Making money as a teenager is exciting. It gives you the chance to learn financial responsibility, work ethic, and valuable life skills. Whether you’re saving for a specific goal, like buying your first car or paying for college, or just want to earn some extra spending money, there are many ways to achieve your financial goals.

Things were a lot different when I was younger. There weren’t opportunities to make money and develop skills online like there are now. I got my first job at 15 years old and I was paid £3.20 an hour. I worked in a restaurant in my home town of Doncaster and to be honest, I hated it. It was hard work, long hours. I was shy and unsure of myself and the people I worked with could see that and a few were not nice. Not a fun time! I was glad to leave that place and work somewhere that wasn’t like that – but that’s a story for another day. But one thing to take away from this is – do not stay working at a place where you are treated badly. 

Anyway, let’s get back to my guide on how to earn money as a teenager, both online and offline, to help you navigate the best path towards financial independence.

Understanding the Basics of Teenage Employment

Before jumping into the job market, it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations of teenage employment. According to the government, teenagers can start working part-time jobs from the age of 13. However, they are limited to 12 hours per week during the school year and 25 hours per week (35 hours per week for 15-16-year-olds) during holidays until they turn 16.

There is also a list of jobs and tasks that children cannot do and there are restrictions on work times and breaks. 

Minimum Wage

The minimum wage depends on the age. Here are the current rates:

Age	Current  rates
23 and over (NLW)	£10.42
21 to 22	£10.18
18 to 20	£7.49
Under 18	£5.28
Apprentice	£5.28

Understanding Taxes

If you are self-employed rather than working for a company that pays your wages, you will need to set up a self-assessment account with HRMC. As soon as you earn over £1000 per year, you need to declare your earnings and pay National Insurance and tax if you go over the tax allowance (currently £12,570). 

Benefits of Making Money as a Teen

Working as a teenager comes with several benefits, including:

Financial Independence

Earning your own money as a teenager can provide a sense of financial independence. It allows you to make your own purchasing decisions and reduces reliance on parents or guardians for money.

Learning Money Management

Having a regular paycheck can help teens learn essential money management skills. They can learn about budgeting, saving, and the importance of making wise spending decisions.

Gaining Work Experience

Working as a teenager can provide valuable work experience that will be beneficial when applying for future jobs or college. It can help develop skills such as time management, responsibility, and teamwork. Rather than the skills included in a particular job, it’s the experience of being a professional setting that is really valuable. 

Building Confidence

Earning your own money can boost your self-confidence. It allows you to take pride in your hard-earned money and gives you a sense of accomplishment.

Job Preparation Tips for Teens

Getting your first job can be a daunting experience. Here are some tips to help teens prepare for their first job:

Be Professional

Understanding the meaning of professionalism is crucial. It involves listening to instructions, having a positive mindset, and showing respect to your colleagues and superiors.

Commitment is Key

It’s crucial to stay committed to your job, even when it becomes challenging or less exciting. Remember, you made a commitment, and it’s essential to stick to it.

Consider Safety

Ensure to prioritize safety, especially when working late hours or with different age groups. Know what to do if you feel unsafe or harassed at work.

Understand Your Paycheck

Learning how to understand your paycheck is an essential part of financial literacy. It allows you to know where your money is going and how much you’re taking home.

Personal Presentation 

This will be dependent on the job, for at the very least you should be dressed smartly for the interview. Clothes should be ironed and hair clean. Of course, each job is different but until you are sure of the dress code, dress smart.

Punctuality 

Being organised so you are on time for work is important. This means you should make sure your work clothes or clean and ready for your shift, and that you leave with plenty of time. Always aim to get to work about 10 minutes earlier, then you will account for any traffic or other problems that may slow you down. Stumbling into work at the time you are meant to start can be stressful and leave you feeling rushed. 

How To Earn Money As A Teenager

Different jobs offer different pay rates. Some of the high-paying jobs for teens aged 14-15 include:

Web Designer

As a web designer, you can earn an average of £22 per hour (much more if you have experience). You can provide your services on freelance platforms like Upwork and work from the comfort of your home.

Tutor

If you excel in a particular subject, you can offer tutoring services and earn around £10 per hour. Online platforms like Tutor.com offer opportunities for teens to tutor younger kids.

Babysitter

Babysitting is a popular job among teens, and it pays well too. On average, babysitters can make around £10 per hour.

For teens aged 16-18, some high-paying jobs include:

Delivery Service Driver

As a delivery service driver, you can earn an average of £13 per hour. You will need a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle for this job.

Landscaper

If you enjoy working outdoors, a job as a landscaper can earn you around £10 per hour. This job involves maintaining lawns and gardens, including mowing, weeding, and planting.

Hotel Housekeeper

Working as a hotel housekeeper can earn you around £10. The job involves cleaning hotel rooms and public areas, making beds, and restocking toiletries.

Seasonal Jobs for Teens

Summer is the perfect time for teens to earn some extra cash. Some popular summer jobs for teenagers include:

Summer Camp Counselor

If you enjoy working with kids, you can spend your summer as a camp counsellor. You’ll guide and supervise children, lead activities, and ensure campers’ safety. Summer camps are a lot of fun, as well as earning extra cash, you can meet some new friends. 

Theme Park Attendant

A job at a theme park can be a lot of fun. You can work in various roles, including ride attendants, food and beverage sales, or customer service.

Lifeguard

If you’re a strong swimmer, consider becoming a lifeguard at your local pool or beach. This job requires a lifeguard certification, which includes first aid and CPR training.

Online Jobs for Teens

The digital age has opened up lots of online jobs for teens – all you need is internet access. Some of the ways to make money online as a teenager include:

Blogging

Starting a blog can be a fun and rewarding way to make money online. You can earn money through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, or ad revenue. You do need to be prepared to work hard and you won’t make money straight away – but I started my blog 11 years ago and now I make a full-time job from it. 

YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel can be a fun way to share your interests and earn money. Once you’ve gained enough views and subscribers, you can monetise your channel with ads. About, this is not easy to do. Many people want to be YouTubers so you are up against a lot of people. You also need to be careful about what information about yourself you share online as it will be online forever.

Online Surveys

Several companies will pay you for your opinion. Websites like Swagbucks, YouGov and PanelBase offer paid survey opportunities, allowing you to earn rewards for answering surveys.

Freelance Writing

If you enjoy writing, consider freelance writing. You can write blog posts, and articles, or even ghostwrite for clients and earn money.

Social Media Management

If you’re savvy with social media platforms, consider offering your services as a social media manager. Many small businesses need help managing their social media accounts and creating content.

Virtual Assistant 

Again, if you have certain skills for managing websites and social media, you can become a virtual assistant.

Play Video Games

With apps like Swagbucks, you can earn money by playing mobile phone games. I’ve made money playing games such as Farmville.  I’ve made about £100 playing video games, making money through Swagbucks is fun! 

Starting a Business as a Teen

One of the best ways for a teenager to make money is by starting their own business. Some business ideas for teens include:

Babysitting or Pet Sitting Services

Teens can offer babysitting or pet-sitting services to families in their neighbourhood. As a babysitter or pet-sitter, you’ll take care of children or pets while their parents are away.

Tutoring

Teens who excel in a particular subject can offer tutoring services. You can tutor younger kids in your neighbourhood or online.

Lawn Care Services

Starting a lawn care business can be a great way for teens to make money. You can offer services like mowing lawns, raking leaves, watering plants or cleaning gutters.

Photography or Videography Services

Teens who are skilled in photography or videography can start their own businesses offering these services. You can take photos or videos for events, or even offer editing services.

Selling Handmade Crafts or Goods

If you’re crafty, consider selling your handmade crafts or goods. You can sell your items at local craft fairs or online through platforms like Etsy.

Music Lessons

If you can play an instrument to a good level, then you can give music lessons to beginners. You can teach children, teens and even young adults how to get started playing an instrument.  

Ways to Make Money Doing Household Chores

Teens can also earn money by helping out with household chores. Some chores that teens can do for money include:

Cleaning the House

Teens can offer to clean the house for their parents in exchange for an allowance. This can include tasks like doing washing, washing dishes, or vacuuming.

Mowing the Lawn

If you have a lawn at home, teens can offer to mow it regularly for a fee. Not only is this a great way to make money, but it also helps keep the yard looking neat.

Babysitting Younger Siblings

If you have younger siblings, teens can offer to babysit them for a fee. This can be a great way to earn money while also helping out the family.

Cooking Meals

Teens who enjoy cooking can offer to prepare meals for the family. They can charge a fee per meal, and it’s a great way to improve their cooking skills.

Wash cars

You can wash your parents’ cars for extra pocket money. You can also do the same for relatives and neighbours – car washing is a great way to make some solid money, as most people dislike washing their own car. 

Sell Clothes & Items to Make Money

Another way for teens to make money and reach your money goals is by selling items. This can include items that they no longer need or use, or items that they’ve made or bought for resale. Just make sure you only sell your things – my brother once sold my Dad’s fishing gear when he was a teenager, and that did not go down well! Check with your parent or guardian before selling a big item. Also, beware of scammers – always make sure you have the money before posting something out Some platforms where teens can sell items include:

eBay

eBay is a popular online marketplace where you can sell just about anything – it’s been a great way to earn extra cash for years. From clothes and accessories to electronics and collectables, you can make money by selling items you no longer need.

Poshmark

Poshmark is a social commerce marketplace where you can buy and sell clothing, shoes, and accessories. It’s a great platform for teens who want to declutter their closets and make some money. Many people buy clothes on Poshmark these days. If you’re not wearing your clothes or how outgrown them, just sell them online!

Etsy

If you’re crafty and creative, Etsy is the perfect platform for you. You can sell handmade items, vintage goods, and craft supplies. Lots of people do their shopping online with Etsy these days and teens can earn money by making personalised items if they have a skill. 

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is a convenient place to sell items locally to earn extra money. I think it’s the easiest of all the online marketplaces to sell things online – plus there are no selling fees. You can sell items like furniture, electronics, and clothing, and buyers can pick up the items directly from you. Again – think safety. Make sure a parent is always home when someone comes to pick things up. Many scams revolve around buyers using fake baking apps and saying they’ve sent the money, then pressuring for the item. 

Practical Tips for Managing Money as a Teen

Once you start making money, it’s essential to learn how to manage it wisely. Here are some practical tips for managing money as a teen:

Start Saving Early

One of the best things you can do as a teenager is to start saving early. Even if you’re saving a small amount from each paycheck, it can add up over time.

Set Financial Goals

Setting financial goals can help you stay motivated to save. Whether you’re saving for a car, college, or just a rainy day, having a specific goal in mind can make saving easier.

Learn About Budgeting

Learning how to budget is an essential skill that will benefit you throughout your life. A budget can help you keep track of your income and expenses, and ensure that you’re saving enough for your goals.

Understand Your Paycheck

Understanding your paycheck is crucial. Make sure you know how much you’re earning, what deductions are being taken out, and how much you’re taking home.

With these tips and ideas, you’re well on your way to making money as a teenager. Whether you choose to get a part-time job, start your own business, or sell items online, there are plenty of opportunities for teenagers to earn money. Just remember to save some of your earnings, set financial goals, and learn to manage your money wisely. You can talk about saving money and get guidance from a trusted adult. Good luck!

What do you think are the best ways to earn money as a teen?