52 Jobs For 13-Year-Olds [Ultimate Guide For 2025]
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Do you want a job but don’t know where to start? Are you looking for something fun and exciting? If so, you’re in luck! In this post, we will discuss some creative and fun jobs for 13-year-olds.
There are many different options available, so you are sure to find something that interests you. Keep reading to learn more!
Before we get started, you should know that traditional employers (supermarkets, retail stores, fast food places) aren’t legally allowed to hire 13-year-olds.
But, don’t worry, we’ve got a bunch of other cash job ideas for you!
In many cases, you can earn money doing something fun and interesting. Instead of slaving away behind a cash register or cooking greasy food!
Note: You’ll need your parent’s or guardian’s permission for many of the jobs listed in this post.
Legal Requirements
Child labor laws in the US are a set of regulations restricting the types of work minors can perform and the number of hours they can work. These laws aim to protect children from exploitation and ensure they have access to education and a safe working environment.
It is important to note that child labor laws vary by state, and some states may have stricter regulations than others. Here are some key points about child labor laws in the US:
Age requirements
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural work at 14, with some exceptions. Agricultural work has lower age limits, with children as young as 12 allowed to work in certain jobs.
Work hours
Children aged 14 and 15 may work outside of school hours in certain jobs, but they are limited to no more than three hours on a school day and eight hours on a non-school day. Children aged 16 and 17 may work longer hours but are still subject to some restrictions.
Prohibited jobs
There are certain jobs that are prohibited for minors, including jobs that involve hazardous materials, heavy machinery, or dangerous work conditions.
Work permits
Some states require minors to obtain a work permit before they can start working. Typically, this involves approval from a parent or guardian and, in some cases, the school or the state labor department.
Entertainment industry
Minors working in the entertainment industry, such as actors, models, and performers, are subject to additional regulations and protections.
Balancing Work and School
One of the biggest challenges 13-year-olds may face when working is balancing their job responsibilities with school work. Young workers must develop good time-management skills and prioritize their tasks to ensure they are meeting their academic obligations.
One strategy is to set aside specific times for homework and studying and to communicate these times to employers. By setting clear boundaries, young workers can avoid conflicts between their work and school responsibilities.
Another strategy is to be proactive in communicating with teachers and employers. If a 13-year-old has a test or important assignment coming up, they can let their employer know in advance and request time off if necessary.
Similarly, if a work schedule conflicts with a school event, such as a sports game or concert, young workers can request a schedule adjustment in advance.
By being proactive and developing good time-management skills, 13-year-olds can balance their work and school responsibilities and avoid feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Online Jobs for 13-Year-olds
There are many pros to working online for a teen. First, it is a great way for a shy teenager to make money. There are many different options available, so you’re bound to find your dream job.
Second, working online is a great way to learn new valuable skills. Jobs in graphic design, social media management, and freelance writing are in high demand.
Finally, working online is a great way to make new friends. You can meet people from all over the world and build relationships that last a lifetime.
That said, there are also some cons to working online.
First, it can be easy to get distracted. There are many different things to distract you from your work, such as social media, games, friends, and constant phone notifications.
Second, it can be hard to make money if you don’t have any experience. Third, it can be hard to find online jobs that are legit. There are many scams online, so you need to be careful.
Now that we’ve gone over the pros and cons of working online, let’s talk about some specific online jobs for 13-year-olds.
Start a YouTube Channel
One option for making money online is to start a YouTube channel. It will take a while to build up a following and start making money, but, if you’re patient and are willing to create and post videos frequently, you can make good money with a YouTube channel.
Start with a topic you are passionate about. Think of something you could talk all day about. For example, if you love animals, you could start a channel about pet care.
Once your views have increased and you have a decent amount of subscribers, you can monetize your channel by selling advertising space or partnering with affiliate programs and sponsors.
Start a blog
You can also start your own blog to make money online. Just know that blogging is hard work and you won’t make money right away. In fact, it can take a year or more to start making money with a blog.
To start a blog:
First, you need to choose a topic for your blog. This should be something you know a lot about and enjoy doing.
It is important to choose a subject for your blog that you are passionate about so that you will be motivated to write new content on a regular basis.
Second, you need to choose a blogging host. Bluehost is cheap and it’s easy to link up with WordPress (a platform you can use to manage everything on your site).
Third, you need to design your blog. You can find free themes online or research YouTube videos and create a custom design.
Fourth, you need to promote your blog. You can do this by sharing your content on social media, guest posting on other blogs, and participating in online forums like Quora and Reddit.
Eventually, after you add enough posts and get enough traffic, you can make money with your blog by installing ads and affiliate links to products you use.
Tutoring
There are tons of tutoring opportunities for teens both online and in-person.
If you excel in a particular subject, you can tutor younger kids who are struggling in that area. This is a great way to make some extra money while helping others succeed.
What is online tutoring and how does it work?
Online tutoring is when you provide academic help to students over the internet. This can be done through video chat, email, or instant messaging.
There are a few things to keep in mind when tutoring online.
First, you will need to make sure that you are familiar with the material that the student is struggling with.
Second, you will need to be able to explain things in a clear and concise manner.
Finally, you will need to be patient and understand that everyone learns at a different pace.
What tools do you need to be a successful online tutor?
All you need to be a successful online tutor is a computer with an internet connection and a webcam.
Of course, you will also need to be familiar with the material that the student is struggling with. You may also want to use a whiteboard or digital notebook to help explain concepts.
How much can you make as an online tutor?
How much you make will depend on a few factors, such as your experience, the subject you are tutoring, and the number of hours you can work. Generally, online tutors make between $15 and $30 per hour.
How to find students for your tutoring business
There are a few ways to find students for your tutoring business. You can promote your business on social media, at your school, or through word of mouth by telling everyone you know.
You can also sign up with a tutoring website where students can book sessions with you.
Are you turning 14 soon? Check out our list of job ideas for 14-year-olds!
Complete online surveys
Another way for young teenagers to make money online is to complete online surveys.
There are a number of companies that will pay you for your opinion even if you’re a teen.
To get started, you will need to sign up with a survey company. I highly recommend Survey Junkie. They are a legit company and they pay you in cash (via Paypal).
Once you have signed up, you will be able to start taking surveys.
You will be paid for each survey that you complete. The amount you make will depend on the length and difficulty of the survey.
There are a few things to keep in mind when completing surveys.
First, make sure that you only sign up with reputable companies.
Second, make sure that you read the terms and conditions before you start taking surveys. This will ensure that you are aware of the rewards and how they are paid out.
Third, make sure that you complete the surveys as soon as possible. This will guarantee that you get credit for them.
Become a virtual assistant
A virtual assistant is basically like an online office assistant.
Most VA’s work for small businesses, bloggers, or influencers who need help with social media posts, responding to emails, or graphic design.
How to become a virtual assistant
There are a few things you need to do to become a virtual assistant. First, you need to create a profile on a freelancing website, social media, or on your own website.
You can then promote your services on social media, through word-of-mouth, or by contacting your favorite bloggers/influencers and asking if they have any online tasks they need help with.
What skills do you need to be a successful virtual assistant?
Some of the skills you need to be a successful virtual assistant include excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong time management skills, and the ability to multitask.
And, of course, you need to be comfortable using computers and various software programs.
Logo designer
Another online job idea is to become a logo designer. This is a great way to make money from home and can be very flexible in terms of hours.
You can offer your services to small businesses or entrepreneurs who need help with tasks such as creating a logo or branding for their business.
How to become a logo designer
There are a few things you need to do to become a logo designer.
First, you should research popular logo designs. Then, create your own logos for made-up businesses or blogs or put together some color palettes and keep them in a file on your computer.
You now have a portfolio to present to potential clients.
Once you have created a portfolio, you can start applying for jobs. You can promote your services on social media, Fivver, Upwork, or through word-of-mouth.
What skills do you need to be a successful logo designer?
Some of the skills you need to be a successful logo designer include excellent graphic design skills, creativity, and the ability to use various software programs.
You should also be familiar with branding and marketing.
Review/test websites and apps
Another great way to make money from home is to review and test websites.
Have you ever clicked on a website that was so poorly designed that you couldn’t find what you were looking for? It’s super frustrating!
Many companies and app developers will pay companies to hire people (like you) to test out their sites in order to avoid bad user experiences.
To get started, you will need to sign up with a website testing company.
Once you have signed up, you will be able to start testing websites. You will be paid for each website that you test. The amount you make will depend on the length and complexity of the website.
When testing websites, be sure to only sign up with reputable companies.
Here are a few I recommend:
Make sure that you read the terms and conditions (including age restrictions) before you apply to start testing websites.
What skills do you need to be a successful website tester?
Some of the skills you need to be a successful website tester include excellent verbal communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to multitask.
You should also be comfortable using computers to record your responses to the tests.
Resell stuff on eBay
You can find a lot of stuff for cheap at garage sales or thrift stores and then sell it for a higher price on eBay.
To get started, you will need to create an account on eBay. Once you have created an account, you can start listing items for sale.
Be sure to take clear and well-lit pictures of the items you are selling. You should also write detailed descriptions of the items.
Also, make sure to set a reasonable price for the item. You should charge more than you paid in order to make a profit.
Also, be prepared to ship the item to the buyer. Shipping can be expensive, so make sure to factor that into the price of the item.
What skills do you need to be a successful eBay seller?
Some of the skills you need to be a successful eBay seller include written and verbal communication skills, organizational skills, and customer service skills to be able to handle unhappy customers.
Create and sell crafts on Etsy
If you are crafty, you can make money by creating and selling crafts on Etsy.
To get started, you will need to create an account on Etsy. Once you have created an account, you can start listing items for sale.
Be sure to take clear and well-lit pictures of the items you are selling. Etsy allows you to upload ten photos per item.
Also, detailed descriptions are a must.
When selling on Etsy, make sure to set a reasonable price. You want to make sure you make the money you spend for supplies back, plus an hourly wage for creating the product.
You’ll need to purchase shipping supplies and either factor shipping costs into the listing price or charge separately.
What skills do you need to be a successful Etsy seller?
Some of the skills you need to be a successful Etsy seller include excellent written communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to multitask. You should also be comfortable using computers and taking photos.
Play games
Swagbucks is a great way to make money from home. You can do a variety of things to make money such as taking surveys, watching videos, and playing short games.
To get started, you will need to create an account on Swagbucks. Once you have created an account, you can start completing tasks to make money. The amount you make will depend on the task you complete.
You can choose to get paid through Paypal, with a prepaid Visa card, or gift cards.
Watch videos
InboxDollars is another great way to make money from home. You can make money by watching videos, taking surveys, and shopping online.
To get started, you will need to create an account on InboxDollars. Once you have created an account, you can start completing tasks to make money. The amount you make will depend on the task you complete.
InboxDollars pays via check, prepaid Visa cards, or gift cards.
Got a younger sibling who wants a job too? Here are 25 Fun and Easy Jobs 10-Year-Olds Can Do!
Sell in-game currency
Put your gaming skills to good use and make money selling in-game items and currency.
To get started, you will need to create an account on a website like Player Auctions. Player Auctions allows you to buy and sell in-game currency, collected items, and even entire gaming accounts.
Player Auctions accepts multiple forms of payments including Bitcoin.
Review music
If you are a music lover, you can make money by reviewing music on Slice the Pie.
Slice the Pie will pay you cash to review new songs before they are released. As you complete reviews, your star rating increases, and so do your earnings.
And…you can make even more money by referring friends!
How much does Slicethepie pay per review?
Slicethepie pays between $0.02 and $0.20 per review, and some reviews earn a $0.10 bonus.
Payment on Slicethepie is based on your Star rating. The higher your rating, the more you’ll make.
How do you get paid on Slicethepie?
Slice the Pie issues payment through Paypal once you’ve earned a minimum of $10.
Make Money as a 13-Year-Old Without a Job
There are plenty of ways to make money as a teenager-no (real) job required. Many of these jobs can be done part-time after school for a few hours a day or on the weekends.
Check out the side hustle ideas below for some inspiration.
Have a yard sale
Yard sales are one of the easiest ways to make money as a teenager. You can sell clothes, toys, video games, and other items you no longer use.
Having a yard sale is super easy:
- Gather up your items
- Make sure they are clean and in good (used) condition
- Put price tags on the items
- Display your items on tables
- Create and put up signs throughout the neighborhood
On yard sale day, make sure you have some money available for change and be friendly and helpful to potential buyers.
Sell items on Craigslist
Another great way to make money as a teenager is to sell items on Craigslist. You can sell clothes, furniture, and other items you no longer use.
To get started, you will need to gather the items you want to sell and take pictures of them. You will also need to write descriptions of the items. Once you have done all of this, you can create a listing on Craigslist and start selling.
Babysitting or petsitting
Babysitting is a great option for those who love children and are responsible.
You can start by babysitting for your family and friends, and then eventually build up to babysitting for strangers. To be a successful babysitter, you must be patient, reliable, and good with kids.
Walk dogs
Dog walking is a great way to make money, especially if you love dogs. To be a successful dog walker, you must be responsible and have a lot of energy.
You can find dog walking clients by talking to your friends and family, or by searching online.
Clean houses
If you enjoy cleaning, you can make money by cleaning other people’s houses.
To find house cleaning clients, you can talk to your friends and family, post flyers on community message boards, or go to a nearby park and talk to local moms.
Wash cars
It’s super easy to start a car washing business-all you need is a hose, soap, and water.
You can wash cars in your driveway or at a nearby car wash. To find clients, you can ask your friends and family, post flyers in your neighborhood, or go to local car dealerships and ask if they need help washing their cars.
Housesit
A housesitter is someone who watches over a house while the owner is on vacation.
To find housesitting gigs, you can search online, talk to your friends and family, or post flyers in your neighborhood. To be a successful housesitter, you must be responsible and have a lot of common sense.
You’ll need to know who to call in case of emergency and be comfortable staying in a new place by yourself, or be responsible enough to show up and check on the property a couple of times a day.
Run errands
If you enjoy running errands, you can make money by doing them for other people. To find clients, you can talk to your friends and family, post flyers in your neighborhood, or search online.
To succeed as an errand runner, you must be responsible, organized, and have a lot of energy. You’ll need to be willing and able to complete the tasks in a timely manner.
Groom or bathe pets
If you love animals, you can make money by grooming or bathing pets.
Pet groomers typically work in pet stores or animal shelters, but you can also start your own at-home business.
To be a good pet groomer, you must be gentle with animals and have a lot of patience.
You’ll also need to be able to handle multiple pets at once and have a good understanding of animal behavior.
Become a model
If you’re comfortable in front of the camera, you can make money by modeling.
The best thing about this job is that modeling companies regularly hire teens to promote their products.
To be a successful model, you must be photogenic and have a good sense of style. You’ll also need to be able to take directions well and be comfortable in front of a camera.
You’ll need your parents’ consent for this gig.
Become an actor
If you’re interested in acting, you can make money by auditioning for commercials, movies, or TV shows.
To be a successful actor, you must be able to take direction well and be comfortable in front of a camera. You’ll also need to have a good understanding of the acting process.
You’ll need your parent’s authorization in order to sign up with a talent scout.
Do odd jobs
If you’re willing to do just about anything, you can make money by doing odd jobs for people in your community.
Odd jobs include things like setting up electronic equipment, repairing broken items, and outside work.
To find odd jobs, you can talk to your friends and family, post flyers in your neighborhood, or search online.
Sports referee
If you’re a sports fan, you can make money by refereeing games. You can referee youth league games, high school games, or even college games.
To be a successful referee, you must have a good knowledge of the sport you’re refereeing. You’ll also need to be able to make quick decisions and be comfortable communicating with both players and coaches.
You can also make money by umpiring games. Umpires typically make more money than referees, but you’ll need to have a deeper knowledge of the sport and be able to make quick decisions.
Become a mascot
If you’re outgoing and enjoy being in front of a crowd, you can make money by becoming a mascot.
Mascots typically work at sporting events, but you can also find work at corporate events or birthday parties.
To be a successful mascot, you must be able to entertain a crowd and be comfortable in a costume. You’ll also need to be able to handle hot weather and long hours.
Design and sell t-shirts
If you’re creative, you can make money by designing and selling t-shirts. You can design t-shirts for your friends, family, or even strangers.
To be a t-shirt designer, you must be creative and have a good sense of style. You’ll also need to be able to use a graphic design program.
You can sell your t-shirts online or at local events.
Work for the family business
If your family has a business, you can make money by working for them.
This is a great way to get started in the workforce and learn new skills.
To be a successful employee, you must be able to follow directions and be a team player. You’ll also need to be punctual and have a good work ethic.
Collect golf balls
If you’re a fan of golf, you can make money by collecting golf balls. Golfers often hit their balls into the woods or water, and they’re happy to pay someone to retrieve them.
Golf ball collectors must be able to search for balls in difficult places. You’ll also need to be comfortable walking long distances.
You can then sell your golf balls online or at local golf courses.
Summer Jobs for 13-Year-Olds
Working a summer job is a great way for teens to learn about the workforce and make some money. Here are some of the benefits of working a summer job:
- Learn new skills
- Make money
- Meet new people
- Learn about responsibility
- Gain work experience
Some great jobs for 13-year-olds to do in the spring and summer months include:
Mow lawns
To start a lawn mowing business, you’ll need a lawnmower and some basic gardening tools. You can then start advertising your services to your neighbors.
You must be able to operate the lawnmower and have a good knowledge of how to care for a lawn. You’ll also need to be punctual and have a good work ethic.
Pull weeds
Weeding is a common chore that many people are happy to pay someone else to do.
To start a weed-pulling business, you’ll need some basic gardening tools and a good pair of gardening gloves.
Pick up poo
This is probably one of the least glamorous jobs on our list, however, it is a job that needs to be done.
If you have a strong stomach and don’t mind getting a little dirty, you can make money by picking up dog poop.
Wash windows
Washing windows is a great summer job for 13-year-olds.
You’ll need a ladder and some basic cleaning supplies to get started. You can then start advertising your services to your neighbors.
Detail vehicles
If you like cars, you can make money by detailing them. You’ll need some basic cleaning supplies and a good vacuum. You can then start advertising your services around town.
Water plants
If you have a green thumb, you can make money by watering plants. The best part about this job is that you don’t need to purchase any supplies to get started.
Clean gutters
Cleaning gutters is another good summer job for 13-year-olds.
First, get some practice cleaning gutters at home (if you’re lucky, mom or dad will pay you). Then, once you’ve gained confidence up on the ladder, check with your neighbors to see if they need help.
Mother’s helper
If you’re good with kids, you can make money by helping a local busy mom.
As a mother’s helper, you’ll be responsible for watching the kids while the mom is working or doing household tasks. You may also need to pitch in with light housework and errands.
Paint houses or fences
If you’re handy with a paintbrush, you can make money by painting houses or fences.
You’ll need to purchase some basic supplies, such as a ladder and paint. Once you have the supplies, you can start advertising your services around town.
Sell bottled water at baseball games or craft fairs
If you live in a hot climate, you can make money by selling bottled water at baseball games or craft fairs.
You’ll need to purchase a cooler, ice, and bottles of water, first. Then, set a price and you’re on your way.
Clean pools
You won’t need any supplies to do this job as pool owners typically already have the supplies.
Check with family members and neighbors to see if they know of anyone who needs their pool cleaned.
Start a lemonade or snow cone stand
Another excellent job in the summer is by starting a lemonade or snow cone stand.
Purchase your ingredients, make a sign, and set up shop on the nearest street corner, (the busier, the better).
Winter Jobs for 13-Year-Olds
You can make a good amount of cash by working over Winter break while everyone else is sleeping in.
Rake leaves
One great way to make money in the fall is by raking leaves. You can do this by going door to door and asking if people need help, or by posting flyers in your neighborhood.
You must be hard working and have a lot of energy.
Scrape windshields
Another great way to make money in the winter is by scraping windshields.
You can do this by going door to door and asking if people need help, or by posting flyers in your neighborhood.
To do this job, you must be able to wake up early to do your job before people have to leave for work in the morning.
Shovel snow
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, you can make money by removing snow.
You can do this by shoveling the driveways and sidewalks of local residences and businesses.
To find clients, you can talk to your friends and family, post flyers in your neighborhood, or search online.
Run errands for elderly people
A great way to make money is by running errands for elderly people.
You can do this by going door to door and asking if people need help, or by searching online. You can pick up medicine, groceries, or anything else that they might need.
Walk dogs
No one, and I mean no one, likes to walk their dog in winter! This means you should not have any problems finding clients.
Hot cocoa stand
If you love hot cocoa, this is the perfect job for you!
You can set up a stand in your neighborhood and sell hot cocoa to people walking by. You can also make money by selling hot cocoa at local events.
Hang or take down Christmas lights
Another great way to make money in the winter is by hanging Christmas lights.
Find clients by going door to door and asking if people need help, or by searching online. You can also check with local businesses and ask if they need help decorating their store windows for the holidays.
Gift wrapping
If you are good at gift wrapping, you can make money by offering your services to people who need gifts packaged and wrapped.
You can do this by going door to door and asking if people need help, posting your services online, or checking with the owners of local shops to see if they need any help.
Crochet or knit scarves, mittens, or hats
If you know how to crochet or knit, you can make money by making and selling scarves, mittens, or hats.
The best way to find customers for a craft business is to advertise online via Facebook groups, Instagram, or Tik Tok. You can also make money by selling your items at local craft fairs.
Sell baked goods
There’s nothing like warm, fresh-baked bread in the winter! You can make money by selling baked goods in your neighborhood or online. You can also sell baked goods at local festivals and events.
Overcoming Challenges As a Young Worker
Working as a 13-year-old can present a variety of challenges, from difficult customers and long hours to the stresses of balancing work and school responsibilities. However, with resilience and perseverance, you can overcome these challenges and develop important life skills.
One strategy for overcoming challenges is to seek out support and guidance from trusted adults, such as parents, teachers, or mentors. They can offer advice, encouragement, and a listening ear when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
Another strategy is to develop a positive mindset and focus on the benefits of working, such as earning money, gaining experience, and building skills. By staying focused on the big picture, you can stay motivated and overcome obstacles.
Finally, as with any professional, it is important for 13-year-olds to learn from their mistakes and use failures as opportunities for growth. Reflect on what went wrong and make a plan to improve. This way, you can become better equipped to handle challenges in the future.
FAQs on Jobs for 13-Year-Olds
You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.
What are some easy ways for 13-year-olds to make money?
There are many ways for 13-year-olds to make money fast. Some easy ways to make money online from home include taking surveys, freelance writing, and virtual assistant services.
You can also make money by mowing lawns, pulling weeds, walking dogs, washing windows, or detailing vehicles.
Can a 13-year-old get a job?
Yes and no. While businesses in the US are not legally allowed to hire 13-year-olds due to child labor laws, a 13-year-old can legally work for a family member, or for cash (under the table).
How much money can a 13-year-old make?
How much money a 13-year-old can make will depend on the job that they are doing. Some jobs may pay by the hour, while others may pay by the job.
13-year-olds can usually make anywhere from $5-$15+ per hour depending on the job.
Can 13-year-olds work online?
Yes, with their parent’s permission. 13-year-olds can make money online by taking surveys, doing freelance writing or virtual assistant work, and selling crafts they create online.
Can a 13-year-old babysit?
Yes, 13-year-olds can legally babysit in most states. To become a certified babysitter, check with your local Red Cross or YMCA.
Once you are certified, you can start searching for families who need a babysitter.
Can 13-year-olds work at Mcdonald’s?
No, in the US, McDonald’s does not hire 13-year-olds due to child labor laws. You must be at least 15 years old to work at McDonald’s.
Jumpstarting Success at 13
If you’ve read this post till the end, you now know there are so many jobs that a 13-year-old can do to earn your own money!
You can choose to do something that you’re passionate about, or try something new that you’ve always wanted to learn. There are many different ways to make money, so take your time and explore all of the options available to you, then go get yourself a job!
