by Karen Salmansohn, Columnist for A.M.-N.Y.

Working mother -- Isn't that redundant? Even today's most savvy mom can feel confused about the benefits and trade-offs that come with working part-time. If you're considering cutting back to a more "flexible" schedule, here's the inside scoop.

1. Be ready not only for a pay cut -- but a "benefits cut." Often this amounts to losing the equivalent of 25 percent of your pay. The result: Day care expenses might exceed your earnings!

By Siri Anderson

So, you're looking for a job. You're not alone, and right now it's safe to bet that it'll take a little longer than usual before you score the position you want. What can you do in the meantime to earn a little side cash, pay the bills and maybe have a little fun to boot?

Before you start a part-time job, make sure that you know what you're looking for in terms of permanent work so that smaller ventures don't create a conflict. Balance is the key, and whichever temporary gig you choose should fit into your larger plan.

If finding a full-time job is taking too long, should you consider a part-time gig?

Gerri Willis, CNN

NEW YORK -- There are over 11 and a half million people looking for jobs. And almost 8 million people have settled for a part-time job, simply because they couldn't find a full-time position.

If you're unemployed, should you consider getting a part-time job?

Updated October 2009

By Molly Hallman, Payscale.com

Can you imagine how simple your life would be if you never had to drive to work? If you have the self-discipline to work from home, the right opportunity could help you get back those commute hours and gain some extra time each day to do whatever you want. If you're wondering where you can find such a job in a waning economy, here are seven companies hiring for work from home right now.

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Working from home is typically seen as an alternative to jobs that require you to work from an office or outside location. Part-time work-from-home jobs are a great way to earn extra cash during your free time at home. A few jobs may require an on-site presence on the weekend or periodically, but in general, these are options that won't disrupt your daily gig.

In general, these are options that won't disrupt your daily gig.