Working After Retirement: Is It For You? Here's What to Consider

Retirement is often seen as the time to finally relax and enjoy the fruits of your decades of workforce labor—but for many, the idea of working after retirement is appealing for various reasons. 

Whether it’s for maintaining financial stability, staying mentally and physically active, or pursuing a personal passion, the decision to continue to work after retirement involves several considerations. 

This article will outline how to decide whether working after retirement is the right choice for you. (Plus, we’ll share 16 job ideas for retired people.)

First things first: Can you work after retirement?

You absolutely can work after retirement, and many people do. Financial needs are often a primary motivator, as pensions and savings may not be sufficient to maintain a desired lifestyle. However, it’s not just about money. Some retirees work in order to stay mentally and physically active, maintain social connections, and continue to learn and grow.

Working after retiring has become increasingly common as more people still have plenty of energy, expertise, and enthusiasm to contribute to the workforce. Some choose to work part-time or even start new careers. You know what they say: The 70s are the new 40s! 

“Many of my clients and community members are creeping up—if not past—retirement age, like myself,” says Susan Trumpler, a 65-year-old business coach at Unstoppable Women in Business. “We’re living what I like to call ‘retirement 2.0.’ Who wants to bring the productive and creative part of their life to a screeching halt just to sit and wither away physically and mentally? Not us!” 

Working after retirement: Rules to understand before you start

It's never too late to find an occupation that suits your needs and lifestyle. However, it's important to understand the rules that apply, especially regarding Social Security benefits and taxes.

IRS rules on working after retirement

For those under full retirement age, currently 67 (for those born after 1960), if you've already started receiving Social Security benefits and continue working, a portion of your benefits may be withheld depending on your age and earnings.  However, once you reach full retirement age, there is no earnings limit, and your benefits won't be reduced no matter how much you earn.

How many hours can you work after retirement?

There isn't a strict limit on the number of hours you can work after retirement, but as outlined above, the number of hours you work could impact your Social Security benefits if you haven't reached full retirement age. Additionally, if you're above retirement age and working for a company that offers a pension plan, working too many hours could potentially affect your pension benefits.

The benefits and disadvantages of working after retirement

Considering returning to work after retirement? Weighing these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of working after retirement

• Financial stability: Extra income can help cover expenses, fund travel, and support hobbies.

• Mental stimulation: Continuing to work can keep your mind sharp and give you a sense of purpose.

• Social engagement: A job provides opportunities to interact with others, which can be especially valuable if you feel isolated after retirement.

Disadvantages of working after retirement

• Time commitment: This is the time you have to enjoy free time, and even part-time work can limit your freedom to travel or pursue hobbies.

• Stress: Depending on the job, returning to work might bring stress you were happy to leave behind.

• Physical demands: Some jobs may be physically demanding, which can be challenging as you age.

How to decide if working after retirement is right for you

Deciding whether to work after retirement is a personal choice that depends on your financial situation, health, and personal goals. After weighing the pros and cons, evaluate your current financial needs and future aspirations. 

Are there expenses that your retirement savings won’t cover? Do you miss the routine and social aspects of working? Or perhaps you’re looking for a way to stay mentally active and engaged.

“While you’re still employed, start to explore and visualize what will make you happy and how you can spend your time in the future creating an income stream doing things you love,” Trumpler says. “Prepare for the day when you’re able to scale that idea and leave your current job for something sustainable and fun.”

Tips on re-entering the job market after retirement

If you decide that working after retirement is for you, here are a few tips to help you transition back into the workforce smoothly:

• Refresh your skills: Consider taking a course or workshop to brush up on your skills or learn something new. Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, for example, have quickly become a must in many industries.

• Network: Reach out to former colleagues and industry contacts to explore job opportunities. (Here's how to network even when you don't like networking.)

• Consider part-time or flexible roles: These positions offer the best of both worlds—income and flexibility.

• Research low-stress jobs: Prefer roles that are less demanding physically and mentally.

What is the best job for a retired person? 16 ideas to consider

Still unsure of what you want to do? Here are 16 job ideas to inspire you:

1. Consultant

If you have extensive experience in a specific field, consulting can be a great way to stay active, maintain control over your schedule, and earn good money. You can offer your expertise to businesses or individuals working on a project-by-project basis.

2. Translator

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, working as a translator can be a flexible and low-stress job. You can translate documents, websites, or even books from the comfort of your own home.

3. Tutor or teacher

If you enjoy working with others and are passionate about a particular subject, tutoring or teaching can be a rewarding way to stay engaged. You can work with students 1:1 or even teach online courses, having flexibility and a chance to share your knowledge.

4. Library assistant

A library is a calm, low-pressure environment. As a library assistant, you can help with organizing books, assisting patrons, and managing resources, all while enjoying a peaceful work setting.

5. Pet sitter 

If you love animals and miss having company, pet sitting can be a delightful and low-stress way to spend your time. This side gig offers flexibility and allows you to spend time caring for pets.

6. Gardener or landscaper

For those who enjoy working with their hands and being outdoors, gardening or landscaping can be a peaceful and fulfilling job. You can work on small projects, help maintain gardens, or even start a gardening business.

7. Retail sales associate

Working retail is definitely not stress-free, but it's a market with plenty of job opportunities for all ages. Choose stores that align with your interests and where you personally like to shop.

8. Museum or gallery guide

If you have a passion for history, art, or culture, working as a guide in a museum or gallery can be an enriching experience. You’ll have the chance to share your knowledge and interact with visitors in a culturally rich and educational setting.

9. Tour guide

For those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing knowledge, being a tour guide can be a fun and engaging job. Whether you lead historical tours, nature walks, or cultural excursions, this role allows you to stay active and social.

10. Customer service representative

Working as a remote customer service representative offers flexibility and the ability to work from home. You can assist customers over the phone or via chat without the need for face-to-face interactions.

11. Artisanal work

If you have a hobby like knitting, woodworking, cooking, or painting, you can turn it into a small business. Selling your crafts at local markets or online can be a relaxing and rewarding way to spend your retirement years.

12. Event planning assistant

If you enjoy organizing and have a keen eye for detail, working as an event planning assistant can be a fulfilling job. You’ll help plan events like weddings, conferences, or community gatherings, often on a flexible, part-time basis.

13. Bookkeeper

For those with a background in finance or accounting, bookkeeping can be a low-stress and flexible job. You can manage financial records for small businesses or individuals, often working remotely.

14. Nonprofit volunteer coordinator

If you’re passionate about a cause, working as a volunteer coordinator for a nonprofit organization can be incredibly rewarding. You’ll help manage volunteers, organize events, and support the organization's mission meaningfully.

16. Receptionist

Working as a part-time receptionist in a low-traffic environment, such as a small office, clinic, or spa, can be an easy job that allows you to interact with others and maintain a structured routine.

Conclusion

Working after retirement isn’t for everyone, but for many, it offers a way to stay engaged, financially secure, and connected to others. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, keep your mind sharp, or simply miss the work routine, there are plenty of opportunities out there. Consider your own needs and goals, and take the time to explore the possibilities.

FAQs

Is 65 too old to start a new career?

The idea that 65—or any age—is too old to start a new career is outdated. In fact, many women find that retirement is the perfect time to pursue a passion or explore a new field. Changing careers later in life can be a fulfilling way to leverage your experience and try something different. This bold move may require additional training or education, but age should never hinder pursuing your dreams.

How can I earn money after retirement?

If your focus is to make money, consulting and freelancing are popular options because they allow you to set your rates and work on your own terms. Many retired professionals find that their decades of experience make them highly valuable as consultants, where they can command competitive fees. 

“When nearing retirement age, we tend to shift our focus toward doing the things that bring us joy and energy—why not channel this energy into income?” Trumpler says. “I firmly believe that entrepreneurs of all ages deserve to do more of what they love and get paid very well for it.” 

What is post-retirement syndrome?

Post-retirement syndrome refers to the range of emotional and psychological challenges that some people experience after leaving the workforce. While this transition is often anticipated as a period of relaxation and freedom, it can lead to feelings of loss, purposelessness, and even depression for some retirees. The shift from a structured, purpose-driven routine to an open-ended daily schedule can be jarring, particularly for those who strongly identify with their careers.

Many individuals may struggle to adjust to this new phase of life. The loss of social interactions with colleagues, the absence of daily goals, and the sudden abundance of free time can contribute to feelings of isolation and anxiety. It's essential to recognize these feelings as a normal part of the transition and proactively seek new ways to stay engaged.

Post-retirement syndrome can be addressed by creating a new routine, setting personal goals, and finding new sources of fulfillment. These can help maintain a sense of purpose and well-being during retirement.