Introduction
At 13, you’re at a stage where you’re probably starting to want more freedom and with that comes the desire to earn your own money. Whether you’re saving up for something special or just want to have some spending cash, there are plenty of ways to make money fast as a 13-year-old. Not only is it possible, but it can also be really fun!
Check out these ideas you can dive into immediately!
Babysitting
One of the most popular ways for young teens to make money is through babysitting. Many parents in your neighborhood likely need someone trustworthy to watch their kids for a few hours, whether it’s during the day or in the evening. Before you get started, it’s a good idea to take a babysitting course, like the ones offered by the Red Cross, so you can learn about safety and how to handle different situations.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or walking dogs might be the ideal job for you. When families go on vacation, they often need someone to feed and take care of their pets. You can also offer dog-walking services to people who are too busy or unable to walk their dogs during the day. Start by offering your services to friends, family, and neighbors, and you can grow your customer base through word-of-mouth.
Lawn Care and Gardening
During spring and summer, you can offer to mow lawns, rake leaves, or do basic gardening tasks like pulling weeds or watering plants. These tasks are often time-consuming for busy adults, and they’re usually willing to pay someone to do them. You can create a small flyer or just go door-to-door in your neighborhood, offering your services.
Sell Handmade Crafts or Art
If you’re creative, you can turn your hobbies into a money-making venture. Whether you like painting, making jewelry, or creating handmade crafts, there are plenty of people who love buying unique, handmade items. You can sell your crafts online through platforms like Etsy (with a parent’s help) or at local craft fairs.
Start a YouTube Channel or Blog
If you enjoy making videos or writing, starting a YouTube channel or blog can be a fun and potentially profitable way to make money. While it might take some time to build an audience, once you have a good following, you can make money through ads, sponsorships, or selling products. Focus on creating content that you’re passionate about, whether it’s gaming, crafts, or cooking, and share it with others.
Offer Tutoring Services
If you’re good at a particular subject in school, you can offer tutoring services to younger kids or even classmates who need help. Many parents are willing to pay for someone who can help their children improve their grades, and since you’re still a student yourself, you can make learning more relatable to your peers.
Sell Unused Items
Chances are you have things lying around that you no longer need or use. Go through your closet, your room, and other parts of your home to find clothes, toys, books, or gadgets that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose. You can sell these items online on platforms like eBay or locally through a garage sale.
Car Washing
A classic way for teens to make money fast is through car washing. You can offer to wash cars for your neighbors, friends, or family members. This is especially useful in warmer months when people are more likely to want their cars cleaned. Create a sign or go door-to-door offering your services for a small fee, and you’ll be surprised at how many people will take you up on it.
Create Digital Designs
If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy graphic design, you can create digital products like logos, flyers, or even website templates. There are many online platforms, such as Fiverr or Upwork, where you can offer your services. While these platforms often require parental consent, they can be a great way to get started with freelance work.
Start a Neighborhood Errand Service
Busy adults often need help with small tasks like grocery shopping, running errands, or picking up dry cleaning. You can offer to run errands for people in your neighborhood for a fee. This is especially helpful for elderly neighbors or parents with small children who might have trouble finding the time to do these tasks themselves.
Important Tips for 13-Year-Olds Wanting to Make Money
While there are many ways to earn money as a young teen, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
Get Your Parents’ Permission
Before starting any job, it’s essential to talk to your parents or guardians about your plans. They can help you figure out what’s safe, give you advice, and help with any legal requirements.
Set Reasonable Rates
When starting out, it’s important to set reasonable prices for your services. Do a little research or ask around to find out what the going rate is for the job you’re offering. Make sure it’s fair but also reflects your skills and the effort you’re putting in.
Be Safe
Always make sure you’re working in a safe environment. Don’t accept jobs from strangers or go into unfamiliar areas without a trusted adult. Safety should always come first, no matter what job you’re doing.
Manage Your Time
School should always come first, so make sure to balance your money-making ventures with your schoolwork and other activities. It’s easy to get caught up in making money, but don’t let it interfere with your responsibilities as a student.
Final Thoughts: You Can Start Earning Today!
There are plenty of ways to make money fast as a 13-year-old. Whether it’s babysitting, pet sitting, or starting your own small business, the key is to get creative and find something that you enjoy doing. Not only will you make money, but you’ll also learn valuable skills like responsibility, time management, and entrepreneurship, which will help you later in life.
FAQs: How Can I Make Money Fast as a 13-Year-Old
What are some easy ways for a 13-year-old to make money quickly?
Some quick ways to make money include babysitting, pet sitting, dog walking, doing yard work, or selling handmade crafts. You can also offer services like washing cars, tutoring younger kids, or helping with chores around the neighborhood.
Can I earn money online as a 13-year-old?
Yes, there are a few online options like taking surveys, watching videos for rewards, or doing small tasks through apps. However, many online platforms have age restrictions, so make sure to check with a parent or guardian first.
How much money can I make as a 13-year-old?
How much you earn depends on what you do and how often.
For example, babysitting or dog walking can pay around $10–$20 per hour, while other jobs like lawn mowing or selling crafts might bring in different amounts based on the work.
Do I need permission to start making money at 13?
Yes, it’s important to talk to your parents or guardians before starting any job. They can help you make sure you’re safe and handling money responsibly.
What should I do if I want to sell things online?
If you’re interested in selling things online, like crafts or old items, you’ll need a parent’s help to set up an account on a platform like Etsy or eBay. They can guide you through the process and handle the account on your behalf.
Are there any jobs that I should avoid?
Yes, avoid jobs that seem unsafe or involve dealing with strangers in risky situations. It’s always best to stick to tasks that are well-supervised or close to home, and to work with people you or your family know and trust.
What skills can I develop while earning money as a teen?
You can learn responsibility, time management, communication, and money management. Jobs like babysitting or tutoring also build leadership and problem-solving skills.
How do I find jobs as a 13-year-old?
Start by asking family, friends, or neighbors if they need help with any tasks. You can also make flyers or post on local community boards offering services like dog walking or lawn care.
Can I start my own small business as a 13-year-old?
Yes, many young people start small businesses like selling homemade crafts, baked goods, or offering services like gardening or tech help. You’ll need support from your parents to get started and manage the business side of things.
Is it legal for me to work at 13?
In many places, there are restrictions on formal employment for 13-year-olds, but you can still do small, informal jobs like babysitting, yard work, or selling crafts. Check your local laws and ask your parents for guidance.