Life insurance terms can be confusing when you first come across them, so learning the language of life insurance can help when you’re thinking about or shopping for a policy.
You may know that for many people, life insurance is important to have, and perhaps you’ve started some initial research into life insurance policies.
Learning common life insurance definitions can help you make an informed decision when looking into coverage options.
Key Points
• Accidental death benefit provides extra compensation if death occurs due to an accident.
• Underwriting assesses health, lifestyle, and financial status to determine coverage.
• Permanent life insurance offers lifelong coverage and builds cash value over time.
• A beneficiary receives the death benefit upon the policyholder’s passing.
• Term life insurance provides coverage for a specific duration, usually at a lower cost.
If a life insurance policy includes an accidental death benefit, the cause of death will be examined to determine whether the insured’s death meets the policy’s definition of accidental. This is often a rider, or additional benefit for an additional fee, attached to the policy. An example of an accidental death could be one caused by a car crash, slip, or machinery.
Annuity
This is a contract in which the buyer deposits money with a life insurance company for investment on a tax-deferred basis. Annuities are designed to help protect the contract holder from the risk of outliving their income.
An annuity may include a death benefit that will pay the beneficiary a specified minimum amount.
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Beneficiary
This is the person or entity designated to receive the death benefit from a life insurance policy or annuity contract.
Contestable Period
For up to two years, a life insurance company may deny payment of a claim to beneficiaries because of suicide or misrepresentation on an application — for example, if the insured was listed as a nonsmoker but smoked often and died of complications related to that.
Death Benefit
This term refers to the amount that will be paid to the beneficiary upon the death of the insured. The phrase “death benefit” is common life insurance terminology you’ll see in a life insurance policy.
Evidence of Insurability
In order for you to qualify for a particular policy at a particular price, companies have the right to ask for information about your health and lifestyle. An insurance company will use this information when deciding on approval and rate. If you are overweight, a smoker, or have a history of health problems, your policy will likely cost more than someone without those issues.
Free Examination Period
Also known as the “free look period,” this is a 10- to 30-day window during which you can cancel your new policy without penalty and get a refund of premiums.
Group Life Insurance
This provides coverage to a group of people under one contract. Group contracts are often sold to businesses that want to provide life insurance for their employees. Group life insurance can also be sold to associations to cover their members.
Insured
This is the person whose life is insured by the policy. The insured may also be the policyholder.
Permanent Life Insurance
These kinds of policies can provide lifelong coverage and the opportunity to build cash value, which accumulates tax-deferred. Whole life and universal life insurance policies fall under this umbrella term. Permanent life insurance is more expensive and complicated than term life insurance.
Policy
This is the official, legal document that includes the terms of the policy owner’s insurance. The policy will name the insured, the policy owner, the death benefit, and the beneficiary.
Policyholder
The person who owns the life insurance policy. It can be the person who is insured by the policy.
Premium
The payment the customer makes to the insurance company to pay for the policy. It may be paid annually, semiannually, quarterly, or monthly.
Term Life Insurance
This type of life insurance offers coverage for a set number of years, or “term,” of the insured’s life, commonly 20 or 30 years. If the insured individual dies during the years of coverage, a death benefit will be paid to the beneficiaries. Term life insurance costs less than permanent life insurance.
Often viewed as a mysterious process, underwriting is simply when factors are evaluated relating to the applicant’s current health, medical history, lifestyle habits, hobbies, occupation, and financial profile to determine eligibility for coverage as well as what the appropriate premiums should be.
Universal Life Insurance
With this kind of permanent life insurance, policyholders may be able to adjust their premium payments and death benefits. The cash value gains vary depending on the type of universal life insurance policy purchased.
Variable Life Insurance
With variable life, another type of permanent life insurance, the death benefit and the cash value fluctuate according to the investment performance of a separate account fund.
Earnings accumulate tax-deferred. Fees and expenses can reduce the portion of premiums that go toward the cash value.
Whole Life Insurance
Whole life is another type of permanent cash value insurance. The premiums, rate of return on cash value, and death benefit are fixed and guaranteed. The cash value component grows tax-deferred. Whole life tends to be more expensive than other types of permanent insurance.
Life insurance can be an important way to protect your loved ones’ financial future in the event of your death. While its terms can be a mouthful, they don’t have to be confusing. Understanding the definitions of life insurance can help you put a plan in place to protect your family.
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Ladder, SoFi and SoFi Agency are separate, independent entities and are not responsible for the financial condition, business, or legal obligations of the other, SoFi Technologies, Inc. (SoFi) and SoFi Insurance Agency, LLC (SoFi Agency) do not issue, underwrite insurance or pay claims under LadderlifeTM policies. SoFi is compensated by Ladder for each issued term life policy.
Ladder offers coverage to people who are between the ages of 20 and 60 as of their nearest birthday. Your current age plus the term length cannot exceed 70 years.
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Employee stock options (ESOs) may be included in an employee’s compensation package, as a way of giving an employee the opportunity to buy stock in the company at a certain price — and as an incentive to stay with the company for a period of time.
Employee stock options give employees the right to buy company stock at an established grant price once certain terms are met. But there’s no obligation to do so.
Exercising stock options means choosing to purchase the stock at the grant price, after a predetermined waiting period. If you don’t purchase the stock, the option will eventually expire.
Employee stock options can also give employees a sense of ownership (and, to a degree, actual ownership) in the company they work for. That can have benefits and drawbacks. But if you’re working in an industry in which employee stock options are common, it’s important to know how they work, the different types, and the tax implications.
Key Points
• Employee stock options (ESOs) can be offered as part of an employee’s compensation package.
• Employee stock options give employees the right to purchase X number of company shares for a certain price, by a certain date.
• Stock options are typically offered on a vesting schedule, with a percentage of options available by a certain date or series of dates.
• If the market price of the shares is higher on the exercise date, the employee may be able to realize a profit. But there are no guarantees, and the share price could drop below the exercise price.
• Incentive Stock Options receive a more favorable tax treatment than Non-Qualified Stock Options.
What Are Employee Stock Options?
As mentioned, employee stock options give an employee the chance to purchase a set number of shares in the company at a set price — often called the exercise price — over a set amount of time. Typically, the exercise price is a way to lock in a lower price for the shares.
Typically, the exercise price is a way to lock in a lower price for the shares, although there are no guarantees.
This gives an employee the chance to exercise their ESOs at a point when the exercise price is lower than the market price — with the potential to make a profit on the shares.
Sometimes, an employer may offer both ESOs and restricted stock units (RSUs). RSUs are different from ESOs in that they are basically a promise of stock at a later date.
Employee Stock Option Basics
When discussing stock options, there are some essential terms to know in order to understand how options — general options — work. (For investors who are familiar with options trading, some of these terms may sound similar. But options trading, which involves derivatives contracts, doesn’t have any bearing on employee stock options.)
• Exercise price/grant price/strike price: This is the given set price at which employees can purchase the stock options.
• Market price: This is the current price of the stock on the market (which may be lower or higher than the exercise price). Typically an employee would only choose to exercise and purchase the options if the market price is higher than the grant price.
• Issue date: This is the date on which you’re given the options.
• Vesting date: This is the date after which you can exercise your options per the original terms or vesting schedule.
• Exercise date: This is the date you actually choose to exercise your options.
• Expiration date: This is the date on which your ability to exercise your options expires.
How Do Employee Stock Option Plans Work?
When you’re given employee stock options, that means you have the option to buy stock in the company at the grant price. If you don’t use the options to purchase the stock within the specified period, then they expire.
ESO Vesting Periods
Typically, employee stock options follow a vesting schedule, which is basically a waiting period after which you can exercise them. This means you must stay at the company a certain amount of time before you can cash out.
The stock options you’re offered may be fully vested on a certain date, or just partially vested over multiple years, meaning some of the options can be exercised at one date and others at a later date.
ESO Example
For example, imagine you were issued employee stock options on February 1 of 2025, with the option of buying 100 shares of the company at $10/share. You can exercise your options starting on Feb. 1, 2026 (the vesting date) for 10 years, until Feb. 1, 2036 (the expiration date).
If you chose not to exercise these options by Jan. 1, 2036, they would expire and you would no longer have the option to buy stock at $10/share.
Now, let’s say the market price of shares in the company goes up to $20 at some point after they’ve vested in 2026, and you decide to exercise your options.
You would buy 100 shares at $10/share for $1,000 total — while the market value of those shares is actually $2,000. In this scenario, the vesting period allowed the stock to grow and deliver a profit. But the reverse could also occur: The share price could drop to $8, in which case you wouldn’t exercise your options because you’d lose money. You might choose to wait and see if the share price rebounds.
Exercising Employee Stock Options
It bears repeating: You don’t need to exercise your options unless it makes sense for you. You’re under no obligation to do so. Whether you choose to do so or not will likely depend on your financial situation and financial goals, the forecasted value of the company, and what you expect to do with the shares after you purchase them.
If you plan to exercise your ESOs, there are a few different ways to do so. The shares you get are effectively the same as the shares available on online investing platforms and brokerages, but some companies have specifications about when the shares can be sold, because they don’t want you to exercise your options and then sell off all your stock in the company immediately.
Buy and Hold
Once you own shares in the company, you can choose to hold onto them — effectively, a buy-and-hold strategy. To continue the example above, you could just buy the 100 shares with $1,000 cash and you would then own that amount of stock in the company — until you decide to sell your shares (if you do).
Cashless Exercise
Another way to exercise your ESOs is with a cashless exercise, which means you sell off enough of the shares at the market price to pay for the total purchase.
For example, you would sell off 50 of your purchased shares at $20/share to cover the $1,000 that exercising the options cost you. You would be left with 50 shares. Most companies offering brokerage accounts will likely do this buying and selling simultaneously.
Stock Swap
A third way to exercise options is if you already own shares. A stock swap allows you to swap in existing shares of the company at the market price of those shares and trade for shares at the exercise price.
For example, you might trade in 50 shares that you already own, worth $1,000 at the market price, and then purchase 100 shares at $10/share.
When the market price is higher than the exercise price — often referred to as options being “in the money” — you may be able to gain value for those shares because they’re worth more than you pay for them.
Why Do Companies Offer Stock Options?
The idea is simple: If employees are financially invested in the success of the company, then they’re more likely to be emotionally invested in its success as well, and this may increase employee productivity and loyalty.
From an employee’s point of view, stock options offer a way to see some financial benefit of their own hard work. In theory, if the company is successful, then the market stock price could rise and the stock options could be worth more.
The financial prospects of the company influence whether people want to buy or sell shares in that company, but there are a number of factors that can determine stock price, including investor behavior, company news, world events, and primary and secondary markets.
Tax Implications of Employee Stock Options
There are two main kinds of employee stock options: qualified and non-qualified, each of which has different tax implications. These are also known as incentive stock options (ISOs) and non-qualified stock options (NSOs or NQSOs).
Incentive Stock Options (ISO)
When you buy shares in a company below the market price, you could be taxed on the difference between what you pay and what the market price is. ISOs are “qualified” for preferential tax treatment, meaning no taxes are due at the time you exercise your options — unless you’re subject to an alternative minimum tax.
Instead, taxes are due at the time you sell the stock and make a profit. If you sell the stock more than one year after you exercise the option and two years after they were granted, then you will likely only be subject to capital gains tax.
If you sell the shares prior to meeting that holding period, you will likely pay additional taxes on the difference between the price you paid and the market price as if your company had just given you that amount outright. For this reason, it is often financially beneficial to hold onto ESO shares for at least one year after exercising, and two years after your exercise date.
Non-qualified Stock Options (NSOs or NQSOs)
NSOs do not qualify for preferential tax treatment. That means that exercising stock options subjects them to ordinary income tax on the difference between the exercise price and the market price at the time you purchase the stock. Unlike ISOs, NSOs will always be taxed as ordinary income.
Taxes may be specific to your individual circumstances and vary based on how the company has set up its employee stock option program, so it’s a good idea to consult a financial advisor or tax professional for specifics.
Should You Exercise Employee Stock Options?
While it’s impossible to know if the market price of the shares will go up or down in the future, there are a number of things to consider when deciding if you should exercise options:
• The type of option — ISO or NSO — and related tax implications
• The financial prospects of the company
• Your own investment portfolio, and how these company shares would fit into your overall investment strategy
You also might want to consider how many shares are being made available, to whom, and on what timeline — especially when weighing what stock options are worth to you as part of a job offer. For example, if you’re offered shares worth 1% of the company, but then the next year more shares are made available, you could find your ownership diluted and the stock would then be worth less.
The Takeaway
Employee stock options (ESOs) can be an incentive that companies offer their employees: They present the opportunity to invest in the company directly, and possibly profit from doing so. There are certain rules around ESOs, including timing of exercising the stock options, as well as different tax implications depending on the type of ESO a company offers its employees.
There can be a lot of things to consider, but it’s yet another opportunity to get your money in the market, where it’ll have the chance to grow.
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Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.
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College students are uniquely positioned to take advantage of seasonal jobs since they tend to have summers off from school and long holiday breaks. This gives them the opportunity to earn extra money for college and get some hands-on work experience to put on their resume.
Whether you’re looking for a job that lets you earn as much money as possible to help pay your college expenses, or a position that’s in the same field as your studies, there are a variety of seasonal jobs for college students that may be right for you.
Read on to learn more about the best seasonal jobs for college students.
Key Points
• Seasonal jobs offer college students income and work experience, and can help them pay expenses and build a resume.
• Job opportunities include virtual assistant, social media marketer, tutor, lifeguard, and landscaper, with varying pay rates.
• Winter jobs like professional driver, warehouse worker, and snow remover provide income during cold weather months.
• Jobs such as pet sitter, babysitter, and summer school teacher are ideal for college students during the summer.
• Holiday jobs in retail and gift wrapping offer flexible work opportunities during the school break.
Why Is It Important for College Students to Find a Seasonal Job?
Landing a seasonal job as a college student is crucial for a number of reasons. First, it can give you income to pay your bills, including college expenses. You might even want to start paying the interest that accrues on some of your student loans while you’re in school, including your private student loans.
Along with paying for a college degree, other reasons for college students to get a seasonal job include gaining work experience, developing skills to put on your resume, and getting the chance to network and meet working professionals who may be helpful to you when you’re looking for a full-time job after graduation. A seasonal job can also teach you things like time management, effective communication, and how to collaborate with others.
Along with paying for a college degree, other reasons for college students to get a seasonal job include gaining work experience, developing skills to put on your resume, and getting the chance to network and meet working professionals who may be helpful to you when you’re looking for a full-time job after graduation. A seasonal job can also teach you things like time management, effective communication, and how to collaborate with others.
What Are the Best Seasonal Jobs for College Students?
Here are some of the best seasonal jobs for college students based on such factors as wages, job availability, and the skills required.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants are remote administrative contractors who assist businesses with a wide range of duties, including administrative support, customer service, social media management, email marketing, bookkeeping, data entry, research, transcription, and content or website management. Because these jobs are virtual, college students can do them no matter where they live.
Average pay: $7.21 to $62.74 an hour
Social Media Marketer
In this position, college students are employed by a company to use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to promote the company. They might work on projects to reach new customers, engage with current customers, and announce new services and products. Their day-to-day tasks could range from writing posts, optimizing performance, and responding to comments and messages, to helping to plan the company’s social media marketing strategy.
Average pay: Approximately $26.18 per hour
Tutor
Working as a tutor can be a natural fit for those in college. You can connect with other students and help them learn by explaining information in a way that’s relatable to them.
You can find work as a tutor by advertising your services at your college, getting a job at a local learning center, or signing up with campus tutoring services. You could also join an online tutoring platform like Tutor.com.
Wintertime offers some special seasonal jobs for college students to do part-time and help pay for college. These are some options to consider.
Professional Driver
Becoming a professional driver, such as a delivery truck driver, can be a lucrative job for a college student. To become a professional driver who drives a delivery truck, however, you will first likely need to obtain a commercial driver’s license. In the training you’ll learn technical driving skills, safety procedures, and federal and state regulations, and get track-driving practice.
You can also be considered a professional driver if you drive to earn money for a ride share company or do food delivery. These jobs usually don’t require a commercial license.
Average pay: $26.12 per hour for a professional driver with a commercial license; $14.42 to $20.19 for rideshare drivers
Warehouse Worker
Warehouse workers pack and ship orders, and manage, organize, and retrieve warehouse materials. They might also transport merchandise from distribution centers, and identify missing, damaged, or lost merchandise. Some warehouse workers may need a forklift license and the ability to lift heavy objects.
Average pay: $17.81 per hour
Snow Remover
If you’re willing to shovel snow or you have a vehicle such as a pickup truck or an SUV that you can use for snow plowing, you may want to consider a snow removal job. You can put up posters advertising your services in town, or you can approach local companies to see if they need snow plowing help. You might also be able to get a job working for a local snow plowing business.
Average pay: $50 to $204 per snowfall
Resort Jobs
In the winter, there are often jobs available at ski resorts, spas, and lodges. You might find employment as a room attendant, front desk clerk, food server, bellhop, and more. Check with resorts in your area to see what’s available
Average pay: Earnings vary depending on the job; room attendants earn $18.25 per hour.
Food Service Worker
Colleges frequently need food service workers for cafeterias, cafes, and coffee shops on campus. Some of these positions may be work-study jobs, which are a type of federal financial aid. To qualify, you must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and receive work-study money as part of your financial aid award.
Aside from work-study food service jobs, you can look for positions in the food industry at local restaurants and brew pubs. These jobs may be fairly plentiful in college towns, which often have a number of different dining establishments.
Average pay: $17.52 per hour
Seasonal Summer Jobs for College Students
Whether you stay at college in the summer or go back home you will likely have about three months to devote to a summer job.
Pet Sitter
If you love animals, this could be the perfect summer gig for you. Since summertime is the prime vacation season, you may be able to find many pet-sitting opportunities.
As a pet sitter, you’ll typically go to people’s homes to care for their pets for a set amount of time each day, or even overnight. Tasks include feeding pets, walking dogs, cleaning litter boxes, administering medications, and playing with the pet.
You can alert prospective clients to your services via social media, including Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. You can also ask around in your neighborhood to see who might need a pet sitter.
Average pay: About $25 for a 30-minute visit, $20 to $30 a day, $45 to $75 per overnight, or $250 to $375 per week
Babysitter
Many parents need help in the summer when their kids are home from school. As a babysitter, you may spend time playing with children, doing crafts with them, feeding them, and taking them to activities like sports practice, doctors’ appointments, and summer camp sessions.
Average pay: Approximately $23.61 per hour for one child
Summer School Teacher
If you are an aspiring teacher who has completed their bachelor’s degree, you could become a summer school teacher in a school district. For such a position, you’ll need your degree plus certification or licensure in your state.
For a somewhat similar but less formal summer school job, you could consider tutoring, working at a summer camp, or getting a position as an assistant in a kids’ arts or music program.
Average pay: $15 to $49 an hour for summer school teachers
Lifeguard
Lifeguarding is a popular job for college students since you get to spend your days at a pool or beach. You must pass a swimming test and undergo a lifeguard training and certification program that usually includes First Aid and CPR/AED training.
Average pay: $13 to $15 per hour
Landscaper
As a landscaper, you’ll do such tasks as plant flowers, mow lawns, prune trees, aerate soil, and fertilize plants and lawns. If you like to be outdoors, you’re able to do heavy lifting and digging, and don’t mind getting dirty, this could be a rewarding summer job for you.
Average pay: $15.94 per hour
Seasonal Holiday Jobs for College Students
On your year-end break from school, you can earn some extra money by getting a seasonal job for college students. Many businesses need additional help during the holidays, and some big companies hire tens of thousands of seasonal employees.
Retail Employee
Retailers often offer some of the best seasonal holiday jobs for college students. Retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target, Walmart, Macy’s, Bath & Body Works, Kohl’s, and J.C. Penney employ many seasonal workers for the season. Companies like Amazon also offer seasonal jobs, so consider looking there as well.
Average pay: $15 to $24 per hour, though it varies depending on the retailer
Gift Wrapper
If you enjoy wrapping presents for family and friends, why not do it professionally? Many retail stores offer gift wrapping services to their clients, and they’re typically looking for seasonal employees to fill this role. The job typically involves paying attention to detail while working quickly to meet customer demand during the holiday rush.
In addition to getting a seasonal job, there are a number of other options you can use to help pay for college. The more money you can put toward your college expenses now, the easier getting out of student loan debt later on may be.
First, be sure to fill out the FAFSA for any federal financial aid you might qualify for, including scholarships, grants, and federal student loans. These loans come with specific federal student loan interest rates that can vary from year to year.
You can also look for private scholarships and grants. This type of gift aid may be offered by your state, various organizations, and some businesses. SoFi’s scholarship search tool can help you find different gift aid opportunities.
Another alternative is to take out private student loans. These loans are offered by banks, credit unions, and private lenders. Private student loans have fixed or variable rates, and the rate you may qualify for depends on your credit history, among other factors. You can opt to refinance student loans in the future to get a lower rate or better terms if you’re eligible.
Getting a seasonal job for college students is one way to help pay for college. Federal financial aid, such as federal student loans, scholarships and grants can also help you cover your school costs. And private student loans can supplement your federal financial aid and help fill in the gaps.
SoFi has private student loan options you can explore, as well as student loan refinancing. With refinancing, you replace your existing loans with a new private student loan, ideally one with a lower rate and more favorable terms. Just be aware that if you refinance federal student loans, you won’t be able to access federal benefits such as income-driven repayment plans.
Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
About the author
Melissa Brock
Melissa Brock is a higher education and personal finance expert with more than a decade of experience writing online content. She spent 12 years in college admission prior to switching to full-time freelance writing and editing. Read full bio.
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Are you an introvert in search of the perfect job environment? Introverts typically focus on internal feelings rather than external stimuli and need alone time to thrive. Introverts often have excellent listening skills, avoid conflict, take time making decisions, prefer to work alone, and feel drained after being in a crowd.
A part-time remote job can be a good move for introverts. We’ll dive into a list of flexible remote jobs, the pros and cons of each, and how to evaluate remote job opportunities.
Key Points
• Increased productivity and improved work-life balance are significant benefits of remote work.
• Remote work can offer introverts the opportunity to earn supplemental income while maintaining a flexible schedule.
• Potential downsides include reduced social interaction and teamwork opportunities.
• Part-time remote jobs like bookkeeping and online tutoring are ideal for introverts.
• It’s a good idea to thoroughly evaluate remote job opportunities before applying.
What Are Flexible Remote Jobs?
The most basic definition of a flexible remote job is one that allows you to work from home instead of from a traditional office. However, there are some variations on remote work.
Some positions are 100% remote, which means you work from home every day. You do not need to be in an office at all or travel for your job. Hybrid remote jobs are partially remote, which means you may need to travel or spend time in the office for some of your working hours.
Finally, you might have the “option” of remote work. Some employers offer the option to either work from home or go into the office.
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Pros and Cons of Getting a Remote Job
There are both pros and cons to getting a remote job. Let’s take a look at them.
Pros:
• Higher productivity: Remote employees are often more productive because they can get more work done in a quieter working environment with fewer interruptions. They take fewer breaks and experience fewer sick days than those who work in an office. (After all, germs spread throughout an office like wildfire.) In addition, remote workers can often accomplish tasks at a more comfortable pace without having to worry about office drama.
• Better work-life balance: Working from home can improve your work-life balance, allowing you to spend more time with family, pets, or partner. Employees may also worry less about taking time off to care for a family member.
• Saves on commuting: Remote work allows you to reduce your carbon footprint by not commuting or taking public transportation. And you don’t need a budget tracker to tell you that not driving to work can also save money on fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
Cons:
• Fewer teamwork opportunities: Just as it’s difficult to assemble a robust happy hour with a fully online team, it’s also harder to build true camaraderie when you work remotely. It may also be more difficult for managers to build inherent trust with a team that doesn’t see each other every day.
• Reduced social interaction: As an individual who works remotely, you may find reduced social interaction one of the most obvious downsides of working remotely. It can exacerbate feelings of isolation.
• Less access to IT support: If you have a problem with your computer or need access to particular software, you might have trouble finding the same type of help as you would in an office.
• Must be intrinsically motivated: It helps to be a self-starter when you work remotely. If you need the motivation of a team or an office to get you through your workday, you may prefer an in-person environment.
Why Are Remote Jobs Good for Introverts?
Working remotely at home can help introverts find the quiet space they need to focus. You may also find there are mental and physical benefits. For instance, virtual meetings may be less intimidating for introverts, who may have trouble speaking up in large groups.
Remote part-time jobs also help traditional workers earn supplemental income. A free budget app can help you decide how much you need to earn per hour or per paycheck.
Where to Look for Remote Jobs for Introverts
You can find remote jobs for introverts on platforms like FlexJobs.com or WeWorkRemotely.com. Searching “jobs with flexible schedules near me” on Google might even yield some opportunities.
Take a look at company career pages on LinkedIn, or inquire within your personal network. Your friends or family may know of a great connection for a remote job.
How to Evaluate a New Remote Job Opportunity
Let’s say you’ve found a listing with potential. How do you know whether it’s a good opportunity to make money from home? Let’s walk through some ways to evaluate job posts.
Start by researching the company’s culture and values. Try to get a clear understanding of the nature of the company’s remote work. You may also want to find out about opportunities for smaller gatherings with other remote employees for professional or social support.
It’s important to find the right fit even when an opportunity is entirely remote. Culture and overall environment can vary a lot between companies even outside the office.
31 Part-time Remote Jobs With Flexible Schedules
Below, we’ve compiled some remote jobs with flexible schedules that are worth considering, as well as passive income ideas. These roles have different degrees of flexibility, salary ranges, and educational requirements.
Job description: Graphic designers help communicate ideas through visual organization and design. They work on a wide variety of projects for customers, such as advertisements, websites, print materials, and more.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in graphic design as well as a portfolio to showcase past projects.
2. Accountant
National average salary: $79,880
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 6%
Job description: Accountants analyze, verify, file, and interpret financial records. They prepare and explain financial statements, and develop financial reporting methods. Accountants work with a wide variety of organizations, from individuals and small businesses to large corporations.
Requirements: Usually requires a degree in accounting or a related field. Accountants can also pursue further certification, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Advanced certifications may improve your chances of finding jobs with flexible schedules.
3. Computer Programmer
National average salary: $99,700
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -10%
Job description: Computer programmers work software by writing, modifying, and testing code and scripts. They ensure that software meets performance, reliability, and security standards, update existing programs, and check for errors in code. Programmers work in computer systems design and other related industries.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree is typically required, and you must also be proficient in several programming languages.
4. Drafter
National average salary: $62,530
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -1%
Job description: Drafters convert rough engineering and architectural designs into precise technical drawings and plans, using software. The same computer-aided drafting (CAD) programs are used by many industries, outlining the dimensions, materials, and procedures for building. If this sounds intriguing, you may want to learn more about trades that make the most money.
Requirements: Typically requires a drafting degree from a community college or technical school.
5. Insurance Underwriter
National average salary: $77,860
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -4%
Job description: Underwriters evaluate insurance claims, help decide policy coverage and premiums, and analyze risk using mathematical models. They may assess the risks of home, auto, or life insurance.
Requirements: Usually must have a bachelor’s degree to enter the field, though experience may count in this career. Underwriters must pursue certification to advance to more senior positions.
6. Actuary
National average salary: $120,000
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 22%
Job description: Actuaries use mathematical formulas to analyze risk, including economic costs, for organizations. They collect and compile statistical data, perform risk assessments, and implement plans based on the data collected. Actuaries also use financial theory to determine risk.
Requirements: Requires a bachelor’s degree and a series of assessments for certification at different levels.
7. Data Scientist
National average salary: $108,020
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 36%
Job description: Data scientists analyze information using specialized tools and techniques to help organizations derive meaning from numbers. They collect and organize data into useful formats and build predictive modeling for organizations. These scientists extract insights with the goal of increasing efficiency in organizations.
Requirements: Generally must have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics; some organizations require a master’s or doctoral degree.
8. Desktop Publisher
National average salary: $51,290
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -13%
Job description: Desktop publishers design page layouts for online printed or published items. They review text, graphics, and other materials created by writers and designers, and use computer software to create various documents and products. Desktop publishers also collaborate with design and media professionals such as graphic designers and illustrators.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree.
9. Bookkeeper
National average salary: $47,440
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -5%
Job description: Bookkeepers keep track of financial records by recording transactions, creating invoices, handling payroll, and balancing the books for a company. They provide up-to-date information about financial transactions for an organization.
Requirements: Some postsecondary education may be required.
10. Public Relations Specialist
National average salary: $66,750
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 6%
Job description: Develop and maintain a positive public image for their client. Some public relations specialists deliver speeches or plan and execute meetings and events in the community.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in an area such as communication or business.
11. Marketing Manager
National average salary: $156,580
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 8%
Job description: Marketing managers plan and execute various programs to drum up interest in a company and its products. This can involve planning promotional campaigns, such as giveaways or contests, or running advertising campaigns on various platforms.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree required in a related field, such as marketing, advertising, digital media, communication, website/graphic design, or English.
12. Information Clerk
National average salary: $40,540
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -1%
Job description: Prepares reports, claims, bills, or orders for their company, and gathers and records information from customers.
Requirements: Generally requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training
13. Medical Records Specialist
National average salary: $48,780
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 9%
Job description: Medical records specialists process and maintain patient records and after visits may also assign clinical codes for patients’ diagnoses, procedures, and services.
Requirements: A certificate or associate degree may be required.
14. Sales Representative
National average salary: $73,080
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 1%
Job description: Sales reps sell products over the phone. They find customers, use sales techniques on the customer, and develop relationships to drive future sales.
Requirements: May qualify without formal education, but a bachelor’s in finance, business administration, or marketing may be required. Companies may teach you further techniques in cold calling, finding leads, and using sales techniques.
15. Online Tutor
National average salary: $39,580
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 1%
Job description: Online tutors do the same things as in-person tutors, including meeting with students one-on-one. However, they meet with students on Zoom or another online method instead of in person.
Requirements: Depends on the subject you teach, but clients/students may prefer tutors who list degrees or credentials.
16. Freelance Writer
National average salary: $73,690
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 3%
Job description: Freelance writers and authors may write for a variety of media and brands: websites, newspapers, magazines, company documents, and more. Many types of companies hire freelance writers instead of hiring in-house. Aspiring freelance writers can jumpstart their career by trying it out as a side hustle.
Requirements: Writers should have a college degree in journalism, English, communications, or a related field.
Job description: Film and video editors work in film production by editing and assembling videos to inform or entertain an audience. They may manipulate footage, dialogue, sound effects, special effects, and more to create video content for a wide variety of sectors.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in film or broadcasting to work for a company; on a freelance basis, a degree is likely not required.
18. Project Management Specialist
National average salary: $98,580
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 7%
Job description: A “PM” controls every stage of a project, from planning to helping execute the final steps. They may schedule milestones, put together a budget, and assign duties to individual participants.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree to work for a company.
19. Information Security Analyst
National average salary: $120,360
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 33%
Job description: Talk about high-paying jobs with flexible schedules — information security analysts fit that mold perfectly. These analysts keep company data safe from breaches and cyber attacks. They create plans to protect information from cyber criminals and assess system vulnerabilities within the organization.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science and experience in the field.
20. Recruiter or Human Resources Specialist
National average salary: $67,650
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 8%
Job description: Recruiters or HR specialists recruit, screen, and interview job candidates. They might also train, handle benefits and compensation, and work with individuals once they become employees. Those who work remotely may handle the screening part of the interview process or recruit remotely.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in HR, business, or a related field.
21. Market Research Analyst
National average salary: $74,680
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 8%
Job description: Market research analysts gather information about consumers and competitors and draw conclusions based on their research to help make decisions about the viability of products or services. They help companies understand the products people want, the demographics of the consumers buying them, and the optimal cost of an item.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in statistics, marketing, or a related field. Some employers may require candidates to have a master’s degree.
22. Freelance Editor
National average salary: $75,020 per year
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -2%
Job description: Editors can work for organizations in many sectors. They may plan and edit content, conduct research, rewrite work, fact check, copy edit, proofread, and more.
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or English, as well as writing and proofreading experience.
23. Virtual Assistant
National average salary: $54,496
Job growth outlook (2024-2034): 24%
Job description: Virtual assistants can work for any type of company that requires administrative or clerical work. For example, they may schedule appointments, make phone calls, arrange travel, or manage emails.
Requirements: No degree is required but candidates may need to specialize in a specific area; must have a strong internet connection and an ability to communicate on online platforms.
24. Remote Trader
National average salary: $76,900
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 7%
Job description: Remote traders handle financial investments, such as stocks, bonds, and other securities on behalf of clients. Traders must have deep knowledge of the stock market to analyze, buy, and sell investments on behalf of clients. Remote traders, who work for themselves and with their own cash, are also called “day traders.”
Requirements: Typically requires a bachelor’s degree to work for a company. If you work for yourself, no degree is required. Must have knowledge of the stock market and trading.
25. Search Engine Optimization Analyst
National average salary: $54,688
Job growth outlook (2021-2031): 19%
Job description: Search engine optimization (SEO) managers coordinate a company’s or business’s SEO strategy — that is, what will drive a website or piece of content to the first page of Google results. They may handle marketing, analysis, content, link building, and keyword strategy.
Requirements: Bachelor’s degree and/or related experience
26. Fundraiser
National average salary: $64,160
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 6%
Job description: Fundraisers organize events and run campaigns to raise money, typically for nonprofit organizations. Fundraising might not seem as if it’s the best choice for introverted employees. However, a lot of emails exchange hands, and it’s still possible to do the job well even if you’re not the most outgoing individual on your team.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is typically required, with strong communication skills — but not necessarily verbal skills.
27. Telemedicine Radiologist
National average salary: $353,960
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 4%
Job description: Radiologists diagnose injuries and diseases using medical imaging like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, nuclear medicine, positron emission tomography (PET), and ultrasounds. Telemedicine radiologists do all this via computer.
Requirements: Requires a medical degree and a residency in radiology as well as successful completion of certification exams through the American Board of Radiology.
28. Telemedicine Family Doctor
National average salary: $240,790
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 4%
Job description: Some family physicians offer telemedicine-only options. The position might involve the same type of medicine as a regular doctor’s office, except physicians diagnose mild symptoms only and refer patients to other specialists. If you’re a doctor who finds a regular clinical setting to be too taxing as an introvert, a telemedicine option might be right for you.
Requirements: Requires a medical degree.
29. Telemedicine Psychologist
National average salary: $92,740
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 7%
Job description: Psychologists observe and help patients cope with cognitive, emotional, and social problems and behaviors. They also help manage illnesses and supervise patient assessments with the overall goal of achieving wellness. Telemedicine psychologists interact with patients via Zoom or similar platforms.
Requirements: Typically requires a doctoral degree in psychology.
30. Medical Transcriptionist
National average salary: $37,060
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): -5%
Job description: Medical transcriptionists convert voice recordings from physicians and other healthcare workers into reports that medical professionals can use.
Requirements: Postsecondary education certificate is required as well as basic medical knowledge.
31. Health Education Specialist
National average salary: $62,860
Job growth outlook (2023-2033): 7%
Job description: Health education specialists help individuals and communities attain health and well-being by delivering plans to achieve specific goals or implement goals prescribed by doctors and other professionals.
Requirements: You typically need to earn at least a bachelor’s degree.
Introverts can find a wide variety of remote jobs with flexible schedules. Whether you prefer a second gig or a full-time job, you’ll find great ideas on our list. Some roles require specific skills or personality traits, such as bookkeeper, sales rep, drafter, or public relations specialist. Others are open to anyone willing to stick it out through the learning curve period, like data entry, medical coder, online tutor, video editor, or fundraiser. Jobs requiring advanced degrees are intended for current practitioners who are unfulfilled in a typical office setting.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.
FAQ
Is remote work good for introverts?
Yes, remote jobs can be good for antisocial people or just shy introverts. Still, it’s important to cast a wide net — including part-time jobs with flexible schedules — to find a role that aligns with your needs and preferences.
What jobs will allow me to work remotely?
The best remote jobs with flexible schedules don’t fall into just one category. Almost every industry offers some remote work options. The right job for you depends on your education, experience, personality, and career goals. Start with what you want to do, and then look for remote opportunities.
What is the best job for a shy person?
There’s no one best job that will fit any shy person, just as there’s no one perfect job that will fit any outgoing person. There are many work-from-home jobs with flexible schedules that introverted people may want to consider. Consider researching online, and contacting people you know about their positions before you make a decision.
About the author
Melissa Brock
Melissa Brock is a higher education and personal finance expert with more than a decade of experience writing online content. She spent 12 years in college admission prior to switching to full-time freelance writing and editing. Read full bio.
Photo credit: iStock/vorDa
SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
If you’re contemplating a job change or angling for a salary increase, you may have questions about whether a $95,000 salary will sustain you. Consider that the typical worker in the U.S. earns around $63,795 a year, according to the Social Security Administration. A $95,000 annual paycheck is nearly 49% higher than that.
Let’s see where you’d fall on the earnings spectrum compared to others in the U.S. and also explore ways to budget a $95,000 annual salary.
Is $95K a Good Salary?
While not quite a six-figure salary, $95K is generally considered a good income for a single person. But whether that amount works for you depends largely on where you live and your personal standards. For example, you may find that a $95,000 salary goes further in Des Moines than Honolulu, which has a higher cost of living.
No matter where you live, a budget planner app can help you set customized budgets and categorize spending, so you can make the most of your income.
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As in real estate, location is an important factor when it comes to salaries. Wages for the same job can vary widely from one state to another, driven largely by differing costs of living.
Here’s a look at the median household income in each state, per U.S. Census Bureau data.
How much you pay for necessities like housing, transportation, health care, and food can impact just how far your $95,000 salary will go. When figuring out whether $95,000 is a good salary for a single person, it can help to look at how much people in different states are spending on housing, food, health care, and other basics. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis’ (BEA) list of personal consumption expenditures, below, compiles this information.
No matter how much money you earn each year, it’s a smart idea to create a budget. One of the first steps you’ll want to take is to figure out how much money you have left after withholding for federal income taxes, Social Security taxes, and Medicare. On average, the take-home pay on a $95,000 salary is around $74,991.50, though that doesn’t include state taxes.
Once you’ve determined your after-tax income, consider using the 50/30/20 rule for budgeting. This means 50% of your income goes toward needs, 30% goes toward “wants,” and 20% goes toward savings or debt repayment beyond your minimum amounts.
Let’s say, for example, you live in Massachusetts. Your $95,000 salary would break down to $5,757 per month due to taxes (based on a 27.3% average tax rate and 35% marginal tax rate). Using the 50/30/20 rule, you’d put the following amounts in the corresponding pockets:
• 50% needs: $2,878.50
• 30% wants: $1,727.10
• 20% savings or debt repayment: $1,151.40
After you have your budget in place, a tool like an online money tracker can help you monitor your spending as well as keep tabs on your credit score.
Maximizing a $95K Salary
Whether you’re earning $95,000 as an entry-level salary or after several years on the job, there are ways to make the most of your income. Here are some strategies to consider:
• Max out your retirement savings account — and make sure you’re taking advantage of a company match, if one is available.
• Explore investing in securities that charge minimal fees.
• Work on improving your credit score, which can boost your chances of getting competitive interest rates.
Quality of Life with a $95K Salary
While it’s a highly subjective measure, “quality of life” typically refers to a combination of personal preferences, including job satisfaction, family life, health, and safety. How well you can live on your salary often boils down to your expenses and how and where you choose to spend your money.
By and large, many people with $95,000 salaries find they can live quite comfortably. However, if you spend more than you earn or rely on credit to fund your lifestyle, you may find you have trouble making ends meet on your income.
Is $95,000 a Year Considered Rich?
The Charles Schwab Wealth Survey reported that a national sample of Americans between the ages of 21 to 75 believe you need to amass $2.2 million to be considered wealthy. However, according to the same survey, Americans who say they feel wealthy have less than that — around a $560,000 net worth.
Note that it’s possible to accumulate wealth if you’re earning $95,000 a year, though it may take some time. Common strategies include relying on investing and compound interest to increase net worth, saving money, and setting money aside in a company retirement plan.
Middle class is defined as income that is two-thirds to double the national median income. By that definition, a middle-class household makes between $47,189 and $141,568, and $95,000 is in that range.
However, that’s for the nation. When you drill down to the city and state level, you see that the income required to be middle class varies. For instance, to be considered middle class in San Francisco, you’ll need to earn between $91,126 and $151,877. In Washington, D.C., middle class is defined as income that falls between $67,815 and $113,024.
Example Jobs that Make About $95,000 a Year
Many career types fall into the $95,000 salary range, including jobs for introverts. Here are some examples of careers you can pursue, which require a range of degree levels from associate to graduate:
• Financial Analyst: $99,890 per year
• Industrial Engineer: $99,380 per year
• Radiation Therapist: $98,300 per year
• Occupational Therapist: $96,370 per year
• Civil Engineer: $95,890 per year
• Architect: $93,310 per year
The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers an occupation finder in its Occupational Outlook Handbook, which you can sort by median pay over $80,000.
The Takeaway
Is $95k a good salary for a single person? By and large, yes, but your spending habits, budgeting skills, and local cost of living can all impact how far your money goes. With careful budgeting and saving, you can make the most of your income.
Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.
See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.
FAQ
Can I live comfortably making $95K a year?
Generally speaking, many people can live comfortably making $95,000 per year. However, it depends on several factors, including where you live, how much you spend, and where you put your money. Those who live within a budget feel the most comfortable with that salary.
What can I afford with a $95K salary?
Let’s target one of the most expensive assets most people own: a home. You may wonder how much house you can afford without stretching yourself.
Experts often suggest the 28/36 rule, which means that you should spend no more than 28% of your gross income on housing and no more than 36% on all your debt, which might include housing, student loans, car payment, credit cards, etc.
For example, according to the 28/36 rule on a $95,000 salary, you should spend no more than $2,216 on housing per month.
How much is $95K a year hourly?
A $95,000 salary breaks down to $45.67 per hour. This per-hour figure might not help you budget or understand your overall income, but it’s interesting to analyze.
How much is $95K a year monthly?
You’ll bring in $7,916.67 per month with a $95,000 per-year salary. It’s important to note that this is the general breakdown for that salary — your state may charge more in taxes and you may actually make less.
How much is $95K a year daily?
You’ll earn $365.38 per day with a $95,000 salary. Similar to your hourly rate, you might find this number difficult to help you budget or for use in a net worth calculator by age, but it’s interesting to know.
About the author
Melissa Brock
Melissa Brock is a higher education and personal finance expert with more than a decade of experience writing online content. She spent 12 years in college admission prior to switching to full-time freelance writing and editing. Read full bio.
Photo credit: iStock/JLco – Julia Amaral
SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.
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Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
