57 Legit Ways for a 13 Year Old to Make Money in 2024

Written by Jeff Campbell in Make Money Last Updated December 10, 2023

Life as a 13-year-old is never easy. There are so many things you want to buy but never enough money for you to buy them. Since you’re too young for a regular job, what are the best ways for a 13-year-old to make money?

Some of the best ways for 13 year olds to make good money include:

  • Babysitting
  • Pet sitting or dog walking
  • Yard work and gardening
  • Tutoring
  • Freelance services
  • Selling crafts or handmade products
  • Assisting with household chores for neighbors or family friends

But those are just a few of the ways!

Asking your parents for money only works for so long. Once you hit the teen years, parents expect you to be a bit more responsible and take control of your own life. If you are in a similar situation right now, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, I am going to talk about the best ways for a 13-year-old to make money.

Back in the day, there were limits to what a 13-year-old could do to earn a little extra cash. However, with the rise of the internet and cell phones, there are countless ways for a 13-year-old to find a lucrative side hustle.

So, if you think it’s time for you to become a young independent earner, keep reading.

So let’s look at the . . . 

57 Ways For A 13-Year-Old To Make Money:

When you’re 13, it is easy to feel helpless when looking for a job.

You’re young, insecure, and unaware of the possibilities ahead of you. That is why I have put together a list of 51 ways you can become more responsible and independent. Whether you are looking for a small job in your spare time or want to take the first step to start your career, this list has something for everybody.

And even if you (or your child) doesn’t have a bank account, a parent’s bank account will work just fine.

1. Starting A YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel is one of the first things kids these days think of when they want to earn some money. About 75% of kids between the ages of 6 and 17 dream of becoming YouTubers.

Being successful on YouTube takes a lot of time and effort. However, as long as you have a clear vision for your channel and the right equipment, you can start earning in no time. And with no real age requirement, this is a no-brainer for most kids.

And unlike some of the others on this list, it could actually turn into real money. Some YouTubers make 6 figures (some per month!). And YouTube videos can be shot on a simple cell phone with a cheap mic from Amazon. Just get a tripod/light combo from Amazon, and that’s all the equipment you really need.

And edit youtube videos using a free video editor that you can use to trim, split, and add music to your videos.

2. Write a Children’s Book

Another way for you to earn money is by writing a children’s book. 13-year-olds are imaginative in ways that adults can never be. So put that imagination to use and start writing a book.

You could physically publish the book. However, that process can take a long time. So as an alternative, you can publish the book online for people to buy.

3. Filling Out Surveys Online

Filling out surveys is one of the easiest ways by which children earn money online.

There are various survey sites online that will pay you for filling out some simple surveys. But Survey Junkie is definitely the best one. Click that link to check them out on their site.

Just complete surveys and get paid.

The money from filling out surveys isn’t as much as you could get through YouTube or Google AdSense. However, it is more than enough if you just want some pocket money for games or snacks.

And it’s easy money.

4. Doing Graphic Design Work

Many kids these days have become experts of graphic design as a way of learning art. Even if you aren’t familiar with graphic design, you could easily learn as long as you have a laptop at home.

Many kids earn money by selling their graphic design art or services online.

However, there can be a lot of strange people on the internet, so make sure you take requests that are appropriate and match your skill level.

I would also recommend you check out my detailed guide on how to make money as a kid. I get into a wide variety of jobs for a wide variety of kids’ ages.

5. Playing an Instrument

There are many ways you can earn money by playing instruments. You could start a band and make money by playing at birthday parties.

Additionally, you can also enter many competitions in your local area that reward children for playing an instrument well.

6. Participating in Writing Competitions

Schools have writing competitions all year round. You can also find many online platforms that hold writing competitions for children.

If you enjoy writing, entering a writing competition is a great way of earning some money. Additionally, writing competitions look very good in your academic profile and could help you get into a good college.

7. Setting Up a Yard Sale

If you have a lot of unused items at home, you could hold a yard sale. Yard sales are an old American tradition. Aside from helping you earn money, they are also a lot of fun.

If you don’t have enough things on your own, you could also collect unused items from your parents or siblings to add to your sale.

8. Setting Up a Lemonade Stand

Lemonade stands are one of the more traditional jobs that children did to earn money before the internet. Running a lemonade stand can be difficult in the city.

However, if you live in the suburbs, setting up a lemonade stand is a great way of raising community spirit and earning some money in your free time.

But don’t be basic.

Squeeze fresh lemons. Maybe do a sugar-free batch sweetened with Stevia. Offer some snacks to go with the lemonade. Do something to stand out.

9. Being A Dog Walker

If you love animals, this is the perfect job for you. Walking dogs is another popular way kids earned money before the internet.

However, taking someone else’s pet out for a walk is a lot of responsibility. So, make sure you are responsible enough to take care of pets before taking someone else’s dog on a walk.

10. Babysitting

Many would consider 13-year-olds to be children. However, most 13-year-olds are more responsible than people give them credit for.

If you think you can convince adults that you are at the cusp between childhood and adulthood, you can try being a babysitter. If you do well, this can turn into a flourishing business for you for many years.

11. Mowing the Neighbor’s Lawn

Doing small tasks for neighbors is another classic American way of earning some money. The most popular task neighbors give is mowing lawns or other types of yard work.

Helping a neighbor do chores may not be easy or safe in the city. However, if you live in a safe neighborhood, you can easily earn some money by helping your neighbor with day-to-day tasks.

12. Tutoring

Think tutoring is just for college students? Think again! If physical activities aren’t your thing, you can also try tutoring. Many schools have tutoring centers where kids get paid to help younger kids learn.

However, if your school doesn’t have paid tutoring services, you could also run a tutoring business independently.

13. Selling Toys or Books

If you have a wide selection of toys, cards, or comic books, you can auction them off online for a decent price. Websites such as eBay are a great way of selling things you no longer need.

If you don’t want to sell things online, you can also go to a library or comic book store. As long as the goods are in pristine condition, they will give you a fair price for your stuff.

14. Asking Your Family Members If They Need Help

If you’re having a hard time getting work anywhere else, you can always work for your parents. Ask your family members if they need help with anything.

You can work out a deal that you will help them with house chores and everyday tasks in exchange for money. This is an easy way of earning some cash without having to look outside your house.

15. Starting A TikTok Channel

Like YouTube, many kids these days also earn money through TikTok. However, TikTok and social media, in general, can be toxic places. So get your parent’s permission before doing anything online.

Getting popular on TikTok is much easier than earning a following on YouTube. So, if you want to get lots of views and followers quickly, TikTok is the way to go.

16. Becoming an Online Make-up Artist

Kids these days are experts at make-up and art. The beauty industry on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram is vibrant and constantly growing.

If you enjoy using make-up, you can start posting beauty-related content online. You don’t have to be a make-up expert. As long as you love what you do, people will flock to your content in no time.

17. Participating in Talent Shows

Participating in talent shows is another great way to make money as a kid. Schools have talent shows almost every semester. Additionally, there are also lots of local events that host talent shows for kids.

If you have any talent that is worth sharing, you should consider participating in a talent show. Talent shows are a lot of fun, and they can also help you gain confidence.

But depending on the school, you may not make money directly from that.

But can you teach others after school who saw you? Could you start a YouTube channel about your talent?

18. Playing Video Games on Twitch

Gone are the days when parents yelled at their children for playing video games. Twitch streamers earn lots of money each year from video games online.

If you enjoy playing video games or have a passion for gaming, you should try streaming on twitch. However, since this is a niche online platform, get your parent’s permission before opening your account.

19. Being A Cover Artist

If you are a good singer, you should consider being a cover artist online. As long as you have headphones and a microphone, you can get started by posting covers on YouTube.

Cover artists earn lots of money each year by monetizing their videos. Additionally, if you enjoy singing, starting a YouTube or Soundcloud channel can help you gain a following and grow your career as a singer.

20. Selling Your Drawings Online

If you are good at drawing, you can earn money by selling your art online. Several online websites let artists sell their art on a safe platform.

Additionally, you can also earn money by being a freelance artist. To be a freelancer, open an account on Fiverr or Upwork to start selling your drawing services online.

21. Become A Blogger

Another way of earning money online is by becoming a blogger. Starting as a blogger can be difficult. However, as you have a fixed direction, you can start a blog without any problems.

Many online platforms let you create a blog without the technical knowledge of blogging.

If you have good knowledge about a certain topic, consider starting a blog. How much money you make depends on the topic you choose, how often you post, and how good a job you do of search analysis and competition analysis. I started doing this as a part-time job and now make mid-five figures a month.

Not sure how to get started? 

Check out my complete guide on everything I do to make a money-making blog! Just click that link to read it on my main site. After all, at this point I make 5-figures a month blogging and you could too.

22. Put On A Bake Sale

Putting on a bake sale is another great way of earning money as a kid. This business, like the lemonade stand, can build community spirit while also improving your business skills.

You do not need any fancy desserts to start a bake sale. Some simple cupcakes or brownies are more than enough to get the job done. So, if you have some basic baking skills, consider starting a bake sale.

23. Start A Small Business

Due to the digitalization of the world, starting businesses has become easy. You can sell just about anything online these days. As a 13-year-old, you could sell craftwork or art online on Etsy.

Businesses can run on anything you’re passionate about. For example, if you are good at woodworking, you can sell crafted wooden ornaments online. Alternatively, if you are good at cooking, you could start an online delivery restaurant.

You could also be a virtual assistant, a freelance writer, or manage social media platforms for local businesses.

24. Paint Fences

Like mowing lawns, painting fences was another tactic kids used to earn money before the internet. Painting fences may seem like a boring task, but they can be quite calming.

Look around the neighborhood to see if anyone is rebuilding their fences. If you spot anyone, offer them help to build and color their fence. This is a good way of earning money while also serving the community.

Make some signs with your email address or a parent’s phone number and get an agreement from your first few customers to put those in their yards and watch your customers grow quickly.

25. Shovel Snow

If you live in a cold place, shoveling snow is a great way of earning money. However, this task is quite labor-heavy, so make sure you aren’t biting off more than you can chew.

Start by shoveling snow at your own house.

If you think you are up for the task, you can extend your services to the rest of the neighborhood. You can earn a decent income if you shovel snow at enough houses. And beyond houses, there are also local businesses.

26. Enter a Singing Competition

Singing competitions are a beloved staple of American entertainment. There are various types of singing competitions held across the country throughout the year.

If you’re brave enough, you can sign up for competitions such as American Idol or The Voice. However, if you don’t want something too large, you can also enter singing competitions in your local area.

27. Start aPodcast

Podcasts have become a popular form of media over the past couple of years. There currently aren’t that many podcasts hosted by children.

So, podcasts can be a good way for you to earn money while also avoiding competition. Podcasts are best with two hosts, so get a friend to join you so that you make money while talking about things you love.

28. Become an Instagram Influencer

If you want to gain an online following while earning money, you can also become an influencer on Instagram. Instagram influencers make a lot of money through sponsorships and brand deals.

Additionally, being an Instagram influencer can also help you if you want to start an acting, modeling, or photography career.

29. Enter Online Gaming Contests

There are many online gaming contests these days where people earn money by competing in video games. The cash prizes for video game contests are a decent amount.

You usually need a team to enter online gaming tournaments. So, if you have a crew of friends who love playing video games, try joining an online gaming contest.

30. Become a Child Actor

Being a child actor can be a fun way of earning some money while also kick-starting your career. However, make sure you have your parents’ full support since you won’t be allowed on set without a parent present.

There are many types of acting jobs you can do. You can start by auditioning for commercials. From there, you can work your way up to movies or Broadway.

31. Perform at Festivals

Many cultural festivals by schools or neighborhood committee programs hire bands to perform. If you can sing or play an instrument, this is a great way of earning some money.

Not all cultural festivals organized by schools or neighborhood committees pay with cash. However, many do. So performing at cultural festivals is another way you can earn money.

32. Enter a Math Olympiad

Math Olympiads happen all year round at various educational institutions. Winning math Olympiads is a good way of earning money while also polishing your academic track record.

You can ask your school teacher about the different local math Olympiads. These days there are also online math competitions you can participate in to earn some money.

33. Review Movies

If you enjoy movies, you can also earn money by reviewing movies online. The easiest way to earn by reviewing movies is by creating a blog or YouTube channel about movies.

However, you can also earn money by submitting your reviews to a local magazine or newspaper. Some websites pay royalties in exchange for movie reviews.

34. Start A Car Washing Business

If you’re up for it, you can also make money by washing cars. You can do this by setting up a car wash in front of your house. However, a better way might be to wash cars at high schools.

Many high school students have cars. So, you can earn a lot of money by setting up a car wash at a high school car park.

35. Become a Voice Actor

If regular acting isn’t your thing, you can try voice acting. Voice acting is a fun activity that lets you explore stories and characters without having to get in front of the camera.

However, voice acting jobs for kids are a bit hard to come by. They may be hard to find. However, if you get a call for child voice actor auditions, make sure to give it a try.

36. Be a Videogame Tester

Many video game companies hire kids to test out products before launching. However, it is quite tough to become a videogame tester since the competition is so high.

Sometimes companies only hand out games to children of employees at the video game company. So, if you know any adults who work in creating video games, you can ask them about becoming a video game tester.

37. Be a Food Tester

As a 13-year-old, it is still illegal for you to work part-time at local restaurants or at a grocery store. However, you can still earn money from restaurants by becoming a food tester.

Many fast-food chains such as Taco Bell and McDonald’s hire food testers to check their products. Food testers taste food and give feedback before they are launched as part of the menu.

38. Be a Pet Sitter

If you love working with animals, you may enjoy working as a pet sitter. In some ways, this is similar to dog walking. However, since you are doing more work as a pet sitter, you can ask for a higher price.

Being a pet sitter requires a lot of dedication and responsibility. So, only take on this job if you are sure you are mature enough to handle it.

39. Make an E-Book

These days it is very easy to make and publish e-books. Publishing physical books can be really difficult when you are just a child since not many publishers are interested in publishing children’s writing.

However, with e-books, you don’t have to worry about getting a publisher. Many platforms let you self-publish and earn money by selling e-books.

40. Record an Audiobook

Like e-books, you can also earn money through audiobooks. As a 13-year-old, your voice will fit well with many different types of children’s books.

So, if you want to earn money by reading, you can try recording an audiobook. Once you upload the audiobook online, you can earn money whenever people listen to it.

41. Participate in Spelling Bees

America has various spelling bees of many shapes and sizes. Winning a large spelling bee competition can get you lots of money in cash prizes.

However, not all spelling bees offer cash rewards. So, make sure you only participate in spelling competitions that offer cash prizes to the top 3 contestants.

42. Get a Scholarship

Many schools give allowances to students who excel academically. In these scholarships, all of your educational fees are paid for by the school.

Additionally, you can also receive a stipend or a monthly allowance. However, not all scholarship programs have this, so read through the terms properly before applying.

43. Try Freelancing

If you have any sort of marketable skill, you can earn money by freelancing. Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer are all online platforms where a freelancer can get clients in a safe place.

Working as a freelancer when you are a child can be confusing. If you can, get an adult to help you open your account and talk to clients who want to work with you.

44. Enter Sports Competitions

Many sports competitions give out massive cash prizes to star athletes. If you are an athletic person, you can earn money by participating in local sports competitions.

Many sports competitions around the United States offer children large sums in cash prizes. Participating in these competitions is a great way of earning money and working your way to a college sports scholarship.

45. Sell Handmade Jewelry Through Etsy

Etsy is a great platform for people to sell handmade jewelry. Handmade or beaded jewelry is one of the latest fashion trends of the current decade.

If you have a knack for making jewelry, you can earn money by selling jewelry online.

46. Get Gift Cards Through Online Surveys

Sometimes when you complete a survey online, you receive gift cards instead of cash. Gift cards let you buy things, so in some ways, they are the same as getting money.

However, if you want cash instead, you can exchange your gift card for money. Several online sites let you sell unused gift cards. Selling a gift card is another easy way of earning some money.

47. Buy A Lottery Ticket

Another way of earning money as a kid is by buying a lottery ticket. The chances of actually earning money through a lottery ticket are slim.

However, they are not impossible. If you don’t want to get a lottery ticket, you can also get scratch cards that offer various sizes of cash rewards.

48. Sell Your Photographs

Similar to selling art, you can also earn money by selling your photographs. If you are a good photographer or want a career in photography, this is a great way to get a head start.

Many websites let you sell your photographs online. However, there are complications of photographs being stolen. So be careful about which websites you trust.

49. Make a Comic Book

Webcomic books are all the rage these days. If you are good at drawing and have a clear narrative in mind, you can earn money by publishing comic books.

There are many platforms where you can self-publish a comic book or graphic novel. However, you can also create a blog and publish comics there.

50. Teach Music

If you know how to play an instrument, you can earn money by teaching other kids how to play. Since you are only 13, you won’t get any official jobs.

However, you can earn money by teaching kids in your school or your local area. You can also become an online teacher by uploading tutorials on YouTube.

51. Become a Music Reviewer

Kids can also earn money by reviewing music online. There are many websites online that pay people for listening and reviewing music.

If you want to earn extra cash by listening to music in your spare time, make an account on these websites and become a music reviewer.

If these tips were not enough for you, I highly suggest you read my complete guide to earn extra money on the side.

52. Offering computer or technology assistance to seniors

Let’s face it. I spend a lot of time on the phone with my mom as well as when we go for a visit just helping her with her iPhone, WiFi thermostat, laptop, and printer.

And while I don’t mind helping, it does take away from me actually connecting with her. So if you just identified the seniors in your neighborhood and stuck a flyer in their mailboxes you could probably make bank!

53. Offering personalized gift-wrapping services

A 13-year-old can offer personalized gift-wrapping services by showcasing their creativity and attention to detail.

They can create unique and customized gift-wrapping designs using various materials, ribbons, and embellishments. By advertising their services locally and offering affordable rates, they can help busy individuals make their gifts look extra special while earning some money.

54. Starting a small recycling or upcycling business

A 13-year-old can start a small recycling or upcycling business by collecting recyclable materials from their neighborhood or community.

They can sort and process items like paper, plastic, and aluminum cans, and then sell them to recycling centers or repurpose them into creative crafts. This eco-friendly initiative not only helps the environment but also provides an opportunity to earn money through sustainable practices.

55. Mystery shopping

A 13-year-old can earn money by becoming a mystery shopper for local businesses.

They can sign up with reputable mystery shopping companies or directly contact small businesses in their area. They will be assigned tasks to evaluate the quality of service, cleanliness, and customer experience.

It’s an exciting way to earn money while helping businesses improve their operations.

56. Creating and selling homemade candles or soaps

A 13-year-old can tap into their creativity and entrepreneurial skills by creating and selling homemade candles or soaps. They can experiment with different scents, colors, and designs, and then package them attractively.

By selling their products online, at local markets, or to friends and family, they can turn their hobby into a profitable small business venture.

57. Offering personalized meal planning or cooking services for busy individuals

A 13-year-old with a passion for cooking can offer personalized meal planning or cooking services for busy individuals.

They can create customized meal plans, prepare nutritious meals, and even offer delivery options. By advertising their services locally or through social media, they can provide a convenient solution for busy families while earning money doing something they enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Precautions a 13-Year-Old Should Take Before Getting a Job

Earning your own money may seem like a very exciting thing to do. However, having a job can be just as draining and tiresome. As a child, you may even run into people who try to exploit your work for their benefit.

So, it is important to be careful about what work you do and who you work with. Here are some things 13-year-olds should consider before getting a job.

Be Wary of Online Predators: The Internet is full of predators who might try to take advantage of your young age. If you do an online job, be wary of suspicious behavior and tell your parents immediately if you feel threatened or unsafe.

Be Careful About Sharing Your Bank Information: Unless you do an offline job, you will likely have to provide your bank details to get paid. In most large platforms such as YouTube, your bank or credit card information will be safe. However, even then, you should ask a parent for help before filling out your bank information on any online platform.

Get Approval Before Getting a Job: It isn’t hard to get a job as a 13-year-old. However, it can be hard maintaining a job without your parents’ support. Try to get your parents on board before getting a job. In some cases, they might be reluctant at first. However, if you prove that you are serious and responsible, I’m sure you can convince them to support you.

Make Sure You Still Focus on School: As a child, your education is essential to your character development. Going to school teaches you how to interact and contribute to society. Although it is good to get a job, you shouldn’t let it interfere with school activities. You have an entire lifetime to build a career. However, you can only make school memories as a child.

Don’t Force Yourself to Do Things You Don’t Enjoy: If you are getting a job as a 13-year-old, make sure it is something you are benefiting from. As a child, you are not obligated to do a job. So, don’t force yourself to work on things you don’t enjoy. It is good to learn responsibility as a child. However, don’t waste away your childhood trying to be an adult.

Is It Difficult For A 13-Year-Old To Get A Job?

Legally 13-year-olds cannot work traditional jobs under the  Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) which requires a starting age of 14, limits the number of hours up to age 16, but limits the type of work up to non-hazardous up to age 18.

But there is plenty of more DIY-type jobs and side hustles that 13-year-olds can absolutely do.

Unlike adults who have to grapple with inadequate salaries and lack of job experience, 13-year-olds are applauded for even attempting to get a job. Having a job entails a lot of responsibility.

So, it is very admirable when 13-year-old volunteers take on the challenge and grow as an individual.

Since there are so many opportunities these days, most 13-year-olds don’t have a hard time getting a job.

Even if they don’t find an employer per se, they can still earn money through the internet. 

The internet has enabled a culture of self-employment. This allows people of any age to take a shot at earning money even if they don’t have a traditional job.

The culture of freelancing, in particular, allows anyone with an internet connection to earn money as long as they have the talent. With online portals, many children can go on to have successful careers.

Additionally, the income generated from online platforms even allows children and teenagers to support their families through their income.

11 Highest Paying Teen Jobs

Conclusion

The digital age has made it increasingly easy for 13-year-olds to make money.
However, traditional jobs for teenagers remain an easy and educational way of earning. Regardless of how you go about earning money, remember that your job should be about more than just earning a few bucks. It should also be about learning something new and growing as a person.

I hope this list of 51 different ways for a 13-year-old to make money helped you learn the different paths you can take to earn some extra cash.

With so many options and possibilities, I hope you will take this chance to learn what you enjoy in life and find a passion for serving your community. Thank you for reading this article. I wish you the best of luck!

Image by Julien Tromeur from Pixabay

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