Trying to help a relative facing tough circumstances

[pb4uski]

cafeteria employee in local schools?
school bus driver?
assisted-living/nursing home employee?

A friend of mine worked for years as a school bus driver and really enjoyed it. In addition to daily runs he would also pick up driving the bus for sports teams.

 

[steakis4closers]

Unfortunately they really didn't have any assets. Rented house, old cars, that's about it. Great thought though - thank you.

imao how about alimony? get a lawyer guy

 

[bada bing]

Real estate always have to undergo probate unless it is in a trust. A will only does not solve the probate problem.

33 states allow Transfer on Death deeds, which bypasses probate for the real estate in question. I don't have a trust myself and my estate is set up to pass without probate in spite of ~$1M in residential real estate in two states.

A friend of mine worked for years as a school bus driver and really enjoyed it. In addition to daily runs he would also pick up driving the bus for sports teams.

I have a family member in a similar situation to the OP and he took on a school bus driver job. He loves it. Locally they are always looking to hire, especially just before school starts at the end of summer. You can elect a permanent route for 4hrs to 6hr+ per day. Pays $18.50/hr and some benefits are available. My family member stays at the bus depot between morning and afternoon runs on most days and plays cards with some of the other drivers. Just about all of the drivers seem to be retirement age in somewhat similar circumstances. Family member earns about $16K per year bus driving, with health insurance, and that's for 182 days/yr. He also does home handyman for another $10K/yr under the table. So far he's been able to delay his SS filing and seems comfortable, although more would definitely be better. He does have cheap housing from a paid for mobile home though.

It can be done if you adjust your expectations.