Indystar.com:

You grumble at the thought of waking up at 6 a.m. You dread the thought of paying nearly $4 a gallon for another tank of gas for your weekly commute to the office.

What if you could save money, make your own hours and work in your pajamas? You can choose a job which lets you work from home!

There are many work-at-home careers, such as:

1 Customer service agent

Take in-bound customer service calls for companies such as J.Crew and 1-800-FLOWERS. May provide troubleshooting advice, arrange service or handle exchanges or returns for companies. Agents need a computer with Internet access and a landline phone. Agents should be able to work independently and without direction, be computer-savvy and have excellent communication, telephone and organization skills.

Average salary: Varies on number of hours worked. Average yearly salary: $39,000.

2 Business owner

Turn your hobby into a business. If you love what you do, you may feel less stress and pressure at your job. It could be anything from making scented candles to woodworking or public relations to Web design. Business owners should be dedicated, have good communication and customer service skills and be computer-savvy. You may need to put money into the business before making any. Past experience in the industry you choose may help in gaining clients.

Salary: Varies with type of business.

3 Freelancer

Are you an excellent writer? Do you enjoy working behind the lens of a camera or designing the next most-viewed Web site? Similar to owning a business, freelancing allows you to earn cash by using your skills. Work is mostly part time. You may not be guaranteed a set number of hours each week from a client. Most freelancers work part time or on an as-needed basis. Freelancers may be hired by contract by Web developers, publications and others.

Average salary: $68,000, depending on skill level.

4 Consultant

Consultants are typically hired on an as-needed basis and usually sign a contract with clients. They may be interior decorators, event planners or former business executives. “I enjoy consulting because I feel like I’m contributing 100 percent to the project,” said Beth Mallon. “I am more efficient with my time, especially knowing I have more flexibility to work around my personal time.” Consultants should be motivated and flexible, with good communication skills.

Salary: Varies with client needs and negotiated pay.

5 Telecommuter

As gas prices rise and more companies go paperless, they are giving more employees the flexibility of telecommuting on a part- or full-time basis. Some companies are adding work-from-home options to their benefits package. It’s a major plus for families with children or elderly parents. Career coaches advise presenting a legitimate case to employers when asking for the ability to telecommute.

Salary: Varies by profession.

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