Military spouses often face unique challenges when it comes to building their careers.
Frequent relocations and the demands of military life can make it difficult to maintain steady employment.
That’s where side hustles come in handy.
Side hustles offer military spouses flexible opportunities to earn extra income and develop new skills while supporting their partners’ service. These ventures can range from remote work options to local gigs that tap into your talents and interests.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your family’s income or pursue a passion project, there’s likely a side hustle that fits your lifestyle and goals.
1) Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is an excellent side hustle for military spouses.
You can work from anywhere, making it perfect for frequent moves.
All you need is a computer and internet connection to get started.
As a freelance writer, you can choose from various niches.
These include blog posts, articles, product descriptions, or even technical writing.
Your skills and interests will guide your specialty.
Many websites and businesses are always looking for fresh content.
This creates a constant demand for writers.
You can find clients through freelance platforms, job boards, or by networking with other writers.
One of the best aspects of freelance writing is its flexibility.
You can set your own hours and workload.
This allows you to balance your writing with family responsibilities and other commitments.
To begin, create a portfolio of your best writing samples.
This will help you showcase your skills to potential clients.
Consider starting a blog to practice your writing and build an online presence.
As you gain experience, you can increase your rates and take on more challenging projects.
Some freelance writers even transition to full-time work, enjoying a rewarding career that moves with them.
Remember, consistency is key in freelance writing.
Regular practice will improve your skills and help you build a loyal client base.
With dedication, you can turn your writing talent into a profitable side hustle.
2) Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistant roles offer military spouses a flexible and portable career option.
You can work remotely, assisting clients with various tasks from anywhere in the world.
As a virtual assistant, you might handle email management, scheduling, travel arrangements, or social media management.
Some roles focus on specialized skills like bookkeeping, graphic design, or customer service.
Many businesses are embracing remote work, creating more opportunities for virtual assistants.
You can find clients through freelance platforms or by networking within military spouse communities.
This side hustle allows you to set your own hours and rates.
You can start small and gradually build up your client base as your schedule permits.
To succeed as a virtual assistant, you’ll need strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask.
Familiarity with common business software and excellent communication skills are also essential.
Consider taking online courses to enhance your skills in areas like project management or digital marketing.
This can help you stand out and potentially command higher rates.
As a military spouse, your adaptability and experience managing a household can be valuable assets in this role.
You’re likely already skilled at juggling multiple responsibilities and staying organized.
3) Online Tutoring
Online tutoring offers military spouses a flexible and rewarding side hustle opportunity.
You can leverage your knowledge and skills to help students learn from the comfort of your home.
Many platforms like Study.com connect tutors with students seeking help in various subjects.
Math, science, business, and computer science are popular areas where tutors are in demand.
To get started, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree and some teaching or tutoring experience.
The great news is that you can often set your own schedule, making it easy to balance with your family commitments.
This side gig allows you to work with students of different ages, from K-12 to college level.
You can choose to specialize in a subject you’re passionate about or offer help across multiple disciplines.
Online tutoring pays well, with rates varying based on your qualifications and the subject you’re teaching.
It’s an excellent way to earn extra income while keeping your skills sharp.
Plus, you can take this job with you wherever you move, making it ideal for the mobile lifestyle of military families.
All you need is a reliable internet connection and a quiet space to conduct your sessions.
Consider reaching out to fellow military spouses who might be interested in tutoring services for their children.
This can help you build a client base within your community.
4) Social Media Management
Social media management is a fantastic side hustle for military spouses.
With your adaptability and communication skills, you’re well-equipped to excel in this field.
Many businesses need help maintaining their online presence.
You can offer services like creating content, scheduling posts, and engaging with followers.
This work is often flexible and can be done remotely, perfect for your mobile lifestyle.
To get started, familiarize yourself with popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Learn about content creation tools and scheduling software.
You can find free online courses to boost your skills.
Consider specializing in a niche that interests you.
This could be anything from local businesses to fitness brands.
Your unique perspective as a military spouse might be particularly valuable to veteran-owned companies.
Networking is key in this field.
Join online communities for social media managers and military spouse entrepreneurs.
These groups can provide support, advice, and potential job leads.
As you build your client base, be sure to showcase your work.
Create a portfolio website or use platforms like LinkedIn to highlight your successes.
Don’t forget to manage your own social media accounts professionally – they’re your best advertisement.
5) Handmade Crafts on Etsy
Etsy provides an excellent platform for military spouses to showcase and sell their handmade crafts.
With over 45 million active buyers, you’ll have access to a vast audience eager for unique, handcrafted items.
As a military spouse, you can turn your creative hobbies into a profitable side hustle.
Popular handmade items on Etsy include pottery, jewelry, home decor, and custom clothing.
To succeed on Etsy, focus on creating high-quality, distinctive products that stand out from mass-produced alternatives.
Pay attention to your product photography and descriptions to attract potential buyers.
Leverage Etsy’s user-friendly interface to set up your shop quickly.
Take advantage of their tools for inventory management, order processing, and customer communication.
To boost your visibility on the platform, learn about Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
Use relevant keywords in your product titles and descriptions to help customers find your items more easily.
Consider offering printable art or digital downloads as a low-effort way to generate passive income.
These products require minimal ongoing effort once created and can be sold repeatedly.
Remember to price your items competitively while ensuring you’re making a profit.
Factor in your time, materials, and Etsy’s fees when setting your prices.
6) Photography Services
As a military spouse, you can turn your passion for photography into a profitable side hustle.
With base events, family milestones, and scenic locations near many military installations, there’s no shortage of opportunities to capture memorable moments.
Start by honing your skills and investing in quality equipment.
You can offer portrait sessions, event coverage, or even landscape photography if you’re near picturesque areas.
Military families often seek photographers for homecomings, promotions, and other special occasions.
Consider specializing in a niche like newborn photography or pet portraits to stand out from the competition.
You can also offer photo editing services to expand your client base and increase your income potential.
Marketing your services through social media and local military spouse groups can help you build a solid client base.
Word-of-mouth referrals are particularly valuable in military communities, so focus on delivering exceptional service to each client.
Remember to check base regulations and obtain any necessary permits before conducting business on military installations.
You may also want to consider setting up a website to showcase your portfolio and make it easy for potential clients to book your services.
7) Reselling on eBay
Reselling on eBay can be a lucrative side hustle for military spouses.
You can start small and grow your business as you learn the ropes.
Begin by selling items from around your home that you no longer need.
This helps you get familiar with the platform without any initial investment.
Once you’re comfortable, consider expanding your inventory.
Look for bargains at thrift stores, garage sales, or clearance sections.
You can then resell these items for a profit on eBay.
Research is key to success in this venture.
Use eBay’s “sold listings” feature to see what similar items have sold for recently.
This helps you price your items competitively and estimate potential profits.
Take clear, well-lit photos of your items.
Write detailed, accurate descriptions to attract buyers and reduce the likelihood of returns.
Provide excellent customer service to earn positive feedback.
This builds your reputation and can lead to repeat customers.
Consider specializing in a particular niche.
This could be vintage clothing, collectibles, or electronics.
Becoming an expert in a specific area can give you an edge over competitors.
Be prepared to package and ship items promptly.
Efficient shipping practices can save you time and money, improving your profit margins.
Remember to keep track of your expenses and income for tax purposes.
As your side hustle grows, you may need to consider registering as a business.
Benefits Of Having A Side Hustle
A side hustle can provide financial stability and personal fulfillment.
It allows you to develop skills that are portable and can move with you, regardless of where you’re stationed.
This flexibility is crucial in maintaining a sense of purpose and independence.
Side hustles often offer the opportunity to work remotely, which is ideal for the mobile military lifestyle.
They can help bridge employment gaps on your resume and keep you professionally active during moves.
Extra income from a side gig can ease financial pressures and allow you to save for future goals.
Additionally, pursuing a passion project can boost your confidence and provide a creative outlet during challenging times.
It’s a way to maintain your identity beyond being a military spouse.
Balancing Commitment And Flexibility
Military spouses face unique challenges when pursuing side hustles.
Finding the right balance between commitment and flexibility is crucial for success.
Let’s explore strategies to manage your time effectively and choose suitable opportunities.
Time Management Strategies
Start by creating a structured schedule that accounts for your military lifestyle.
Use digital tools like calendar apps to block out time for your side hustle, family commitments, and self-care.
Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.
Focus on high-impact activities that yield the best results for your business.
Consider adopting the Pomodoro Technique: work in 25-minute bursts followed by short breaks.
This method can help maintain focus and prevent burnout.
Delegate tasks when possible.
Enlist family members’ help or hire virtual assistants for time-consuming activities that don’t require your expertise.
Choosing The Right Opportunity
Look for side hustles that align with your skills and interests.
This alignment will keep you motivated and make the work feel less like a chore.
Opt for flexible gigs that can adapt to your changing circumstances.
Remote work options are ideal for military spouses who may need to relocate.
Consider opportunities with scalable income potential.
This allows you to adjust your workload based on your availability and financial goals.
Evaluate the startup costs and time investment required.
Choose side hustles that fit your current resources and lifestyle constraints.
Research the market demand for your chosen side hustle.
Ensure there’s a sustainable customer base to support your business long-term.
Leveraging Military Resources
Military spouses have access to unique resources that can support their side hustle endeavors.
These valuable assets include extensive networks and educational opportunities specifically designed for military families.
Networks And Community Support
Military communities offer robust support systems for aspiring entrepreneurs.
You can tap into spouse clubs, online forums, and base organizations to connect with potential clients and collaborators.
These networks often host events where you can showcase your products or services.
Military-focused job boards and entrepreneurship programs are tailored to your unique situation.
They provide guidance on portable business ideas and help you navigate the challenges of frequent relocations.
Consider joining military spouse professional networks on social media platforms.
These groups can offer advice, mentorship, and even partnership opportunities for your side hustle.
Military Spouse Education Programs
Take advantage of educational benefits designed for military spouses.
The MyCAA program offers up to $4,000 for career training in high-demand, portable fields.
This funding can help you acquire new skills or certifications to boost your side hustle.
Many universities offer military spouse scholarships.
These can help you pursue degrees or courses that align with your entrepreneurial goals.
Look into free online courses and workshops offered through military support organizations.
These resources often cover topics like business planning, marketing, and financial management.
Consider certifications in fields like project management or digital marketing.
These skills are highly transferable and can enhance your side hustle capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Military spouses often seek flexible ways to earn extra income while supporting their partner’s service.
These common questions address popular side hustles, online options, and resources for starting a business.
How can military spouses earn extra money with a side hustle?
You can explore freelance writing, virtual assistant work, or online tutoring.
These flexible options allow you to work from home and set your own schedule.
Consider selling handmade crafts on Etsy or managing social media accounts for small businesses.
These side gigs can tap into your creative skills and marketing expertise.
What are some online part-time job options for military spouses?
Virtual assistant roles are in high demand.
You can help businesses with administrative tasks, customer service, or data entry remotely.
Online tutoring platforms offer opportunities to teach subjects you’re knowledgeable about.
English language tutoring is especially popular for native speakers.
Can active duty military members have a second job, and what options are viable?
Yes, active duty members can often take on side jobs with proper approval.
Popular options include rideshare driving, personal training, or weekend retail work.
Some service members offer skills-based services like photography, web design, or home repairs during off-duty hours.
What side jobs are popular among military couples for additional income?
Many couples find success with home-based businesses.
This might include dropshipping, creating and selling digital products, or offering virtual services together.
Pet-sitting or house-sitting can be ideal for military couples, especially if one partner has a more flexible schedule.
How can military families generate passive income effectively?
Investing in dividend-paying stocks or real estate can create long-term passive income streams.
Be sure to research and understand the risks involved.
Creating and selling digital products like ebooks, courses, or printables can generate ongoing income with minimal daily effort after initial setup.
What resources are available for military spouses seeking to start a side business?
The Military Spouse Employment Partnership offers training and job connections.
You can access workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
Your installation’s Family Readiness Center may provide entrepreneurship resources and classes tailored to military life challenges.