How can I make money as a teenager?

Learn about ways teenagers can earn money, including traditional part-time jobs, online opportunities, and starting a small business – all while balancing education and hobbies.

About this article...

  • Suitable for members aged 12-17
  • 4 minute read
  • 756 words (1.9 sides of A4)
  • Providing help and guidance on Jobs & working and School & Hobbies
  • Created and reviewed by our team of experts

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Exploring Ways to Make Money as a Teenager

As a teenager, the desire to start earning money can be driven by various factors: from wanting extra cash to spend on hobbies, saving up for a big purchase, or even helping to ease family expenses. Perhaps you're also looking to gain some financial independence or experience to boost your CV. With growing opportunities both online and offline, making money as a teenager is more accessible than ever before.

Understanding the Legal Framework

Before diving into the ways in which you can make money, it's essential to understand the legal framework that governs employment for teenagers in the UK. Legally, you can start working part-time at the age of 13, except for roles like being in a factory or a bar, which have higher age requirements for safety reasons. However, there are restrictions on how many hours you can work during term-time: no more than 12 hours a week during term time and not before 7 am or after 7 pm on any day.

Real-life Impacts of Earning as a Teenager

Earning money as a teenager isn't just about the financial benefit. It can significantly impact your personal development and future career. Firstly, earning your own money can bring a sense of independence and confidence. It teaches you the value of money, budgeting, and the hard work that goes into earning it. Additionally, early work experiences can stand out on your CV and university applications, showcasing your commitment, time management, and responsibility from a young age.

Practical Ways to Make Money as a Teenager

1. Part-Time Jobs

How can I make money as a teenager?

  • Retail Assistant: Many retail shops hire teenagers, especially during busy periods like Christmas or summer holidays.
  • Waiting Staff/Barista: Working in cafes or restaurants can also be an option, often with the benefit of flexible shifts.
  • Paper Route: While it might seem a bit traditional, delivering newspapers is a great job for early risers.

2. Online Jobs

  • Freelancing: If you have skills in areas like writing, graphic design, or digital marketing, websites like Upwork and Fiverr can be a good place to start offering your services.
  • Online surveys and reviews: Companies pay for consumer feedback, and websites like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie are platforms where you can earn by completing surveys or reviewing products.

3. Entrepreneurial Ventures

  • Start a Blog or YouTube Channel: If you have a particular interest or hobby, blogging or vlogging about it can eventually bring in money through ads and sponsorships.
  • Crafting and Selling: Websites like Etsy are fantastic for selling homemade crafts, jewellery, or art.

4. Tutoring and Babysitting

If you excel academically, consider tutoring younger students in subjects you are passionate about. Or, if you enjoy spending time with children, babysitting is a practical and often well-paid option.

Expanding Your Opportunities

Aside from the money aspect, these jobs can provide invaluable work experience and life skills. They teach practicality, punctuality, responsibility, and the importance of managing finances. Additionally, interacting with customers and colleagues can enhance your communication and social skills, valuable assets in any future career.

In conclusion, making money as a teenager is not only about the financial aspect but also about the growth and opportunities that come with it. Start by exploring what you enjoy doing and what skills you can offer, then consider how you can monetise these interests and talents responsibly within the legal working age requirements. Remember, any job or activity should not interfere with your schooling and personal development.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

  • Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
  • The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
  • SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
  • Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.