How to make money as a teenager

Quick insights

• State and federal laws regulate how teenagers can be employed in the United States.
• There are various types of jobs, usually with part-time commitments, that suit the typical teenager’s schedule.
• Besides earning money, working as a teenager offers opportunities to develop lasting experiences and new skills.

Although jobs for teenagers are often considered “entry level,” working at this age can develop skills and create experiences that last a lifetime. Learning how to make money as a teenager isn’t rocket science.

Jobs for teenagers: How it works

There are labor laws in the United States for minors designed to keep them safe. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the guidelines, which limit the number of hours, shift times and types of work that minors can do based on their age.

Labor laws can also be specific to states and other localities. In most places, minors must be a certain age and obtain a permit to be eligible for employment. Getting a work permit is usually a straightforward process, completed by a minor’s school with the help of a parent or legal guardian.

How teenagers can get jobs

Gaining employment may be as clear-cut as completing a job application, interview and any other required paperwork. The exact process may vary based on a teen’s age, location and the job opportunity itself, but here are some common steps:

• Creating a resume: Even without much work experience, an effective resume will describe a person and give potential employers a snapshot of strengths and abilities. Useful information for a teen to include are volunteer work, school projects and any skills or certifications related to a job.
• Reviewing job listings: Local job boards, community centers and online sites are good resources when looking for a job. Family and friends might know of opportunities, as well. Many adults might attest to the fact that job opportunities can come from unexpected places.
• Completing applications: Job applications are detailed documents. Following instructions and providing accurate information is important to reach the next step in the employment process
• Preparing for the interview: Job interviews help identify ideal candidates. Most employers want someone confident, enthusiastic about the opportunity and serious about working. Practicing answers to common interview questions can contribute to a strong interview.
• Understanding the job: Even jobs in the same business, such as retail sales, have variable shifts, expectations and pay. It’s important for potential employees to understand these details and know what’s expected of them before accepting a job.

Types of jobs for teenagers

School and extracurricular activities usually demand a lot of a teenager’s time. However, this doesn’t necessarily limit where a teenager may find a job:

Part-time jobs

Part-time jobs suit teenagers because work shifts may not interfere with school demands and extracurricular activities. Retail stores, restaurants and libraries tend to offer shifts in the afternoons, evenings and weekends. Based on a standard school schedule, those time frames are usually available for teens to work.

Seasonal jobs

Businesses tend to hire teenagers in the summer and holiday seasons. Summer jobs, such as camp counseling, are chances to work outdoors, supervise kids and meet new people. Retail stores often hire sales associates or inventory stockers on a seasonal basis to support the influx of shopping demand throughout the fall and winter.

Online jobs

There are several examples of online jobs that might be available to teenagers. The FLSA guidelines and companies’ age policies still apply to online work. A parent or legal guardian may have to provide additional supervision and authorization for an online job. Each platform likely has its own age policies to follow, as well.

Here are several possibilities for teenagers to make money legitimately online:

• Freelance work: Writing, graphic design or video editing jobs may be available on platforms that allow minors to create and sell content.
• Tutoring: Teenagers could offer tutoring services in subjects they excel in over a video chat.
• Crafting and e-commerce: There are several online platforms where art, crafts and other products are sold.

Why try to make money as a teenager?

Getting a job as a teenager can be appealing for several reasons:

• Money: A main benefit (and often the main goal) of a job is the pay. For teenagers, money can be used for needs and wants in the short or long-term.
• Independence: Teens who work also tend to get a debit card and manage personal finances, which helps build independence.
• Work experience: This is a critical part of applying for jobs. Getting experience early could pay off when applying for future jobs. Working can help teens develop good habits, clarify career goals and enhance a resume.
• Personal development: Jobs typically require problem-solving, decision-making and time management tasks. As a result, working can help teens learn skills that are useful in various aspects of life, such as critical thinking and budgeting.
• Meeting people: Jobs can be a great way to meet new people, including new friends and even potential mentors who can provide valuable advice for the future.

In summary

Part-time, seasonal and remote jobs typically allow teenagers who want to earn money make the most of the time they’re not in school. Despite the reasons why a teenager might want a job, schedule and personal preferences are important to weigh.

All jobs come with pros and cons, but teenagers typically have more than work to handle. While making money might be a priority, jobs are good opportunities for young people to gain work experience and develop useful skills.