Door-to-door rides for seniors and less mobile people

Older adults, their adult children (often living far away), and families of people with disabilities. Some assisted living communities and senior centers may also refer clients.

Flat price per trip or an hourly rate that includes waiting time. Regular weekly clients, such as dialysis or therapy rides, give steady income.

• Patient and kind with people who need extra time
• Safe, calm driving
• Reliable scheduling and communication

• Personal auto insurance usually does not cover paid passengers, so check you have the right commercial cover
• Check local and state rules for for-hire driving, background checks and any required vehicle inspections
• Do not offer wheelchair transport in a standard car; clients who stay in a wheelchair need a properly equipped vehicle
• Medicaid-funded trips usually need enrollment with a broker or program, so stick to private-pay unless you have checked eligibility

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your vehicle, insurance and how you set up the business. These are estimates, so get quotes for the right commercial cover and any required checks before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many hours you drive, your local rates and how many regular clients you build. These are estimates, not guarantees, and the work can start from about 10 hours a week.

Check that your insurance covers paid passengers, since personal auto policies usually do not. Also check local and state rules on for-hire driving, background checks and vehicle inspections. Clients who stay in a wheelchair need a properly equipped vehicle.