Facing a Career Crossroad at 58: Should I Work as a Consultant in India or Return to the US?

Hi, I have a situation in my career and thought to get guidance/perspectives from this platform. I have been working in IT for close to 30 years, and I am 58 now. I am a US national, worked in the US for 11+ years, and moved to India about 14 years ago. All this time, I have been working for the same company. I have close to 1.5 years until I turn 60.

My situation is that personally, I am fit and can work for a few more years in my current capacity. Health-wise, I would say it is moderate (not excellent). I also have financial obligations to settle my younger son's education. He may need assistance for 4 more years. If I don't work, I need to dip into my savings to support him.

My elder son has been back in the US for the past 5 years after finishing his master's in the US and working there. I have both the interest and need to work for some more time.

Transition to Consultant Role

Recently, in my company, there seems to be a new HR policy where some employees, including me, are being transitioned to consultants and providing their services. I am not fully aware of the financial terms yet. This would be a yearly review-based opportunity. I have discussed this with my management, and they are yet to get back to me on this.

Opportunity in the US

Simultaneously, my company also requires similar services from experienced professionals in the US and is expanding its business there. Given that I am a US citizen, it is probable that they might consider bringing me back. The advantage of the US option is that it offers regular full-time employment with a standard compensation structure. There are employees over there who are in their 65s or even 70s.

Decision-Making Considerations

Now, the question I have is:
- What are the merits or constraints of a) working as a consultant in India on a yearly basis or b) returning to the US for full-time employment?
- If route b) is chosen, what precautions/expectations should one set for themselves before considering the US return option?

I realize that a lot could depend on individual needs, preferences, and personal situations. However, I would like to hear from this group to share their inputs/comments.

Thanks in advance for your valuable inputs.

Cheers!!! Kris

(I am new to this website. If there is another group where I should post this for rules/better response, please feel free to suggest. I will be happy to move).

Dear Kris36,

Thank you for approaching this forum for guidance. Not just juniors, but those who are on the verge of their retirement also approach this forum. Your post, though indirectly, demonstrates the strength of this forum.

Whether to take a full-time job in the US or engage in consultancy in India?

You are on the horns of a dilemma and seek help in making this decision. A quick solution that can be offered is based on your plans for spending your twilight years. Whether you decide to work in India or in the US, a time will come when you need to hang up your boots. Where do you wish to spend your retired life? Whether in the US or in India? Both options have their merits and demerits. Here is an analysis:

a) Working in India: This choice will help in maintaining a cash flow but on a reduced scale. It will also help you stay rooted in your traditions to some extent. You may see your relatives a few times. However, the consultancy may not be renewed after 60. Additionally, you will have to pay the premium for health insurance on your own, which will dent your pocket.

b) Working in the US: Since this is full-time employment, you will enjoy the benefits of social security. Working in the US will help generate surplus cash which can be set aside for your son's education, providing a safety net in case of any eventualities.

From my perspective, I recommend you consider option (b). Whether to continue in the US or return to India can be decided based on the prevailing situation at that time. Regardless of where you are, staying close to your children is important. Children who are educated in the US often do not return to India. Therefore, it seems likely that you will spend your retired life in the US.

All the best!

Dinesh Divekar

Dear Dinesh,

Thank you for the prompt and insightful response. Your analysis makes sense. Option b) is what it seems to be gravitating towards. You rightfully mentioned the impact of the healthcare coverage option (I overlooked it).

In the early part of my career, we didn't think much about going to the US. We landed there with just a suitcase and a few hundred dollars in hand. However, later in life, we realized that move meant a lot. That's why we returned to India as a family.

After 14 years of living back in India, I now want to be more careful and thoughtful about any such decisions or actions in the future.

Hence, I am seeking a third set of eyes to understand what someone else would consider if they were in my shoes. Hence, the request to this audience.

You know, for most Indians of our generation, kids mean a lot in life. So, if I have to be in the US, I will go without hesitation.

Also, nothing is set in stone. I can pursue option b) as much as I want. And if I decide to come back to India in the future, I always can.

It seems like a vicious circle, right? Indeed it is :-). It's all about what we make of it.

Once again, thank you for your comments and valuable time.

Cheers!!!

Kris