Parent’s Guide: How Your Kid Can Make Money at 14: Jobs and Ideas for Young Teens

Key Highlights

• Discover traditional jobs like babysitting, dog walking, and yard work that are an easy way to start earning.
• Explore online jobs such as freelance writing, graphic design, and taking surveys from the comfort of your home.
• Learn how to use social media platforms to make extra cash through content creation or managing accounts for businesses.
• Find out how to turn hobbies like crafting, baking, or gaming into a source of good money.
• This is a great way to understand the legal aspects, like work permits and labor laws for your age group.
• Get tips on balancing your new job with school and managing the money you earn.

Best Ways for 14-Year-Olds to Make Money: Jobs and Ideas for Young Teens

Are you looking for the best way to earn some extra money? At 14, you have more options than you might think. From helping out neighbors to starting your own small venture, there are plenty of business ideas perfect for your age group. Earning your own income is a fantastic way to learn about responsibility, manage your finances, and save up for things you want.

Whether you need a little extra help with spending money or want to start saving for the future, finding a job is a great move. This guide will walk you through a variety of jobs and side hustles that are perfect for teenagers in school. Let’s explore some of the top ways you can start making money today.

1. Babysitting for neighbors and family friends

Babysitting is a classic and reliable way for teens to earn their own money. It involves caring for younger kids while their parents are away, giving you a chance to build valuable skills. You can offer extra help with homework or light chores to provide good customer service and potentially earn more. It’s a job that teaches responsibility and is always in demand.

Starting your babysitting business is simple. You can begin by offering your services to family, friends, and neighbors who already know and trust you. This initial experience will help you build a good reputation. Remember that providing excellent customer service is key; happy parents are more likely to recommend you to others.

To stand out and put parents at ease, consider these steps:

• Take a CPR and first aid certification course, often available at local community centers.
• Create simple flyers with your contact information, rates, and availability.
• Ask your first few clients for testimonials or references you can share.
• Be clear about the ages of children you are comfortable watching.

2. Dog walking and pet sitting

If you’re an animal lover, dog walking and pet sitting can be a fun and profitable way to spend your free time. Many pet owners need someone to walk their dogs during the day or watch their pets while they’re on vacation. This is a great way to get paid for something you enjoy and get some exercise at the same time.

You can start by advertising your services in your neighborhood. Let people know you’re available for dog walking or pet sitting. You can set your own schedule, making it easy to fit around school and other activities. This flexibility makes it an ideal job for earning extra cash without a major time commitment.

Consider offering a range of services to attract more clients:

• Daily dog walking for busy professionals.
• Overnight pet sitting for owners who are traveling.
• Additional services like feeding, playing, and grooming.

3. Lawn mowing and yard work

Do you enjoy being outdoors? Offering lawn care services is a fantastic way to earn your own money. Many homeowners and even some local businesses are willing to pay for help with mowing, weeding, and other yard tasks. If you have access to a lawnmower and other basic tools, you can start your own small business right in your neighborhood.

This type of work is perfect for your age group because it’s flexible and allows you to work on weekends or after school. You can earn extra money by offering a variety of services beyond just mowing. Building a client base in your local area can lead to a steady stream of income during the warmer months.

To maximize your earnings, think about offering a package of services:

• Raking leaves in the fall or shoveling snow in the winter.
• Weed trimming, planting flowers, or spreading mulch.
• Cleaning up garden beds for a complete lawn care solution.

4. Tutoring younger students

If you excel in subjects like math, science, or English, tutoring younger students can be a rewarding way to make good money. You can help others succeed in school while reinforcing your own knowledge. This job helps you develop important skills like communication and patience, which look great on future applications.

The first step is to identify the subjects you’re best at. You can then offer your services to parents in your community or even explore online tutoring platforms that accept teens. Spreading the word through your old teachers or community centers can help you find your first clients.

Here’s how you can get started as a tutor:

• Ask former teachers if they can recommend you to parents of younger students.
• Create flyers listing the subjects you teach and your hourly rate.
• Prepare some materials or practice problems to use during your sessions.

5. Selling handmade crafts online

Are you creative and enjoy making things? Selling handmade items is one of the best business ideas for teens looking to earn extra cash. Whether you make jewelry, paintings, or personalized gifts, you can turn your hobby into a profitable venture. Setting up an online store allows you to reach a wider audience beyond your local community.

Platforms like Etsy are popular for selling handmade goods and allow users as young as 13 (with a parent’s permission) to open a shop. This is a fantastic way to manage your own online business, from creating products to marketing and customer service. You’ll learn valuable skills while making money from your passion.

To launch your online store successfully, follow these tips:

• Take high-quality photos of your handmade items.
• Write clear and descriptive product descriptions.
• Promote your online store on social media to attract customers.
• Price your items to cover material costs and your time.

6. Car washing and detailing

Washing and detailing cars is a great hands-on job that can earn you extra cash in your spare time. Many people are happy to pay for the convenience of having their car cleaned without having to do it themselves. You can easily start this business with just a bucket, soap, sponges, and a hose. Offering good customer service is key to getting repeat customers.

Start by offering your services to neighbors, family, and friends. You can go door-to-door with flyers or post on a community social media page. As you gain experience, you might even be able to partner with small local businesses to wash their company vehicles. It’s a straightforward way to earn your own money and be your own boss.

To increase your income, consider offering more than just a basic wash. You could provide interior cleaning, vacuuming, window polishing, or waxing for an additional fee. Creating different service packages allows customers to choose the level of detail they want, giving you more opportunities to earn.

7. Assisting with technology setup for seniors

If you’re tech-savvy, you have important skills that many older adults need. Offering assistance with technology setup for seniors can be a very helpful and profitable service. Many seniors struggle with setting up new smartphones, tablets, computers, or smart home devices. You can help them connect with family and build their own online presence.

Your potential customers could be grandparents, elderly neighbors, or members of a local community center. You can help them with everything from setting up email and social media accounts to teaching them how to video chat with family. Focusing on customer satisfaction will lead to positive word-of-mouth referrals.

This gig is perfect for teens who are patient and good at explaining things simply. You can create a simple flyer that lists the tech setup services you offer, such as installing apps, organizing digital photos, or troubleshooting common issues. It’s a great way to use your modern skills to help others and earn money.

8. Running errands or grocery shopping for busy families

For busy families, seniors, or professionals, having someone to run errands is a huge relief. This is a great way for you to offer extra help and earn your own money in your free time. You can pick up groceries, drop off packages at the post office, or grab dry cleaning. Your services can save people valuable time.

Starting is as easy as letting people in your neighborhood know you’re available. You can post a notice on a community board or have your parents spread the word. Since many errands are local, you can often complete them on foot or by bike, making it a simple job to manage after school or on weekends.

You could also reach out to small local businesses that might need help with small delivery tasks. This job requires responsibility and trustworthiness, as you’ll be handling other people’s items and sometimes their money. It’s a fantastic opportunity to build a reputation as a reliable and helpful member of your community.

9. Creating and selling digital art or printables

If you have a knack for digital art, you can turn your creative talents into a profitable online business. Selling digital products is one of the most flexible business ideas because you create the item once and can sell it multiple times. You can design social media graphics, custom illustrations, or printable planners and checklists.

There are many online platforms where you can sell your digital art to a wider audience. Websites like Etsy or Fiverr are great places to start. You can create a portfolio of your work and market your services to individuals and small businesses who need custom digital art. This allows you to work from home and on your own schedule.

To get started, focus on a niche you enjoy, such as creating logos, designing invitations, or making templates. Promote your work on social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest to showcase your style and attract clients. This is an excellent way to build a portfolio and earn money doing something you love.

10. Participating in online surveys and paid studies

Looking for an easy way to make money from home? Participating in online surveys is one of the simplest online jobs available. Companies are always looking for feedback on their products and services, and they’re willing to pay for your opinions. While it won’t make you rich, it’s a great way to earn gift cards or a little extra cash in your spare time.

Many survey websites are open to teenagers, though you’ll usually need parental consent to sign up. Sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and MyPoints are popular options that allow users as young as 13. These platforms are generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to research any site before providing personal information.

This type of work is similar to simple data entry and requires minimal effort.

• Sign up for several reputable survey sites to increase your chances of being selected.
• Check your email regularly for survey invitations.
• Be honest with your answers to ensure you continue to receive opportunities.

11. Selling clothes or accessories you no longer use

Do you have a closet full of clothes and accessories you’ve outgrown or no longer wear? Reselling these items is a quick and easy way to make good money. This side hustle declutters your space and puts extra cash in your pocket. Apps like Depop, Poshmark, and Vinted are designed for selling pre-loved fashion and are popular among teens.

To attract potential clients, take clear, well-lit photos of your items. Write honest descriptions that include the brand, size, condition, and any flaws. Pricing your items competitively is also important. This is a great way to learn about online marketing and sales in your spare time.

Once you get the hang of reselling your own things, you could even expand your hustle. Try finding undervalued items at thrift stores or yard sales and flipping them for a profit online. This turns a simple clean-out into a small business with the potential for a steady income.

12. House cleaning or organizing services

If you’re neat and enjoy making spaces tidy, offering house cleaning or organizing services could be the perfect job for you. Many people are too busy to keep up with chores and are willing to pay for extra help. These hands-on jobs are a great way to earn money while providing a valuable service to your community.

You can start by offering your services to neighbors or family members. Focus on specific tasks like vacuuming, dusting, washing dishes, or organizing closets and pantries. Customer satisfaction is crucial, so always do a thorough job. A happy client is likely to hire you again and recommend you to others.

This job is more than just cleaning; it’s about creating a more pleasant living environment for your clients. You could specialize in organizing, helping people declutter their garages, attics, or playrooms. This is a practical way to earn money and can be scheduled flexibly around your schoolwork.

13. Helping at local community events

Volunteering or working at local community events is a fantastic way to get involved and earn some money. Organizers of festivals, farmers’ markets, or local fairs often need extra help with setup, cleanup, or managing booths. This can be a fun and social first job experience, perfect for your age group.

Check with your local community center, chamber of commerce, or event organizers to see if they have paid positions available for teens. Even if some roles are volunteer-based, they are a great way to gain experience and make connections that could lead to paid work in the future. You’ll also develop important skills like teamwork and communication.

Working at these events allows you to be part of your community’s activities while earning an income. You might be helping to run a game, serve food, or provide information to attendees. It’s an active and engaging job that often feels more like participating in a fun event than working.

14. Freelance writing or blogging

If you have a way with words, freelance writing or blogging can be an excellent way to earn extra money online. Many businesses and websites need content, from blog posts to social media updates. You can write about topics you’re passionate about, such as gaming, fashion, or school life, and get paid for it.

To start, create a portfolio of sample pieces to show potential clients your writing style. You can start your own blog for free on platforms like Medium or create a simple portfolio in a Google Doc. Learning the basics of search engine optimization (SEO) can also make your writing more valuable to clients.

Ready to find your first writing gig?

• Check beginner-friendly freelance sites like Fiverr or Upwork (with parental permission).
• Pitch article ideas directly to blogs you enjoy reading.
• Use your portfolio to showcase your skills and reach a wider audience of potential clients.

15. Social media management for small businesses

As a teenager, you likely have a strong understanding of social media platforms. You can turn this knowledge into a paid job by becoming a social media manager for small businesses. Many local companies don’t have the time or expertise to manage their social media accounts effectively and would gladly pay for help.

Your role would be to create and schedule posts, engage with followers, and help grow the business’s online presence. This helps them reach a wider audience and connect with more customers. You can manage their Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok accounts, creating content that is relevant and engaging.

To get started, you can approach small businesses in your area and offer your services. Create a small portfolio showing how you’ve grown your own social media accounts or create some sample posts for a fictional brand. This is a modern and in-demand job that allows you to put your digital skills to good use.

16. Starting a YouTube channel or podcast

Creating a YouTube channel or a podcast is a fun way to share your passions and potentially earn money. If you’re comfortable in front of a camera or behind a microphone, you can create content on topics that interest you, from gaming and tutorials to comedy skits and product reviews. It’s a creative outlet that can grow into a source of income.

As your channel grows and you attract a larger audience, you can start to monetize it. With a popular YouTube channel, you can earn money through advertisements, sponsorships from brands, or selling your own merchandise. It takes time and consistency to build an audience, but it can be a rewarding long-term project.

Here are a few ideas to get your YouTube channel started:

• Pick a niche you genuinely enjoy and know a lot about.
• Post consistently to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.
• Promote your videos on other social media platforms to reach more viewers.

17. Offering basic graphic design services

Do you have a creative eye and enjoy playing with design tools? Offering basic graphic design services is one of the best online jobs for artistic teens. Many individuals and small businesses need help creating logos, flyers, or social media graphics but don’t have a big budget. This is where your design skills can come in handy.

To get started, you’ll want to build a portfolio with some sample pieces. You can use free tools like Canva to create professional-looking designs and showcase your abilities. Create a few fictional logos, social media posts, or event flyers to demonstrate what you can do for potential clients.

Once you have a portfolio, you can find freelance gigs on platforms like Fiverr, where you can offer your services for a set price. This is a great way to start building a client base and earning money for your creative work, all from the comfort of your home.

18. Assisting with family businesses or farms

Working for family businesses or on a family farm is a great way to get your first taste of the working world. Federal labor laws often have exceptions that allow teens to work for their parents’ business at a younger age than other jobs. This provides a unique opportunity for hands-on job experience in a supportive environment.

Whether your family owns a restaurant, a retail shop, or a farm, you can likely find a role to fill in your spare time. You could help with tasks like stocking shelves, running the cash register, clearing tables, or assisting with agricultural work. These jobs teach you important skills like responsibility, customer service, and time management.

This type of work is not only convenient but also gives you a chance to learn the ins and outs of a business from the inside. It’s a practical way to earn an income while contributing to your family’s success.

19. Baking and selling homemade treats

If you love to bake, why not turn that passion into a profitable side hustle? Baking and selling homemade treats is one of the most delicious business ideas for teens. You can sell cookies, cupcakes, brownies, or other goodies to friends, family, and neighbors to earn extra cash.

A great place to find potential customers is at local events like farmers’ markets, school bake sales, or community gatherings. You could also take custom orders for birthdays and holidays. Make sure to check your local regulations regarding the sale of homemade food items.

To make your baking business a success, consider these tips:

• Create attractive packaging and a simple label for your treats.
• Offer a signature item that makes your business stand out.
• Take great photos of your baked goods to promote them on social media.

20. Reselling items on eBay or local apps

Reselling items online is a great way to earn your own money by becoming a digital treasure hunter. You can start by selling things you no longer need, like old video games, books, or electronics. Online platforms like eBay or local marketplace apps allow you to reach a wider audience and get a good price for your items.

To make reselling a source of good money, you can start sourcing items specifically to sell. Visit thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets to find unique or undervalued products that you can flip for a profit. This requires a good eye for value but can be a very rewarding and fun hustle.

Success in reselling depends on good presentation. Take clear, detailed photos and write accurate descriptions for everything you list. You’ll need a parent’s help to manage an account on platforms like eBay, as you must be 18 to have your own.

21. Becoming a referee or umpire for youth sports

If you love sports, becoming a referee or umpire for youth leagues is an excellent first job. It allows you to stay involved in a game you’re passionate about while earning money. Youth sports organizations often hire teenagers from a certain age group to officiate games for younger kids.

This job helps you develop important skills like decision-making, confidence, and conflict resolution. You’ll need a thorough understanding of the game’s rules and the ability to be fair and impartial. It’s a role that requires a level of maturity and good customer service when interacting with coaches and parents.

To get started, contact your local youth sports leagues, such as soccer, baseball, or basketball, and inquire about their referee programs. They often provide training and certification. This is a great way to earn a steady income on weekends and after school, all while being on the sports field.

22. Doing seasonal work like snow shoveling or leaf raking

Seasonal work is a fantastic option for earning good money during specific times of the year. In the fall, you can offer leaf-raking services to your neighbors. When winter arrives, snow shoveling can be a very lucrative job, especially after a big storm. These hands-on jobs are perfect for using your spare time productively.

Many homeowners are looking for extra help with these demanding outdoor chores. You can start your own small business by simply going door-to-door in your neighborhood and offering your services. All you need are some basic tools like a rake or a shovel and a willingness to work hard.

This type of work is flexible and allows you to earn cash quickly. You can decide your own rates and work when it fits your schedule. It’s a classic and reliable way for teens to earn money while providing a much-needed service to their community.

23. Reviewing products or apps for rewards

Did you know you can get paid for your opinions on products and apps? Some companies will reward you with cash or gift cards for testing their apps or writing reviews. This requires a bit of online research to find legitimate platforms, but it can be a fun way to earn rewards from home.

These tasks are similar to simple data entry, where you provide feedback on your user experience. You might test new apps from the Google Play store or the App Store and report any bugs or suggest improvements. It’s a way to influence new technology while earning a little something for your time.

While this won’t replace a steady job, it’s an easy way to earn gift cards for your favorite stores or for online platforms. Always make sure to use safe and reputable websites and get your parents’ permission before signing up or downloading any software.

24. Creating content for TikTok or Instagram

If you’re already spending time on social media, you might as well make it productive. Creating content for platforms like TikTok or Instagram is a fun way to express your creative ideas and potentially earn money. By building a following, you can open doors to brand partnerships and other income opportunities.

The key is to find a niche you’re passionate about and create engaging content consistently. As your account grows and you reach a wider audience, brands may pay you to feature their products in your posts. You can also earn money through creator funds offered by some social media platforms.

Here’s how to get started:

• Share your unique talents, whether it’s through dance, comedy, art, or life hacks.
• Use trending sounds and hashtags to increase your visibility.
• Engage with your followers to build a loyal community.

How to Get Started with Your First Job or Side Hustle at 14

Taking the first step toward getting your first job is an exciting milestone. For your age group, earning good money is not just about having spending cash; it’s about learning important skills like responsibility, time management, and financial literacy. Whether you’re freelancing or taking on a traditional role, this experience is incredibly valuable.

Before you jump in, it’s helpful to understand the rules and best practices for young workers. From knowing which jobs you’re legally allowed to do to balancing work with school, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s look at what you need to know to begin.

Finding jobs allowed for 14-year-olds in the United States

In the United States, federal law sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural work at 14. However, there are rules about the types of jobs you can do and the hours you can work. It’s also important to check your local laws, as some states have different regulations that may be more strict.

For your first job, you’ll generally be limited to non-hazardous roles. Many of the best online jobs, retail positions, and food service jobs fall into this category. The hourly rate will vary depending on the job and your location, but you must be paid at least the federal minimum wage.

Here are some examples of jobs typically permitted for 14-year-olds, along with some that are restricted:

Permitted Jobs	Prohibited Jobs
Retail and cashier work	Driving a motor vehicle or forklift
Office and clerical work	Most manufacturing or mining operations
Food service (not cooking/baking)	Working with power-driven machinery
Babysitting, dog walking, yard work	Roofing or any work on a ladder/scaffold
Umpire or referee at youth games	Demolition and excavation work

Understanding work permit and labor laws for young teens

Before you start your job search, it’s crucial to understand the labor laws that apply to your age group. In many states, teens under a certain age need a work permit, also known as employment certification, to be legally employed. This document proves you are of the minimum age to work and have your parents’ permission.

You can usually get a work permit application from your school’s guidance office or your state’s department of labor website. Beyond the permit, federal labor laws place restrictions on the hours 14- and 15-year-olds can work. For example, you can’t work during school hours, and there are limits on how many hours you can work per day and per week.

These laws are in place to ensure that your job doesn’t interfere with your education or well-being. Always check both federal and local laws, as your state might have stricter rules. Being informed will help you and your employer stay in compliance.

Setting realistic income expectations as a 14-year-old

While the idea of earning good money is exciting, it’s important to have a realistic income expectation. As a 14-year-old, your hourly rate will likely be at or slightly above the minimum wage, depending on the job and your state. For jobs where you set your own prices, like babysitting or lawn care, you can research what others in your area are charging.

Don’t be discouraged if your first job doesn’t pay a lot. The experience you gain is just as valuable as the extra cash. For your age group, a job is more about learning responsibility and work ethic than it is about making a large salary.

Think about your goals for earning money. Are you saving for a specific item, or do you just want some spending money? A realistic income might be anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars a month, depending on how many hours you can work.

Balancing school, extracurriculars, and work commitments

One of the most important skills you’ll learn from working is time management. Juggling school, homework, sports, and a job can be challenging, but it’s entirely possible with some planning. Your education should always be your top priority, so make sure your work schedule doesn’t interfere with your studies.

The first step is to create a schedule. Block out time for school, homework, and any extracurricular activities. Then, look at your remaining free time to see how many hours you can realistically commit to a job. Be honest with yourself about how much you can handle without feeling overwhelmed.

Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy balance:

• Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of all your commitments.
• Communicate with your employer about your school schedule and availability.
• Don’t be afraid to cut back on work hours if you feel your grades are slipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular jobs for 14-year-olds?

The best way for this age group to start earning extra money is often through traditional jobs like babysitting, pet sitting, and yard work for local businesses or neighbors. These roles teach great customer service skills. Additionally, online jobs like taking surveys or simple freelance tasks are popular for their flexibility.

What tips can help a 14-year-old save and manage their earnings?

To manage your good money, open a student bank account with your parents’ help. Set savings goals for a portion of your extra cash. Learning to budget is one of the most important skills you can develop, helping you make smart decisions with the money you earn in your spare time.

What is the youngest age you can get a job?

In the U.S., the federal minimum age for most non-agricultural jobs is 14. However, some jobs like delivering newspapers or working for family businesses may be allowed for a younger age group. The first step should always be to check your state and local laws, as they can have different rules.