Our family shares something in common with other families in the Special Needs community - we have taken a very sudden, very unexpected, and very uncomfortable change in our finances since our daughter was born. While I believe with 110% certainty that the extra time spent with her is preparing her to be as independent an adult as possible, that doesn't mean it isn't stressful when the monthly bills arrive. And to be honest, sometimes I'd like to be able to take some of the financial burden off DH's shoulders. But, as a friend of mine says, the days are long but the years are short. In the end I will never regret choosing my children over money, and I will always be thankful that, unlike some of my single parent friends, I can stay at home. One of the things that I have been doing since I've become a SAHM is research work at home (WAH) opportunites.

Some things to consider before you apply for a WAH, or home-based position:
1) Always remember that work at home opportunities are one of the top Internet scams.
2) I wanted to get the WAH post up months ago, but thought I could go to each of these companies and do a little more research first. Unfortunately, things kept popping up. Since I know so many people who are struggling right now, I just decided to share what I have found and let the reader take responsibility for choosing a company. Later this week, I'll post a directory of WAH blogs and forums that you can visit as part of your own research. Protect yourself by doing a little work before you apply for a home-based job.
3) Think of your education and work history. How much would a traditional employer pay someone with your skills and experience? Why would a legitimate employer pay a home-based employee too much more than that? Some jobs do pay well, but well does not mean get rich quick. If someone promises you thousands for Google ad space or that you will make thousands off a blog, etc, stay away from them.
4) Do not give your social security number or bank account information if you are just asking for information or if you are being promised quick money in exchange for your identification. However, at some point, in order to employ you and pay you, the company will need this information. This is why you do your research first.
5) You might have to pay for a background check.
6) Many home-based jobs are call center type jobs. You might need a telephone landline and might have to meet certain minimum computer speed and memory requirements. Some companies also require that you are able to work behind a closed door, so that the background noise of the home is not overheard by their clients.
7) Don't fool yourself into thinking that you will work and the baby or kids will be asleep, and all will be well. Babies and children are famous for knowing when you really, really need them to behave and be quiet - then they do the opposite. Don't expect to take calls with a baby crying in the background and to keep your job. Know how you will balance your children and the job before you apply.
8) There are companies that pay by the hour, and companies that pay by the call. I'll get into that more with the actual directory of companies.
9) Some legitimate companies do require that you pay for training (around $100).
10) My friend was so thrilled when she got a great WAH job - until she found out that she would have to find childcare so she could attend mandatory training. If possible, ask about the training schedule before you commit. Ask how much you will be paid during "paid training". Some companies pay you less during your training period. Also ask exactly when training pay ends and your full wage begins.

You might also enjoy reading:
Legitimate Work at Home Jobs part 2: Directory of Companies with Work at Home Positions

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