To Work at Home or Not.? That is the Question

Many people think to work at home is the ultimate dream job, but what many don't realize until it's too late is that it's still a job; and often a job that's equally if not more demanding than a regular nine-to-five.

Top Five Reasons Why Someone Would Want to Work at Home:

1). Flexible Hours; work when you want for as long -or as little- as you want. Work when the children are at school, quit when they're home.

2). Choice of not putting young children in day care. This is one of the biggest reasons women -and some men- choose to work at home. Daycare costs are expensive and take a huge bite out of any working parent's income. Working at home enables couples to have two incomes without the additional costs. Not having children in daycare also tends to lessen the number of colds and minor illness and injuries they might otherwise sustain, thereby lowering medical costs.

3). The ability to do household chores during work hours instead of evenings and weekends. The ability to multi-task is necessary in today's business world, especially for women. Working a nine-to-five job then another 4 to 6 hours at home completing daily household chores can take its toll on working women and their families.

4). No Boss. Another top reason people choose to stay home instead of finding a regular job.

5). Minimal office space and/or equipment needed. Most people already own a computer, desk and filing cabinet even if it's for their personal use.

Top Five Reasons Not To Work at Home:

1). Too many distractions. Many find that being home adds distractions that aren't found in a normal nine-to-five job.

2). Tax issues. Many people don't realize that the income they earn is taxable income until they file their taxes. On top of State and Federal Income tax, you are also responsible for Medicare/FICA (Social Security) and Self Employment Tax.

3). Inability to organize. Separating work from other daily chores can be a challenge and many lack the organizational skills necessary to successfully accomplish everything that needs completing.

4). Lack of structured environment compared to an office. Honorable though they may be, some people just can't function without a structured work environment.

5). More hours working than a normal eight hour day. One of the big surprises and major disappointments people have with this situation is that oftentimes they find themselves working more than a typical eight hour shift.

Top 5 Things to Consider Before Deciding to Work at Home:

1). You may not have a boss but your are still accountable to someone be it your clients, spouse or other family members.

2). Can you successfully set aside certain hours so that you're not scrambling in chaos and confusion to meet a deadline?

3). Are you able to keep accurate records of business related expenses and income for tax purposes or do you make enough money to hire someone to do it?

4). Do you have adequate office space or will you be maneuvering around husband, kids and television to get your work done?

5). Do the benefits far outweigh the difficulties?