Whether you’re a 12 year old about to hit your teens or you’ve been a teenager for some months, you may well be wondering how to make money as a 13 year old.
The same, of course, may apply to parents of newly minted teenagers.
Is there a way to make money online or otherwise, so you or your teen develops a genuine sense of independence and responsibility?
From buying the latest sneakers or the must-have gadget to having money to spend when out and about with friends, many a 13 year old wants to make money of their own.
It may sound dull, but you’re never to young to start saving, either.
Even if you set aside just a few dollars a month when you get paid, it soon mounts up, and could give you a head start over your peers in the future.
You may also be able to build a business that will bring in extra money while you’re at college in a few years’ time – or could net you enough extra dollars to buy a good car.
If you want to know how to make money as a 13 year old, this article contains the full low-down.
From labor laws to making money or gift cards from social media, a YouTube channel, video games, pet sitting and more, this guide has you covered.
Whether you want to wash cars for friends and neighbors, sell items for profit, go dog walking or start earning money online, there are plenty of ways to earn while you learn.
Money making ideas range from earning extra money in your neighborhood to ways to make money online when you play games, start up a YouTube channel or get a job helping someone else to build or maintain their website or social media presence.
The fact that you’re still at school needn’t be a barrier to finding a way to make some money that works for you – and gets the nod of approval from your parents.
Anyone can create a successful business now, whether you focus on doing small tasks for people you know or work online for people based all over the world.
You’ll never know how much money you could make until you try. Let’s get started, so you can get paid!
Ways to make money as a 13 year old
If you’re wondering how to make money as a 13 year old, the first thing to know is that there are two main ways to make extra cash.
You can either advertise your services locally so you can get paid by family, friends and neighbors to take tasks like dog walking or car washing off their hands.
The other main way to start earning is to find some kind of online work – and the amount of money you could make from doing that is considerable.
Why get paid as a 13 year old when you could be earning the same as an adult?
The good news is that your age is a benefit here, rather than a drawback. In general, 13 year olds are very tech-savvy, and that can be a huge bonus.
If you know how to make videos, create engaging social media posts or think you’ve spotted a gap in the market for something you could sell to your peers, you could soon be earning some serious cash.
Perhaps you know how to build a website, have a natural flair for writing, or can create unique pieces of artwork that people would pay good money for.
In an ideal world, you find something you enjoy and are good at – and then you work out a way to make money from it.
As so many teens and adults have already discovered, it really can be that simple.
Whether you’ll soon be 13 years old or want to get started before you hit 14, you really can set up a business in your local area or online to bring in extra cash.
Read on to discover 22 ways to make money as a 13 year old!
Related – 19 top online jobs for teens
22 Ways to Make Money as a 13 Year Old
This list includes 22 of the best ways to make money as a minor. Why not take a look at the suggestions to see which ones really grab your attention?
1. Work for your parents
Sometimes the obvious solutions really are the best. If you don’t ask you don’t get, so why not ask your parents if you can help out more around the house in return for payment?
Don’t expect them to pay you for chores you already do, however. That’s a given and all part of growing up!
Think about what they dislike doing, or which tasks they never seem to get around to.
If they hate cooking but you’re keen to experiment in the kitchen, they may gladly let you prepare dinner more often, wash the car or run errands in your local area.
If they have a business of their own, even better. What could you do just as well as someone else they might employ? Or could you take unwanted tasks off their hands?
You could also think beyond your folks. What about neighbors, friends of the family or your parents’ work colleagues?
Whether it’s tidying the garden, cleaning the bathrooms or raking leaves, many people would be glad to pay you to carry out such tasks for them.
2. Deliver newspapers
This is probably the best-known gig the world over for cash-hungry teens – and it’s still a very realistic option.
Check the ads at the back of your local paper, or get in touch with their office. You could also ask at any local stores offering a newspaper delivery service.
It’s a great way to get fit, but do bear in mind that you’ll be expected to deliver no matter what the weather brings!
3. Sell unused stuff
If your closets could do with a clear-out, this one could be perfect.
While many people just leave their unused possessions lying around, gathering dust, really that’s a crazy thing to do.
One person’s trash may indeed be treasure to someone else, and you might be pleasantly surprised by what someone would pay to take items off your hands.
Whether it’s games, books, gadgets, clothing or collectibles, you’re bound to have something you no longer need or even want.
This is definitely one to get your parents involved in, however, for two reasons. Firstly, they probably bought the stuff in the first place, so it’s only fair to ask their permission to sell it.
Secondly you will have to use their accounts for listings and transactions, and sites like eBay have strict over 18s only policies in place.
Where can you sell? Try local trading pages on Facebook as well as the likes of eBay, Craigslist, Decluttr and Vinted.
Decluttr is best for tech, while Vinted users are normally looking for clothing and accessories like bags, shoes and jewelry.
You could also do this on behalf of other people, assuming you can strike a deal over who gets what share of the profits.
4. Get flipping
You can also make money from flipping. The term refers to buying used goods and selling them on at a profit.
This could mean scouring thrift stores or garage sales to uncover hidden treasures you can sell as they are.
Or it may mean doing some work before you can turn a profit – such as upcycling old pieces of furniture.
If you can fix things or make them look even better than they did when new, flipping could be the one for you.
Again you’ll require parental co-operation here to deal with the financial side of selling online.
5. Rent stuff out
If you – or your parents – have gadgets or equipment other people would pay to use for a short time, why not look at renting them out?
Sites like Fat Llama let people borrow what they need in exchange for payment. You list an item, then any interested parties can get in touch to check availability or ask questions.
The next step is to arrange collection – so in the interests of safety, you should only arrange to do this when your folks will also be around.
You’ll also need your parents to help deal with the money side of things.
6. Be crafty
If you can make items that other people will buy – such as handmade jewelry, stitched, knitted or crocheted goods or one-off pieces of art – then you might be able to build a thriving business from harnessing your creative streak.
Facebook’s Marketplace is again a good place to list items for sale, or if you want to go pro then get set up on Etsy.
As Etsy sellers must be 18 or over you’ll need your parents’ permission and co-operation to work as an Etsy trader, but it’s the site to be found on if you can offer unique items for sale.
Related:
7. Babysit younger kids
While there are strict rules around who can find jobs in childcare, many parents are very happy to leave their children in the hands of teens they actually know and trust.
If your parents have friends who would love to have a child-free night out, why not offer to babysit their kids?
You could always work for free in the first instance, to see if it works out for both parties.
If it does, a steady stream of work may well come your way before too long. Word of mouth can be everything when it comes to this kind of gig.
8. Try pet sitting
If no one you know needs a babysitter or you prefer animals to small children, why not see if you can find some dog walking or pet feeding work?
With so many extended families spread across the country and even the world, there are real opportunities for reliable people to take care of pets when their owners are away.
Ask around and you might find this kind of work more quickly than you thought. Do exercise great care here, though: meeting strangers or going to their houses clearly poses risks.
For this reason, it’s best to secure this sort of gig via people you know such as friends, family or neighbors.
9. Referee sports matches
Believe it or not, teens can work in refereeing. 13 is the minimum age, and in general you’ll need to be a few years older than the kids you’re working with.
So there’s nothing to stop you from refereeing games involving kids aged 10 or 11 or under.
The best way to find this kind of work is to get in touch with local sports groups to enquire about this kind of opportunity – or ask your sporty dad, neighbor, brother or teacher!
10. Become a golf caddy
You could also enquire at any local golf clubs about becoming a golf caddy. It’s ideal for anyone with an interest in the sport, as you could learn all sorts while out on the course.
Some clubs are willing to hire 13 year olds, and if you serve your golfer well there could be some good cash tips in it too.
11. Take online surveys
There are lots of survey sites out there, and the good news is that some will allow teenagers to sign up. So what’s it all about?
Join a reputable survey site and you can fill out surveys whenever you have a few moments or more to spare. For each survey you take, you can get paid in cash or gift cards.
It’s easy to fit this kind of work into the average day. Do a survey while traveling on the school bus, or while you’re watching a TV show you’re not really that into.
While it doesn’t really pay big bucks, this kind of work is simple to do whenever you have the time and can earn you a few extra dollars to spend as you like. (Subject to parental approval, of course.)
Here are some of the survey sites that accept applications from 13 year olds.
Swagbucks
Swagbucks allows teens aged 13 or more to apply, as long as they have the permission of their parent or guardian.
Using Swagbucks is generally seen as a way of earning gift cards for free, which you can then spend at various retailers such as Amazon.
With Swagbucks, you can earn these gift certificates by completing questionnaires, playing games or even by watching videos or searching online. You may also get paid if you shop online via the links that the site or app provides.
Related – Read our full review of Swagbucks
Toluna
Toluna is also free to sign up with. Their general policy is that you must be 16 or over to apply, but there is a rather large caveat.
If a younger age is permitted by your location – i.e. the country or state you live in – then you can sign up then. 13 is the absolute minimum, wherever you live.
In fact users report seeing surveys specifically aimed at those aged between 13 and 16, so there is clearly a requirement for teens of this age.
The information you give may be used to shape how companies develop, advertise and sell their products, so if you like to have your say this could be the one to go for.
LifePoints
While LifePoints doesn’t accept applications from 13 year olds, once you hit 14 you can use the app or site.
Again you can sign up for free and earn points for tasks like filling out surveys. These may ask for your opinion on different topics or request feedback on specific brands, services or products.
Again your points can be exchanged for gift cards to spend at Amazon or other popular retailers such as Target. As with all survey sites, you need to rack up a minimum amount of points before you can cash them in for your reward.
12. Test websites
One website that you can sign up to at any age is Testbirds – as long as you have parental permission, of course (they’ll need to complete a consent form).
Members try out websites and apps to ensure good usability, so basically it’s a matter of spotting bugs or other flaws that are not as user-friendly as they could be.
As long as you can complete the tasks and provide clear, concise feedback, you could get paid according to how time-consuming or tricky each task is.
13. Write content
Are you good at stringing sentences together and articulating ideas in word form? Do you enjoy writing?
If the answers to those questions is yes, then you could make serious cash as a freelance writer.
This is a fabulous one to add to your resume later on too – the fact that you’ve actually been paid to put articles together for other people is a sure-fire way to impress that prestigious college or even a future full-time employer.
Particularly in you want to work in a related field such as advertising, publishing or academia.
Networking is a great way to get started. Do you or your family know anyone who runs a website?
If so then they are likely to need all kinds of content written, from landing pages to product descriptions and blog posts.
This can give you a head start, as anyone looking to employ a freelance writer is likely to want to check out samples of your work.
While many freelance sites have higher minimum age requirements, there is one big one that is open to those aged 13 or older.
Fiverr
Fiverr accepts applications from anyone aged 13 or more, and is one of the largest online freelance sites on the market.
The site specializes in providing business owners with the freelance services they need – and one of those is a good quality writing service.
Just think about it. Every single piece of writing you’ve ever read – from the back of a cereal packet or description of a hoodie to a long, in-depth article on a company website – has been written by someone.
The number of websites out there is growing daily and many site owners don’t have the time or even want to write their own content.
Which is where Fiverr comes in – they can connect these people with you.
Being 13 years old doesn’t have to stop you if you have a flair for the written word. Why not sign up with Fiverr and see what sort of freelance writing gigs it could offer?
14. Manage social media
As a young person and member of Gen Z, you have a huge advantage when it comes to social media.
Though many millennials may have also grown up with Facebook, Insta and Twitter, they may not be as savvy when it comes to YouTube or TikTok.
Go back further than that and you have Gen X, whose cohorts were raised in a time without cell phones, the internet or even – in some cases – color TVs.
And beyond to the Baby Boomers, some of whom even got used to food rationing.
The fact that a 13 year old grew up with social media as the norm means they have a handle on it which is intuitive. Something older people may lack.
In many cases, those who are unfamiliar with Tweets, TikTok videos and YouTube channels will gladly pay someone to take the task of posting, connecting and communicating off their hands.
Again, it’s worth asking around to see if anyone your parents know requires this service, so you can bag a bit of experience before advertising your services on Fiverr.
15. Design graphics
Not everyone has a talent for writing or knows their way around social media – and nor do they necessarily have a flair for graphic design.
If you do, and can learn how to use design sites such as Canva, there’s nothing to stop you offering freelance graphic design services.
In fact sometimes the two can go hand in hand – it’s a pretty dull article that contains no images whatsoever.
If you write social media posts, then creating a correctly sized image to go with the text gives your content the professional touch.
Wyy not take a look at Canva so you can see what’s possible?
From a Pinterest Pin, Insta post or Facebook header to a logo, poster or flyer, it’s quick and easy to create high quality, downloadable graphics. Even without prior experience.
If you have a knack for what looks good, why not advertise your services on Fiverr or ask around to see if there’s anyone you know who requires such a service?
16. Create T-shirts
If you fancy taking your graphic design skills to the next level, why not think about creating your won t-shirt designs to offer for sale?
Again this will require parental co-operation, but if your folks are happy to play their part then there’s nothing to stop you from working as a fashion designer of sorts.
T-shirts aren’t the only item you could deal in. Other options include hoodies, baby clothing, mugs, phone cases, fridge magnets, stickers, stationery and more.
Sites like Cafepress and RedBubble are good places to start, as you can upload your designs quickly and easily to be listed for sale all over the world.
Amazon Merch also works in a similar way, though again you’ll need an adult over 18 to set up and supervise the account.
17. Code websites
This one’s a little more niche, but it’s ideal for those who have a talent for web design or using code.
It’s fairly demanding, but if you’re comfortable with that and know what you’re doing then it could prove a very lucrative side hustle.
The fact that you’ve help to build websites to client specifications is also a great one for adding to your resume later on.
There are plenty of opportunities for designers and coders on sites like Fiverr, or you could ask around to see if there are any openings in your neighborhood.
Familiarity with systems like WordPress and Shopify can come in useful here, as they’re the platforms most businesses now use to create their websites and online stores.
18. Start blogging
If you like writing and are prepared to a have a go at building your own website using WordPress, it’s definitely worth thinking about starting a blog of your own.
The term ‘blog’ is actually just short for web log, and in reality can cover most kinds of website (including niche websites) apart from corporate ones or online stores.
In fact even the biggest business sites and retailers often have a blog section on their site, which they use as a way of driving traffic to their sites and encouraging customer loyalty.
The downside is that blogging is a longer term game – you won’t make money overnight.
On the flip side, though, you can develop so many skills, from writing or social media to website and graphic design.
So how do bloggers earn money? There are 3 main ways they do this. Placing ads on their site will generally result an income based on the ‘pay per click’ system.
Bloggers may also be offered opportunities to create sponsored content, where companies will pay them a fee to write about and/or photograph their products or services.
The third way bloggers can make money is through affiliate revenue. This means they earn a fee – usually a percentage of the sale value – when a reader clicks a link to a recommended product.
Setting up a blog can develop so many skills – and in the long term could even earn you a full-time income.
It can also act as a showcase for your work – particularly relevant if you want to work as a freelance writer, graphic designer, social media manager or website coder.
Before you start, try to find an untapped niche to maximise your chances of success.
Related – Find more posts on making money from blogging here
19. Offer virtual assistance
If you’re organized, responsible and good at communicating, you could offer your services as a part-time virtual assistant – or VA.
Good, reliable VAs are very much in demand, and the role could see you doing anything from proofreading to posting on social media or uploading content to WordPress.
You could also get involved in tasks like diary organization, invoicing, answering emails or any general admin duties.
In a nutshell, you could do anything that someone like a Personal Assistant would do – the only difference is that you would work remotely instead of in a workplace.
Sites like Fiverr can help you find VA work, or you could try local or specialist Facebook groups. Those aimed at bloggers in particular can be a great way of making the right contacts.
Related – Getting started as a VA & the top virtual assistant courses
20. Review new music
If the kind of writing you’d really love to do involves giving your opinion on what could be a future Billboard hit, then why not review new tunes with Slice the Pie?
Slice the Pie
You can sign up with this music review site from age 13, and you’ll basically get paid for sharing your opinion on the tracks they offer for review.
The opportunity to make money by reviewing other things, such as clothing, may also be offered to members.
With millions of reviewers to their name, Slice the Pie can net you a small profit, while influencing the worlds of music and fashion at the same time.
21. Become a YouTuber
For keen fans of YouTube, making your own videos to share via the audio-visual platform may sound like something of a dream come true.
If that describes you and you’re aged 13 or older, you can sign up for your very own YouTube account. You will then, in time, be able to make money by placing ads on your channel.
There are minimum requirements before you can place ads, but once you reach certain levels of followers and viewing hours you’re good to go.
You’ll also need a linked Google AdSense account, so again perhaps your parents would be willing to help out with that.
The video making and editing skills you’ll develop may also come in useful in the future – and look good on your resume too.
22. Do voiceovers
If you shy away from being seen on screen but don’t mind your voice being heard, then you could earn money by offering your services as a voiceover artist.
This is one best kept for those who are serious about creating a longer term career, as to have the best chance of success you will need specialist equipment like a good microphone and effective soundproofing.
As a way of making money, though, you could be in this for the long haul, and it’s a flexible gig that you can often work at as and when you want to.
For more on becoming a voiceover artist, check out this post on Voices.com.
Top tips for working teens
Here are some things to bear in mind before you go looking for that first paid gig.
Set a schedule
School work always comes first – that’s the reason why labor laws for working minors are so strict.
While some sites suggest working during school hours – usually by selling items to your classmates – here at Mum’s Money we know that’s an absolute no-no.
Sit down with your parents and work out when you could – well, work.
Making money aged 13 shouldn’t yet be your top priority, so you have to fit it into your free time rather than what should be used as study time.
Use your contacts
Above all, keep your parents in the loop when it comes to looking for paid work. Not least because they may be a source of useful contacts!
Who knew that your dad’s colleague was looking for a dog walker, or that your mom’s best friend was desperate for someone to post on social media on behalf of her business?
In fact, tell the world. Neighbors, friends and members of your extended family all may know something – or someone – you don’t. As might your school pals.
Create an email
We also recommend setting up a dedicated email address to use for work purposes – especially if you’re going to be signing up to websites in your quest to find work.
Make sure it has a professional sound to it – terms like sweet cheeks, hot rod or psycho killer are not going to cut it when it comes to looking the business.
Get paid
If you’re going to work for money, then you need a way of getting paid.
This is where you’re going to need your parents’ input once more, as you can’t sign up for the likes of a PayPal account until you reach the age of 18.
You may also be able to set up your own checking account with the bank, as long as your parents are happy to authorize this.
Polish your skills
One thing that teens often have on their hands is time – so for goodness’ sake use this to your advantage!
Try making something, have a play on Canva or YouTube, write a review or take a look at craft and upcycling projects on Pinterest.
The best kind of part or full time career is one you enjoy, so why not hone your skills in something you love until you reach a professional, marketable level?
Related – 16 free courses in working from home
Staying safe while you make money
It’s absolutely vital that you stay safe when looking for work or carrying out your duties, which is why our number one tip is to keep your parents in the loop.
Sadly, there are scammers out there who would be willing to take advantage of a minor, so to stay safe make sure you only sign up for sites that are fully legit.
You also need to be careful when giving out any personal information.
So keep your parents informed, and also make a note of any applications you make or sites you sign up for, just is case you need to refer to this later.
Working teenagers and labor laws
The US Department of Labor (DOL) and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) have laid out clear laws for working teenagers, and both you and your parents should familiarize yourselves with these before you start looking for paid work. These are outlined by age, as follows.
Don’t forget that state laws may also apply, and that different rules will apply to countries other than the US.
Under 14
Work for teens aged under 14 is limited to carrying out minor tasks around the home – such as babysitting or cleaning.
They may also work on a family-owned farm. You cannot be employed in places like food service establishments or retail outlets if you’re under 14.
Only limited occupations like acting, delivering news publications and minor domestic chores are generally permitted.
14 – 15
Once you hit 14 you can work in a store, fast food place, cafe or restaurant. The hours you can work and times of day are still strictly regulated.
16 – 17
16 and 17 year olds can work for unlimited hours and in various settings as long as the occupation is not categorized as hazardous by the DOL. Some driving and the operating certain machinery is prohibited.
18+
Once the age of 18 is reached, child labor laws no longer apply.
How to make money as a 13 year old – FAQs
Can 13 year olds get paid?
You can work when you’re school age in countries like the US and the UK, but labor laws mean you must stay in school and therefore have to work outside those hours.
Many of the biggest employers won’t hire anyone aged 13, so you have to get a bit more creative when finding ways to make money.
Can a 13 year old work at a cafe?
Under child labor laws set out by the DOL in the US, 13 years olds cannot work at a cafe or fast food establishment.
Can a 13 year old work at Starbucks?
Those aged 13 cannot work at Starbucks in the US. 14 and 15 year olds may be permitted to work at Starbucks in some states, but for most the minimum age is 16.
Can I work at McDonald’s at 13?
You cannot work for McDonald’s at the age of 13 in the US. You must be at least 14 to apply for some positions and in certain states. For some roles, only staff aged over 18 will be hired.
Can I work at Subway at 13?
Like all food service outlets, Subway cannot hire any staff aged 13 or under. Those over 14 may be able to apply, but are subject to federal and state laws limiting both hours and the type of occupation.
Can I work at KFC at 13?
KFC’s minimum age is in accordance with the DOL guidelines, so staff aged 13 or under cannot be employed in the US. In some states and for some positions you’ll need to be at least 16.
Can you work at Burger King at 13?
Most Burger King restaurants only employ those aged 16 plus due to state and federal laws restricting the kind of work under 16s can do. Some positions may be available to 14 year olds, however.
What age can you work at Dunkin Donuts?
Like many other food outlets, most staff working for Dunkin Donuts are aged 16 or over due to the restrictions in place, although there may occasionally be vacancies for 14 year olds in certain areas.
What age does Walmart hire?
Walmart hires from the age of 16 upwards, so no, 13 year olds cannot work for Walmart. For Sam’s Club and other selected roles you need to be at least 18 when applying.
Can you work in retail at 13?
The FLSA states that those aged 13 or under cannot work in retail. To apply, you’d have to be aged at least 14 or older.
Making money as a 13 year old – Final thoughts
If you’ve just entered your teens and want to start making some money of your own, we hope this guide has given you some food for thought.
Although employment opportunities can seem thin on the ground for youngsters, in reality it’s pretty easy to find some sort of work. As long as you’re able, determined and have your parents’ support.
Ideally, hone in on something you enjoy and it won’t even feel like work. In time, it might even lead to a whole new career – which could even set you up for the rest of your life!
