How to Make Money as a Teenager

Many teens are excited by the prospect of earning their own money. After all, a paycheck means chances to save for important goals, enjoy extra spending money, and gain some independence. However, for a young, inexperienced worker, finding opportunities to earn income may require some effort.

If you’re wondering how to make money as a teenager, you’re in the right place. In the following guide, we’ll explore a few work-from-home options, part-time jobs, and creative money-making opportunities for teens.

You’ll also learn a bit about how to manage earnings and prepare for the future.

The Importance of Earning Money Early

Sure, earning money as a teen will give you extra spending cash, but it's also so much more than that. Understanding the impact of spending and savings decisions early on can set the stage for a lifetime of responsible money habits. Teens who learn how to manage earnings and plan for future expenses can set themselves up for a more secure and successful financial future. Having a job also builds work ethic and teaches important skills such as time management, communication, and the importance of reliability.

Ways To Earn Money From Home

Working from home is a great option for teens. You'll save time and money by eliminating the need to commute and enjoy flexible hours, making it easier to keep up with school, sports, and other activities. Here are some popular ways to earn money from home.

Online Surveys

Did you know that companies pay for opinions on products and services? Many sites offer paid survey opportunities for teens as young as 13. While it won’t make you rich, it’s a simple way to earn money in your spare time.

Selling Homemade Crafts

If you enjoy making crafts, consider selling them online. Platforms like Etsy^® allow teens to create online stores to sell handmade items like jewelry, art, and more. Start by creating a few pieces to showcase your skills, then set up your store and list your items. Depending on the type of craft and its popularity, earnings can vary, but many teens find this as a rewarding way to turn a hobby into income.

Online Marketplaces  

Selling items you no longer need is a practical way to declutter and make money. Start by gathering items you want to sell, such as clothes, electronics, or books. Take clear photos, write detailed descriptions, and set fair prices. This can be a quick way to earn some cash while making room for new things. However, it's important to note that you'll need to sell under a parent's account (with their permission, of course) until turning 18.

Part-Time Jobs for Teens

Part-time jobs offer teens valuable work experience and a steady income. Here are some of the most popular part-time jobs for teens.

Babysitting

Babysitting involves taking care of children while their parents are away. To find babysitting jobs, let family, friends, and neighbors know you’re available. 

Dog Walking and Pet Sitting

If you love animals, dog walking and pet sitting can be a fun way to earn money. Start by offering services to neighbors and friends and ask them to tell their friends. 

Lawn Mowing and Yard Work

Lawn mowing and yard work are excellent jobs for teens who enjoy working outdoors. To get started, advertise your services in the neighborhood or on community boards. 

Retail, Restaurants, and Cafes

Working in retail stores, restaurants, or cafes offers a more structured work environment and regular paychecks. Having a boss provides a taste of real-world job expectations and helps develop skills like teamwork and accountability.  

These jobs often involve tasks such as customer service, stocking shelves, or preparing food. To find a job, check local businesses or online job boards or ask for recommendations from friends and family. 

Creative Ways for Teens To Make Money

With the right skills, it’s entirely possible for teens to build a successful online business. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. These ventures are often highly competitive and require time, effort, and patience before they become profitable. 

Starting a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube^® channel allows teens to share their passions, whether it’s gaming, crafting, or vlogging. To get started, choose a niche, create engaging content, and upload videos regularly. Building an audience takes time, and earning money typically comes from ad revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. While earnings vary, successful YouTubers may make a significant income, depending on their viewership and engagement.

Social Media Management

Teens who are savvy with platforms like Instagram^®, Twitter^®, and TikTok^® can offer their services to small business owners. This job typically involves creating and scheduling posts, engaging with followers, and developing content strategies. 

Freelance Writing

Freelance writing involves creating content like blog posts and articles for businesses. Websites like Fiverr^® and Freelancer^® may help you find writing gigs. Earnings for freelance writing can vary widely and there's often potential to increase income as your experience and portfolio grow.

Creating and Selling Digital Products

Teens can also make money creating and selling digital products, such as graphics, printables, or e-books. Platforms like Etsy^® and Gumroad^® provide a marketplace for digital goods. Earnings vary widely based on the product’s popularity and pricing, and this venture requires creativity, design experience, and marketing skills. However, successful sellers can earn a steady income.

How To Manage Your Earnings  

When you first start earning money, it’s tempting to spend it on clothes, entertainment, or the latest technology. However, it’s also important to set at least a portion of your earnings aside and commit to making smart money decisions. Start with these three key habits. 

Setting Financial Goals

Having clear financial goals creates motivation to save. Consider short-term goals, such as a new phone, a special trip, or a big event for friends. Then, consider longer-term goals, such as saving for college, a car, or even starting your own business.  

Make sure your goals are specific and set a deadline. For example, instead of saying, “I want to save money,” try saying, “I want to save $500 for a new bike by the end of the year.” 

Since big goals can feel overwhelming, break larger savings goals down into smaller steps. For example, if you want to save $1,000 in a year, aim to put away about $84 a month.

Saving Tips for Teens

Opening a bank account is an important milestone for teens. Regularly putting a portion of earnings into savings allows you to take advantage of compound interest, which helps the balance grow steadily over time.

If you’re earning a steady paycheck, consider setting up an automatic savings plan, which transfers a set amount of money from checking to savings each month. Otherwise, commit to setting aside a certain percentage of income each time you receive it. Remember, even small amounts can add up over time.

Budgeting Basics

A personal budget helps you track how much money is coming in and going out, making it easier to save for future goals. Begin by writing down all sources of income, including part-time jobs, allowances, and any other money received regularly. Then, note all monthly expenses, including food, transportation, school supplies, and entertainment. Finally, categorize each expense as either a want or a need.

Next, decide how much money to allocate to each category and how much to put in your savings account. Commit to sticking to your new budget. Every few months, review the budget and make regular adjustments as needed to stay on track with your financial goals.

Final Thoughts

Earning money as a teenager opens up a world of opportunities, from gaining financial independence to learning valuable life skills.

Whether you’re making money from home, taking on part-time jobs, or exploring creative ventures, each experience helps build a strong financial foundation.

To make the most of your earnings, consider opening a PNC Bank Virtual Wallet Student^® account. This combination checking and savings account is designed specifically for teens aged 14 and older. It has all the features you need to keep your money organized and save for the future. With no minimum balance requirement or monthly service charges for up to six years, it's the ideal way for teens to start their financial journey.