Thanks for sharing, Mary. My experience with Arise was a good one as well. That’s one of the first places I worked when I started working from home back in 2007.

You may do well then, to look into ARISE. They normally have contracts with Turbo Tax around this time of year, and you can either work directly for ARISE as a contractor (training is free but unpaid) or, you can set yourself up as an Independent Business Owner (IBO) and work for yourself, and/or hire others to work for you.

My daughter worked directly for ARISE on a pest control contract, and it paid pretty good during the pest company’s busy season. But once the busy season tapered off, ARISE did cut back on her hours, and although you can then sign up for another contract, it was a bit of a turn off because now, you have to apply and train for a whole new contract. (that part kinda stinks).

I only recommend them because it might be a good way for you to get some training (sometimes free but usually, you have to pay for each contract you sign up for), then perhaps, you could parlay that experience into bigger opportunities with H&R Block, an accountant firm, or if you really like it and are good at it, establish a small business for yourself! (all the help you need to establish your own business can be found on the SBA’s website).

Small tip: If they’re offering the Turbo Tax contract…and if you decide to go for it…and if there is a charge for the contract, don’t be afraid to call them and ask if they are offering any discounts. (they used to do that often to help defray the cost of picking up a contract). I ended up paying $20 for (what would have been) a $79.00 contract with Carnival Cruise Lines, as a cruise reservation agent. Unfortunately, things came up that conflicted with my actually getting the chance to work the contract, even though I completed all of the training.

To be fair, I know people who have signed up with ARISE who tell of both good and bad experiences, and online reviews about ARISE are mixed. My daughter’s experience was a good one. But I can name a few others who have a different story to tell.

Just thought you should have all the facts going in, but you’ll be the best judge of whether or not its right for you.

Blessings…..

It’s always an option, Jeff. I’ve even heard of some people utilizing the service while out of the country traveling or serving in the military.

Many banks don’t offer free notary services for non-banking-related documents. And many people don’t use local banks, instead choosing online banks or none at all.

Each state determines the maximum amount a notary can charge.

Best of luck!

Thanks for sharing this with us. I was telling my husband the other day I would like to learn how to file taxes. I like messing with numbers so I think it could be something I would enjoy doing.

Passing these great resources along! Happy Wednesday!

Cori