Are you wondering How Can Kids Make Money? money-central.com understands that empowering children with financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills early on is crucial, which is why we’ve compiled a list of awesome ways for kids to earn money, covering everything from online opportunities to good old-fashioned neighborhood gigs. By learning how to generate income, kids gain valuable life skills like responsibility, money management, and problem-solving.
Discover how young entrepreneurs can thrive with our tips on kid-friendly business ventures, side hustles for students, and creative ways to earn cash. Unlock your child’s potential with money-making ideas, youth entrepreneurship, and financial literacy!
1. What Are Some Age-Appropriate Ways For Kids To Make Money?
Yes, there are many age-appropriate ways for kids to make money. Kids can make money through various age-appropriate activities that foster responsibility and financial literacy. Consider these options tailored to different age groups:
- Younger Children (6-10 years old): focus on tasks that are simple and safe, often involving household chores or helping neighbors.
- Older Children and Teens (11+ years old): can take on more responsibility and explore opportunities that align with their interests and skills.
| Activity | Age Group | Description | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lemonade Stand | 6-10 | Setting up a stand to sell lemonade on warm days. | $10-20 per day |
| Pet Sitting | 11+ | Caring for pets while owners are away, including feeding, walking, and playing. | $15-30 per visit |
| Yard Work | 11+ | Mowing lawns, raking leaves, and weeding gardens for neighbors. | $20-50 per yard |
| Online Surveys | 13+ | Participating in online surveys for cash or gift cards (with parental supervision). | $1-5 per survey |
| Tutoring | 14+ | Helping younger students with homework or specific subjects. | $10-20 per hour |
| Selling Crafts | 8+ | Creating and selling handmade crafts at local markets or online. | Varies |
| Babysitting | 14+ | Caring for younger children, ensuring their safety and well-being. Requires certification in some areas. | $10-20 per hour |
| Delivery Services | 16+ | Delivering groceries or meals for local businesses (requires a driver’s license and reliable transportation). | $10-15 per hour |
| Social Media Intern | 16+ | Assisting small businesses with their social media presence, creating content, and engaging with followers. | $12-18 per hour |
| Virtual Assistant | 16+ | Providing administrative, technical, or creative assistance to clients from a remote location. | $15-25 per hour |
These activities not only provide kids with an opportunity to earn money but also teach them valuable skills such as responsibility, time management, and customer service. According to research from New York University’s Stern School of Business, in July 2025, early exposure to earning and managing money can significantly improve financial literacy in adulthood.
Child with a lemonade stand, smiling and holding a glass of lemonade, symbolizing a classic first business venture for kids.
2. What Are The Best Online Opportunities For Kids To Earn Money?
The best online opportunities for kids to earn money include creating content, taking surveys, and participating in online marketplaces. Here’s a breakdown:
- Content Creation: Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch allow kids to create and share videos on topics they’re passionate about, such as gaming, tutorials, or reviews. They can earn money through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
- Online Surveys: Numerous websites offer paid surveys, where kids can earn small amounts of money or gift cards for sharing their opinions.
- Online Marketplaces: Kids can sell handmade crafts, artwork, or gently used items on platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.
| Online Opportunity | Description | Age Requirement | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube Channel | Creating and uploading videos on topics like gaming, tutorials, or reviews. Monetization through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. | 13+ | Varies widely |
| Online Surveys | Participating in paid surveys for cash or gift cards. Requires parental consent for younger users. | 13+ | $1-5 per survey |
| Selling Crafts on Etsy | Creating and selling handmade crafts, artwork, or digital products. Requires setting up a shop and managing orders. | 13+ | Varies based on sales |
| Twitch Streaming | Live streaming video games or other content and earning money through subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships. | 13+ | Varies widely |
| Affiliate Marketing | Partnering with brands to promote their products and earn a commission on sales generated through unique affiliate links. | 18+ (Parental Consent) | Varies based on sales |
| Blogging | Writing and publishing articles on topics of interest, earning money through ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsored content. | 13+ | Varies widely |
| Virtual Assistant Tasks | Assisting businesses or individuals with tasks such as data entry, research, and social media management. | 16+ | $10-20 per hour |
| Graphic Design | Creating logos, social media graphics, and other visual content for businesses or individuals. | 14+ | $15-30 per project |
| Online Tutoring | Providing online tutoring services to students in specific subjects. Requires expertise and good communication skills. | 16+ | $15-25 per hour |
| Website Testing | Testing websites and providing feedback on user experience, earning money per test. | 13+ | $10-15 per test |
It’s important for parents to monitor their children’s online activities to ensure safety and compliance with platform rules. These online ventures can provide kids with valuable digital skills and entrepreneurial experience. The Wall Street Journal reported in early 2024 that the online gig economy is increasingly accessible to young people, offering flexible earning opportunities.
3. How Can Kids Start A Small Business?
Kids can start a small business by identifying a need, developing a business plan, and marketing their services. Here’s how:
- Identify a Need: Look for problems or unmet needs in your community or among your peers. This could be anything from pet care to tutoring.
- Develop a Business Plan: Create a simple business plan outlining your services, target market, pricing, and marketing strategy.
- Marketing: Use word-of-mouth, social media, and local bulletin boards to promote your business.
| Step | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Identify a Need | Look for problems or unmet needs in the community. | Neighbors need help with gardening. |
| Business Plan | Outline services, target market, pricing, and marketing strategy. | Offer weeding and planting services to neighbors for $15 per hour; advertise on social media. |
| Secure Resources | Gather necessary supplies or equipment. | Purchase gardening tools and supplies. |
| Set Up Operations | Establish a system for scheduling appointments and managing payments. | Use a calendar app to schedule appointments and accept payments via cash or mobile payment apps. |
| Market Services | Use word-of-mouth, social media, and local bulletin boards to promote the business. | Post flyers in the neighborhood, create a Facebook page, and ask friends and family to spread the word. |
| Deliver Services | Provide high-quality services to customers. | Arrive on time, work efficiently, and ensure customer satisfaction. |
| Manage Finances | Track income and expenses to ensure profitability. | Keep a record of all earnings and expenses in a spreadsheet. |
| Seek Feedback | Ask customers for feedback to improve services. | Ask customers to provide feedback on the quality of the work and any areas for improvement. |
| Comply with Laws | Understand and comply with local regulations and licensing requirements. | Research local regulations regarding operating a business as a minor and obtain any necessary permits. |
| Adapt and Improve | Continuously adapt and improve business practices based on customer feedback and market trends. | Offer new services based on customer demand, such as lawn mowing or hedge trimming, and adjust pricing accordingly. |
Starting a business teaches valuable skills like financial literacy, problem-solving, and customer service. A Forbes article from June 2024 highlights the increasing support for youth entrepreneurship, with various programs and resources available to help young entrepreneurs succeed.
4. What Are Some Creative Ways For Kids To Earn Cash?
Some creative ways for kids to earn cash are offering specialized services, creating unique products, and leveraging their talents. Here’s how:
- Specialized Services: Offer services like tech support for seniors, customized gift wrapping, or personalized party planning.
- Unique Products: Create and sell items like handmade jewelry, custom phone cases, or upcycled clothing.
- Leveraging Talents: Offer services based on your talents, such as photography, art commissions, or music lessons.
| Creative Idea | Description | Target Market | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tech Support for Seniors | Providing tech support and training to seniors on using smartphones, tablets, and computers. | Elderly individuals who need assistance with technology. | $15-25 per hour |
| Customized Gift Wrapping | Offering unique and creative gift-wrapping services for special occasions. | Individuals and businesses who want to add a personal touch to their gifts. | $5-15 per gift |
| Personalized Party Planning | Helping plan and organize personalized parties for kids and adults, including decorations, games, and activities. | Parents and individuals who want to host memorable and stress-free parties. | $20-40 per hour |
| Handmade Jewelry | Creating and selling handmade jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. | Individuals who appreciate unique and handcrafted accessories. | Varies based on sales |
| Custom Phone Cases | Designing and selling custom phone cases with unique designs, photos, or personalized messages. | Smartphone users who want to personalize their devices. | Varies based on sales |
| Upcycled Clothing | Transforming old or used clothing into new and fashionable items. | Environmentally conscious individuals who appreciate sustainable fashion. | Varies based on sales |
| Photography | Offering photography services for events, portraits, or product photography. | Individuals, families, and businesses who need professional photos. | $25-50 per hour |
| Art Commissions | Creating custom artwork for individuals or businesses, such as paintings, drawings, or digital art. | Individuals and businesses who want unique and personalized artwork. | Varies based on sales |
| Music Lessons | Providing music lessons to beginners or intermediate students on instruments like guitar, piano, or voice. | Individuals who want to learn how to play an instrument or improve their skills. | $20-30 per hour |
| Event Entertainment | Offering entertainment services for parties or events, such as face painting, balloon animals, or magic tricks. | Parents, event organizers, and businesses who want to entertain guests. | $25-40 per hour |
These creative ventures can help kids tap into their passions and turn them into income-generating opportunities. According to a study by the Small Business Administration, creative businesses are a significant driver of economic growth, making this a promising avenue for young entrepreneurs.
5. What Are The Safest Ways For Kids To Earn Money Online?
The safest ways for kids to earn money online include using reputable platforms, getting parental supervision, and protecting personal information. Here’s how:
- Reputable Platforms: Stick to well-known and trusted websites or apps with clear terms and conditions.
- Parental Supervision: Always have a parent or guardian oversee your online activities and help manage accounts.
- Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive information like your full name, address, or bank details without parental consent.
| Safety Measure | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Reputable Platforms | Use well-known and trusted websites or apps with clear terms and conditions. | Stick to platforms like Swagbucks, Etsy, or Fiverr, which have established reputations. |
| Parental Supervision | Always have a parent or guardian oversee online activities and help manage accounts. | Ensure a parent is present during online interactions and helps set up and monitor accounts. |
| Protect Personal Info | Never share sensitive information like full name, address, or bank details without parental consent. | Use a pseudonym or nickname online and avoid sharing personal details in public forums or profiles. |
| Secure Passwords | Use strong, unique passwords and keep them private. | Create passwords with a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and store them securely in a password manager. |
| Avoid Suspicious Links | Be cautious of clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources. | Verify the legitimacy of links before clicking on them and avoid downloading files from untrusted websites. |
| Privacy Settings | Adjust privacy settings on social media and other online platforms to limit who can see personal information. | Set profiles to private and limit sharing of personal information with strangers. |
| Regular Monitoring | Regularly monitor online activity for any signs of suspicious behavior or cyberbullying. | Check online activity regularly and discuss any concerns with a trusted adult. |
| Use Secure Networks | Use secure and private Wi-Fi networks when accessing online platforms. | Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions or sharing personal information. |
| Report Inappropriate Content | Report any inappropriate content or behavior to the platform’s administrators or a trusted adult. | Flag inappropriate posts or messages and report them to the platform’s moderation team. |
| Educate About Online Safety | Educate kids about the importance of online safety and responsible digital citizenship. | Teach kids about the risks of online scams, cyberbullying, and sharing personal information, and provide guidance on how to stay safe online. |
These precautions can help ensure a safe and positive online experience for kids. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides resources and guidelines for parents to protect their children online, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and proactive.
A parent and child looking at a laptop together, representing parental supervision for safe online money-making activities.
6. How Can Kids Manage The Money They Earn?
Kids can manage the money they earn by creating a budget, setting savings goals, and tracking expenses. Here’s how:
- Create a Budget: List all income and expenses to understand where the money is going.
- Set Savings Goals: Decide on short-term and long-term savings goals, such as buying a new toy or saving for college.
- Track Expenses: Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting app to monitor spending and identify areas to save.
| Management Technique | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Create a Budget | List all income and expenses to understand where the money is going. | List income from chores, allowance, and part-time jobs, and expenses such as snacks, entertainment, and personal items. |
| Set Savings Goals | Decide on short-term and long-term savings goals, such as buying a new toy or saving for college. | Set a goal to save $50 per month for a new video game and $500 per year for college. |
| Track Expenses | Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting app to monitor spending and identify areas to save. | Use a budgeting app to track daily spending and categorize expenses to identify areas where spending can be reduced. |
| Prioritize Needs vs. Wants | Learn to distinguish between essential needs and non-essential wants. | Prioritize buying food and necessary school supplies over non-essential items like the latest gadgets. |
| Save Regularly | Make saving a consistent habit, even if it’s a small amount. | Save a fixed percentage of income each month, such as 10% or 20%, regardless of the amount earned. |
| Avoid Impulse Buys | Resist the urge to make unplanned purchases and consider the value and necessity of each purchase. | Wait 24 hours before buying a non-essential item to determine if it’s truly needed or just a passing desire. |
| Research Before Buying | Compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure the best value for the money. | Compare prices of different brands of headphones before buying to find the best deal. |
| Seek Financial Advice | Consult with parents, teachers, or financial professionals for guidance on managing money and making financial decisions. | Ask a parent for advice on how to invest savings or research different investment options together. |
| Review and Adjust | Regularly review the budget and savings goals and make adjustments as needed based on changing circumstances. | Review the budget each month and adjust spending limits based on income and expenses. |
| Learn About Investing | Explore basic investment options such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to grow savings over time. | Research different investment options with a parent or financial advisor to understand the risks and potential returns. |
Teaching kids these money management skills early on can set them up for financial success in the future. A study by T. Rowe Price found that kids who learn about money management from their parents are more likely to save and invest as adults.
7. What Are The Tax Implications For Kids Earning Money?
The tax implications for kids earning money depend on their income level and the type of income they earn. Here’s how:
- Income Threshold: Kids must file a tax return if their earned income exceeds a certain threshold, which varies each year.
- Types of Income: Different types of income, such as earned income (from a job) and unearned income (from investments), are taxed differently.
- Kiddie Tax: Unearned income above a certain amount may be subject to the “kiddie tax,” where it’s taxed at the parent’s tax rate.
| Tax Aspect | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Income Threshold | Kids must file a tax return if their earned income exceeds a certain threshold, which varies each year. | In 2024, a child must file a tax return if their earned income is more than $13,850. |
| Types of Income | Different types of income, such as earned income (from a job) and unearned income (from investments), are taxed differently. | Earned income from a summer job is taxed at the child’s tax rate, while unearned income from investments may be subject to the kiddie tax. |
| Kiddie Tax | Unearned income above a certain amount may be subject to the “kiddie tax,” where it’s taxed at the parent’s tax rate. | If a child has more than $2,600 in unearned income, the excess may be taxed at the parent’s tax rate. |
| Filing Requirements | The child must file Form 1040 to report their income and calculate their tax liability. | The child needs to gather all relevant tax documents, such as W-2 forms, and complete Form 1040 with the required information. |
| Standard Deduction | The child may be able to claim the standard deduction, which reduces their taxable income. | The child can claim the standard deduction for their filing status, which may reduce their taxable income. |
| Tax Credits | The child may be eligible for certain tax credits, such as the child tax credit or the earned income tax credit. | The child may be eligible for the child tax credit if they meet certain requirements, such as being under age 17 and claimed as a dependent on their parent’s tax return. |
| Record Keeping | It’s important to keep accurate records of all income and expenses for tax purposes. | Maintain copies of all tax documents, such as W-2 forms and receipts, to support the information reported on the tax return. |
| Professional Advice | Consider seeking professional advice from a tax advisor to ensure compliance with tax laws and maximize tax savings. | Consult with a tax professional who can provide personalized guidance on tax planning and preparation. |
| State Taxes | In addition to federal taxes, the child may also be subject to state income taxes depending on the state of residence. | Check the state tax laws to determine if the child is required to file a state income tax return and pay state taxes. |
| Estimated Taxes | If the child expects to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, they may need to make estimated tax payments throughout the year to avoid penalties. | Calculate the estimated tax liability and make quarterly payments to the IRS to avoid penalties for underpayment. |
Understanding these tax implications can help kids and their parents ensure compliance with tax laws. The IRS provides resources and publications on its website to help taxpayers understand their obligations and file their taxes correctly.
8. How Can Parents Support Their Kids’ Entrepreneurial Ventures?
Parents can support their kids’ entrepreneurial ventures by providing guidance, resources, and encouragement. Here’s how:
- Guidance: Help kids develop a business plan, set goals, and manage their finances.
- Resources: Provide access to necessary tools and equipment, such as a computer, art supplies, or gardening tools.
- Encouragement: Offer emotional support and celebrate their successes, while also helping them learn from failures.
| Support Aspect | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Guidance | Help kids develop a business plan, set goals, and manage their finances. | Assist in creating a simple business plan outlining services, target market, pricing, and marketing strategy. |
| Resources | Provide access to necessary tools and equipment, such as a computer, art supplies, or gardening tools. | Offer the use of a computer for online tasks, provide art supplies for crafting, or lend gardening tools for yard work. |
| Encouragement | Offer emotional support and celebrate their successes, while also helping them learn from failures. | Offer words of encouragement during challenging times, celebrate milestones achieved, and help them analyze mistakes to improve future performance. |
| Financial Literacy | Teach kids about budgeting, saving, and investing, and help them understand the value of money. | Explain the importance of tracking income and expenses, setting savings goals, and making informed financial decisions. |
| Networking | Help kids connect with potential customers, mentors, and other entrepreneurs. | Introduce them to neighbors, friends, or family members who may be interested in their services, or connect them with local business owners for mentorship opportunities. |
| Marketing Support | Assist kids in marketing their business through word-of-mouth, social media, and local advertising. | Help them create flyers, design social media posts, or set up a simple website to promote their business. |
| Legal Compliance | Ensure kids understand and comply with local regulations and licensing requirements for their business. | Research local regulations regarding operating a business as a minor and help them obtain any necessary permits or licenses. |
| Time Management | Help kids balance their business activities with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and other responsibilities. | Assist in creating a schedule that allocates time for business activities, schoolwork, and leisure, and help them prioritize tasks effectively. |
| Risk Management | Discuss potential risks and challenges associated with their business and help them develop strategies to mitigate those risks. | Talk about potential issues such as customer complaints, financial losses, or time constraints, and brainstorm solutions to address those challenges. |
| Independence | Encourage kids to take initiative and make decisions independently, while still providing guidance and support as needed. | Allow them to make decisions about pricing, marketing, and service offerings, while offering feedback and suggestions when necessary. |
By providing this support, parents can help their kids develop valuable skills and build successful entrepreneurial ventures. According to research from the Kauffman Foundation, parental support is a key factor in the success of young entrepreneurs.
9. What Are Some Common Mistakes Kids Make When Earning Money And How To Avoid Them?
Some common mistakes kids make when earning money include overspending, not saving, and failing to track expenses. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overspending: Avoid impulse buys by setting a budget and sticking to it.
- Not Saving: Make saving a priority by setting savings goals and automating savings transfers.
- Failing to Track Expenses: Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting app to monitor spending and identify areas to save.
| Mistake | Description | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Overspending | Spending money impulsively without considering needs versus wants. | Set a budget, prioritize needs over wants, and avoid impulse purchases by waiting 24 hours before buying non-essential items. |
| Not Saving | Failing to save a portion of earnings for future goals or emergencies. | Make saving a priority, set savings goals, automate savings transfers, and reward yourself for reaching savings milestones. |
| Failing to Track Expenses | Not keeping track of where the money is going, making it difficult to identify areas to save. | Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting app to monitor spending, categorize expenses, and regularly review spending habits to identify areas for improvement. |
| Poor Budgeting | Creating an unrealistic budget or not sticking to the budget. | Create a realistic budget based on income and expenses, regularly review and adjust the budget as needed, and use visual aids to track progress towards budget goals. |
| Ignoring Financial Goals | Failing to set financial goals and prioritize saving for those goals. | Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) financial goals, visualize achieving those goals, and break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps. |
| Borrowing Without a Plan | Borrowing money without a clear plan for repayment. | Avoid borrowing money unless necessary, create a repayment plan before borrowing, and track progress towards repayment to avoid accumulating debt. |
| Not Seeking Advice | Failing to seek advice from parents, teachers, or financial professionals when needed. | Don’t hesitate to ask for help, consult with trusted adults or financial professionals for guidance, and be open to learning from their experiences and insights. |
| Not Learning from Mistakes | Making the same financial mistakes repeatedly without learning from them. | Reflect on past mistakes, analyze what went wrong, and develop strategies to avoid repeating those mistakes in the future. |
| Not Planning for Taxes | Forgetting to set aside money for taxes, leading to unexpected tax liabilities. | Understand tax obligations, set aside a portion of earnings for taxes, and consult with a tax professional for guidance on tax planning and compliance. |
| Relying on Others | Depending on others to manage finances instead of taking responsibility for personal finances. | Take ownership of financial decisions, learn about personal finance, and gradually increase independence in managing money as knowledge and experience grow. |
By avoiding these common mistakes, kids can develop good money habits and build a strong foundation for financial success. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers resources and tools to help young people improve their financial literacy and make informed financial decisions.
10. How To Find Resources For Young Entrepreneurs?
To find resources for young entrepreneurs, check out online platforms, local organizations, and educational programs. Here’s how:
- Online Platforms: Websites like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) offer resources and guidance for young entrepreneurs.
- Local Organizations: Chambers of commerce, community centers, and youth organizations often provide mentorship and funding opportunities.
- Educational Programs: Schools and universities may offer entrepreneurship courses, workshops, and competitions.
| Resource Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Online Platforms | Websites that offer resources, guidance, and support for young entrepreneurs. | Small Business Administration (SBA), Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA), Junior Achievement (JA). |
| Local Organizations | Chambers of commerce, community centers, and youth organizations that provide mentorship and funding opportunities. | Local chamber of commerce, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, 4-H clubs. |
| Educational Programs | Schools and universities that offer entrepreneurship courses, workshops, and competitions. | High school entrepreneurship classes, college entrepreneurship programs, business plan competitions, innovation challenges. |
| Mentorship Programs | Programs that pair young entrepreneurs with experienced business professionals for guidance and support. | SCORE, MicroMentor, Big Brothers Big Sisters. |
| Funding Opportunities | Grants, scholarships, and loans specifically designed for young entrepreneurs. | National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), Young Entrepreneur Foundation, crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. |
| Networking Events | Events that provide opportunities to connect with other entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals. | Startup conferences, business expos, industry trade shows. |
