Breaking Barriers: 29 Side Hustles for Disabled Businessmen (2024)

Starting a side business can be a great way for those with disabilities to earn extra money and gain independence. Whether you have physical or mental impairments, various jobs can be done at home or in the community.

With the right tools and resources offered by doola, disabled individuals can succeed in their own unique way. Our business formation services allow them to get their business up and running with minimal paperwork while ensuring compliance.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side hustles for those with disabilities.

29 Best Side Hustles for the Disabled

The following are some disabled-friendly side hustles that you can consider and start promptly:

1. Freelance Writing

If you can write, consider taking on freelance writing assignments as a way to make money on your own time. Many websites and publications are looking for unique content that is tailored to their audience.

With the right skills and knowledge, you can earn money by writing articles, blog posts, website copy, and more.

2. Virtual Assistant

As a virtual assistant, you can act as an administrative assistant for businesses and individuals who need assistance with managing their workload.

From answering emails to scheduling appointments, you can complete a variety of tasks from the comfort of your home. Many companies offer flexible hours and pay rates, which is a great way to start making money without leaving your house.

If you earn at least $600 through virtual assistance, you will receive a 1099 form. At that point, it is preferable to form an LLC to deduct the cost of equipment and materials used to assist your clients. This will help you achieve financial efficiency.

3. Tutoring

If you have a degree or teaching experience, consider tutoring as a way to make extra money. You can tutor students in different subjects such as math, English, science, and more from the comfort of your home.

Many online platforms offer tutoring services and often pay decent rates for qualified people.

4. Pet Sitting

Pet sitting is a great way to make money while also doing something you enjoy. If you are passionate about animals, consider offering pet-sitting services in your local area.

You can offer services such as dog walking, feeding, and even overnight stays from the comfort of your home.

5. Selling Crafts

If you enjoy crafting or making art, selling your handmade products can be a great way to make some extra money. With the right resources and tools, you can create unique pieces that are sold online or at local markets.

From jewellery to pottery, there are a variety of artisan crafts that you can make and sell as a side hustle.

6. Ride-Sharing

If you have a valid driver’s license, you can make money by driving others around. Companies like Uber and Lyft offer flexible hours and reasonable pay rates for those who are willing to take people to their destinations.

On top of that, you get to meet new people and become familiar with your area.

7. Online Surveys

Surveys can provide an ideal side gig for someone with limited mobility or other physical limitations, as they require minimal effort and can be completed anytime, anywhere.

The idea behind online surveys is simple – companies want to know what you think about their products and services to improve them.

By taking surveys, you get to give your opinion and make money in the process.

8. Selling Products Online

Those who have a knack for creating products should consider selling them online to make money. You can sell online on an e-commerce store or partner with companies that offer drop shipping services.

This is an easy way to start a business without investing in inventory. All you need to do is create an online store and promote it on social media platforms.

9. Data Entry

Those who are comfortable working with computers can make money by doing data entry jobs. These jobs often require you to input information into a database or spreadsheet, and they are usually completed from home.

With the right skills and equipment, you can earn a decent amount of money as a data entry specialist.

10. Graphic Design

If design is your thing, consider offering your services as a freelance graphic designer. Many businesses and individuals need someone to create logos, websites, flyers, and more.

With the right skills and resources, you can make money by creating designs to help businesses reach their goals.

11. Blogging

Writing can be a great way to make money as a side gig. If you are interested in a particular topic, consider starting your blog and monetizing it with ads or affiliate links.

You can even start a podcast or YouTube channel to earn additional income from your writing skills.

12. Event Planning

Those who are organized and enjoy planning events can make money by offering their services to businesses and organizations.

This is a great way to earn money while using your creativity and problem-solving skills.

13. Design T-shirts Online

With very few start-up costs and no need for physical labour, this business opportunity can be a great way to supplement income while working on your own terms.

The first step in starting your own t-shirt design business is to create a portfolio of designs that you think will appeal to your target customers.

Once you have some designs ready, you can set up an online store and sell your t-shirts. You can also look into partnering with a local printing company so that they can handle the production aspect of the business for you.

14. Become a Tour Guide

If you’re disabled and looking for a side hustle, becoming a tour guide could be an excellent choice.

Tour guides lead visitors on tours of tourist attractions or points of interest, providing detailed information about historical events, architecture, art, geography, and more.

As a tour guide, you can work with tourists from all over the world who are interested in learning more about your area.

15. Consulting

Those with experience in their field can make money by offering their services as a consultant. Depending on the industry, you can charge companies for your expertise and advice.

You can even create an online course or webinar to share your knowledge with others.

16. Proofreading

If you have a keen eye for detail and know how to spot errors in writing, consider offering proofreading services as a way to make money. Many writers, students, and business owners need someone to review their work for accuracy and clarity.

With the right skills and resources, you can charge clients for your services and make a decent income from home.

17. Online Courses

If you are an expert in a certain subject or skill, consider creating an online course and selling it to others.

You can create video tutorials, write ebooks, and create audio podcasts that will help others learn the skills you have acquired.

This is a great way to make money from home while helping others learn something new.

18. Web Development

Are you a tech-savvy individual with an understanding of coding languages? Consider offering your services as a web developer.

Companies always seek talented individuals to help create websites, build apps, and develop software solutions.

With the right skills and resources, you can make money from home while helping others succeed.

19. Special Education Teacher

As a special education teacher, you help students with special needs reach their academic goals through classroom instruction and support while also providing them with the social and emotional support they need to succeed in life.

You must be certified and usually with a bachelor’s degree in special education. However, some states don’t require certification and may offer a pathway to becoming a special education teacher for those with disabilities.

20. Social Media Management

Those who are comfortable working with social media can make money by managing other people’s accounts. This is an easy way to make money from the comfort of your home. Companies are often willing to pay for someone to handle their social media profiles and post content on their behalf.

If you earn at least $600 through social media management, you will receive a 1099 form. Once this happens, you can establish an LLC to deduct the expenses you have incurred while providing the services to your clients.

21. Copywriting

If you have a way with words and know how to write persuasive copy, consider offering your services as a copywriter. Companies often seek someone to help them create compelling content for their websites, blogs, and other marketing materials.

With the right skills and resources, you can make money from home by crafting compelling copy.

22. Review Books Online

If you love reading books and discussing them with others, then this might be the perfect job for you.

As an online book reviewer, you can make money by reviewing books for certain websites or publications. You might also be asked to write book reviews and blog posts for authors and publishers.

23. Teach English Online

Teaching English is one of the most sought-after services in the global market, making it an attractive option for those with disabilities who want to earn extra income.

Teaching English online is a great way to earn money while retaining the flexibility and autonomy of working from home.

24. Self-Publish eBooks

By self-publishing, you can sell your work to an audience without relying on a traditional publisher or having your work accepted by a literary agent.

You also have complete control over the pricing of your book and the profits you make from it. Self-publishing an eBook is relatively simple and requires only a few steps.

Once you have written your book, you only need to create an account with a self-publishing platform such as Kindle Direct Publishing or Kobo Writing Life, upload the document, add the cover art and description, and set a price for it.

Then, your eBook will be ready for sale.

25. Affiliate Marketing

With affiliate marketing, you don’t need to invest in creating your products or services, and you can promote a wide range of products from multiple vendors.

This means that you have the potential to earn a passive income with minimal effort and expense. You can also choose the products and services that you want to promote, which gives you control over the types of products that your audience will see.

In affiliate marketing, you don’t need to worry about customer service or fulfilment since the vendor handles everything for you.

26. Sell Stock Photos Online

Stock images are photographs that can be used for commercial or editorial purposes without obtaining permission from the photographer.

By creating your stock photos and selling them online, you can generate passive income with minimal effort.

27. eCommerce Business

Setting up an e-commercebusiness enables disabled entrepreneurs to sell online from the comfort of their homes. These businesses cater to people with disabilities by providing them with the products and services they need.

One great eCommerce business that is perfect for disabled entrepreneurs is AbleBazaar.AbleBazaar sells products and services to people with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers.

They offer various items, including furniture, clothing, health and beauty products, medical supplies, adaptive sportswear, and more.

28. Start a YouTube Channel

Disability can make employment tricky, but it doesn’t have to keep you from being successful. Starting a YouTube channel is an excellent side hustle for disabled people who want to build a business out of their passion and skills.

You can create content on any topic that interests you or market products related to your disability. With the right strategy and dedication, you could turn your channel into a successful business.

29. Public Speaking Gigs

Public speaking is a great side hustle for disabled individuals as it can be done from the comfort of your home.

With the rise of video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, and Google Hangouts, virtual conferences can be held with clients worldwide.

Public speaking gigs allow you to share your stories and insights with others while also earning some income.

How to Start a Side Hustle as a Disabled in 5 Steps?

Starting a side hustle as a disabled person can provide an opportunity for personal fulfilment, financial independence, and flexibility.

Here are five steps to help you get started:

1. Identify Your Skills and Passions

Begin by identifying your skills, knowledge, and passions. Consider your areas of expertise, hobbies, or activities you enjoy that can be transformed into a side hustle.

This could include writing, graphic design, crafting, tutoring, virtual assistance, social media management, or any other skill you possess.

2. Research Accessible Side Hustle Options

Explore side hustle opportunities that are accessible and accommodating to your specific disability. Look for flexible work arrangements, remote work, or self-employment options that allow you to work from home or set your own schedule.

Research online platforms, disability-focused organizations, or support groups that can provide resources, guidance, or networking opportunities specifically tailored to individuals with disabilities.

3. Build Your Network and Support System

Connect with others who have similar experiences or interests within the disabled community.

Join online communities, forums, or social media groups where you can engage with like-minded individuals and learn from their experiences.

Building a supportive network can provide valuable insights, advice, and potential collaboration opportunities for your side hustle.

4. Seek Accommodations and Assistive Technology

Determine what accommodations or assistive technologies can enhance your productivity and enable you to pursue your side hustle effectively.

This might include adaptive equipment, assistive devices, screen readers, voice recognition software, or any other tools that can help you overcome barriers and perform tasks efficiently.

Research available resources or grants that can assist with acquiring necessary accommodations or technologies.

5. Market Your Side Hustle and Target Your Audience

Develop a marketing strategy to promote your side hustle.

Reach your target audience using online platforms, social media, and disability-specific networks. Highlight your unique perspective, skills, and expertise as a disabled person.

Tailor your messaging to resonate with individuals or organizations that value diversity and accessibility or are specifically interested in supporting businesses owned by disabled individuals.

Thrive Despite the Disabilities with doola

Side hustles can be an excellent way for you to take control of your financial future and support yourself in ways you might not otherwise have been able to.

By taking the time to explore various side hustle opportunities, you can determine which ones are best suited to your skills and abilities. With the right combination of determination and support, you can find success with your side gigs.

Whatever path you choose, you must set up a legal business entity for liability protection and ensure accurate bookkeeping to make sound financial decisions. doola can help!

Form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) with our business formation services to separate your personal and business finances, secure your assets from any liability, and keep your business legally compliant.

doola Bookkeeping will serve as your dedicated bookkeeper, ensuring accurate income, expense recording, and stress-free tax season administration.

Not sure if it’s the right package for you or what to do next to get your business going?

Get a free consultation with one of doola’s experts.

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