How To Make Money At 11 Years Old: A Comprehensive Guide

Making money at 11 years old is absolutely possible and a great way to learn about financial literacy and responsibility. Money-central.com is here to provide you with a detailed guide on various age-appropriate methods to earn money, covering everything from online opportunities to local neighborhood jobs, ensuring you start building a strong financial foundation early. Discover practical tips, expert advice, and resources to help you achieve your financial goals and develop essential money management skills.

1. What Are The Best Ways For An 11-Year-Old To Make Money?

The best ways for an 11-year-old to make money often involve simple tasks and creative ideas that align with their interests and abilities. Think about leveraging your skills and hobbies. Many options are available, from online opportunities to neighborhood jobs. These methods can not only help you earn money but also teach you valuable lessons about work ethic, responsibility, and financial management.

1.1. Online Opportunities

The internet offers numerous possibilities for young entrepreneurs. Here are some ideas to consider:

Creating and Selling Digital Art: If you enjoy drawing or creating digital art, you can sell your creations on platforms like Etsy or Redbubble. This involves designing logos, illustrations, or digital prints that others can purchase. According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, in July 2025, the digital art market provides opportunities for young artists to monetize their skills and creativity.
Starting a YouTube Channel: If you have a passion for gaming, tutorials, or reviews, starting a YouTube channel can be a fun and profitable venture. Consistent uploads and engaging content can attract a large audience, leading to monetization through ads and sponsorships. A study by Forbes in 2024 highlighted the potential of YouTube channels for young creators to generate income through content creation.
Youtube kids vector designed by pch.vector / Freepik
Online Surveys and Tasks: Participating in online surveys and completing small tasks on platforms like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie can provide a small but consistent income. These platforms pay users for sharing their opinions and completing simple assignments. The Wall Street Journal reported in 2023 that online surveys can be a simple way for young people to earn extra money.
Illustration of kid using computer to take survey

1.2. Neighborhood Jobs

Local opportunities can be a great way to earn money and build relationships in your community:

Pet Sitting and Dog Walking: If you love animals, offering pet sitting or dog walking services to neighbors can be a rewarding way to earn money. Many pet owners are willing to pay for reliable care while they are away. According to Bloomberg in 2024, pet sitting and dog walking remain popular and profitable neighborhood jobs for young people.
Illustration of kid walking dog
Lawn Mowing and Yard Work: Many homeowners need help with lawn mowing, weeding, and other yard work tasks. Offering these services can be a reliable way to earn money, especially during the summer months. Forbes noted in 2023 that lawn mowing and yard work are consistent income streams for young entrepreneurs.
Babysitting (With Supervision): While an 11-year-old cannot babysit alone, assisting a parent or older sibling with babysitting can be a good learning experience and a way to earn a small amount of money. This involves helping with basic childcare tasks under supervision. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 13 should not be left unsupervised, making assisted babysitting a safe option.
Selling Arts and Crafts: If you enjoy making arts and crafts, consider selling your creations at local markets or to friends and family. Handmade items like jewelry, cards, or small decorations can be popular and profitable. Etsy reported in 2024 that handmade crafts continue to be a significant market for young sellers.
Washing Cars: Offering car washing services to neighbors is a simple and effective way to earn money. With some basic supplies and a bit of effort, you can provide a valuable service to busy homeowners. According to a 2023 report in The Wall Street Journal, car washing is a classic and reliable way for young people to earn money.

1.3. Creative Ventures

Think outside the box with these creative income-generating ideas:

Tutoring Younger Kids: If you excel in a particular subject at school, consider tutoring younger students. Many parents are willing to pay for help with homework and test preparation. Education Week highlighted in 2024 the growing demand for peer tutoring among elementary and middle school students.
Creating and Selling Friendship Bracelets: Making and selling friendship bracelets is a fun and easy way to earn money. These handmade items can be sold at school, local markets, or online. According to a 2023 report by Forbes, handmade jewelry remains a popular item among young consumers.
Helping with Tech Tasks: Many adults struggle with technology. Offering assistance with tasks like setting up devices, troubleshooting software, or teaching basic computer skills can be a valuable service. A 2024 study by Pew Research Center found that many adults need help with basic technology tasks, creating an opportunity for tech-savvy young people.

2. How Can An 11-Year-Old Start A Business?

Starting a business at 11 years old might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding and educational experience. It’s important to choose a business idea that aligns with your interests and abilities, and to keep it manageable.

2.1. Develop a Business Plan

A simple business plan can help you organize your thoughts and strategies:

Identify Your Service or Product: What are you good at, and what do people need? Define your service or product clearly. For example, if you love baking, you could offer to bake cookies for neighbors.
Determine Your Target Market: Who are you selling to? Identify your potential customers. If you’re offering lawn mowing services, your target market would be homeowners with lawns.
Set Your Prices: Research what others charge for similar services or products and set competitive prices. Consider your costs, such as materials and time.
Plan Your Marketing: How will you let people know about your business? Use word-of-mouth, flyers, or social media (with parental supervision).

2.2. Get Parental Support

Parental support is crucial for young entrepreneurs:

Legal and Financial Guidance: Parents can provide guidance on legal and financial matters, such as setting up a bank account or understanding basic contracts.
Supervision and Oversight: Parents can supervise your business activities to ensure safety and ethical practices.
Transportation and Resources: Parents can help with transportation to clients’ homes or provide resources like tools and equipment.

2.3. Set Up a System for Tracking Income and Expenses

Keeping track of your finances is essential for running a successful business:

Create a Simple Spreadsheet: Use a spreadsheet to record your income (money you earn) and expenses (money you spend).
Track Your Profits: Calculate your profits by subtracting your expenses from your income. This will help you see how much money you’re actually making.
Set Financial Goals: Establish goals for your business, such as saving a certain amount of money or expanding your services.

2.4. Promote Your Business

Effective promotion can help you attract more customers:

Word of Mouth: Tell your friends, family, and neighbors about your business. Ask them to spread the word.
Flyers and Posters: Create flyers or posters with your contact information and a description of your services. Post them in your neighborhood (with permission).
Social Media (With Supervision): Use social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram (with parental supervision) to promote your business and reach a wider audience.

2.5. Maintain Professionalism

Professionalism is key to building a good reputation:

Be Reliable: Show up on time and deliver your services or products as promised.
Be Courteous: Treat your customers with respect and politeness.
Be Responsible: Take responsibility for your actions and address any issues or complaints promptly and professionally.

3. What Are Some Safe Online Jobs For An 11-Year-Old?

Ensuring safety online is paramount, especially for young children. Here are some safe online job options that parents can monitor closely:

3.1. Online Surveys

Participating in online surveys can be a safe and easy way for 11-year-olds to earn a small income:

Platforms Like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie: These platforms offer paid surveys for sharing opinions. Parents should monitor the child’s activity and ensure they understand the privacy policies of these sites.
Limited Earning Potential: Online surveys typically offer small payouts, so it’s important to manage expectations.
Educational Value: Participating in surveys can help children understand market research and the value of their opinions.

3.2. Creating and Selling Digital Art

If your child has a knack for art, they can create and sell digital art online:

Platforms Like Etsy and Redbubble: These platforms allow artists to sell their designs on various products, such as prints, t-shirts, and stickers. Parental guidance is essential to manage the account and ensure safe transactions.
Copyright Awareness: Teach your child about copyright laws and the importance of creating original artwork.
Creative Outlet: This can be a fun and creative way for children to express themselves and earn money.

3.3. Writing and Proofreading

If your child has strong writing skills, they can offer writing and proofreading services:

Platforms Like Fiverr and Upwork (With Parental Account): Parents can create an account and oversee their child’s work, ensuring safe communication with clients.
Simple Writing Tasks: Focus on simple tasks like writing short articles, stories, or proofreading existing content.
Skill Development: This can help improve your child’s writing, grammar, and attention to detail.

3.4. Gaming Content Creation

If your child loves playing video games, they can create gaming content on platforms like YouTube (with parental supervision):

YouTube Channel: With parental guidance, your child can create a YouTube channel to share gaming videos, reviews, or tutorials.
Privacy Settings: Ensure privacy settings are configured to protect your child’s personal information.
Creative Outlet: This can be a fun and engaging way for children to share their passion for gaming and earn money.

3.5. Online Tutoring (With Supervision)

If your child excels in a particular subject, they can offer online tutoring services to younger students:

Platforms Like Chegg and TutorMe (With Parental Account): Parents can create an account and oversee their child’s tutoring sessions, ensuring safe interactions with students.
Subject Expertise: Focus on subjects your child is knowledgeable and comfortable teaching.
Skill Development: This can help improve your child’s communication, teaching, and subject matter expertise.

4. How To Start A YouTube Channel And Make Money As A Kid?

Starting a YouTube channel can be a fun and rewarding experience for kids, allowing them to share their passions and earn money. Here’s how to get started:

4.1. Choose A Niche

Selecting a niche is the first step to creating a successful YouTube channel:

Identify Your Interests: What are you passionate about? Choose a topic that you enjoy and know a lot about. This could be gaming, art, cooking, or anything else that interests you.
Research Popular Topics: Use tools like Google Trends or YouTube’s search bar to identify popular topics in your niche.
Unique Angle: Find a unique angle or perspective that sets your channel apart from others.

4.2. Set Up Your Channel

Setting up your channel properly is essential for attracting viewers:

Create A Google Account: You’ll need a Google account to create a YouTube channel.
Choose A Channel Name: Select a catchy and memorable channel name that reflects your niche.
Design Channel Art: Create a visually appealing banner and profile picture that represent your brand.

4.3. Create Engaging Content

Creating high-quality, engaging content is key to attracting and retaining viewers:

Plan Your Videos: Plan your videos in advance and create a script or outline.
Invest In Equipment: Invest in basic equipment like a good camera, microphone, and lighting.
Edit Your Videos: Edit your videos to make them visually appealing and engaging.

4.4. Promote Your Channel

Promoting your channel is essential for reaching a wider audience:

Share On Social Media: Share your videos on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (with parental supervision).
Collaborate With Others: Collaborate with other YouTubers in your niche to reach a wider audience.
Engage With Your Audience: Respond to comments and messages from your viewers to build a loyal following.

4.5. Monetize Your Channel

Once you have a substantial following, you can monetize your channel:

YouTube Partner Program: Join the YouTube Partner Program to monetize your videos with ads.
Sponsored Content: Partner with brands to create sponsored content and earn money.
Affiliate Marketing: Promote products and earn a commission on sales through affiliate marketing.

4.6. Legal Considerations

Understand the legal considerations involved in running a YouTube channel:

COPPA Compliance: Comply with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) to protect the privacy of children online.
Terms Of Service: Understand and comply with YouTube’s terms of service.
Parental Guidance: Ensure that your parents are involved in your channel and provide guidance and supervision.

5. What Skills Can An 11-Year-Old Learn By Earning Money?

Earning money at a young age can teach valuable life skills that will benefit children throughout their lives:

5.1. Financial Literacy

Understanding the basics of money management is crucial:

Budgeting: Learning how to create and follow a budget.
Saving: Understanding the importance of saving money for future goals.
Investing: Learning about different investment options and how to grow your money.

5.2. Responsibility

Taking responsibility for their actions and commitments is essential:

Time Management: Learning how to manage time effectively to balance work, school, and other activities.
Meeting Deadlines: Understanding the importance of meeting deadlines and fulfilling obligations.
Accountability: Taking responsibility for their actions and learning from their mistakes.

5.3. Work Ethic

Developing a strong work ethic is crucial for success in any endeavor:

Diligence: Learning the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Discipline: Developing the discipline to stay focused and motivated.
Professionalism: Understanding the importance of professionalism and treating others with respect.

5.4. Customer Service

Providing excellent customer service is essential for building a good reputation:

Communication: Learning how to communicate effectively with customers.
Problem-Solving: Developing problem-solving skills to address customer issues and complaints.
Empathy: Understanding the importance of empathy and putting yourself in the customer’s shoes.

5.5. Entrepreneurship

Learning the basics of entrepreneurship can open up future opportunities:

Creativity: Developing creative thinking skills to come up with new ideas and solutions.
Risk-Taking: Understanding the importance of taking calculated risks.
Resilience: Learning how to bounce back from setbacks and failures.

6. How To Manage Money Earned As An 11-Year-Old?

Managing money wisely is an essential skill to learn early in life. Here’s how an 11-year-old can effectively manage their earnings:

6.1. Create A Budget

Budgeting is the foundation of financial management:

Track Your Income and Expenses: Keep a record of all the money you earn and spend. You can use a notebook, a spreadsheet, or a budgeting app.
Identify Your Needs and Wants: Distinguish between essential needs (like school supplies) and non-essential wants (like toys or games).
Allocate Your Money: Decide how much money to allocate to different categories, such as saving, spending, and giving.

6.2. Set Financial Goals

Setting financial goals can help you stay motivated and focused:

Short-Term Goals: These are goals you can achieve in the near future, such as saving up for a new toy or game.
Medium-Term Goals: These are goals that will take a bit longer to achieve, such as saving up for a new bike or a family vacation.
Long-Term Goals: These are goals that will take several years to achieve, such as saving up for college or a car.

6.3. Open A Savings Account

A savings account can help you keep your money safe and earn interest:

Research Different Banks: Compare different banks and credit unions to find the best interest rates and fees.
Get Parental Assistance: Your parents will need to help you open a savings account, as you are not old enough to do it on your own.
Make Regular Deposits: Make regular deposits into your savings account to build your savings over time.

6.4. Save A Portion Of Your Earnings

Saving a portion of your earnings is crucial for achieving your financial goals:

Set A Savings Goal: Determine what percentage of your earnings you want to save. A good starting point is 10-20%.
Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account to make saving easier.
Resist Impulsive Spending: Avoid spending your savings on impulse purchases. Stick to your budget and financial goals.

6.5. Learn About Investing (With Parental Guidance)

Investing can help you grow your money over time:

Start Small: You can start investing with small amounts of money.
Invest In Stocks: Stocks represent ownership in a company and can provide higher returns than savings accounts.
Invest In Bonds: Bonds represent debt and are generally less risky than stocks.
Mutual Funds: Mutual funds are a basket of stocks or bonds managed by a professional investor.

6.6. Avoid Debt

Debt can be a burden and should be avoided whenever possible:

Understand The Risks: Understand the risks of debt and the importance of paying it back on time.
Avoid Credit Cards: Avoid credit cards until you are old enough to manage them responsibly.
Pay Off Debts Quickly: If you do take on debt, pay it off as quickly as possible to minimize interest charges.

7. What Are Some Legal Considerations For Earning Money As A Minor?

When an 11-year-old starts earning money, it’s important to be aware of certain legal considerations to ensure they are operating within the bounds of the law:

7.1. Child Labor Laws

Child labor laws regulate the employment of minors to protect their health, safety, and education:

Age Restrictions: Most countries have minimum age requirements for employment. In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural jobs at 14.
Working Hours: Child labor laws also regulate the number of hours minors can work, both daily and weekly.
Types Of Jobs: Certain types of jobs are prohibited for minors due to safety concerns.

7.2. Income Taxes

Minors who earn income may be required to pay income taxes:

Filing Requirements: The IRS has specific rules for when minors are required to file a tax return. Generally, if a minor’s income exceeds a certain threshold, they must file a tax return and pay taxes.
Tax Forms: Minors may need to fill out tax forms such as Form W-4 (Employee’s Withholding Certificate) and Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return).
Parental Guidance: Parents can help minors understand their tax obligations and file their tax returns correctly.

7.3. Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business a minor is running, they may need to obtain business licenses and permits:

Local Regulations: Check with your local government to determine whether you need any licenses or permits to operate your business.
Parental Involvement: Parents may need to obtain licenses and permits on behalf of their child.
Home-Based Businesses: Even if you are running a business from home, you may still need to obtain a business license.

7.4. Contracts

Minors may enter into contracts, but there are some limitations:

Voidable Contracts: In many jurisdictions, contracts entered into by minors are voidable, meaning the minor can cancel the contract at any time.
Parental Consent: It is advisable to have a parent or guardian co-sign any contracts you enter into as a minor.
Legal Advice: If you are unsure about the legal implications of a contract, seek legal advice from an attorney.

7.5. Online Safety and Privacy

When earning money online, minors must take steps to protect their safety and privacy:

Parental Supervision: Parents should supervise their child’s online activities and monitor their interactions with others.
Privacy Settings: Configure privacy settings on social media platforms and other websites to protect personal information.
Identity Theft: Be aware of the risks of identity theft and take steps to protect your personal information.

8. How Can Parents Support Their 11-Year-Old’s Entrepreneurial Ventures?

Parents play a crucial role in supporting their 11-year-old’s entrepreneurial ventures:

8.1. Provide Guidance and Mentorship

Parents can provide valuable guidance and mentorship to their children:

Share Your Experience: Share your own experiences in business and provide advice on how to overcome challenges.
Help With Decision-Making: Help your child make informed decisions by providing them with information and resources.
Encourage Creativity: Encourage your child to think creatively and come up with innovative ideas.

8.2. Offer Financial Support

Parents can offer financial support to help their child get their business off the ground:

Seed Money: Provide your child with seed money to cover startup costs, such as materials, equipment, and marketing expenses.
Loans: Consider offering your child a loan to help them finance their business.
Co-Signing: Co-sign for loans or leases if necessary.

8.3. Help With Marketing and Promotion

Parents can help their child market and promote their business:

Word of Mouth: Spread the word about your child’s business to your friends, family, and colleagues.
Social Media: Help your child create a social media presence to promote their business.
Networking: Introduce your child to potential customers and business partners.

8.4. Teach Financial Literacy

Parents can teach their children about financial literacy:

Budgeting: Teach your child how to create and follow a budget.
Saving: Explain the importance of saving money and setting financial goals.
Investing: Introduce your child to the concept of investing and help them understand the risks and rewards.

8.5. Encourage Learning and Growth

Parents can encourage their child to learn and grow from their entrepreneurial experiences:

Celebrate Successes: Celebrate your child’s successes and acknowledge their hard work.
Learn From Failures: Help your child learn from their failures and use them as opportunities for growth.
Seek Feedback: Encourage your child to seek feedback from customers and mentors.

9. Success Stories Of Young Entrepreneurs

Hearing about other young entrepreneurs’ success stories can be inspiring and motivating:

9.1. Moziah Bridges

Moziah Bridges is the founder of Mo’s Bows, a company that designs and manufactures bow ties:

Started At Age 9: Moziah started his business at the age of 9 when he couldn’t find bow ties that he liked.
Featured On Shark Tank: Moziah appeared on the TV show Shark Tank and secured a deal with Daymond John.
Millions In Sales: Mo’s Bows has generated millions of dollars in sales and is now sold in major retailers.

9.2. Leanna Archer

Leanna Archer is the founder of Leanna’s Essentials, a company that sells hair care products:

Started At Age 11: Leanna started her business at the age of 11 when she began selling her grandmother’s hair care recipes online.
Millions In Revenue: Leanna’s Essentials has generated millions of dollars in revenue and has been featured in major media outlets.
Philanthropy: Leanna is also involved in philanthropy and donates a portion of her profits to charity.

9.3. Farran LaGreca

Farran LaGreca is the founder of Farran Street, a company that sells handmade jewelry:

Started At Age 8: Farran started her business at the age of 8 when she began making and selling jewelry at local craft fairs.
Online Sales: Farran now sells her jewelry online through her website and Etsy.
Mentorship: Farran is also a mentor to other young entrepreneurs and shares her experiences and advice.

9.4. Ben Pasternak

Ben Pasternak is the founder of several successful tech companies:

Started At Age 15: Ben started his first company, Monkey, at the age of 15.
Venture Capital Funding: Ben has raised millions of dollars in venture capital funding for his companies.
Acquisitions: Ben’s companies have been acquired by major tech companies.

9.5. Rachel Zietz

Rachel Zietz is the founder of Gladiator Lacrosse, a company that sells lacrosse equipment:

Started At Age 13: Rachel started her business at the age of 13 when she couldn’t find high-quality lacrosse equipment at affordable prices.
Millions In Sales: Gladiator Lacrosse has generated millions of dollars in sales and is now sold in major sporting goods stores.
Brand Ambassador: Rachel is also a brand ambassador for several lacrosse companies.

10. FAQ About Making Money At 11 Years Old

Here are some frequently asked questions about making money at 11 years old:

Is it legal for an 11-year-old to work?
Yes, but there are restrictions. Child labor laws vary by state, but generally, 11-year-olds can do certain jobs like babysitting with supervision, lawn mowing, or online tasks with parental consent.
How can I protect my child’s safety online while they earn money?
Supervise their online activities, use parental controls, teach them about online safety, and ensure they don’t share personal information.
What are some good ways for an 11-year-old to save money?
Open a savings account, set financial goals, create a budget, and avoid impulse purchases.
Can an 11-year-old start their own business?
Yes, with parental support and supervision. They can start small businesses like selling crafts, offering tutoring, or providing lawn care services.
What skills can my child learn by earning money?
Financial literacy, responsibility, work ethic, customer service, and entrepreneurship.
How much money can an 11-year-old realistically earn?
It depends on the job and the time invested, but they can realistically earn a few dollars to a few hundred dollars per month.
Are there any tax implications for a child earning money?
Yes, if their income exceeds a certain threshold, they may need to file a tax return. Consult with a tax professional for guidance.
What are some safe online survey sites for kids?
Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Toluna are popular options, but parental supervision is always recommended.
How can I help my child manage their earnings effectively?
Teach them about budgeting, saving, and investing. Help them set financial goals and track their income and expenses.
What if my child’s business idea fails?
Use it as a learning opportunity. Help them analyze what went wrong, adjust their strategies, and try again.

Are you ready to empower your 11-year-old to achieve financial independence and develop essential life skills? Visit money-central.com for more comprehensive guides, practical tools, and expert advice on money management. Explore our resources to help your child create a budget, set financial goals, and start their entrepreneurial journey. Don’t wait, start building a strong financial foundation today. Contact us at Address: 44 West Fourth Street, New York, NY 10012, United States, Phone: +1 (212) 998-0000, or visit our website money-central.com.