Frequently Asked Questions About Volunteering in Retirement

It’s natural to have questions as you consider taking this step. Here are answers to a few common ones.

Do I need special skills to volunteer?

For the vast majority of roles, the most important qualifications are reliability, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Most organizations provide all the training you need. While specialized roles like tax preparation or business mentoring require specific backgrounds, general opportunities at food banks, hospitals, and animal shelters are open to everyone. Don’t let a lack of “official” experience hold you back. Your life experience is more valuable than you think.

Will volunteering affect my Social Security or pension?

Because volunteering is, by definition, unpaid work, it will not affect your Social Security benefits or most private pension plans. You are not earning income. In some rare cases, a volunteer position might offer a small stipend to cover expenses like travel. If you are offered any form of payment, it’s always a good idea to understand how it might be classified. For any specific questions about your benefits, the Social Security Administration is the official source of information. You can find their website at https://www.ssa.gov.

Where can I find local volunteer opportunities?

Finding the right role is easier than ever. A great starting point is to search online using a site like VolunteerMatch or Idealist, where you can filter by your location and interests. Additionally, your local senior center or community center is a fantastic resource. Don’t underestimate the power of simply asking around. Talk to friends and neighbors about where they volunteer. For a broad directory of government-related and national service opportunities, you can visit the official U.S. government portal at https://www.usa.gov.