Finding ways to make money as a kid without experience can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible. This comprehensive guide will provide a variety of methods for teens to earn money, even if they don't have prior work experience. We'll cover everything from online opportunities to simple gigs.
Also, we’ll dive into how kids 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.
Earning money as a teen is beneficial for several reasons:
Even without experience, teens can explore various opportunities to earn money. Here are some ideas:
Starting a YouTube channel on topics like gaming, tutorials, or reviews can generate income through ads. Teens can share their interests and talents with a broad audience, gradually building a subscriber base and monetizing their content. Some popular niches may be gaming walkthroughs, makeup tutorials, and DIY crafts. Engaging and consistent posting can lead to significant earnings over time.
Teens who enjoy writing can take up freelance writing gigs on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr if they are at least 18. Otherwise, they can promote their writing services through social media independently. They can write blog posts, product descriptions, short stories, or articles. We recommend Building a portfolio of writing samples that can attract clients and lead to regular work. This opportunity not only provides income but also helps improve writing skills and builds a professional network.
Participating in online surveys on sites like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie can earn teens some extra cash. While the pay might not be substantial, it’s a simple way to earn money during free time. Additionally, teens can earn points that can be redeemed for gift cards or cash. This method requires minimal effort and no prior experience, making it accessible to most teens.
Offering babysitting services to neighbors and family friends is a great way to earn money. Teens can start by babysitting for families they know and gradually expand their client base. Babysitting teaches responsibility, patience, and childcare skills. It’s also flexible, allowing teens to “work” around their school schedule.
If your kid loves animals and wants to spend their free time with pets while earning extra money, then taking care of pets or walking dogs for busy pet owners is the best option. Many pet owners need help during vacations or busy workdays. They can offer to take care of pets, such as stopping in to feed a neighbor's cat if they are away, or taking a local dog for a walk if the owner is working late.
Providing tutoring services in subjects in which they excel to younger students can be a great addition to their university application. Teens can offer help in math, science, language arts, or other subjects. Tutoring can be done in person or online, allowing for flexible hours. It’s a rewarding way to reinforce their own knowledge while helping others succeed academically.
Doing extra chores around the house for an allowance. Teens can negotiate with their parents for specific tasks like cleaning, laundry, or organizing spaces. This not only provides a steady income but also helps teens develop a sense of responsibility and contribution to household duties.
There are lots of apps to manage household chores and allowances. However, if you want to manage them easily, try Modak Makers. Here, parents can create custom chores and assign monetary rewards for completing them. Besides that, it has lots of cool features that will help you earn some extra money, such as daily rewards for walking3. This feature not only helps children learn the value of work and responsibility but also makes it easier for parents to manage household tasks.
Mowing lawns, raking leaves, and watering plants for neighbors. Seasonal yard work can be a lucrative opportunity, especially during summer and fall. Teens can offer their services to neighbors and family friends, charging per task or by the hour. This activity promotes physical activity and teaches the value of hard work.
Offering to clean and organize spaces for family and friends. Teens can help with decluttering, organizing closets, or deep cleaning homes and groceries. This job requires attention to detail and a strong work ethic. Teens can charge an hourly rate and expand their services through word-of-mouth referrals.
Running a lemonade stand during the summer 🤩. This classic job is a fun way to earn money and learn basic business principles. Teens can set up a stand in their neighborhood or at local events, selling lemonade and other refreshments. They can also get creative with their offerings, adding cookies or snacks to attract more customers.
Clearing snow from driveways and walkways in the winter. This seasonal job is in high demand in snowy regions. Teens can offer their services to neighbors and charge per driveway or walkway. It’s a physically demanding task that builds strength and endurance while providing a valuable service to the community.
Helping to set up and take down holiday decorations. Many people need assistance with holiday decorations, especially for outdoor displays. Teens can offer their help with setting up lights, inflatables, and other decorations. This job is festive and enjoyable, allowing teens to earn money while spreading holiday cheer.
Collecting and recycling bottles and cans for money. Teens can gather recyclables from their homes and neighborhoods, and then take them to a recycling center for cash. This job promotes environmental responsibility and provides a steady, if small, income. It’s an easy way to earn money while contributing to a cleaner environment.
Selling old toys, clothes, and books in a garage sale or online marketplace. Teens can organize a garage sale with their family or list items on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. This job helps declutter their home and provides a significant boost in income. It also teaches basic sales and negotiation skills.
Making and selling handmade goods such as friendship bracelets, paintings, or baked goods. Teens can use their creativity to make unique items and sell them at local markets, fairs, or online. This job allows them to turn their hobbies into a profitable venture. It also teaches entrepreneurship and marketing skills as they promote their products.
Sometimes teens need to make a small amount of money quickly. Here are some ways to make $20 fast:
Deciding the right age to get a job depends on various factors, including local labor laws, school commitments, and personal readiness. Here are some key considerations:
The main consideration is to check the legal age requirements of your state as it may vary. Different countries and states have specific laws governing the minimum age for employment. In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural work at 14 years old. However, there are restrictions on the number of hours teens can work and the types of jobs they can perform.
While conventional side hustles can help kids earn money and responsibility, modern technology also offers valuable opportunities. At Modak Makers, our app teaches kids essential money management skills and rewards them for completing everyday activities, making learning about finances engaging and fun.
Modak helps teens handle their money wisely by offering a Visa® Debit Card1 with no monthly subscription fees4 and 24/7 customer support. The app is designed to be safe and easy for kids to use, with parental oversight. Parents can set up chores, create savings goals, and monitor transactions, while kids learn valuable money management skills.
With the Modak app, kids can earn MBX points by completing challenges, including financial challenges and our "Walk to Earn" feature. By reaching walking goals, children can earn up to 70 MBX(2)(3) per week.
These points can be converted to dollars and added directly to their Modak debit card, giving them real money to spend. This means they can earn up to $36.4 in a year just by walking!(2)(3)
If you're looking for a fun and educational way for your child to earn and manage money, the Modak app is a great option. Get started with Modak Makers today and help your child take control of their financial future!
