# Teen banking

## How to earn money as a teen

They say money makes the world go round, but how do you get it? If you’re ready to start on the grind, there are a lot of options for how teens can make money. So let’s dive in!

## Good jobs for teens

Though having a job may seem like part of adulthood, there are many ways you can make money when you’re still in school. A lot of these positions can be part-time, which means you’ll still have time to study.

### Retail

One type of job you can do when you’re a teen is work in retail. Retail can be moderately paced and a place to gain skills with customer service, handle professional responsibility, and meet people.

### Cafes & bakeries

If you’re an early riser, getting a job at a bakery or cafe can be a great opportunity for earning money as a teenager!

### Restaurants

Restaurants can be fun, fast-paced workplaces that have good jobs for teenagers. You might find work as a busser, food runner, server, host, or dishwasher.

### Friends and family

Or maybe your family owns a business. Getting involved with the family biz can be a great way to start making money and learn about the company, as well as bond with the fam.

## Important tips for getting a new job

It may seem intimidating to start applying for jobs. Remember, almost everyone feels this way when they start out!

### Creating a resume

You can include any languages that you speak, times you helped with bake sales, skills you’ve gained by helping your parents, and other areas where you excel, like being punctual.

## Laying down the law

You might be wondering if there is special paperwork you need to start working. In the US, a minor getting a job with a paycheck does not always require special permitting, but some states do require proof of age documentation.

## Knowing your rights

There are special protections for teens with jobs. In the United States, minors are not allowed to work under the age of 14 (with a few exceptions) and have limited hours when they’re under 16.

## Minimum wage

Under federal law, workers who are under 20 years old have a lower minimum wage than older workers, but that is only for the first 90 days of employment. The minimum wage is the same for adults afterwards.

## …And taxes

As a teen earning income, you may have to pay taxes on your income if you make over $12,550 a year.

## How teenagers can earn money without a job

Even without a regularly scheduled job, there are many ways to start making money offline as a teenager.

### Tutoring

You can tutor others in academics, sports, or music.

### Errands and chores

You could do errands and chores for people you already know, like neighbors and family friends.

### Babysitting

Another option is babysitting, which is often a well-paying gig.

### Selling things

You could sell items you no longer want, like clothing.

## Tips for finding babysitting and other gigs

Talk to classmates and people you know to find gigs that may be available.

## Making money online as a teen

There are many ways to make money online, such as selling clothes, playing games, and taking surveys.

### Selling clothes online as a teen

You can sell clothing and other items you no longer want on various platforms.

### Selling arts and crafts online

If you’re crafty, you can set up an online store.

### Making money from online surveys

Participate in paid surveys on specific sites.

### Making money gaming

Explore streaming games or participating in reward apps for playing games.

### Creating content for cash

You could start a podcast or create a YouTube channel.

## Once you turn 18: Using apps

When you turn 18, you have more options for employment through various apps.

### Odd jobs and shopping

You can create profiles on platforms like TaskRabbit to find odd jobs.

### Pet care

Use popular pet care websites like Wag! and Rover for pet sitting and dog walking.

### Food delivery

If you have access to a bike or vehicle, delivering food can be a way to earn extra cash.

## Even more ways to earn money as a teen

Consider working with parents or guardians for additional financial support, like an allowance for chores.

## How to save money as a teenager

Once you’re earning money, it's a good idea to start saving for the future. Set goals for saving.

## Gifts and more

Consider saving money you receive for holidays and birthdays, and add that to your savings goals.

## Wrapping up: Teen Work FAQ’s

### What is the minimum wage for teenagers?

Under federal minimum wage law, the wage for those under 20 is $4.25 per hour.

### How much do teen jobs pay?

Teen jobs generally pay less than adult jobs but can be comparable after 90 days of employment.

### What are the best jobs for a teenager?

Traditional jobs include babysitting, dog walking, tutoring, and various types of part-time work.

### Can teenagers open a bank account?

Yes, they can open a bank account, often with parental assistance.