Now Im back on unemployment.
How can those of us who are still out of work survive if it isnt extended?
Im a single mother of two.
Im not looking for a handout.
Im applying for jobs, but Ive worked in restaurants my entire adult life.
-Desperate
Dear Desperate,
Lets prepare for the worst and hope for the best here.
Youd still probably be able to collect your states jobless benefits.
So I understand why thats keeping you up at night.
No one can survive on that.
The best-case scenario: The extra $600 a week is extended in full before months end.
Or maybe an extension of some sort happens, but not before expanded benefits expire July 31.
Keep in mind that the best-case scenario will only be temporary.
7 Ways to Make Money if You Hate People
Do you avoid people too?
Enough small talk.Here are some waysto earn extra cash, without all of the social stuff.
Yes, you very well might wind up with less money than youve been getting on unemployment.
Working could also make you ineligible even for your states benefit.
For example, youre probably a pro at handling difficult customers without losing your cool.
Customer service representatives are in demand across many industries.
So try focusing your job hunt around your customer service experience instead of your restaurant experience.
Did you know?
One advantage is that a lot of these gigs let youwork from home.
That makes them less vulnerable to Covid outbreaks and potential shutdowns.
Grocery chains, pharmacies, convenience stores and home improvement stores are also hiring customer service reps. You may need to work two part-time jobs or work one main job while also earning extra side income.
These arent easy times to make a living.
Another option may be child care, since as a parent, you clearly have experience there.
Depending on your kids ages and school situation, maybe you could make extra money by babysitting.
In the meantime, do whatever you might to cut expenses.
If you’re able to get groceries from a food pantry instead of buying them, do it.
Dont think of this as asking for a handout.
Youre collecting from the social safety net youve funded by working and paying taxes.
This is the time to hold your head high and seek out whatever help is available.
Robin Hartill is a certified financial planner and a senior editor at The Penny Hoarder.
Send your tricky money questions to[email protected].
Probably not as good as youd like.
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