Top Jobs-for-13-Year Olds

Modak
August 30, 2024

Finding a job as a 13-year-old can be a great way to earn extra money, gain valuable experience, and develop important life skills. While some traditional jobs may have age restrictions, there are still plenty of opportunities available. 

This comprehensive guide will explore various job options for 13-year-olds, from babysitting to creative ventures, and provide tips on how to find and apply for these jobs. Also, we’ll dive into how teens can earn money using the Modak Makers app and how they can use their Visa® debit card1, designed for kids and teens, to receive payments for jobs or allowances without any monthly subscription fees4.

Benefits of Working at 13

Working at a young age offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Earning Money: Start saving for future goals or enjoy a little extra spending money.
  • Gaining Experience: Learn new skills and gain practical experience in various fields.
  • Building Responsibility: Develop a sense of responsibility and work ethic.
  • Improving Time Management: Balance work with school and other activities.
  • Exploring Interests: Discover potential career interests and passions.

Traditional Jobs for 13-Year-Olds with No Experience

1. Babysitting

Babysitting is a popular job for 13-year-olds and a great way to earn money while helping families. It involves taking care of younger children, playing with them, and ensuring their safety. Babysitting also teaches responsibility and childcare skills.

Babysitting two girls of 5 years old

2. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

For animal lovers, pet sitting and dog walking are excellent job options. Pet sitting involves taking care of pets while their owners are away, including feeding, walking, and playing with them. Dog walking is a simple and enjoyable way to earn money by taking dogs for their daily walks.

3. Lawn Mowing and Yard Work

Many homeowners need help with lawn mowing, gardening, and general yard maintenance. Offering your services for lawn mowing, weeding, and other yard tasks can be a profitable job, especially during the summer months.

4. House Cleaning

House cleaning, is another traditional job that 13-year-olds can do. Helping neighbors or family friends with tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and organizing can be a good way to earn money and build a reputation for reliability.As a 13-year-old you can ask your parents to do this kind of chores in exchange for your allowance. A great way to do this is using the Modak Makers app. With Modak Makers chore management feature, parents can easily assign tasks like cleaning, doing the dishes, laundry, or organizing, and track completion directly in the app. This way, you will have your list of chores organized on your phone and it will help you earn and manage your own money effectively. 

Creative Jobs for 13 Year Olds

1. Online Content Creation

With the rise of digital media, teens can create and monetize their content online. Starting a YouTube channel, blog, or social media account focused on a particular interest (e.g., gaming, crafts, tutorials) can be both fun and profitable.

Content creation using an iphone

2. Crafting and Selling Handmade Items

If you enjoy crafting, consider making and selling handmade items such as jewelry, artwork, or custom clothing. Platforms like Etsy or local craft fairs are great places to sell your creations.

3. Tutoring

If you excel in a particular subject, offering tutoring services to younger students can be a rewarding job. Help them with their homework, prepare for tests, and improve their understanding of the subject.

4. Photography

If you have a passion for photography, consider offering your services for events like birthday parties or family gatherings. You can also sell your photos online through stock photo websites.

5. Video Editing

If you have skills in video editing, you can offer your services to edit videos for others. This can include editing family videos, event videos, or content for social media. You can also find clients through freelance websites like Upwork or Fiverr if you are at least 18. Otherwise, they can promote their video editing services through social media independently. 

6. Walking

With the Modak Makers app, you can earn money by walking using their "Walk to Earn" feature. By reaching walking goals, you can earn up to 70 MBX per week4.  These points can be converted to dollars and added directly to their Modak Visa® debit card1, giving them real money to spend. This means they can earn up to $255 in a year just by walking(3)(4)!

Boy walking through the countryside

How to find a job for 13-Year-Olds?

Ask Family and Friends

Start by asking family members, friends, and neighbors if they need any help with tasks you can do. Word-of-mouth is a powerful way to find job opportunities.

Community Bulletin Boards

Check local community centers, libraries, and grocery stores for bulletin boards with job postings or opportunities. You can also post your own flyers offering your services with your parent's or guardian's permission and supervision.

Online Job Boards

Websites like Indeed and local community job boards often have listings for jobs suitable for teens. Search for terms like "jobs for 13 year olds near me" to find opportunities in your area.

Local Businesses

Visit local businesses such as pet stores, garden centers, and small shops to ask if they need any part-time help. Even if they don't have immediate openings, leaving your contact information can lead to future opportunities.

How to Apply for Jobs as a 13 Year Old?

Create a Resume

Even at 13, having a resume can make you stand out. Include any relevant experience, volunteer work, and skills. Highlight your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Write a Cover Letter

A cover letter allows you to explain why you are interested in the job and what makes you a good fit. Keep it brief and professional, emphasizing your eagerness to contribute.

Prepare for Interviews

If you get called for an interview, be prepared to discuss your experience and why you want the job. Practice answering common interview questions and dress appropriately.

Follow Up

After applying, follow up with the employer to show your continued interest. A polite email or phone call can help keep your application at the top of their mind.

Tips for Success

Be Reliable and Punctual

Show up on time and complete your tasks as promised. Reliability is key to building a good reputation and getting more job opportunities.

Communicate Clearly

Keep open lines of communication with your employer. If you have any questions or need clarification on tasks, don't hesitate to ask.

Show Enthusiasm

Approach your job with a positive attitude and enthusiasm. Showing that you enjoy your work can make a big difference.

Be Safe

Always prioritize your safety. Make sure someone knows where you are when working and avoid accepting jobs that make you uncomfortable.

Finding a job as a 13-year-old can be a rewarding experience, offering the chance to earn money, gain skills, and develop responsibility. Whether you choose traditional jobs or explore creative opportunities, there are plenty of options available. Use the tips in this guide to find and apply for jobs, and start your journey towards financial independence and personal growth.

Related questions

What are the best summer jobs for 13-year-olds?

The best summer jobs for 13-year-olds combine the opportunity to earn money with gaining valuable skills. Popular options include:

  • Lawn Mowing and Yard Work: Offering lawn care services to neighbors can be a profitable summer job. Tasks may include mowing lawns, trimming hedges, weeding gardens, and general yard maintenance.
  • Dog Walking and Pet Sitting: Many pet owners need help caring for their pets during vacations or busy workdays. Dog walking and pet sitting are great ways to earn money while spending time with animals.
corgi in the park
  • Babysitter assistant: Babysitting is a classic job for teens, offering a way to earn money by looking after younger children, such as siblings or cousins. Taking a babysitting course can enhance your qualifications and make you more appealing to neighbors or family friends, in addition to your close family.
  • Working at Local Camps: Many summer camps hire teens as junior counselors or assistants. This job offers a fun environment and the chance to develop leadership and teamwork skills.
  • Community Center Programs: Local community centers often run summer programs and may need additional help. Teens can assist with organizing activities, supervising children, and helping with various events.

How can a 13-year-old find babysitting jobs?

Finding babysitting jobs involves several steps:

  1. Start with Family and Friends: Ask your family and friends if they need a babysitter or know someone who does. Personal recommendations can help you get started.
  2. Expand to Neighbors: Once you’ve gained some experience, let your neighbors know you are available for babysitting. Distributing flyers or posting on neighborhood bulletin boards can be effective.
  3. Utilize Community Boards: Check local community centers, libraries, and grocery stores for bulletin boards where you can post your services. Some communities also have online forums or social media groups where you can advertise.
  4. Take a Babysitting Course: Courses offered by organizations like the Red Cross can teach you essential childcare skills and provide a certificate, making you more attractive to potential clients.
  5. Create a Profile on Babysitting Websites: Some websites and apps allow teens to create profiles to advertise their babysitting services. Always make sure these platforms are safe and require parental guidance.

Keep in mind that most states don't have specific laws setting a minimum age for babysitting, and only a few offer guidelines on how old a child should be before being left home alone. These guidelines range from 6 to 14 years, varying by state.

How old do you have to be to babysit?

There is no specific law in the US that dictates when a child can legally start babysitting. However, the appropriate age depends on the individual maturity of the child. While some may be ready to begin babysitting as early as 12 or 13, others may benefit from waiting until they are older.

It's important to make sure you are responsible, mature, and able to make sound decisions before you begin babysitting. You should be capable of adhering to guidelines, managing authority without overstepping boundaries, and staying composed in the face of emergencies or unexpected situations. Additionally, you must be familiar with basic first aid to ensure the safety of the children in their care.

Are there any online jobs for 13-year-olds?

Yes, there are several online job options for 13-year-olds that allow them to earn money and develop skills:

  • Online Content Creation: Teens can create and monetize content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or a blog. Focusing on interests such as gaming, crafts, tutorials, or reviews can attract a following.
  • Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, offering online tutoring services to younger students can be a rewarding job. Websites like Wyzant or local community platforms may have opportunities.
  • Selling Handmade Items: Creative teens can sell handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, or custom clothing on platforms like Etsy. This job requires creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Freelance Services: Some websites allow teens to offer freelance services like graphic design, writing, or social media management. Always check the age requirements and parental consent needed for such platforms.
Boy playing with is toys

How do you write a job application as a 13-year-old?

Writing a job application as a 13-year-old should be straightforward and professional. Follow these steps:

  1. Contact Information: Start with your full name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the page.
  2. Objective Statement: Write a brief statement about why you want the job and what you hope to gain from the experience. For example, "I am a responsible and enthusiastic 13-year-old looking for a babysitting job to gain experience and earn extra money."
  3. Relevant Experience: List any previous experience that relates to the job, such as babysitting for siblings, volunteering at community events, or helping with family pets.
  4. Skills: Highlight skills that make you a good candidate, such as reliability, punctuality, good communication, and any specific skills related to the job (e.g., CPR certification for babysitting).
  5. References: Include references from teachers, family friends, or previous employers who can vouch for your character and abilities.
  6. Attach a Resume: If possible, attach a simple resume that summarizes your experience, skills, and education. This can make your application more professional and organized.

How can Modak Makers help?  

Apart from traditional jobs, you can also earn money through the Modak App. On average, you can earn up to 800 MBX(2)(3) per week, equivalent to $8 (as of June 2024), by participating in activities such as walking 5,000 steps daily or completing challenges that promote good habits and financial learning. This is a great way to supplement your income from a jobs.

Kid holds Modak Maker Visa Debit card

If you're ready for your children to start learning about finances and developing healthy financial habits, sign them up for Modak today. With our Visa® debit card1 designed for kids and teens, the intuitive app, and our range of educational tools and rewards, you'll equip your children with the skills to manage money responsibly. Join Modak today and start nurturing a financially savvy future for your family!

  1. Modak is a financial technology company and not a FDIC-insured bank.Checking account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Lewis & Clark Bank, Member FDIC. Funds deposited into checking account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance. The FDIC’s deposit insurance coverage only protects against the failure of an FDIC-insured depository institution.
  2. 100 MBX = $1(as of June 2024). This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. For more information on MBX, visit: https://www.modakmakers.com/promos/mobucks-mbx-policy Click here for more information on MBX
  3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2024). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
  4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.

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