Make money as a teen rules and regulations
Short answer
Teens can earn money by working part-time jobs, doing gigs, or online work, but they must follow specific child labor laws that limit work hours, types of jobs, and ensure safety. Knowing these rules helps teens work legally, protect their health, and balance school and work effectively.
What are the rules and regulations for teens making money?
If you’re between 13 and 17 years old and want to make money, you have to follow child labor laws designed to protect you. These laws limit how many hours you can work, what jobs you can do, and when you can work. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is the main federal law, but states may have stricter rules, so always check local laws. For example, the law often says teens under 16 can’t work in hazardous jobs like roofing or heavy machinery. Also, work can’t interfere with your school, so during the school year, your hours are limited. These laws exist so you can earn money safely without risking your health or education.
How do these rules work with a practical example?
Let’s say you’re 15 and want to work at a neighborhood café after school. Here’s how the rules apply:
- On a school day, you can work up to 3 hours.
- On a non-school day (like Saturday), you can work up to 8 hours.
- Work hours must be between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. during the school year.
- You can work up to 18 hours in a school week.
- During summer break, you may work up to 8 hours daily and up to 40 hours weekly, and until 9 p.m.
Your employer must follow these limits and keep records of your hours. You won’t be allowed to do dangerous tasks like operating kitchen slicers or heavy cleaning chemicals. This helps you earn money but still have enough time and energy for school and rest.
Why do these rules matter for teens?
Following work rules matters because they protect your health, safety, and education. Working too many hours can make you tired, hurt your grades, or put you in unsafe situations. Knowing your rights means you can speak up if asked to do something illegal or unsafe. If your employer breaks these laws, they could face penalties, and your job could be affected. Also, understanding the rules helps you build good work habits and a positive experience that prepares you for future jobs.
What are some common terms people confuse with teen work rules?
Here’s a quick guide to avoid mixing up terms:
| Term | What It Means | How It Differs for Teens |
|---|---|---|
| Child Labor Laws | Rules about when, where, and what work teens can do | Limits work hours and job types for safety |
| Minimum Wage Laws | Rules about how much workers must be paid per hour | Teens must be paid at least minimum wage, varies by state |
| Tax Rules | How your income is taxed and when you must file taxes | Teens may owe taxes if they earn income |
| Work Permits | Official permission for teens to work | Some states require teens to get these before working |
Understanding these helps you follow the right rules and avoid confusion about what’s allowed.
What about taxes and getting paid as a teen?
When you earn money, you might need to pay taxes. Here’s how it works:
- Your employer should give you a W-4 form to fill out, which tells them how much federal tax to withhold.
- If you earn less than a certain amount in the year, you might not owe income tax but may still need to file a tax return.
- You pay Social Security and Medicare taxes on earnings from most jobs.
- If you’re self-employed (like babysitting or selling crafts), you might need to file a special tax form and pay self-employment tax.
- Keep track of your pay stubs and earnings to help with taxes.
- Ask a trusted adult or tax expert for help filing.
Example: If you earn $400 a month from your job, you may have some taxes withheld, but if your total earnings for the year are below the IRS filing threshold, you might be able to get a refund by filing a tax return.
How can teens start working legally and safely?
Follow these steps to get started:
- Check your state’s child labor laws to know what jobs and hours are allowed.
- Find out if you need a work permit or age certificate—some states require you to get one from your school or government office before working.
- Choose safe jobs like retail, food service, pet care, or lawn mowing.
- Avoid hazardous jobs such as working with power tools, chemicals, or late-night shifts.
- Talk to your employer about your schedule and make sure they follow labor laws.
- Tell a trusted adult about your job, hours, and tasks.
- If working online, check platform age rules and get permission from a parent or guardian.
These steps help you start work legally and protect your safety.
What should teens do if they face problems at work?
If you experience any problems like unsafe conditions, being asked to work too many hours, or harassment:
- Stop the unsafe activity immediately.
- Tell a trusted adult (parent, teacher, or counselor) about the issue.
- Report the problem to your state labor department or the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Know your rights: You cannot be forced to work illegally or in dangerous conditions.
- Keep records of your hours, pay, and any communications with your employer.
Getting help early protects you and ensures your work experience stays positive.
What are some next steps to take to make money as a teen?
Use this checklist to move forward:
| Step | Action Item |
|---|---|
| Identify Skills & Interests | Think about what you enjoy and skills you have |
| Research Jobs | Look for local teen-friendly jobs or online gigs |
| Check Labor Laws | Verify your state’s rules for teen workers |
| Get Necessary Permits | Obtain work permits or age certificates if required |
| Prepare a Resume | Write a simple resume with your skills and any experience |
| Apply & Interview | Contact employers, practice talking about your availability |
| Set Goals | Decide how much money you want to earn and save |
| Manage Money Responsibly | Keep track of earnings, save, and budget |
Following these steps helps you start earning money safely and build good habits.
For more ideas and tips, check out articles on teen jobs and side hustles, making money online, and examples of teen jobs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work any job I want as a teen?
No, there are restrictions on the types of jobs teens can do depending on age. Dangerous jobs or long late-night shifts are usually off-limits. Always check your state’s child labor laws.
Do I have to get a work permit to work as a teen?
Some states require a work permit or age certificate before you start working. These are often issued by your school or local government. Check your state’s rules to know for sure.
How many hours can a 16-year-old work during school days?
Generally, 16-year-olds can work up to 4 hours on a school day, but this varies by state. Weekend and summer hours are usually longer. Check your local laws for exact limits.
Will I owe taxes on money I earn as a teen?
If you earn money from a job or self-employment, you may have to pay income and payroll taxes. Your employer will give you tax forms, and filing a tax return might be necessary.
What should I do if my job feels unsafe?
Stop any unsafe work immediately. Talk to a trusted adult and report unsafe conditions to your employer or the labor department. Your safety is the priority.
Can I make money online as a teen?
Yes, many teens earn money online through tutoring, selling crafts, or content creation. Check age requirements on platforms and have a parent’s permission.