From telecommuting for an employer to small business entrepreneurship, home-based employment opportunities are increasingly available. While the benefits are numerous, only you can determine whether they suit your needs and personality. Considering the most prominent rewards of working from home can help you make the decision that is right for you.

Financial

Working from home can be economical. Home-based employees and entrepreneurs save money on automotive maintenance and repairs, fuel and possibly car insurance. In addition, people who work at home require less business attire, if any, saving them money on clothing and dry cleaning. Employers of telecommuters can enjoy savings, as well, as these employees use their own workspace, utilities and other resources to perform their job duties.

Flexibility

Home-based employment offers flexibility. Parents who work from home have an easier time breaking away from their jobs to shuttle children to and from school or attending functions. They can schedule doctors appointments, be home for deliveries or repairmen and be available when sick family members or shut-in neighbors need assistance and attention. In addition, people who work from home can advance their career by taking classes or attending training seminars no matter the schedule.

Health

When employees or entrepreneurs work from their own home, they often encounter less stress than their office-captive counterparts do, which can improve their health. They don't fight traffic getting to the office, have fewer worries about home issues and may not be pulled in as many directions. They can prepare healthful meals at home, instead of grabbing fast food or vending machine snacks. In addition, home workers are not faced with a barrage of germs from sick co-workers.

Productivity

Although a level of self-discipline is required, people who work from home can be more productive, especially when they are able to set their own schedules. For instance, night owls by nature can burn the midnight oil and forget about setting an alarm clock to work at their peak times. They avoid chatty co-workers and frequent in-office meetings, as well, allowing them to make the most of their time working.