I’m just curious.does anyone else constantly think, ‘how will I ever make the income I need to really live?’ Right now, my take home is $730 every 2 weeks.

Question

I’m just curious.  does anyone else constantly think, ‘how will I ever make the income I need to really live?I’m just curious. does anyone else constantly think, ‘how will I ever make the income I need to really live? ’ Right now, my take home is $730 every 2 weeks. So roughly $1460 a month, plus $300 child support = $1760 a month. My current outgoing money is $1740 (estimate) If I want to ‘live’ more comfortably. and without food assistance & child support, I’d need to make at least $2250 a month. $14/hr with a 40 hour work week and not including taxes. so what, maybe $15/hr at least? It feels like I’ll NEVER get there. At almost 34 yrs old and a single mom of 2. I know I’ve come a long way. I’m still in an entry level position as a receptionist and 3 yrs into this I’m wore out. Im bored and I know my potential. I have spoke with my boss about advancement and I did in October but when all this stuff with Covid happened, the new receptionist took her furloughment. I’ve been back at the phone while watching a coworker advance and learn more. I’m thankful for a job, but I’m struggling and tired of no advancement. I came here to advance. Trying to remain grateful but still feeling somewhat upset with how things are going.  

Answer 1

It really helps me to listen to Dave Ramsey and make a plan. Practicing gratitude is also unexpectedly helpful. Best wishes to you!  

Answer 2

I’m not sure where you are from but I would suggest checking out call center jobs. Sure it’s not for everyone but if you can handle the customer service side of it usually they are good pay with benefits! Also usually full time!  

Comments

@heavierthanair0 yes! Call center and tech companies. I work for a tech company in sales (I do have to do cold calls sometimes) and make $20 an hour plus an additional $3750 in commission. And they have awesome perks benefits

Answer 3

Why would you want to live without child support? You and your ex both are responsible for your child.  

Comments

@dowsabel because I don’t want to depend on it. I depend on it and include it in my income. I would prefer not to do that because financially, he still has control

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I think she means not having to be dependent on his child support payment. Yes, they are both responsible for the child but those payments stop coming for all kinds of reasons and that would hurt her budget.  

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@grano Ok, I understand what you mean.  

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@grano, I get you. now. Totally agree

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@grano it’s not for you. It’s owed to your kids. So you should always get it for them even if you save it for them later. It’s to make sure their life is good. It’s not charity.  

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@tybi of course, but I don’t want to depend on it. It’s court ordered, but I depend on that and I don’t want to do that.  

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@grano so it’s more of if it doesn’t come you don’t want it to be part of your required income? That I get absolutely. When I was young I had a daughter and i still don’t know how I did it. I made 1500 a month my rent was 850 and you can do the math. There is no way with basic expenses it makes no sense that i make it. But I did. Some months were harder than others. Lots of Mac and cheese and oatmeal and pasta. You can do anything. You put your mind to.  

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@grano rather you depend on it or not you still should be getting what is fair and investing that money for your children. if you do t want it at least have some sort of documentation drawn up that he is responsible for putting so much in a 529 or some other investment each month that you have a way of overseeing. that’s just not fair to you or your children!  

Answer 4

Best time to find a job is when you have a job! If they are undervaluing your worth, time to move on. Do you belong to reddit? r/financialindependence is great and they have great advice on there! I’d post this on there if I were you.  

Answer 5

I’m 26 an am a receptionist. I understand the burnout. Idk about your area but in my area for that we will not make over $15hr. I wish I could offer more advice except I’m here to say you’re not alone! I bring home the same

Answer 6

I was overwhelmed by my monthly overlook. Yet. When I broke it down by paycheck it was easier to digest.  

Answer 7

Look for a new job. Look for a administrative assistant or group assistant position and don’t take less than $20 an hour to start. You’re at the wheel, you look for the opportunities that will benefit you. They won’t be handed to you at work, you have to create and push for those opportunities and sometimes that means going somewhere new. Also, I would even suggest looking at companies that are in technology. They tend to be more liberal and in tune with current trends and workplace equality - so they tend to pay more in my experience.  

Answer 8

New job.  

Answer 9

Why do you feel you could never earn more?  

Answer 10

You really need to look for a new job with 3 years experience assuming you have done some book keeping you could probably get a much better paying job I would say easily 18 an hour

Answer 11

It doesn't sound like you need a new job it sounds like you need a career. Look into more education, more training, and the company that knows your worth.  

Comments

@slovak336 that’s exactly why I took this position. Plenty of room for advancement AND it would be a career. But now, I’ve been promoted twice within 3 years, only to be put right back in the starting position. Yes, I have been able to keep my pay, but it’s caused resentment and hard feelings. I’ve been verbally attacked by a coworker who has now advanced twice immediately after the fact. It’s like a spit in the face. My boss and work environment is fine, I get great benefits, but I’m feeling like I’m being walked over

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@grano are you only doing secretary stuff while the normal secretary is gone. Because then it's just temporary. Or maybe talk to your boss and say you would prefer to go back to your regular position and maybe they can get a temp to handle the phones

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@dextroamphetamine45 I’m doing the receptionist position, as well as mine. However, they picked a coworker who had just verbally attacked me - while at work - to learn a new position. That’s where my feelings of ‘being spat in the face’ came into play

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@grano that sucks the other person for a new position. But her verbally attacking you has nothing to do w their new position. Sounds like they are just mean or rude. But maybe good at their job. Maybe start looking at other companies to see what's out there

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@grano if your boss is fine who are you getting walked over by and why can’t you go to your boss about it?  

Answer 12

If you don’t have to carry the kids’ insurance, then look with placement companies- temp to hire. That sort of thing, it’s a great way to get your foot in the door with companies. Depending on what state you’re in, there are quite a few. I didn’t hate it when I contracted. Also, it helps build your resume

Answer 13

My friend found a great position that actually lead her to working in overseas all from a temporary position. Have you reached out to a temp agency? ETA: my friend had a degree and her temp positions were entry level, but not necessarily admin/ secretary.  

Answer 14

The possibilities are endless. Right now it may feel like you’re stuck but in the bigger picture you’re only 34 and still have lots of time to figure something else out! Just don’t lose hope and stay motivated. You never know what may be coming your way

Answer 15

Temp jobs make at least that much $. Try something new. Also, $300 in child support seems really low. Do you qualify for reduced rent?  

Answer 16

Move on the pay for that position is entry level and your not moving up in that co. Admin (old word was secretary is the next step) or get educated or learn a skill but move on until then.  

Answer 17

Honestly, look for a new job. You’ve now got 3 years worth of admin skills, which someone else will be lucky to have. And DON’T tell them what you make currently. Research what the position should be making and ask for that (higher end to leave room for negotiation). Moving jobs is the easiest way to get a decent raise,  

Answer 18

I make a little bit over 16 and my take home is about 1600-1800. I would say a bit more.  

Comments

@blackmun3 whoa! Does that include insurance? What are your taxes like?!  

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It does include insurance! And I also work 3 12-hour shifts. My taxes are around 100-200.  

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Yeah, I was gonna say I make $15. 54/hr and only bring home like $1700-1860 with taxes here. (I have insurances (STD/LTD/Life/D&D, etc. ) but they're very cheap, and ever come out all at once. I also don't pay for Medical/Vision/Dental as I'm still on my parents plan. ) In my area, to bring home $2250/mo, you'd have to make anywhere from $17. 50-20. 10 depending on taxes and deductions. ($17. 50 if you get to take home 80% of pay. $20. 10 if you take home 70%. )

Answer 19

I work at Whole Foods and starting is 15. It can be a really good gap job while you look for something more permanent.  

Answer 20

Speak with a staffing agency. I told them the minimum I needed, the distance I was willing to drive, the schedule I wanted and spoke with them of my experience. they were able to find me 3 interviews within a week. All three interviews ended with offers that were well above my minimum needed

Answer 21

Why do you feel coworker is advancing rather than you? Has she been there longer? Will company pay for any classes? I think there’s a lot of jobs for that wage range. Maybe time to move on. If you qualify for any assistance take it and use your money for training classes. Good luck

Comments

@photo2144 no, I was hired on 3 months before her. Promoted when she was hired. My divorce went from OK to ugly and during that 1st year, I was going through an ugly divorce AND my transmission blew. Given that my closest family is 500 miles away, I was able to use my problem solving skills and still make it to work without missing many days. They moved me back to the receptionist position and promoted her. Understandable. yes, but it caused me more stress financially. She ended up verbally attacking me at work. We mended the relationship and moved forwarded until a couple weeks ago when it happened again. She has since started learning a new position.  

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@grano I think maybe time to move on

Answer 22

I feel your pain and I am in the same boat. My out going expenses are just a little less then my take home. Just my rent and car payment is one paycheck plus a little more.  

Answer 23

Would you ever have interest in a trade?  

Comments

@pang What kind of trade makes women dependable money? i know hairdressing is a trade but i tried that and you need to be more of a relationship builder than anything

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@whistle @veil254 labor unions. Roofing, carpentry, electricians, Teamsters, painters, machine operators etc.  

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@commines yeah! They pay real well.  

Answer 24

Trade work makes good money. We are also buying an investment property.  

Answer 25

I’m a server and I make around 2000 a month working around 30 hours a week. My husband works in a warehouse and brings home 20+ an hour. Trades are where it’s at.  

Answer 26

My husband is a personal trainer on salary working 3 days a week at $30, 000 a year and his take home for the month is $2, 062 for reference I am on salary and make $50, 000 a year and take home a month is $3, 076. breaks down to about $25 an hour Even with that we can absolutely relate to the struggle of feeling like we’ll never make enough writing out my expenses has really helped me feel better and see where we are spending money/ where we can cut back/ how much we can save/ etc

Answer 27

Check the minimum wage law in your state. In NY it’s $15 an hr. Then look for another position because even though you’re grateful to have a job, that might turn to anger when you can’t move up in that company. Sometimes we need a new start.  

Comments

@berchtesgaden0 this isn't true. I live in ny and make less then 15. I believe minimum is 11 something.  

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Minimum wage in NY is definately not $15 an hour. I live in NY.  

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@tincture I think it’s for new hires only. Each area of the state is at a different benchmark. NYC with 11+ employees reached it in 2018; less than 10 employees reached it in 2019; LI & Westchester will reach it in 2021 & as of this December it will be $14 an hr. for those areas. I dont know about the other areas.  

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@berchtesgaden0 I am a new hire Just started a different job a month ago. For the southern tier it definitely is 11 something.  

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@carbazole3 go to the dept of labor website & they will tell you what it is in your area from when they started raising it in 2016.  

Answer 28

I made $25 an hour as a 911 dispatcher. It’s hard and you’ll have to work shift work but I did it for almost 13 years. I guess it depends on where you live, though.  

Answer 29

Definitely look into other places of employment.  

Answer 30

Do you have the opportunity or the help to further your education? I know being a single mama feels like it is almost impossible to get a head in life. I was you at one time. I live in CA and was making 15 an hour living paycheck to paycheck broke af. One year my kid didnt even get new school clothes for the new school year because I just didn't have the money. I ended up making the decision to go back to school. I worked days and did school at night for a year. For that year I literally never saw my kids except weekends. I would drop then off at school in the AM and pick then up from the baby sitter at 11pm to 1am when they were already asleep. It was tough, but it was the best decision I ever made because now I am no longer struggling and can afford to pay every bill plus have fun money and savings! I'm on track to purchasing a home this year with my savings :) You can do it to. The best way is going to be able to further your education. Utilize welfare, food stamps, child care subsidies while in school, whatever you need to do to survive. That's what it's there for. To help people get on thier feet so they never have to use the system again!  

Answer 31

Sounds like you aren’t going to move up much in your company. I would look elsewhere for another job. And apply for jobs you don’t think you are qualified for. Ask friends and family. I make $23 an hour. I was not qualified for the job I have now. I got it because a friend recommended me for the job and put in a good word. Most people nowadays get good jobs because of people they know. Not just because they worked there a long time and moved up the ranks. Networking is 100% the best way to get a better job, especially one you may not think you are qualified for.  

Answer 32

It doesn't sound like, 5 years from now, you'll be where you want to be if you stay at your current job. I would look for something new. But spend some time trying to imagine yourself in different roles, in different environments and think about what appeals to you. Are you passionate about creating things, helping people, working with young people, etc? What would be your best fit? We always do better when we have a job we love. other people see that in us, and in our work, and eventually that translates to advancement.  

Comments

But, also be kind to yourself, and acknowledge the courage it takes to think about making a change and deciding not to accept the reality you are in as the best you could have. It takes guts to go looking for more from life and to put yourself out there - even to ask this Q to the group. So hug yourself. You're on your way. :)

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@blacklist I have been an Administrative Assistant for 5 years and have wondered and searched how to advance my career to the next level and increase my pay. I have talked to my colleagues who work in other areas and seen how my skill set can be applied in those areas. For example moving into a Project Manager position ( my colleague forwarded me their resources and how they got their certification) along with videos to watch to understand the position. Another colleague suggested their department which is Marketing and Communications.  

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And another one has talked to me about Organizational Management I am interested in all of these and am looking into what each requires, salaries and potential positions

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@variorum610 The Virtual Savy and the Free Mama Movement teach all how to transfer these skills to the online world. I didnt have much luck but i have seen thousands of women benefit from their programs. I think it didnt work for me bc im terrible at marketing myself and hooking clients. But if you know how to build bonds with people, THIS will work.  

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@variorum610 Also im interested in Organizational Managment so if you want to share your wisdom, i would pay for that service

Answer 33

Do you have any other skills? In my area a regular receptionist can make $10-12 an hour but can those skills be applied elsewhere. Do you have any manufacturing places in your area? We have some aerospace assembly positions that start at $14-15 an hour with increased earning/growth potential. Look everywhere and don’t give up. You know what you need to make best time to look is when you’ve got a job ❤️

Answer 34

Can you when time allows to start applying for administrative assistant positions? Pay is much higher and is the next step from reception. I don’t know where you are located but jobs like that pay about 18-20 per hour in AZ. out receptionist position at my office pays 18 to start but is always a steady promotion spot for other departments.  

Answer 35

Couple of questions: 1. Is this the career you want for the rest of your life? 2. What do you want to do for the rest of your life? 3. Where do you see yourself in a year? 3 years? 5 years? Etc. Answering these questions may help you figure out what to do. I know things are weird and uncertain right now, but thinking ahead and planning for the future can be enlightening. (Sorry ‍♀️ career educator)

Answer 36

The only option for me was a second job  

Answer 37

Do you know excel, PowerPoint, word? If so start applying for admin job. Try big banks or tech industries. See if any corporate companies are in your area.  

Answer 38

Do you have any hobbies that could turn into side business?  

Answer 39

It’s often times easier to advance payment opportunities when you change companies. 3 years is a nice steady length of employment so you don’t look like you are someone who jumps from job to job. If I were you I’d start putting resumes out there.  

Answer 40

I’m 36 with no college degree making $20/hr in an oil and gas admin position. Before getting this job I was making $15/hr. The reason I got this higher paying position is because I was able to learn Microsoft Access at my last job and put it on my resume. My current job requires managing an Access database. I have roughly 10 years admin/accounting experience. I would recommend looking for another job when things settle down. I would also recommend making sure you are up on the current software and learn as much as you can from youtube, etc so you can speak knowledgeably during interviews. Personally the expense of going to school and the lost income while in school does not make financial sense for my situation. I wish you the best of luck!  

Comments

Also- when you start applying for jobs because that is really the only way you are going to get a significant raise- make sure you tailor every single resume for the specific job posting. If you apply to 20 jobs in a day, you should be adjusting your resume 20 times. Use the buzz words they use in the job post, etc. If they are looking for a specific software and it’s one you know, make sure it’s listed first under skills and then again how you used it in a bullet point under your previous job. It’s time consuming and super tedious but a lot of bigger companies use software to sort through the first round of resumes and they set up keywords, etc. If you get an offer, don’t be afraid to negotiate. I would aim for $16/hr with your experience level for an admin job. I wish you the best of luck!  

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@enate this is very good advice!  @grano do this for sure!  

Answer 41

I hear you. I am struggling. I didn't go to college and my skill sets deal with working and running a gas station/convience store. There isn't a lot of jobs around here. Not sure what to do make more money.  

Answer 42

I feel you. I haven’t read all of the comments and I have no real advice, but wanted to let you know you’re not alone in your struggle. I’m a 35 yr old single mom of 3 and I get no help from their dad (he refuses to pay). I’ve been out of work since March 20th due to corona and I start back tomorrow. I dread it so bad. I hate my job. There’s no advancement. I’ve been there for over 4 years and haven’t even gotten a raise. We don’t even have benefits. I can pay the bills with what I make, but we don’t have a lot of extra for fun or savings. I feel stuck and want a job change. It’s not a good feeling, but know that you’re not alone.  

Answer 43

Someone mentioned computer skills there are online courses to help teach you excel, word etc for not much money that could greatly increase your chances of getting a higher paid position. Possibly even free stuff like you tube on how to use them

Answer 44

Take a leap of faith and apply everywhere, even if you know you wont get the job. I did and landed a $21/hr entry level position in a company I know nothing about! lol I had technical support background from a cellphone company but this job deals with estimating software for construction companies. Totally out in left field for me. I interviewed anyways, did my research beforehand and was able to answer that "Why do you want to work here" question in the interview (which they loved I did research prior to speak on the close-knit feeling based on their fb pictures and reviews) They start off with 3wks vacation, bonuses, everything. And I was at $12/hr working chat based tech support (for another phone company) from home before I landed this job. I knew no one going into the interview and I was 1 person vying for 2 open positions. to be picked from 9 others who interviewed as well. Take those chances and you'll never know where you'll land! You can always say no if the pay, commute or anything else isn't right for you. But you'll always miss the chances you never take ❤

Answer 45

Many of the big banks pay their tellers $15-20/hour minimum (depends where you are located). Also usually have excellent benefits.  

Answer 46

Unfortunately, I live in CA and at $20 an hour after taxes, insurance and 401k contributions I make around $2400 a month (not including commissions which add a great deal) I would suggest trying to find a job where you have the opportunity to make tips or commissions as I find that’s the most bang for your time. I put in the effort I get rewarded not I put in the effort and then I have to wait for my manager to notice my effort, budget to come up, position to open etc. Think insurance or tech companies if you’re wanting commission and entry level positions like Sales Development Rep or Business development rep. Those are typically M-F 8-5. I have sales experience and I started as an account rep at a company at $20 an hour plus $3750 a month in commission if I hit quota (more if I exceeded) they also offered work from home and flexible work schedule, on-site massages and chiropractic, fresh organic fruit, free cold brew and tea and some other really awesome perks! Also try getting active on LinkedIn and revamping your resume and cover letter. Resume genius has a free 10 day trial and they produce nice looking resumes.  

Answer 47

Your child support seems so low for 2 kids! . That’s a tough budget for anyone

Answer 48

$15/hr sounds totally reasonable, I agree that you should send out your resume! Everyone has already given some great advice, I just want to say good luck!  

Answer 49

Time to see how much they value you as an employee. 1. Draft up an official letter detailing your service, acquired skills on the job and personal dedication and work ethic. 2. At the end of the letter kindly ask for a raise. 3. Let them know that if you are not advanced soon (by a set date) that you will be forced to take the skills and experience somewhere else. 4. Above all thank them for their investment in you as it sets you up for success wherever you go. Hand it in and wait for an answer, whatever it may be. I understand if you feel like you need to wait until covid stuff is over. but you need to assert yourself. Some employers are waiting to see that tenacity in order to promote. Truth is. if you don’t have that tenacity, someone else will and they will step over you to get what you should have.  

Answer 50

$300/mo for 2 kids seems like not enough. I don’t know much about these things but does anyone else think that that is kind of low? Just feeding two kids probably cost more than that not inc housing etc

Comments

@rosario yeah that is ridiculously low to me! That’s now way 1/2 of what it costs to support 2 children!  

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@schouten thank you! I would be suing that guy for more money! But I get not wanting to be dependent on it but still!  

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A lot of times child support is based on the non custodial parent's income, not necessarily how much it costs to raise a child.  

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@rosario up until recently I recieved $50/month for my son (& hes 9). It's a % of the noncustodial parent unless they're below the poverty line in which case they can pay the bare minimum.  

Answer 51

I was in the same boat( I mean we are married but still we struggled with 2 FT jobs) so I get the feeling of never going to be able get out of the hole. Have you ever considered starting your own business? I started a cleaning business (houses and businesses) and eventually my husband even was able to quit his FT job to join me. He works FT I work about 30 hrs a week and we make more than we ever did at our $14-18/hr jobs. I know it’s not for everyone but for some people it’s a perfect fit. ❤️

Comments

Also, our daughter has always been able to accompany us, since she was 10 and now she works with us (she’s 16) and could easily start her own business in just a few years

Answer 52

Time to apply for a new job. Sadly most of the time you have to change jobs to increase pay. May I recommend a bank or, better yet, a credit union? Your pay and benefits will be better. Banks tend to pay more than credit unions, but not always.  

Answer 53

Admin Assistant at places like hospitals are always needed and most have a matching retirement and benefits.  

Answer 54

I always found that a new job is the quickest way to increase income. It can be hard, but it's usually worth it. Jobs are still hiring.  

Answer 55

Spruce up your resume and start applying to higher paying jobs. Cut your bills any where you can ( drop cable, look at your cell plan, consolidate credit card bills and have a payment plan set for a specific period of time etc) Also your child support seems low for two kids. I would relook this too. Best of luck.  

Answer 56

In which are are you located?  

Answer 57

Im in THE SAME POSITION, in my 30s, with a child, feel like ill never be able to live without public assistance and child support. So i created my own job. Im not where i want to be but i will get there. im still constantly side hustling.  

Answer 58

I'd start revamping your resume and look for jobs you wouldn't normally think of: post office, construction, IT support, call center, progressive work from home makes more than $15. Can deliver as a contractor for Amazon.  

Answer 59

Even at 14 an hour you aren’t bringing home 2250 I make more than 14 an hour and after taxes and healthcare it’s under 1900

Answer 60

Trader Joe’s and Costco are really good places to work with benefits and raise stages.  

Answer 61

I’m in an entry level receptionist job, part time minimum wage in Australia, at 37 years of age. Single parent of 2. I can absolutely understand where your head is at, I’m in a very similar situation. I have the opportunity to pay for a diploma course in a line of work I’m interested in, up front. I’m petrified of taking the leap (mostly because it’s big $) and have been debating myself about it all week. Do you have an idea of what you would like to do instead? I’m closer to 40 than 30, and only now just uncovering what I might like to do when I grow up after many ‘wrong’ turns (career wise). If you need to chat let me know  All I can suggest is a lot of digging into your heart to see what type of work you want to do instead.  

Answer 62

I felt this way too. We had to take a big hit to get ahead. I took 3 months off work (we couldn't apply for daycare unless both working and waitlist is over 6 mos long) while my fiance went to school to get his CDLs and now he's working and I start college this fall for my nursing degree. We gained a lot of debt this way but it was the only way I could see to get ahead.  

Answer 63

So you mention you need to make $14 to $15 an hour. And I also see from the comments you’ve advanced in your current position twice. If that’s the case I’d assume you should be making at least what you’re looking for. Honestly my front office girls make between $17-$20 an hour. Granted we are a bit more specialized but I think you could easily find the pay you’re looking for if not more with 3 years experience under your belt. I know it may be scary and uncomfortable but it truly sounds like if you want to make some progress it’s time to move on. I would think it would be an easy transition and in the long run you’d have more peace of mind. Now the caveat is if your child support ever went through a modification and you’re then making more there’s the possibility that amount would then be reduce so just something to keep in mind.  

Answer 64

I told my husband last night "it's a good thing I work a part time job because we wouldn't be able to eat without that income. " Pretty sad if you ask me. Im trying to pay off credit cards but not snowballing because we need to have that in our variable account. It stresses me out.  

Answer 65

Not sure if you are looking at a different type of career, but moving up from reception you can look at an admin assistant or office manager position. Depending on the company many start with good pay. With 3 years experience at the same company, you should be making more than you are.