Considering self-employment? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re just starting out or have been freelancing for a while, you’ll find practical tips and helpful guidance to help you make it work.
The Freelancing Resource Center — a free website from AARP Foundation — is here to help you feel confident, ready, and in charge of the next step. Explore our self-guided series on freelancing essentials, trusted tools for finding work, and live online workshops for learning the fundamentals.
Getting Started Series
Independent work, which includes freelancing, independent contracting, self-employment, consulting, gig work, or a “side hustle”, has been on the rise over the past decade. According to recent estimates, more than 57 million Americans did some form of independent work in 2019, representing 35% of the U.S. workforce.
If you are interested in exploring the world of independent work, you are in the right place. Over the course of thirteen lessons, we will guide you through the essential information and skills you will need to start and chart a path to success.
The lessons include activities to help you apply what you’ve learned and move on to the next step.
- Lesson 1 About Independent Work
- Lesson 2 Choosing a Type of Work
- Lesson 3 Finding Work
- Lesson 4 Networking & Referrals
- Lesson 5 Pricing
- Lesson 6 Assessing Jobs
- Lesson 7 Writing Proposals
- Lesson 8 Interviewing
- Lesson 9 Contracts
- Lesson 10 Invoicing
- Lesson 11 Customer Service
- Lesson 12 Things to Look Out For
- Lesson 13 Wrap Up
Freelance Essentials
As an independent worker, you are in charge. It is on you to market your services, manage your finances, taxes, and safety.
Check out these guides to learn more about each topic and access helpful tools, templates, and resources.
