Why ‘unretired’ seniors are picking up gig work to pay the bills
AP News • • business
Key Points:
- Many older Americans, like Stu Goldberg, are returning to work through gig economy jobs such as Uber driving due to insufficient retirement savings and rising living costs, valuing the flexibility and social interaction these roles provide.
- Gig work offers retirees the ability to stay active and engaged, but it also presents physical challenges and lacks traditional job protections, making it important for older workers to consider their limits and potential risks.
- Flexibility is a key advantage of gig jobs, allowing retirees to set their own schedules, though the absence of paid leave and unpredictable income can pose financial difficulties during emergencies or downtime.
- Earnings from gig platforms can be limited by company fees and on-the-job expenses, with some workers, like dog walkers and laundry helpers, supplementing modest pensions and Social Security rather than earning substantial income.
- Experts advise retirees to carefully research gig work opportunities, as platform control over pay and lack of workplace protections can leave workers vulnerable to financial and safety risks.
