you die,” Dellacona says. “When you create a trust that directs where you want your assets to go upon your passing, you first have to re-title those assets in the name of the trust before you die.”

The main benefit of a trust, Dellacona says, is that it doesn’t have to go through probate upon death so it generally means that an estate is administered much quicker if the assets are in a trust.

Trusts can be revocable (you can change the details) or irrevocable (cannot be changed).

What is a living trust?

A living trust is a written legal document that places your assets in a trust for the purpose of managing them during your life and distributing them after you pass on.

What’s the main advantage of a trust or living trust?

The main advantage of a trust is being able to quickly and efficiently distribute your assets and personal possessions after you die without going through probate court.

What’s the difference between a will and a living trust?

A living trust:

  • Manages your assets during your life
  • Distributes your assets upon your death
  • Doesn't have to go through probate court
  • Is complex to set up, requires an attorney, and can be expensive

A will:

  • Does not help your heirs avoid probate court
  • Can be declared invalid by a court
  • Can be challenged
  • Is one of the most affordable estate plan documents

While probate court mainly exists to ensure your debts are paid and your assets are distributed fairly, there are a few things that can go wrong.

For example, if your probate court decides your will is invalid, family members can appear in court and object to:

  • Your will
  • Your named executor
  • How your assets will be distributed

This means your assets may or may not wind up where you wanted them to be.

Do you need a will or a living trust? 

You need a will, first and foremost. It names all of your assets. A living trust goes hand in hand with a will and provides control of those assets and timely help for your children and any other beneficiaries you leave behind. 

Remember, not having a trust means your will is subject to probate court. The probate court process can take a year or longer, depending on the state and circumstances.

But it will also depend on what you can afford. Depending on how you create it (DIY vs. estate planning attorney), a will can cost $0-$1,000 and a trust can cost $139-$3,000.3

What does a single parent living trust include?

According to Dellacona, a single parent living trust should contain:

  1. A will and/or a trust that contains a guardianship provision for your kids and a trust for your kids
  2. Durable power of attorney 
  3. Health care proxy/health care power of attorney that contains a HIPAA waiver

In some cases, questions may arise if you disagree with how a trust is managed, or if you suspect a trustee is not acting in your child’s best interest. If you're considering whether you have legal grounds to take action, it's important to understand when and how can you sue a trust due to mismanagement or breach of fiduciary duty. Understanding the options for contesting trusts can be crucial in protecting your family's estate wishes.

Keep in mind, a will and a trust are two separate documents, even though they can work together to care for those left behind. 

What is an advanced directive?

If you find yourself in a coma or unable to speak, your loved ones and the medical staff won’t know whether you want life support or to be resuscitated. Having an advanced directive can communicate your wishes and appoint someone to be your medical power of attorney to make decisions on your behalf.

What is an advanced directive vs. a living will? A living will is a type of  advanced directive that describes the types of health care you want to receive if you can’t speak for yourself.

What is the best trust for a single parent?

Dellacona says choosing the best trust will depend on what you need.

“Often a revocable trust can be sufficient to manage assets during your life and then pass to your children in further trust upon your death,” she says. “Irrevocable trusts can be a tool to keep assets out of your estate for tax purposes.”

Dellacona says that each client has a unique set of circumstances, which means it’s important to speak with an estate planning lawyer in your state to make sure that the advice you receive is accurate.

What happens when one parent dies?

When a parent dies, what happens to children depends on a few factors:

  • Whether you’re married to the other parent
  • The custody arrangements if you’re divorced or were never married to the other parent, and
  • If you have a will

If the legal mother and father are married to each other, this question is easy to answer: When one parent passes on, the surviving parent gets custody.

But what if you’re not married—or were never married to your child’s father?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 23% of kids live with single parents.4 Where your children are placed should you die depends on your legal rights as a father or as a mother.

When thinking about what happens if you’re divorced and die without a will, these questions may come up:

  • If a mother dies, does the father automatically get custody?
  • If a father dies, does the mother automatically get custody?

If the other parent is at all involved in the child’s life, and there is a custody and visitation schedule in place, chances are good the child will live full-time with the surviving parent.

If the parent with sole custody dies, the court will decide whether to place your kids with the non-custodial parent based on what is best for the children.

Grandparents can get custody over the father or mother if one or the other isn’t safe or practical — say, if one parent is incarcerated, addicted, or has been largely absent from the child’s life. But the child is most often placed with the surviving parent when the custodial parent dies.

What happens when both parents die?

Having a situation where both parents depart this life at the same time is rare, but it’s a good example of why every parent needs to have a will. Otherwise, you have no say in who cares for your child because the decision rests with the court.

If this happens, the first thing you need to know is that child custody only applies to parents.

When another adult — such as a grandparent, friend, or another relative — is given the responsibility to care for your child through a will, custody no longer applies. Instead, the court will appoint them as the legal guardian of your child.

A legal guardian is someone appointed by the court with legal authority and responsibility to care for a child. This person may also be responsible for the child’s legal and financial affairs, but not necessarily.

In some cases, especially if there is a large sum of money from an inheritance or life insurance policy, a conservator is appointed by a judge to manage the financial affairs of a child. This person may also be the legal guardian, but can also be a second person.

How to set up guardianship in case of death

If the children are still minors when you pass, establishing guardianship can be done one of two ways — with or without a will.

Setting up a guardianship with a will

With a will, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing the court will follow your wishes unless your request is impractical, or the person doesn’t want the responsibility of caring for your children.

Ideally, you can establish guardianship for your kids by working with the other parent and picking a person the two of you can agree on. This way, you both nominate the same person in your wills and the court can appoint a guardian with no trouble if you both die.

Whoever you chose to serve as guardian should have a copy of your will, and they can bring the document to the probate court when the time comes. Some states require the nominated guardian to fill out an application or petition before they’ll grant guardianship, and they’ll likely have to pay a filing fee, too.

Setting up guardianship without a will

When parents die without a will, the court can still appoint a guardian, although this isn’t the best situation since the courts won’t have any idea what your wishes are.

But someone needs to care for your kids, and the court should have legal guardianship forms available to fill out in case of your death.

In most jurisdictions, anyone with an interest in the minor’s care can fill out this form to request appointment as guardian, including a sibling if they’re at least 18 years old and can provide a stable home environment.

However, the courts will decide who gets guardianship of your minor children, and often look to grandparents, other relatives, or friends of the family to fill the role.

In the unfortunate event that a suitable person can’t be found, or if one isn’t willing to serve as guardian, foster care might be the only option and your child could end up as a ward of the state.

Bottom line: Should you have a will for a single parent as part of your estate planning? Yes, here’s why

If you die without leaving a will, your property and assets may not be divided according to your wishes, and your children’s guardianship could be left up to the courts.

Check out this video from Sarah Morris of Morris Law Center about why you should have an estate plan as a single parent:

As a single parent, you never want to imagine leaving your children behind, especially when they’re still young. But the reality is, bad things can and do happen. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure your children will be safely cared for and financially supported in the event of your passing.

SOURCES:

  1. “The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide” podcast https://offitkurman.com/offit-kurman-podcast/the-sandwich-generation-survival-guide/
  2. “Protect your loved ones with a legally binding will” LegalZoom https://www.legalzoom.com/marketing/estate-planning/last-will
  3. “Living Trust vs. Will: Key Differences” National Council on Aging https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/estate-planning/living-trust-vs-will/
  4. “National Single Parent Day: March 21, 2023” United States Census Bureau https://www.census.gov/newsroom/stories/single-parent-day.html
What happens when one parent dies?

If the legal mother and father are married to each other, this question is easy to answer: When one parent passes on, the surviving parent always gets custody. But what if you’re not married? Where your children are placed should you die depends on your legal rights as a father or as a mother.

What happens when both parents die?

Having a situation where both parents depart this life at the same time is rare, but it’s a good example of why every parent needs to have a will. Otherwise, you have no say in who cares for your child because the decision rests with the court. If this happens, the first thing you need to know is that child custody only applies to parents.

What will happen to your kids?

While making a will might feel overwhelming, it’s the most fundamental legal document for child custody if the parents die. Instead of leaving their well-being hanging in the balance, you’ll feel better knowing you helped choose who has custody of your kids if you pass away while they’re still young.

According to PBS Newshour, the number of people pursuing a college degree post high school has declined since the pandemic.1

The good news for degree-less job seekers? There are plenty of jobs that pay well without a degree.

“The job market is changing rapidly right before our eyes,” says Recruiter.com CEO Evan Sohn, who has been featured in major news outlets like the Wall Street Journal and CNBC. “College degrees are not a necessity for every job out there.”

The Recruiter.com Index for September 2022,2 a report that releases current hiring trends from talent acquisition professionals, found that 22% of the roles recruiters are working to fill, in fact, don’t require a degree.

Check out our list of the highest-paying jobs without a degree:

  1. Bookkeeper
  2. Sales representative
  3. Real estate agent
  4. SEO specialist
  5. Truck driver
  6. Electricians
  7. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer
  8. Coding
  9. Personal trainer
  10. Proofreading
  11. Photographer
  12. Flight attendant
  13. Massage therapist
  14. Makeup artist
  15. Dog groomer
  16. Virtual assistant
  17. Transcription
  18. Social media manager
  19. Court reporter or simultaneous captioner
  20. Hearing aid specialist
  21. E-commerce manager
  22. Physical therapist assistant

And a list of most no-degree jobs FAQs.

7 of the highest paying jobs without a degree

Some of the jobs on this list have 6-figure earning potential.

1. Bookkeeper

If you have an inclination for numbers and data — and you love a good spreadsheet — bookkeeping could offer you a stable career with the potential for remote and flexible work. Bookkeepers track financial transactions for a business, everything from sales to payroll expenses and overhead costs. 

The fastest way to train for a career in bookkeeping is to enroll in an online course like Bookkeeper Launch. In just 90 days, you’ll learn everything you need to know about starting your own bookkeeping business. Once you’ve been certified, you can apply for corporate bookkeeping jobs or start your own business providing services to multiple clients (though it helps to get some experience under your belt to increase your marketability). If you want to learn more, check out our posts on how to become a bookkeeper and bookkeeping jobs. 

Average income: $58,536 per year or $28 per hour*

Top earners: $130,000

*All salary estimates are from ZipRecruiter and represent the average and high-end estimated salaries in the United States.

Learn more about bookkeeping in this FREE masterclass >>

Or, read our review of our No. 1 recommended training program, Bookkeeper Launch.

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2. Sales representative

If you love interacting with other people and consider yourself an effective communicator, a career in sales can be very lucrative. Most sales jobs are commission-based, which means your earning potential is directly related to your job effort and performance. The majority of these jobs do not require a degree, though positions in certain fields — like medical and pharmaceutical sales — may require one. 

It’s important when you’re hunting for sales jobs to consider the reputation of the company and read reviews from current employees on job sites like Glassdoor.com or Salary.com to determine your actual earning potential. For the most part, avoid multi-level marketing companies or any job where you have to “buy in” to get started. Most legitimate sales jobs offer specialized training for their employees.

Average income: $47,187 per year or $23 per hour

Top earners: $97,500, though depending on the industry sales positions can earn in the high 6- or 7-figures.

Need help with your resume? Upload your resume and get a free review from TopResume experts now >>

A sales background or aptitude is great for becoming a private investigator!

3. Real estate agent

Like other sales professionals, real estate agents make a living solely on commissions. But agents can earn a lot of money if they build a database of people willing to send them clients. 

To obtain a real estate license, visit your state’s Department of State website for a list of local education providers. You’ll have to complete about 60-200 hours of coursework (the total varies by state) and pass a licensing exam before you can register and start working. The whole process typically takes 3 to 4 months and typically costs less than $1,000.

When you’re choosing a brokerage to work with, consider things like commission split (what percentage of each sale will go to you vs. the brokerage) and continued education opportunities. The most successful agents are well established in their communities, so try to network at local events, join local clubs and get involved with volunteer organizations. 

Some agents also supplement their income by investing in rental properties or becoming property managers. Property managers screen tenants, establish rental costs, collect rent and handle tenant issues. They are typically paid a commission from the monthly rent. 

To forecast potential profitability, many professionals use a rental value calculator. Once real estate agents fill in property data such purchase price, vacancy rate, loan terms and expected monthly rent, these tools provide a quick breakdown of projected cash flow and net income, allowing them to evaluate an investment before committing.

Average income: $82,898 per year or $40 per hour

Top earners: $150,000+ (Some agents working with high-end homes stand to make millions annually.)

4. SEO specialist

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is all about knowing how Google ranks its content results. SEO specialists analyze a website’s content to determine how search engine algorithms will interpret it. Their primary goal is to get the website they’re working on to appear in the first pages of Google results as close to the top of the page as possible. 

There are numerous free and low-cost SEO courses online — like this one from Coursera — that offer certificates to people who want to branch into this field without a formal education. 

Average income: $54,144 per year or $26 per hour

Top earners: SEO consultants can earn multiple-six figures.

5. Truck driver

Truck drivers can work for a specific brand or transportation company or as independent contractors. While these jobs are only ideal for someone who doesn’t mind spending a lot of time on the road, they don’t require a college degree. 

Truck drivers must obtain a Commercial Driver’s License in one of three classifications depending on the size and weight of the vehicle they want to drive (CDL-A is the most versatile). Community colleges, private driving schools and trucking companies all offer training programs to prepare you for a CDL exam. Programs can last several months or up to a year and cost $1,000 on the low end up to $10,000 on the high end.

Some trucking companies will offer scholarships as a recruitment incentive. Each state may have additional requirements, so check with your local DMV or BMV before you get started. 

If you're considering a role as a truck driver or similar logistics positions that don't require a college degree, there are also opportunities to specialize in transporting equipment and freight between locations, including more complex routes abroad.

For instance, those interested in cross-territory loads may want to explore companies that handle specialized services like Puerto Rico equipment transport, which covers moving heavy machinery and containers with reliable shipping solutions tailored for challenging routes.

Average income: $50,909 per year or $24 per hour

Top earners: $82,000

Be a female truck driver

6. Electricians

Electricians are responsible for installing and maintaining wiring and equipment in a variety of residential and commercial settings. While this field has historically been dominated by men, many local and national organizations, along with the Biden Administration, are creating resources and training opportunities to attract more women into the trades. 

Instead of a college degree, most electricians enroll in a trade school program or get an apprenticeship — or a combination of the two. The apprenticeship typically lasts four or five years, which includes paid training and technical education. You may also need to complete local or state licensing requirements, depending on where you plan to work. 

Average income: $60,040 

Top earners: $99,800

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7. Elevator and escalator installer and repairer

As an elevator installer or repair person, you’ll read blueprints, assemble and disassemble elevators or escalators, and address any malfunctions that occur. It’s a very technical job, which is why the pay is so high, though a degree is not required. The average installer earns nearly six figures, and experienced professionals earn even more.

The process starts with a four-year apprenticeship that’s typically sponsored by an employer or union. During this period, you’ll complete paid work and receive technical instruction. The next step is to work as a mechanic or assistant mechanic in the industry before getting an elevator installer position. When you’re ready for that, you’ll also need to meet any state-specific licensing requirements.  

Average income: $97,860

Top earners: $130,940

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8. Coding

There are a lot of high-paying jobs for people who can code — software engineer, developer, computer programmer, just to name a few. And the best part is that you don’t need a college degree to land one of these positions. 

There are hundreds of online courses that will teach you how to code, many of them at little or no cost. Coursera offers affordable, high-quality courses you can complete at home on your own timeline. 

Depending on the position you’re looking to fill, you might be expected to know one or multiple programming languages, like Javascript, Python, R, C, C++, and PHP. Check out this post to learn more about coding and how to become a programmer. 

Aspiring data analysts and developers can learn Python online through structured, self-paced courses that cover programming fundamentals, pandas, data visualization, and machine learning.

Average income: $86,523 per year or $42 per hour

Top earners: $138,000 — though developers who specialize in sought-after languages and take on management roles can earn $500,000 annually or more

9. Personal trainer

If you love to stay fit and want to motivate and coach others to do the same, you can become a personal trainer. Personal trainers may work out of a gym, recreation center, health club, or yoga studio. You can also focus your personal training on a specific type of exercise, like CrossFit, Pilates, spinning, or lifting.

ISSA offers an Elite trainer program, which covers:

  • Techniques to asses, train and motivate clients
  • Best exercises and movements for different people
  • Nutrition coaching
  • Tips to build a profitable career

Average income: $50,988

Top earners: $96,500

Enroll through ISSA to be a personal trainer >>

21 jobs that no one wants (but pay really well!)

10. Proofreading

If you can spot a sentence error a mile away, you can make a healthy living as a proofreader. Even without a college degree, you can train yourself in the most popular proofreading styles by studying handbooks like the Chicago Manual of Style, Associated Press (AP Style) Stylebook or the Modern Language Association (MLA) Handbook. 

Proofread Anywhere offers online training courses in general and transcription proofreading (a more focused form of proofreading for legal and technical transcripts). You’ll learn grammar fundamentals, practice proofreading different types of content, and discover how to find flexible jobs you can do from home. Learn how to become a proofreader.

Average income: $45,852 per year or $22 per hour

Top earners: $75,000

11. Photographer

While there are some initial costs involved with starting a photography business, the potential payoff is huge. Many established wedding photographers make six-figure salaries and enjoy open weekday schedules.

While camera equipment and editing software can be expensive, you can find affordable used DSLR cameras and lenses on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and on Facebook groups for local photographers. It’s important to remember that you can always start small and upgrade your equipment as your skills and income grow. 

There are thousands of photography and photo editing videos on YouTube, and you may even be able to audit a photography course at a local community college. A great way to get hands-on experience shooting weddings or family portraits is to shadow an established photographer in your area. 

Once you feel comfortable branching off on your own, offer low-cost sessions to people you know and build a network of future clients. As your skills improve, you can increase your prices.

Average income for photographers: $43,114 per year

Average income for wedding photographers: $104,417 per year

Top earners: $130,000, though a small number of sought-after photogs with their own name recognition can earn far more.

12. Flight attendant 

If you like the idea of getting paid to travel the world and don’t mind working odd hours or being away from home, you can get a job as a flight attendant without a college degree. To become a flight attendant, you must be at least 18 years old, have a current passport, have at least 20/40 vision and pass a background screening.

Don't want to submit to a background check? Check out these no background check jobs.

Flight attendants are responsible for making sure a plane’s cabin is clean and well-stocked with food and drinks, preparing passengers for takeoff and landing, helping passengers who need medical assistance, handling passenger disruptions, monitoring the plane for suspicious behavior, and directing passengers in the event of an emergency. Most airlines provide extensive training for flight attendants before they begin working. 

Average income: $59,987 per year or $29 per hour

Top earners: $180,000

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13. Massage therapist

Massage therapists don’t need a college degree, but they do have to complete an accredited training program. Most states require 600-750 hours of training, which can take six months to a year to complete and cost between $5,000 and $10,000. 

Average income: $55,009 per year or $26 per hour

Top earners: $95,000+

14. Makeup artist

There are many different specializations to choose from as a makeup artist, including bridal services, spa and salon work, and performance makeup for film and theater. It’s easy to start off just by practicing on family and friends, but you can expand your skills and better prepare yourself for a job or clients by taking courses at a vocational school or working as a makeup assistant for some time. Many beginners also practice advanced techniques like applying lashes using easy at home lash extensions kits to become more comfortable offering complete makeup looks.

Your earning potential depends on where you live and which industry you choose to specialize in. For instance, average hourly rates in some states are around $18, but that can jump to $26 per hour in others.3 And you could earn nearly twice as much with a focus on theatrical and performance makeup, as you can see below.

Average income: $93,805 per year or $45.12 per hour

Top earners: $170,860

15. Dog groomer

If you love dogs, becoming a dog groomer could be a fun career move. You can learn how to groom on-the-job at a local dog grooming shop or take an online course to learn the basics. One of the keys to increasing your skills in this profession is practice. Your first client can be your own dog or dogs in your family or friend circle.

Earning potential is directly related to your skills and the services you offer. To increase your credibility and charge higher rates, get certified in different types of grooming or become a niche groomer — one who specializes in certain breeds or offers creative techniques such as using dog-safe dyes to create unique patterns on fur.

Entry level dog groomers, with training, can make $34 per hour or more.

Learn more about how to become a dog groomer.

Average income: $47,659 per year or $23 per hour

Top earners: $72,000+

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16. Virtual assistant

As more people shift from office jobs to home office jobs, the demand for virtual assistants is growing. These positions are especially great for parents, since they typically offer flexible hours and involve simple tasks like answering emails, scheduling meetings, managing social media accounts, and handling other daily tasks for a company or individual.

If you want to learn how to become a virtual assistant, we recommend enrolling in an online course. You’ll learn how to land your first client, set your rate (and learn when to raise it), onboard clients and handle legal matters to protect your business. 

Learn more in our post about how to become a VA.

Average income: $67,115 per year or $32 per hour

Top earners: $130,500

17. Transcription

If you have a computer and can type quickly, transcription jobs are easy and in most cases allow you to work from home on a flexible schedule.

You can test and increase your typing speed and accuracy using free sites like typing.com. Practice listening to your favorite podcast and transcribe as you go.

A lot of transcription jobs pay per project, so you can pick your schedule and decide how much or how little you want to work. 

Average income: $58,441 per year or $28 per hour

Top earners: $135,500

18. Social media manager

Yes, there are people who get paid to spend all day on social media. Most brands use social media to advertise, post updates and interact with customers. A social media manager develops a brand’s posting schedule and strategy across various social media platforms (think Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, and TikTok). 

Other aspects of the job might include posting content, responding to comments and messages, and setting up Facebook ads. If you don’t have a degree in journalism or a similar field, you can gain relevant experience by enrolling in a free or low-cost social media marketing course online. Another good way to get your foot in the door is to volunteer or offer to work at a low rate for a small brand and show you can make an impact on their digital reach. 

Average income: $52,114 per year or $25 per hour

Top earners: $87,500

19. Court reporter or simultaneous captioner

Court reporters are responsible for transcribing legal proceedings with speed and accuracy. Similarly, simultaneous captioners work in business settings, such as press conferences or presentations. They may also transcribe live broadcasts on television or in-person events for the deaf and hard of hearing community. 

There’s no four-year degree required to take this career path, but you will likely need to complete a certificate program at a community college or technical school. This could take anywhere from six months to three years, plus any state licensing or exam requirements. In many areas, you can meet these requirements by getting certified by a professional association, such as the National Court Reporters Association.4

Average income: $60,380

Top earners: $103,270

20. Hearing aid specialist

The demand for hearing aid specialists is on the rise, thanks to the increase in the aging population.5 What do the daily responsibilities of this job look like? They include administering hearing tests, making impressions of the ear, fitting hearing instruments, and counseling customers on their hearing loss.

While there are some university and community college programs available in the U.S., there is another path to becoming a hearing aid specialist. Workplace training programs combine on-the-job experience with training to prepare you for licensing exams. 

Average income: $59,020 per year or $28.38 per hour

Top earners: $91,740

21. E-commerce manager

According to Indeed.com, only 46% of e-commerce managers have a bachelor’s degree.6 45% have just a high school diploma or associate’s degree, making this a lucrative career opportunity with room for growth. 

Instead of a college degree, you’ll need digital marketing skills, as well as knowledge of Google Analytics and customer service. Some managers in this field may also have technical knowledge of HTML5, Agile, and CSS. These skills are easy to learn on affordable platforms like Coursera or Udemy.

E-commerce managers are responsible for online sales of their employer’s products. They are responsible for the online shop’s appearance and functionality, as well as pricing and conversions. 

Average income: $71,595

Top earners: $115,695

22. Physical therapist assistant

A physical therapist assistant works with a physical therapist to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses impacting their body’s movement. Their primary job duty is to assist with exercises, stretches, and massages.

You can become a physical therapist assistant by completing a two-year associate’s degree program, which must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy. In addition to studying subjects like anatomy and physiology, you’ll also be required to complete in-person clinical work. Once you finish the program, you’ll need to pass an exam from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy and complete any other licensing requirements for your state.

Average income: $61,180

Top earners: $80,170

High-paying jobs without a degree FAQs

What job pays the most without a degree?

According to a report by U.S. News and World Report,7 these are the jobs that pay the most without a degree:

  • Patrol officer – Median salary: $63,150
  • Executive assistant – Median salary: $60,890
  • Sales representative – Median salary: $59,930
  • Flight attendant – Median salary: $56,640
  • Electrician – Median salary: $56,180

How can I make $100,000 a year without a degree?

Many of the jobs listed in this article have earning potential over $100,000. Since most employers make offers based on experience, you may have to work for several years in your chosen industry before you can reach a six-figure salary. 

Matthew Warzel, President of MJW Careers, says climbing the ladder in any industry is all about seeking out opportunities for continued education, but not necessarily in the traditional sense. 

“Opt for free experiential learning like internships. Work freelance projects for friends, neighbors, etc., and continuously build your portfolio, skills, and competencies,” says Warzel, whose advice has appeared in publications like the Chicago Tribune and Forbes. “Identify the possible credentials you may need to better position yourself in this new role, find online institutions where you can acquire these credentials, and list them on your resume.”

Warzel says it’s also important to network with industry pros and to learn about the types of jobs in your industry that could be a step up from what you’re doing now. 

“It comes down to ‘Will you make money for the new company or cost them money?'” he says. “Work hard to be the former — it will carry you farther. Offer value and solutions, not abilities or skills. Everyone can ride a bike, but not everyone can ride a bike 60 miles to raise money for a charitable cause that was about to go bankrupt.”

Jennifer Lynn Robinson, TEDx speaker and CEO of Purposeful Networking, says securing a high-paying job is often more about the impression you make as a person than the skills you do or don’t possess. 

“In our new hybrid world, employers are looking for people that can be team players and engage well online,” says Robinson, who is also a contributor for Entrepreneur Magazine and Philadelphia Magazine. “Employers are willing to teach the skills for the particular job role. It is more about finding the right personality for their company culture.” 

How to negotiate for higher income

Get a free resume review from TopResume experts now >>

What are the easiest jobs that pay well without a degree?

A search on ZipRecruiter for jobs with no experience returned the following results: 

  • Delivery driver
  • Caregiver
  • General labor jobs
  • Warehouse jobs
  • Customer service/call center jobs
  • Sales representative
  • Retail merchandiser 
  • Machine operator
  • Security guard
  • Brand ambassadors
  • Real estate agent
  • Assembly line workers 
  • Retail worker
  • Restaurant worker
  • Secretary or administrative assistant
  • Mystery shopper

Search for “temp agencies near me”

Local temp agencies can help you find nearby, no-degree job opportunities. Just enter your zip code:

google-maps-usa-image

Bottom line: There are high-paying jobs without a degree out there

Despite popular belief, you do not have to spend thousands of dollars on a degree to get a high-paying job. 

Check out these job posts for some more ideas:

SOURCES

  1. “Spring 2023 Current Term Enrollment Estimates,” May 24, 2023. PBS Newshour. https://nscresearchcenter.org/current-term-enrollment-estimates/
  2. “Why Multiple Companies Aren’t Requiring College Degrees Anymore,” Sept. 2022. Recruiter.com. https://www.recruiter.com/recruiting/why-multiple-companies-arent-requiring-college-degrees-anymore/
  3. “Makeup Artist Salary & Job Outlook,” Dec. 9, 2020. L Makeup Institute. https://lmi.edu/makeup-artist-salary-job-outlook/
  4. The Association for Court Reporters and Captioners. https://www.ncra.org/certification
  5. “Hearing Aids Market is Expected to Reach $10.2 billion,” March 29, 2023. GlobeNewswire. https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2023/03/29/2636661/0/en/Hearing-Aids-Market-is-Expected-to-Reach-10-2-billion-MarketsandMarkets.html
  6. “What skills help E-commerce Managers find jobs?” Indeed.com. https://www.indeed.com/career/e%20commerce-manager/career-advice
  7. “Highest paying jobs without a degree,” U.S. News and World Report. https://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/rankings/highest-paying-jobs-without-a-degree
What job pays the most without a degree?

According to a report by U.S. News and World Report, these are the jobs that pay the most without a degree: patrol officer, executive assistant, sales representative, flight attendant, and electrician.

How can I make $100,000 a year without a degree?

Many of the jobs listed in this article, everything from sales representative to programmer, have earning potential over $100,000. Since most employers make offers based on experience, you may have to work for several years in your chosen industry before you can reach a six-figure salary.

What is the easiest job to get without a degree?

A search on ZipRecruiter for jobs with no experience returned the following results: delivery driver, general laborer, customer service, retail worker, and more.

A recent study conducted by market research firm The Harris Poll1 found that 83% of U.S. workers believe they should have access to their earned wages at the end of each workday. 

While most jobs pay you on a weekly or biweekly basis, if you need money quickly and consistently, there are jobs available that pay you the same day you work. 

Table of contents

You may need some tools to find that job.

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Same-day pay jobs

The following jobs are paid the same day you complete work:

Babysitting

Babysitting is a common way for teenagers to earn money, but adults can also care for children while their parents work or go out for a night. Babysitters typically get paid after they’ve wrapped up a babysitting shift.

If you’re looking to secure a regular job as a nanny, check out our post on how to become a nanny. 

Average hourly wage: $12-$130, but several parents and caregivers on Reddit note that they pay higher rates for watching multiple children:

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Caregiving services

Caregivers provide care for others in different ways, like cooking for the elderly or providing personal care services for a person with a disability. Many caregiving jobs are available to those with a high school diploma, but caregivers providing medical care may need training, certification, or licensure. 

According to Kenneth Garcia, a former recruiter, caregivers who work for temp agencies may receive daily pay, and some home health companies offer daily pay in addition to regular payroll.

Learn more about how to become a home health aide.

Average hourly wage: $13-$14, with live-in caregivers typically earning the highest wages.

Cleaning houses

House cleaners clean and tidy all areas of a home with deep cleanings and routine touch-ups. They don’t need any qualifications, but some clients may ask for references to prove your skills and trustworthiness. 

House cleaners who work independently may request payment before or after completing cleaning services.

Average hourly wage: $13-$14

Contract delivery jobs

Shipt and Instacart both work with independent contractors to deliver household goods and food to people in their neighborhoods. 

Delivery drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle. Both services let drivers choose which blocks of time they’d like to work and what jobs to accept during those times.

Shipt pays drivers per completed order, and drivers can elect to get paid weekly or once daily via Stripe. Instacart also pays upon order completion, offering weekly direct deposits or same-day cashouts within two hours of delivery.

Average hourly wage for Shipt: $10-$12 before tips, or $15-$17 after tips. People in populated areas, like major cities, can earn more than $20 per hour, according to Shipt workers on Reddit:

What is the Shipt hourly rate in your area? (estimated pay for 60 minutes)
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Average hourly wage for Instacart: About $20-$40 per hour, including tips, on days when orders come in regularly. Those in busy areas with consistent orders sometimes earn over $40 an hour, according to Instacart shoppers on Reddit:

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Construction

Construction workers help build and renovate residential or commercial properties. Many construction companies will train new hires with a high school diploma or GED on the job. 

Workers directly hired by a construction company typically receive weekly or bi-weekly pay, but positions offered through temp agencies can provide same-day pay. They can also earn a per diem (an allowance for food/lodging/travel) from their companies while traveling:

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Average hourly wage: $17-18

Construction is also a great no background check job.

Day laborer

Day laborers typically work with construction or manufacturing companies or contractors to help with various tasks, like cleaning up worksites, moving materials, or operating machinery. 

In Reddit threads discussing jobs that pay daily, some Redditors mentioned day labor work:

Reddit thread about same-day pay jobs.
Reddit thread about same-day pay jobs.

On-the-job training is usually acceptable for laborers. Like construction workers, laborers may find positions through temp agencies, like PeopleReady and Veryable, that pay daily. 

Average hourly wage: $17-$18

Freelance writing

Freelance writers provide writing services to clients for blogs, magazines, website copy, emails, and other types of online and printed publications. Having a portfolio of previous work can help a freelance writers show their expertise.

As independent contractors, freelancers can negotiate contracts with clients to set payment rates and schedules. Some freelancers require payments immediately after completing their projects.  

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Average hourly wage: $20-$50+, although rates vary significantly based on experience and publication.

Some freelance writers on Reddit talk about earning more than $100 per hour:

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Handywork

A handyworker, a.k.a. handyman or handywoman, completes various jobs like moving furniture, painting, or making basic repairs in homes or commercial buildings. These professionals don’t usually need any specific training, but may have already learned skills through a training program or previous job experience. However, some states require handyworkers to hold licenses. 

Many handyworkers own their own businesses and request payment from clients upon completion of the work.

Average hourly wage: $24-$25, but several Redditors in one thread agree that charging $50 per hour or more is plausible, depending on the area and project scope.

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Lawn care

Lawn care specialists plan and organize flower beds, mow grass, trim bushes, and complete other tasks to maintain and spruce up lawns. 

They usually don’t have specific credentials but may require a license to operate a lawn care business. Same-day pay is relatively standard for lawn care independent contractors or business owners.

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Average hourly wage: $12-$13

Pet care services

Dog groomers, dog walkers, pet and house sitters are often paid at the time of service. If you want to work independently, there are numerous apps that can connect you with clients who need pet care jobs in your area, including:

  • Rover
  • Time To Pet
  • Pawshake
  • PetBacker
  • Wag!

Average hourly wage: Some dog walkers on Reddit say they've made between $100-500 per week, depending on how many jobs they took:

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Restaurant server

Restaurant servers take orders from customers and tend to their needs while dining. Having previous experience working with customers can help people get hired for server positions.

Some restaurants pay servers their tips with their weekly or biweekly paychecks, but others allow servers to take home the tips they earned at the end of their shift: 

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When looking for server jobs, seek restaurants that allow servers to keep all of their tips rather than taking a cut or splitting tips between all employees on each shift.

Average hourly wage: $8-$9 base pay, plus tips

Selling online

If you’re looking for jobs paid the same day that you have ultimate control over, consider selling crafts, vintage items, and other products online. Set up a website to sell from or use a marketplace like Etsy to sell products. Every time you get a sale, you make money. 

Just be sure to connect a payment platform with a same-day payout option, like Stripe or PayPal.

Average hourly wage: Online sellers don’t necessarily earn a wage but instead earn revenue based on how much they sell. Advertising your business on social media and via word of mouth can be good ways to boost your sales.

Jobs that pay weekly, plus “instant payout jobs”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, biweekly pay is the most common pay schedule. Therefore, jobs that pay daily cash aren’t easy to find, However, jobs that pay weekly are becoming more commonplace, especially in the delivery driver realm.

We’ve rounded up a few of the best weekly pay options, some of which also offer instant payouts you can use when you can’t wait a full week for your paycheck.

  • Uber or Uber Eats: Drive for Uber as a rideshare driver or for Uber Eats as a delivery person and get paid weekly. Or, get paid sooner with Instant Pay, which lets you cash out your earnings up to five times daily.
  • Lyft: Lyft is another rideshare company offering weekly deposits processed on Tuesdays. Drivers can cash out up to five times per day using Express Pay or get paid instantly after each completed ride using the Lyft Direct card. 
  • Roadie: Roadie drivers deliver items locally to businesses and residents. Although they typically process payments every Tuesday, Roadie allows drivers with at least five completed gigs to cash out instantly for a $1.99 fee.
  • DoorDash: DoorDash’s independent contractors deliver food and other items from restaurants and stores. Dashers get paid weekly unless they set up Fast Pay to get paid instantly with a $1.99 processing fee.
  • Grubhub: Grubhub drivers can get paid via direct deposit every Thursday or cash out instantly for a $0.50 fee or free for Chase Bank customers.
  • Instawork: Instawork is an app that helps you find same-day jobs to work at companies that need extra help. The app pays weekly for all work from the previous week. 

Same-day pay temp agencies

Talia Knowles, a human resources specialist and contributor for HumanResource.com, notes that temp agencies can be prime resources for job-seekers who want to get paid quickly. In fact, some temp agencies offer same-day pay, including: 

  • Adecco: DailyPay partner offering temporary and temp-to-hire jobs in retail, accounting, marketing, and hospitality industries, to name a few
  • Staffmark Group: Works with DailyPay to help its temp workers get paid instantly
  • Labor Works: Staffs companies with skilled laborers and offers same-day pay
  • PeopleReady: Agency featuring numerous jobs with weekly pay and select jobs with same-day pay, either through a cash card or direct deposit

Although several temp agency jobs can provide same-day pay, Knowles says that some positions, like delivery driving, caregiving, and back-of-house restaurant roles, are more likely to pay each day. 

Knowles suggests applying for temp jobs for which you meet or exceed the minimum requirements, as temp agencies look to hire qualified candidates as quickly as possible to meet staffing needs. 

“If you present yourself as hard-working, trustworthy, and willing to ask questions, you’ll often be hired on the spot,” Knowles says.

Instant payout apps

Some companies offer the following instant payout apps for employees to get paid the same day or get cash advances on their paychecks:

DailyPay

DailyPay partners with temp agencies and businesses offering pay advances to their workers. Workers with DailyPay access can use the app to view their earnings, cash out before payday, and drop money into savings.

Download: App Store (Rating: 4.8) | Google Play (Rating: 4.7)

Fees: Free to download; Up to $2.99 fee per instant transfer

Dave

Dave gives users a payday advance of up to $500, allowing people to get paid up to two days early. The app also features a side hustle search for users to find quick-paying side jobs.

Download: App Store (Rating: 4.8) | Google Play (Rating: 4.3)

Fees: Free to download; $1 per month for membership

Dayforce Wallet

Dayforce Wallet helps you get your paychecks faster by requesting an advance to your Dayforce Wallet debit card if your employer allows on-demand pay. Workers can also get direct deposits straight to their Dayforce accounts. 

Download: App Store (Rating: 4.9) | Google Play (Rating: 4.5)

Fees: Free to download, although there may be fees for out-of-network ATM usage

EarnIn

EarnIn gives payday advances of up to $100 daily based on a user’s earnings. Regular cashouts take 1-3 business days, but immediate cashouts are available for a fee with Lightning Speed. EarnIn takes care of withdrawing any advances from a user’s pay when payday hits.

Download: App Store (Rating: 4.7) | Google Play (Rating: 4.6)

Fees: Free to download; Up to $3.99 per transaction for Lightning Speed withdrawals 

PayActiv

Employers can partner with PayActiv to give employees access to their paychecks up to two days early. Users can also sign up independently for a PayActiv Visa Card to get cash advances, which will be deducted from their next paycheck.

Download: App Store (Rating: 4.8) | Google Play (Rating: 4.4)

Fees: Free to download; Free to use with direct deposits to the PayActive Visa Card; otherwise, a $1 fee applies

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Bottom line: Finding jobs with same day pay

Although not the norm, same-day pay jobs are available, especially through temp agencies.

According to Bill Ryze, a Chartered Financial Consultant and board advisor at Fiona, having savings is essential for covering financial emergencies and unexpected expenses that your typical paychecks may not cover. 

“Savings also motivates you to continue building better financial habits, keeps you a step ahead, and brings you closer to future financial goals,” Ryze adds.

If you do find a job with same-day pay, you should consider jump-starting your savings. Ryze suggests creating a budget to help you track your expenses and income. Doing so can help you visualize how much money you have left over for savings after taking care of bills and necessities. You might also notice some patterns in your spending to identify ways you can cut back.

If you don't necessarily need to be paid in the same day, check out these other job posts:

SOURCES

  1. “How many people make over 100K per year?” Jan. 18, 2023. Zippia. https://www.zippia.com/advice/how-many-people-make-over-100k/
  2. Salary and job data from Bureau of Labor Statistics, Payscale.com, Reddit, Salary.com

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