Traveling carpentry... under the table? On the books? Market in the southwest?

[BradKW]

It's easier to be a construction critic than it is to be a construction perfectionist. I know what you're describing, but not every client pays for or wants individual filler strips between each deck spindle. In this case the pressure treated stairs and railing ought to far outlast the rotten pine that was replaced.

Quite true...down here in the sub-tropics, decay is accelerated a fair bit. I replaced rotted out cement board last month, and on the to-do list is replacing some 5/4 PT decking that was installed 18 months ago and I can push my finger through it. Trying to find ways to beat the rot has become a bit of a hobby for me  

 

[Mobilesport]

It all comes down to WHO you kno, not WHAT you know.

If you're in an area, get to know people.
Attend Chthat's were he gets all of his customers and this guy is loaded with cash even with getting drunk and losing money all the time LOL. frequent a Pub, hang at the Firehouse, volunteer at a soup kitchen or other charity, whatever your people group is.

These locals know who is hiring, if they get to know you, you're the one being hired.

Dave

I know a guy who works for himself remodeling houses , all he ever does when he's not working is hang at the pubs ,that's where he gets all of his work, and this 
guy is loaded with cash even though hes losing money when hes drunk all the time.
He's got a nice paid for house ,  sweet cars on and on.
One guy working with him sometimes two

 

[DannyB1954]

Here in Nye County Nevada there is a handyman's licence. I don't believe it is difficult to acquire.
You are limited to jobs under a $1,000. over that, they want you to have a contractors licence.
You could break a $2K job down to two parts I suppose.

On Social Security, I would not avoid paying that tax if you are short on time in the system. A friend just barely qualified with one month to spare. He gets $600 a month and gets most of his food from food banks, (there are about 6 of them here). Without the S.S. he would be screwed. Not many people want to hire a 70 year old. I agree with the suggestion to contact Social Security and see where you stand. If you need another quarter or so to qualify, it would almost be worth working for free to get it.