Turning 13 opens up new opportunities to earn money and gain valuable work experience, but finding age-appropriate employment requires understanding what options are actually available. While federal labor laws restrict traditional employment for 13-year-olds, there are numerous legitimate ways to make money through neighborhood jobs, online work, and entrepreneurial activities that comply with legal requirements. I've researched the most practical and accessible opportunities that allow young teens to start building skills and financial independence.

The challenge many 13-year-olds face is knowing where to start and which jobs are realistic for their age. From traditional local jobs like babysitting and dog walking to online opportunities and creative money-making ventures, the options are more diverse than you might expect. I'll walk you through the best choices based on your interests, skills, and schedule.

Understanding both the opportunities and the legal boundaries is essential before starting your job search. This guide covers everything from finding legitimate positions to staying safe while working, so you can make informed decisions about how to earn your first paychecks.

Key Takeaways

• Thirteen-year-olds have access to neighborhood jobs, online opportunities, and creative ventures that comply with labor laws
• Finding work requires understanding legal restrictions, knowing where to look, and presenting yourself professionally to potential employers
• Success at this age depends on choosing safe opportunities, managing time effectively, and developing reliable work habits

Legal Considerations for 13-Year-Olds Working

Federal and state regulations create a framework that determines whether a 13-year-old can work, what jobs they can perform, and under what conditions. These laws establish specific restrictions on work hours, job types, and required documentation to protect young workers.

Federal and State Child Labor Laws

Child labor laws operate on two levels: federal standards set a baseline, while state laws can impose stricter requirements. I find that understanding both is essential since employers must follow whichever law provides greater protection.

The federal government sets minimum standards through the Department of Labor. However, many states add their own restrictions on working hours, required breaks, and permissible occupations.

When I examine where teens can legally work, state variations become apparent. Some states prohibit certain activities that federal law allows. Others require additional documentation or limit evening hours more strictly than federal guidelines.

I always recommend checking your specific state's labor department website. The combination of federal and state regulations determines what's actually legal in your location.

The Fair Labor Standards Act Explained

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) governs youth employment at the federal level. This law establishes 14 as the minimum age for most traditional employment, which means 13-year-olds cannot work conventional jobs like retail or food service.

I should note that the FLSA makes specific exceptions. Jobs 13-year-olds can perform include babysitting, delivering newspapers, and working as actors or performers. These exemptions exist because the law categorizes them differently from standard employment.

The FLSA doesn't require work permits itself, but it does set boundaries on hours and occupations. Federal law focuses on safety and education rather than paperwork requirements, leaving permit systems to individual states.

Permitted and Prohibited Types of Work

I've identified that 13-year-olds have limited but real legal work options. The key distinction lies between traditional employment and informal work arrangements.

Permitted work includes:

• Babysitting for neighbors or family friends
• Newspaper delivery routes
• Acting, modeling, or performing
• Yard work and lawn care
• Pet sitting and dog walking

Prohibited work includes:

• Retail store positions
• Restaurant jobs
• Manufacturing work
• Construction sites
• Operating machinery or vehicles

I emphasize that 13-year-olds can't take traditional jobs in establishments like fast food chains or grocery stores. These positions become available at age 14 under federal law, though state restrictions may still apply.

Work Permits and Parental Consent

Work permit requirements vary significantly by state since federal law doesn't mandate them. I find this creates confusion for parents and young workers trying to understand their obligations.

Many states require work permits or employment certificates for minors. These documents typically involve forms completed by the employer, parent, and sometimes school officials. The process verifies the child's age and ensures parental awareness.

Typical permit requirements include:

• Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
• Parent or guardian signature
• School verification or approval
• Employer information and job description

Even when formal permits aren't required, I strongly advise obtaining written parental consent. Activities at age 13 generally require parental consent or adult supervision since individuals remain under legal minority status. This documentation protects both the young worker and the person hiring them by establishing clear communication and agreement among all parties involved.

Best Traditional and Local Jobs for 13-Year-Olds

Local opportunities remain some of the most accessible ways for young teens to start earning money. These jobs typically don't require work permits and can be done close to home with flexible schedules.

Babysitting Opportunities

Babysitting stands out as one of the most reliable jobs for 13-year-olds because it teaches responsibility while paying well. I recommend starting with families you already know through neighbors, family friends, or parents' coworkers.

Most families pay between $10 to $15 per hour for babysitting, though rates vary by location and number of children. Before taking on babysitting jobs, I suggest completing a babysitting safety course through the Red Cross or similar organization.

Parents often prefer babysitters who can handle basic tasks like preparing snacks, helping with homework, and managing bedtime routines. Start with shorter daytime gigs before taking evening assignments.

Building a reputation as a reliable babysitter creates steady work through referrals. Keep a list of emergency contacts and any allergies or special instructions for each family.

Pet Care and Dog Walking

Pet care services offer jobs for kids who love animals and want flexible schedules. Dog walking typically pays $10 to $20 per walk depending on the duration and number of dogs.

I find that pet sitting while neighbors are away can earn $20 to $30 per day for basic tasks like feeding, providing fresh water, and spending time with the animals. Many pet owners also need help with litter box cleaning, brushing, or giving medications.

Common pet care tasks include:

• Daily dog walks (15-30 minutes)
• Feeding and water refills
• Basic grooming and brushing
• Playing and exercise time
• Pet sitting during vacations

Start by offering services to neighbors and family friends whose pets you already know. Always get clear instructions about feeding schedules, behavioral quirks, and emergency vet contact information.

Household and Yard Work

Yard work and household tasks provide consistent earning opportunities throughout the year. Lawn mowing typically pays $15 to $30 per yard depending on size and complexity.

I've seen young teens build regular client lists by offering services like raking leaves, weeding gardens, watering plants, and pulling weeds. Winter months bring opportunities for snow shoveling at similar rates.

Inside the home, tasks like organizing garages, washing cars, or cleaning windows appeal to busy homeowners. These jobs often pay $10 to $15 per hour.

Create a simple flyer listing your services and rates to distribute in your neighborhood. Reliability matters more than speed when you're building a customer base.

Seasonal Jobs Like Lemonade Stand

A lemonade stand represents a classic introduction to entrepreneurship and ranks among popular summer jobs for 13-year-olds. Location determines success, so I recommend setting up near parks, busy sidewalks, or community events.

Pricing between $1 to $3 per cup allows for profit while staying competitive. Expand beyond basic lemonade by offering cookies, flavored waters, or seasonal treats.

Other seasonal opportunities include selling holiday decorations, offering gift-wrapping services in December, or helping with spring garden planting. Farmers markets sometimes allow young vendors to sell homemade crafts or baked goods with parental supervision.

Consider becoming a junior camp counselor at day camps during summer months, which typically pays minimum wage and provides valuable leadership experience. These positions usually require training but offer structured hours and supervision.

Top Online Jobs for 13-Year-Olds

Thirteen-year-olds can access legitimate online earning opportunities through survey platforms, creative marketplaces, content creation, and tutoring services. These positions offer flexible schedules that work around school commitments while teaching valuable skills.

Paid Surveys and Market Research

Survey platforms provide one of the easiest entry points for online jobs for 13 year olds. I recommend starting with Swagbucks, which accepts users as young as 13 and pays for completing surveys, watching videos, and shopping online.

MyPoints operates similarly to Swagbucks and allows teens to earn points redeemable for gift cards. The platform rewards users for simple activities like reading emails and taking surveys.

While Survey Junkie and Branded Surveys offer higher payouts, most require users to be 16 or older. I suggest checking each platform's age requirements before signing up.

Here's what you can expect from survey work:

• Earnings: $0.50 to $3.00 per survey
• Time commitment: 5-20 minutes per survey
• Payment methods: Gift cards, PayPal cash, or direct deposit
• Realistic monthly income: $20-$100 with consistent participation

Selling Crafts and Goods Online

Creative teens can sell crafts on Etsy by opening a shop under a parent's account. Popular items include handmade jewelry, stickers, digital art prints, and personalized bookmarks.

I've seen 13-year-olds succeed with these products:

• Hand-poured candles
• Crocheted items
• Custom artwork and illustrations
• Friendship bracelets
• Painted rocks and decorative items

Setting up requires choosing a shop name, photographing products, writing descriptions, and determining pricing that covers materials plus labor. Parents must handle financial transactions and legal aspects of the business.

Depop and Mercari offer alternatives for selling vintage clothing or upcycled items. These platforms attract younger audiences and require less startup investment than craft businesses.

Content Creation and Social Media

Teens who start a YouTube channel can earn through ad revenue once they reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. Popular content categories include gaming walkthroughs, craft tutorials, product reviews, and educational content.

I recommend focusing on quality over quantity when building an audience. Posting one well-edited video weekly performs better than daily low-quality uploads.

Some 13-year-olds successfully manage social media accounts for small local businesses or family friends. This work involves creating posts, responding to comments, and tracking engagement metrics.

TikTok Creator Fund and Instagram offer monetization opportunities, though both require being 18 or having parental involvement. Many young creators build audiences now to monetize later.

Tutoring and Digital Gig Work

Online tutoring jobs allow academically strong 13-year-olds to help younger students with homework and test preparation. I've found that tutoring elementary students in reading, math, or spelling works best for this age group.

Platforms like Outschool permit teens to teach classes with parental permission. Subjects can range from academic topics to creative skills like drawing or creative writing.

Other online jobs for teens in this category include:

• Data entry: Simple typing tasks for family businesses
• Virtual assistant work: Organizing files, scheduling, or email management
• Testing websites and apps: Providing feedback on user experience
• Transcription: Converting audio to text for podcasts or videos

These positions typically pay $8-$15 per hour and offer flexible scheduling around school activities.

How to Find and Apply for Jobs as a 13-Year-Old

Finding jobs for 13-year-olds starts with tapping into local connections, asking trusted adults for referrals, and carefully exploring digital opportunities that match your age and skill level.

Networking Within Your Community

I recommend starting your job search by connecting with neighbors, local business owners, and community members who already know you. Walk through your neighborhood and identify households that might need help with yard work, pet sitting, or snow shoveling.

Visit local businesses like family-owned restaurants, retail shops, and community centers to ask about opportunities. Many small business owners prefer hiring responsible young people from their own community. I suggest preparing a brief introduction that explains your age, availability, and the types of work you're interested in.

Community bulletin boards at libraries, recreation centers, and grocery stores often post opportunities suitable for younger teens. Check these regularly and don't hesitate to post your own flyer advertising services like babysitting, tutoring, or lawn care. Joining community groups, sports teams, or volunteer organizations also puts you in contact with adults who might need your help or know someone who does.

Leveraging Family and Friends' Connections

I've found that asking family and friends about job opportunities is one of the most effective strategies for 13-year-olds. Parents, relatives, and family friends often know people who need assistance with tasks perfect for younger teens.

Tell your parents about your job search goals so they can mention your availability to coworkers, neighbors, and their social contacts. Extended family members like aunts, uncles, and grandparents may need help themselves or know others who do.

Your friends' parents can be valuable connections too. If you're reliable and responsible, they might hire you for babysitting their younger children or recommend you to their friends. I suggest asking your parents to help you create a simple list of skills and services you can offer, which makes it easier for them to refer you to others.

Safely Exploring Online Platforms

When looking for jobs for 13-year-olds online, I always prioritize safety and parental involvement. Some platforms allow teens to offer services like online tutoring, survey completion, or creative work, but you should never share personal information publicly or meet strangers without parental supervision.

Safe online job-seeking practices include:

• Always involving a parent or guardian in communications
• Using platforms specifically designed for younger users
• Never providing bank account details or social security numbers directly
• Meeting clients only in public places with adult supervision
• Avoiding opportunities that require upfront payments

I recommend asking parents to help you create professional profiles on neighborhood apps where you can advertise services like pet sitting or lawn care. These platforms often have built-in safety features and community verification. Remember that legitimate opportunities for 13-year-olds rarely require applications with extensive personal data.

Tips for Success and Safety at Work

Starting work at 13 requires clear communication with employers, smart scheduling around school commitments, and awareness of legal protections that apply to young workers.

Setting Expectations With Employers

I recommend having a detailed conversation with any potential employer before accepting a job. This discussion should cover work hours, payment rates, specific duties, and how I'll receive compensation.

I need to ensure my parents or guardians meet the employer and approve of the work arrangement. Getting parent approval before starting any job is a critical safety step that shouldn't be skipped.

I should clarify whether the job is a one-time task or ongoing commitment. For ongoing work, I need to establish how far in advance the employer will inform me of my schedule so it doesn't conflict with school activities or family time.

Key points to discuss:

• Hourly rate or per-job payment
• Expected work hours per week
• Transportation arrangements
• What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule

Time Management With School and Work

Balancing school and work requires planning ahead each week. I should use a calendar or planner to track homework deadlines, test dates, and work commitments so nothing gets overlooked.

School must remain my top priority. I need to be realistic about how many hours I can work without my grades suffering or missing important school events.

I recommend limiting work to weekends and summer breaks when starting out. This approach lets me see how much I can handle before adding weekday commitments. If I do work during the school year, I should keep it to just a few hours per week.

Communication is essential when conflicts arise. I need to tell employers immediately if a school project or exam requires me to adjust my work schedule.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

Child labor laws protect young workers by limiting when and where I can work. At 13, I can baby-sit, deliver newspapers, or work as an actor or performer, but traditional employment in retail stores or restaurants typically requires being at least 14.

I have the right to work in safe conditions. Approximately 150,000 teen workers under age 18 are injured on the job each year, making safety awareness crucial. I should never operate dangerous equipment or work in hazardous environments.

My responsibilities include showing up on time, completing agreed-upon tasks, and communicating professionally. I need to keep personal information private and only work in locations my parents know about and approve. If something feels unsafe or uncomfortable, I should trust my instincts and talk to my parents immediately.

Creative Ways for 13-Year-Olds to Earn Money

Young teens can tap into digital markets and entrepreneurial ventures that weren't available to previous generations. Gaming economies and creative business models offer income opportunities that align with modern interests and skills.

Selling In-Game Currency and Digital Assets

I've seen many 13-year-olds turn their gaming skills into income by farming and selling in-game currency in popular titles like Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite. Players spend hours collecting rare items, building up virtual currency, or creating custom skins that other players want to purchase.

Before starting, I recommend checking each game's terms of service. Some platforms allow player-to-player transactions while others prohibit selling virtual goods for real money. Roblox, for example, lets creators sell items through their official marketplace and convert Robux to real currency through the Developer Exchange program.

Digital art and custom game modifications also sell well. I've noticed that teens who design unique character skins, maps, or game mods can list them on approved marketplaces. This approach combines creativity with gaming knowledge and typically stays within platform rules.

Unique Side Hustles and Entrepreneurship Ideas

Youth sports leagues frequently hire 13-year-olds as referees or umpires for games with younger children. This option works well for teens already familiar with sports rules and provides structured pay for a few hours per week.

Creating and selling handmade items through local craft fairs or online platforms offers another path. I find that custom jewelry, painted rocks, homemade bath products, or baked goods attract buyers when marketed properly. Setting up an Etsy shop with parental help allows teens to reach customers beyond their neighborhood.

Pet-sitting services for neighbors provide steady income during school breaks and weekends. Walking dogs, feeding pets during vacations, or providing basic pet care requires minimal startup costs and builds responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Labor laws restrict traditional employment for 13-year-olds, but numerous opportunities exist in neighborhood services, creative work, and select online platforms with specific pay rates and school-year limitations varying by state.

What types of jobs are legally permissible for 13-year-olds?

Federal law prohibits most traditional employment for 13-year-olds, but certain jobs with restrictions are allowed depending on state regulations. I've found that most states permit 13-year-olds to work in informal roles like babysitting, lawn care, pet sitting, and newspaper delivery.

Agricultural work on small farms and entertainment industry positions with special permits are also legal options. Each state has different rules, so I recommend checking local labor laws before accepting any work.

What are some common first jobs for 13-year-olds?

Babysitting and dog walking are popular starting positions for teens at this age. I see many 13-year-olds also taking on yard work like mowing lawns, raking leaves, and weeding gardens for neighbors.

Other common roles include mother's helper, car washing, and pet care services. Tutoring younger children in subjects where the teen excels is another viable option. These jobs typically require minimal startup costs and can be done in the local neighborhood.

How can 13-year-olds find job openings in their area?

I recommend starting by asking family members, neighbors, and friends if they need help with tasks. Word-of-mouth remains the most effective method for teens to find work opportunities at this age.

Community bulletin boards at libraries, recreation centers, and grocery stores often have postings for yard work or babysitting. Creating flyers to distribute in the neighborhood advertising services can generate leads. Local social media groups for neighborhoods and communities sometimes have parents posting requests for help.

Are there any online job opportunities suitable for 13-year-olds?

Some online jobs are available for 13-year-olds, though options are limited due to age restrictions on many platforms. I've seen teens succeed with selling handmade crafts on Etsy with parental supervision.

YouTube content creation is possible with a parent managing the account until age 18. Taking online surveys through certain teen-friendly sites offers small earnings. Freelance writing for family blogs or local newsletters provides writing experience and income.

Most legitimate online platforms require parental consent and involvement for users under 18.

What are typical payment rates for jobs that hire 13-year-olds?

Payment rates vary significantly based on the type of work and location. I typically see babysitting rates ranging from $8 to $15 per hour depending on the number of children and responsibilities.

Lawn mowing usually pays $15 to $30 per job depending on yard size. Dog walking commonly earns $10 to $20 per walk. Pet sitting overnight can bring in $25 to $50 per day.

Tutoring younger students often pays $10 to $20 per hour. These rates are generally lower than minimum wage since traditional employment options are limited at this age.

Can 13-year-olds work during the school year, and if so, what are the restrictions?

Young teens can work during the school year with significant limitations on hours and timing. Most informal jobs like babysitting and yard work don't have strict hourly restrictions since they fall outside traditional employment.

I recommend limiting work to weekends and after school to prioritize education. Many states prohibit work during school hours for minors of any age. Evening work should end by 7 PM on school nights to ensure adequate rest.

Balancing academics with earning money requires careful scheduling. I suggest no more than 10 hours per week during the school year to maintain focus on studies.