How to Make Money for Teens

Teens 13–17 · How-to · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Do You Need Before Starting to Make Money as a Teen?

Before starting to make money, it’s key to prepare properly to help you succeed. Begin by thinking about what you enjoy and what you’re good at—this might be something like helping younger kids, writing, drawing, or working outdoors. Write down your ideas and skills in a notebook or phone app to organize your thoughts. Next, talk to a parent or guardian about your plan. They can help you understand any rules in your state about teen work hours and jobs allowed for your age. For example, some states require work permits for teens under 16, while others limit how late you can work on school nights.

You’ll also want to gather any supplies you may need depending on your job choice. For example, if you plan to mow lawns, you’ll need access to a lawnmower and safety gear. If you want to sell crafts, make sure you have materials and a way to take photos for online sales. Finally, set a goal for how much money you want to earn and think about what you want to do with it—saving for a new phone, a trip, or college. Creating this foundation before starting makes the process clearer and easier.

What Steps Should Teens Follow to Start Making Money?

Follow these detailed steps to begin making money and understand why each is important:

1. Discover What You Like and Can Do Well

Make a list of your skills and hobbies. For example, if you like animals, pet sitting might be a good fit. If you’re good at math, tutoring younger students could work. This helps you pick jobs you’ll enjoy and do well.

1. Look for Jobs or Gigs That Match Your Skills

Search for local opportunities like babysitting, lawn care, or helping neighbors with errands. Online, check out beginner-friendly tasks like surveys or selling crafts. Your local library or community center might have listings too.

1. Make a Simple Plan

Decide how much time you can spend each week and what to charge. For example, if you mow lawns, you might charge $20 per lawn and plan to mow three lawns per week. Write down your schedule and prices so you stay organized.

1. Ask Family and Friends First

Start by offering your services to people you know. Say, “I’m offering pet sitting this summer; would you like me to take care of your dog?” This is an easy way to get your first customers and build your reputation.

1. Tell Others About Your Services

With your parent’s help, post flyers in your neighborhood or share your services on social media. You can say something like, “Hi neighbors! I’m available for lawn care and pet sitting. Call me at [your number].”

1. Set Up a Safe Way to Get Paid

Decide how you’ll get paid—cash is simple, but you can also use a prepaid debit card or a bank account with a parent’s help. Never share personal bank info online without adult supervision.

1. Do a Great Job Every Time

Show up on time, be polite, and do your best work. If you’re babysitting, follow parents’ instructions carefully. Good service leads to repeat customers and recommendations.

1. Keep Track of Your Money and Hours

Write down each job, how long it took, and how much you earned. This helps you see how much you’re making and plan your time better.

1. Ask for Feedback and Adjust

After a job, ask, “Was everything okay? Is there anything I can do better?” Use this to improve your service or try different services if needed.

1. Save Some Money and Spend Wisely

Decide how much to save and how much to spend. For example, save half your earnings and use the other half for small treats or gifts.

Following these steps turns making money into a learning experience that builds responsibility.

How Can Teens Make Money Online or From Home?

Making money online or at home is a good option if you want flexible hours or live far from job opportunities. Here are some clear ideas for beginners:

• Online Surveys or Reviews: Some websites pay teens for sharing opinions on products or websites. For example, you can join survey sites that accept teens aged 13 and up. Always check with a parent before signing up and never provide sensitive information like your Social Security number.

• Selling Crafts or Artwork Online: If you like making jewelry, drawing, or custom t-shirts, you can sell these on teen-friendly platforms or with your parent’s help on general marketplaces. Take clear photos and describe your items honestly, for example, “Handmade friendship bracelets, available in blue, red, and yellow.”

• Virtual Tutoring: If you excel in a subject like math or English, offer tutoring to younger students online. Use clear wording such as, “I can help with middle school math homework for $15 an hour.”

• Content Creation: Starting a YouTube channel, blog, or social media page about a hobby can eventually earn money through ads or sponsorships. This takes time, so be patient and focus on sharing interesting content.

• Freelance Tasks: Simple jobs such as writing short articles, designing simple graphics, or data entry can be done on teen-appropriate sites with parent supervision.

Make sure you always talk to your parent or guardian before doing any online work, protect your personal information, and avoid offers that ask for money upfront or sound too good to be true.

How Will You Know If Your Money-Making Efforts Are Working?

Tracking your progress helps you see if you are on the right path. You know your efforts are working if:

• You Have Repeat Customers or Jobs: For example, if a neighbor hires you to mow their lawn again, it means they trust your work.
• You Reach Your Money Goals: If your goal was to earn $40 a month and you hit it, your plan is effective.
• You Receive Good Feedback: Compliments or recommendations from customers show you’re doing a good job.
• You Feel More Confident and Skilled: If you notice you’re faster, better, or more comfortable doing your job, that’s progress.
• You Enjoy the Work and Stay Motivated: Liking what you do makes it easier to keep going and grow.

If these signs appear, keep building on your success. Celebrate each win, no matter how small, to stay encouraged.

What Should You Do If Making Money Doesn’t Go as Planned?

If you face challenges like no customers, low pay, or trouble managing your time, try these steps:

• Ask for Honest Feedback: For example, “What could I do better next time?” This helps you improve.
• Try New Ideas: Change your prices, offer new services, or promote yourself differently.
• Create a Better Schedule: Balance work with school and rest. If you’re too busy, reduce hours or pick easier jobs.
• Talk to Adults for Advice: Parents, teachers, or mentors can offer ideas or support.
• Be Patient and Keep Practicing: Making money takes time and effort.
• Avoid Unsafe or Illegal Work: Never do anything that feels wrong, like selling things you don’t own or working without permission.

If problems continue, take a break and revisit your plan later.

How Can Teens Adapt Money-Making Ideas to Their Age and Situation?

Not all jobs or gigs fit every teen’s age, location, or family situation. Here’s how to adjust your plan:

• Check Local Laws and Age Limits: For example, some jobs require you to be at least 16, while others allow younger teens with restrictions.
• Use Your Neighborhood and Resources: If you live in a suburban area, lawn care or dog walking could work well. In a city, consider tutoring or retail.
• Ask Your School About Opportunities: Clubs, fundraisers, or school events sometimes offer paid work or experience.
• Work With Your Family: Parents can help with transportation, online sales, or supervision.
• Start Small and Grow: Don’t take on too much at once. Begin with a few hours per week and increase as you learn.
• Balance Work with School and Free Time: Plan your work around your classes and hobbies to avoid burnout.

By adjusting your work to fit your life, you’ll find money-making easier and more enjoyable.

What Are Some Easy Starter Jobs for Teens to Make Money?

Here’s a detailed table with popular jobs, the supplies or skills needed, and why they are good for teens:

Trying one or more of these jobs helps you learn work skills and earn money safely.

How Can Teens Manage the Money They Earn?

Making money is only the beginning; managing it well is how you benefit from your work. Teens should:

• Open a savings account with a parent or guardian to keep your money secure.
• Set clear savings goals, like “Save $100 for new shoes” or “Put $20 a month into savings.”
• Keep a simple ledger or app listing money earned and spent.
• Avoid spending all your earnings immediately; plan for both short-term treats and long-term savings.
• Consider giving a small percentage to charity or as gifts to practice generosity.
• Discuss your money habits with family to get advice and support.

Good money management builds habits that help throughout life, making your earning more rewarding.

Frequently asked questions

Can teens work any job they want?

No, there are laws that limit what jobs teens can do and how many hours they can work. These rules vary by state. Some jobs require you to be at least 16, and certain work is considered unsafe for teens. Always check local laws and talk to a trusted adult before starting work.

How much money can a teen expect to make?

Earnings depend on the type of job, how many hours you work, and your location. For example, mowing lawns might pay $15-$25 per job, while babysitting could be $10-$20 per hour. Start with realistic goals and increase as you gain experience.

Is it safe for teens to work online?

Yes, if done carefully. Use reputable websites, never share sensitive personal information, and always have a parent or guardian involved. Be cautious of any offer that asks for money upfront or promises large sums quickly.

What if I don’t have many local job options?

Consider online jobs like surveys, selling crafts, or tutoring. You can also offer services to family, friends, or neighbors, such as tech help or organizing. Volunteering or internships can build skills for future paid jobs too.

How can teens balance work and school?

Prioritize your schoolwork and schedule your jobs around classes and homework. Use weekends, holidays, or short daily sessions for work. Keep clear communication with employers or clients so they understand your availability.