Providing for a family can be hard, and that can be even more true for parents with disabilities. However, a disability doesn't have to hinder you from earning an income. In fact, you can leverage your lived experience to find profitable side gigs that enable you to complete meaningful work on terms that work for you. The following guide presented by SPORK! shows you how.
Accessibility Testing
All too often, accessible technology is built without consulting the people who need it most. You can help solve this problem by becoming a tester or reviewer to assess the accessibility of websites or mobile applications. This type of work requires knowledge of the best practices for accessible technology, a keen eye for detail, and excellent communication skills. You can find these side gigs on job marketplaces or through user testing websites, such as Userlytics or UserZoom.
Disability Advocacy Consulting
If you have a disability, there's a good chance that you've spent time navigating the systems designed to help you receive benefits for your condition. Turn your experiences and knowledge into an income stream by offering consulting services as a disability advocate. A certified advocate guides a claimant through the process of obtaining Social Security disability benefits and assists them with appealing their case in the event of a denial. A college degree isn't required for this type of work, although you do need to pass a certification exam. You can set your own hours and take on cases as your time and energy allow.
Leverage social media to market your business by sharing information about topics important to people with disabilities. Network within the disability community, and advertise that you can provide personalized assistance with filing claims and obtaining benefits. Additionally, develop a fully accessible website, and offer multiple methods for prospective clients to get in touch with you.
Writing and Editing
Becoming a freelance writer or editor is another great side gig for parents with disabilities. If you don't have a strong background in content creation, you can sharpen your skills by taking online copywriting courses and starting your own blog to practice writing. When you're ready to take on clients, search online freelance job boards and other virtual writing communities to find opportunities. Set your rates, and draft contracts that clearly outline the terms and conditions of your services.
Give Yourself Flexibility
One of the benefits of having a side gig is that you can often work on your own terms. Unlike a traditional job, you have the freedom to work as little or as much as you'd like, and you're usually your own boss. Experiment with different work schedules until you find one that gives you the balance you need. Be sure to take time off to rest and recharge, and don't be afraid to turn down work if you need a break.
Easily Create Invoices
Whatever type of work you do, you need to get paid for it. As an entrepreneur, collecting payments quickly and efficiently is essential to the health of your business's finances. Use an invoice maker (you can find free options online) to create invoices customized with your business's logo and information. Ensure you can download and distribute your invoices in your preferred format, such as PDFs or Word documents. If you use time-based billing, track your time using online tools such as Clockify. Finally, create an LLC for your business to take advantage of tax benefits and protect yourself from legal liabilities.
Opportunity Awaits
The gig economy has opened up many doors for people of all ability types to find work that suits them. As a parent with a disability, you have many opportunities to earn an extra income while managing your own health and family responsibilities.
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As a former librarian, Diane noticed that a lot of people would come in looking for more info on various health and medical conditions whether it was for their own personal research or after the diagnosis of a family member or friend.
Cover Photo: Pexels
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