Make money as a teen age 13

Teens 13–17 · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What does it mean to make money as a 13-year-old?

Making money at 13 means earning cash by offering services or products suitable for your age and abilities. Since formal jobs often require workers to be older, teens this age typically work informally—helping neighbors, family, or friends. This could include tasks like dog walking, lawn mowing, tutoring younger kids, or selling handmade items. You provide a service or product, agree on a price, complete the work, and then get paid. This early experience teaches how earning money is tied to effort and reliability. It also helps you understand the basics of work, customer service, and money management. Learning to make money at 13 can boost your confidence, independence, and financial awareness, which are important skills for later in life.

How does making money as a 13-year-old work? (With example)

Making money at 13 usually happens through informal arrangements instead of formal employment. For example, suppose you want to start a pet-sitting service. First, ask your parents for permission and help you create flyers or posts to share with neighbors. You could say, “I will feed and walk your dog for $10 per visit.” If you get three clients a week, that’s $30 weekly. Over a month, you might earn about $120 by spending a few hours after school or on weekends caring for pets. This teaches you how to communicate with customers, manage your time, and handle money responsibly. You might keep a simple notebook or phone app to track appointments and earnings. The key steps are: identify a need, offer a service, agree on payment, do good work, and collect your pay. Over time, you might expand your business or try new ideas.

Why does making money as a young teen matter?

Making money as a 13-year-old matters because it helps develop important life skills. You learn responsibility by committing to jobs and finishing tasks on time. Managing your own earnings teaches budgeting—deciding how much to save, spend, or share. This early experience builds confidence and a sense of independence. Having your own money also means you can buy things you want, like books or gear, without relying on parents. Moreover, the habits formed now—such as setting goals, working hard, and saving—are crucial for long-term financial success. Learning about money early helps you avoid common pitfalls later, like overspending or debt. Plus, earning money can be satisfying and motivate you to explore your talents and interests further.

What are some common ways to make money as a 13-year-old?

Many jobs fit a 13-year-old’s skills and local rules. Here’s a list of popular options:

• Babysitting: Take a course to learn safety and care skills, then offer to watch younger siblings or neighbors’ children.
• Pet Care: Walk dogs, feed pets, or clean cages and litter boxes.
• Yard Work: Mow lawns, rake leaves, water plants, or shovel snow.
• Tutoring: Help younger students with subjects you excel in, like math or reading.
• Crafts and Baking: Make and sell jewelry, art, or baked goods at local markets or online with permission.
• Household Chores: Offer to clean garages, organize basements, or wash cars for neighbors.
• Tech Help: Assist older adults with simple computer or smartphone tasks.

Before starting, always discuss with your parents and check local laws about working age and permits. Also, think about your schedule so work doesn’t interfere with school or rest. Starting small and reliable builds your reputation and can lead to more opportunities.

How does making money at 13 differ from making money at 14 or older?

At 13, laws often restrict formal employment, so most income comes from informal, self-started jobs. For example, you can’t usually get a paid job at a store or restaurant yet. At 14, you might be eligible for part-time jobs with set hours and paychecks but still with limits on hours and types of work. This means 13-year-olds create their own opportunities, like mowing lawns or babysitting. While this requires more initiative, it also builds entrepreneurship skills early. As you turn 14 or older, you can combine formal jobs with these informal ones, increasing your income options. Knowing the difference helps set realistic expectations and encourages creative ways to earn money within your age limits.

What is the difference between making money and getting an allowance?

Making money means you earn income by doing work or selling something, while an allowance is money given regularly by parents without requiring work. Both have value: allowances teach budgeting and saving, while earning money shows the connection between effort and reward. For example, getting $10 a week as allowance helps you practice managing money, but making $10 by babysitting feels different because you’ve earned it through responsibility. Earning money often motivates better financial habits because you see the value of your time and skills. Many teens start with allowances and add earned income as they grow.

What steps should a 13-year-old take to start making money?

1. Talk with your parents or guardians: Get their support and advice.
2. Choose your work: Pick something you enjoy and can do safely.
3. Set clear prices: Research what others charge to be fair.
4. Create a simple business plan: Decide how many clients you want and when you’ll work.
5. Advertise: Use flyers, social media with adult help, or word of mouth.
6. Schedule your jobs: Balance work with school, family, and rest.
7. Track earnings: Use a notebook or app to record money coming in and expenses.
8. Save and spend wisely: Decide what to keep for savings, fun, or gifts.
9. Ask for feedback: Ensure customers are happy so they’ll recommend you.
10. Learn and adapt: Try new ideas or improve your service over time.

These steps help you stay organized, build trust, and make money responsibly. They also prepare you for bigger jobs in the future.

How can making money at 13 prepare you for financial independence later?

Starting to earn money young lays a foundation for managing finances as an adult. You develop habits like budgeting, saving, and tracking income. Experiencing the satisfaction of earning encourages goal-setting, such as saving for college or a car. You also learn about dealing with customers, negotiating prices, and balancing work with other commitments. These skills transfer to formal jobs and adult financial responsibilities. For example, if you save $10 each week from earnings, after a year you might have $520 saved. Knowing how to grow and protect your money early reduces stress later and increases your confidence in financial decisions. Additionally, experience at 13 builds a strong work ethic and independence that benefits all areas of life.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a formal job at 13?

Most states require workers to be at least 14 or 15 for formal jobs. At 13, you can earn money through informal work like babysitting or yard work. Always check local labor laws and ask your parents to ensure your job is safe and legal.

How do I decide what price to charge for my services?

Look at what others in your area charge for similar services. For example, if neighbors pay $15 to have their lawn mowed, you might charge the same or slightly less until you gain experience. Don’t undervalue your work, but stay fair to attract customers.

Do I need to pay taxes on money I make at 13?

Small amounts of informal income often don’t require taxes, but if you earn a lot or start a business, you may need to report it. Keep records and check with a parent or tax professional about your specific situation.

How can I keep my money safe as a 13-year-old?

Consider opening a savings account with a parent or guardian. Many banks offer youth accounts that help you learn to save securely. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and track your money carefully.

What if I want to start a small business selling things I make?

Creating and selling crafts or baked goods is a great way to earn money. Plan your products, get permission from your parents, price items reasonably, and follow local rules about selling goods. Use family and friends to spread the word about your business.