Have you heard about the young guy making waves in the luxury watch scene? If not, let me introduce you to Lazarus, the 20-year-old phenomenon taking the industry by storm.
You might think youth is a disadvantage, but Lazarus sees it as his secret weapon. This guy started turning heads at 15 and hasn’t looked back. Imagine trying to sell a million-dollar watch at that age! Now he’s eyeing an expansion to SoHo, NYC. Yeah, you read that right – SoHo!
But here’s the kicker, in his journey to earn respect, there’s been no room for complacency. Always going the extra mile, Lazarus’s story is a masterclass in overcoming age-related hurdles in business.
Forbes did an eye-popping piece that digs deep into his thrilling journey. His grind and hustle are proof that no matter how young you are, with the right mindset, you can conquer any industry.
Stick around because I’m about to share 25 smart ideas on how to make money as a teenager without a job in 2024. Ready? Let’s roll!
Key Takeaways on How to Make Money as a Teen
So, you’re ready to make some cash? Let’s keep it SIMPLE and FUN.
YouTube Channel: Share your passion. Earn from ads and sponsors.
Play Video Games: Yes, you can get PAID to game! Stream it or join gaming contests.
Digital Creator: Make content. Think TikToks, Reels, YouTube Shorts.
Blogging: Write about what you love. Make $$ from ads and affiliate links.
Social Media Influencer: Grow your followers. Brands will pay you!
Virtual Assistant: Help bloggers, YouTubers, small businesses online.
Freelance Writer: Writing skills? Get gigs writing articles, blogs, and more.
Freelance Proofreading: Good with grammar? Fix others’ writing!
Graphic Design: Create logos, posters, and social media graphics.
Dropshipping: Sell products online without holding inventory.
Review Songs: Listen and earn. Simple as that.
Sell Photos: Got a good eye? Snap and sell pics with your phone.
Teach a Skill: Good at something? Teach it! Languages, coding, music.
Tutoring: Help your friends with subjects you ace.
Sell Handmade Creations: Paintings, baked goods, crafts – your skills, your money.
Start a Business: Got a cool idea? Make it a reality and earn.
Branded Surveys: Share your opinion and get paid.
PTC Websites: Click and earn. Pretty straightforward.
Dog Walking: Love dogs? Walk and get paid.
Test Websites: Find bugs and glitches, get cash.
Watch Ads: View ads, earn money. Easy-peasy.
Mowing Lawns: Old school but solid. Handy with a mower? Earn good.
Car Washing: Clean cars for cash.
Babysitting: Love kids? Babysit and earn.
Lifeguard: Strong swimmer? Keep others safe and get paid.
Jump in and start making cash with these awesome ideas. You got this!
Why You Need to Know How to Make Money as a Teenager
Let’s get real. Understanding how to make money as a teenager can totally transform your life. For one, it’s not just about the extra cash—it’s about learning skills that set you up for the future. You can start young and make your own dough, which means less dependence on your parents and more freedom to do what you love.
According to a recent CNBC story, 33% of teens are now working part-time jobs, and there’s a massive spike in demand for their labor. Many are earning between $12-$15 per hour doing gigs ranging from retail to food service.
Here are some key benefits of making money as a teenager:
Financial independence: Learn to manage your own bank account and become less reliant on parental allowances.
Skill development: Gain experience in managing money online, whether through selling clothes online or online surveys.
Entrepreneurial mindset: Running your own business gives you a taste of entrepreneurship, which is highly valuable.
Time management: Balancing school, extracurricular activities, and a part-time job teaches discipline.
Building confidence: Successfully earning your own extra money boosts self-confidence and decision-making skills.
Investing in your future: The skills you learn now, like how to save money and earn money online, are essential for future financial success.
Setting goals: Having your own money allows you to set and achieve personal financial goals.
The world is going digital fast, and there are endless opportunities to earn money through social media accounts, a YouTube channel, or other odd jobs online and offline. Start now and you’ll thank yourself later.
25 Smart Ideas to Make Money As A Teen Without a Job
There are loads of unique ways you can earn money. From Freelance Proofreading to Dog Walking, these gigs offer great flexibility and pay. Let’s dive into these cool money-making ideas NOW!
1. Start a YouTube Channel
Remember how iShowSpeed started his journey at just 11 years old? Five years later, he was already a millionaire! Now, at his current net worth of $12 million, he’s living proof that you can make it big too.
So, how can you start? First, choose a niche you’re passionate about—gamers, artists, or even cooks. Publish consistently and be your authentic self. Want to boost your growth? Collaborate with others in your field. Don’t forget to engage with your audience—respond to comments and ask for feedback. Start today, keep it real, and who knows? You might be the next big thing!
2. Play Video Games Online
Spencer Hilbert, a young Iowa farmer, turned his gaming passion into a fortune. Starting from scratch, he leveraged the power of the internet and gaming platforms, eventually buying $1.8 million worth of farmland. You can make it too!
As a teen, you can play video games online and earn money by streaming on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Set up a streaming account, get a solid social media presence, and connect with your audience. Be energetic and real while playing games.
Use platforms like Streamlabs for donations and OBS Studio for overlays. You don’t just earn cash; you build a community and maybe, like Spencer, make your wildest dreams come true.
3. Become a Digital Creator
Yo, you won’t BELIEVE how much you can make! With 1,000-10,000 followers, you can pull in $10 to $100 per post. Got 10,000-50,000 followers? You could be earning $100 to $500 per post! It just keeps getting better the more followers you have.
So, how can a young kid like YOU become a digital creator and start raking in the dough? Simple. Start by picking a niche you love, whether it’s gaming, art, or cooking. Keep creating and posting consistently. Authenticity is KEY. Engage with your audience, respond to comments, and ask for feedback.
Useful Tip: Collaborate with others in your niche. It broadens your audience and creates killer content. When I started, I teamed up with a fellow creator. Our combined follower count jumped, and brands started noticing us.
Just be YOU, stay consistent, and before you know it, you might be the next big digital creator. Go get ’em!
4. Blogging
Blogging can be a GAME CHANGER for teen hustlers! It’s all about sharing your passion, whether it’s personal finance, music lessons, or remote jobs. Start by choosing a topic you LOVE and have knowledge about.
Write consistently—aim for at least one post a week. Use platforms like WordPress or Blogger, both beginner-friendly. To drive traffic, share posts on social media and engage with your readers.
I’ve seen friends make good money from ad revenue and affiliate marketing by just keeping at it. Remember, quality content is key—don’t just aim to WRITE, aim to solve problems or entertain. Ready to start? Let’s hit it!
5. Social Media Influencer
Becoming a Social Media Influencer is all about building your brand and turning your passion into a paycheck! Pick a platform like Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, where you can shine.
Choose a niche that excites you—be it fashion, fitness, or food. Post regularly and keep it real—your followers will love your authenticity.
To grow faster, collaborate with other influencers and tap into their audience. Engaging with your followers is key; reply to comments and messages. Did you know influencers can make up to $1,000 per post on Instagram?
START NOW, stay consistent, and who knows, you could be the next big thing in social media!
Are you curious to know, how is a digital creator different from an Influencer?
In case you are curious, here’s how a digital creator is different from an Influencer
6. Virtual Assistant
Being a Virtual Assistant (VA) is awesome because you get to work remotely and set your own schedule. It’s simple: You help people with things like managing their emails, scheduling appointments, or even doing social media tasks.
The cool part? You can start RIGHT NOW, with no minimum age requirement! We’re talking hourly rates around $15 to $30 on platforms like Upwork.
One tip? Start with family friends or local businesses. Offer to organize their digital stuff. Trust me, they’ll jump at the chance! My buddy started this way and now earns good money while building a killer work ethic.
Plus, you can pick up skills that’ll really help your personal finance game. It’s a smart move, especially since working remotely is the future. Check out some success stories on VAnetworking.com to get inspired!
7. Freelance Writer
A Freelance Writer gig is perfect for teens with a knack for crafting words. You can write blog posts, articles, or even social media blurbs. First, sign up on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. Create a killer profile and showcase your writing samples.
Wanna know a pro tip? Niche down! Focus on a specific area like tech reviews or lifestyle topics. Did you know freelance writers can earn up to $25.70/hr in 2024? So, get started, keep hustling, and who knows? You might be writing for big brands soon!
8. Freelance Proofreading
Are you good at catching mistakes while reading? Then Freelance Proofreading is perfect for you! Start by offering your services on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
Focus on fixing grammar, punctuation, and spelling on a one-page document or full-length book. Trust me, people are willing to pay for this!
A nifty tip? Get Grammarly.
It’s a free tool for proofreading and catching errors you might miss. It’s a must-have for any proofreader. You can easily earn around $20-$50 per project. Remember, honing your skills makes you better and faster. Proofread your way to some CASH!
9. Graphic Design
Graphic Design is a sweet gig for teens looking to earn quick bucks! Think about creating cool logos, banner ads, or even meme templates!
Sites like Canva make it super easy—no fancy software is needed. To start, build your portfolio by creating designs for friends or small local businesses. Keep your work clean and modern.
Post your designs on Instagram or TikTok to get noticed. According to Career Explorer, you can earn up to $50/hour. So, grab your laptop and get creative now!
10. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is RAD! No need to stash inventory or deal with shipping. You create an online store, list your products, and when a purchase is made, the supplier ships directly to your customer. EASY PEASY! Best part? Low upfront costs.
According to Shopify, it’s one of the fastest ways to get started in e-commerce. Here’s what you do: Pick a niche (like tech gadgets or cool tees). Use platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce.
Promote your store on social media and market your products like a boss. Focus on customer service. Happy customers = repeat sales!
11. Get Paid to Review Songs
Ever thought you could make cash just by jamming out to music? Getting paid to review songs could be your ticket. Websites like Slice the Pie offer to pay you to review unreleased tracks.
It’s simple – listen to a song, jot down your thoughts, and get paid! Not bad, right? According to Glassdoor, some users make around $10 an hour.
Be HONEST and DETAILED in your reviews. These companies want authentic feedback. I once reviewed a song that I truly vibed with and pointed out a catchy hook. It landed me more consistent requests and even higher pay.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love earning cash while discovering new bangers? Jump on it – the next hit song could be in your headphones, and you get paid for it!
12. Get Paid to Take Pictures with Your Phone
You’ve got a smartphone and an eye for cool shots? Cash in on that! Apps like Foap pay for your snaps. It’s simple. Take high-quality pics of anything—pets, landscapes, food. Upload them. Companies buy these for ads or marketing.
Did you know some Foap users earn up to $100 per photo? Focus on trending themes. A clear, well-lit image fills your wallet faster.
Check out Foap for more deets. Start clicking, and start stacking!
13. Teach Others a Skill
Teaching others a skill is a DOPE way to make cash. Got a talent? Share it! Maybe you’re awesome at skateboarding, coding, or playing guitar. Start by offering lessons to friends or neighbors. Post on social media and local community boards.
Tap into online platforms like Udemy or Skillshare. You could create and sell a course there too! What’s cool? You set YOUR rates and schedule.
Teaching deepens your knowledge too! According to Udemy, instructors can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 monthly. So why not give it a shot? You got this!
14. Tutor Your Classmates and Friends
Think you’ve got a knack for math or nailed that last history test? Share your smarts and make some cash! Start by letting friends know you’re available to tutor. Ask teachers to spread the word.
Create a flyer or post on social media to get the word out. Meeting at libraries or coffee shops makes study sessions easy and chill.
Tutoring can also boost your own grades, like doubling down on the material. And, let’s be honest, helping others feels kind of awesome, right? Go ahead, give it a try!
15. Make Paintings, Edible Items, Handcrafts to Sell
Alright, let’s talk about getting crafty and making some cash! 🎨🧁 Teens like you can whip up cool paintings, bake yummy treats, or create handcrafts to sell. First, pick what you love—maybe watercolors, cookies, or friendship bracelets.
Sell your goodies on platforms like Etsy or Instagram. Here’s a hot tip: personalize your products. Customized items sell like hotcakes!
Fun fact: Etsy sellers grossed about $346 million in Q4 2020!
Crazy, right? And the numbers have only increased since then. Get creative, promote on socials, and watch your side hustle grow!
16. Start a Business as a Teen and Earn Money
Starting a business as a teen is totally DOABLE and can be MAD profitable. First, look at what you’re good at—LOVE baking cookies? Maybe start a bakery biz. Are you a neat freak? Offer cleaning services. I once helped my mate set up a snack bar at school back in the day; he made $200 in just a week!
Use social media to promote your biz. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok can blow you up—FAST! So, getting your biz online is a must.
Also, keep costs LOW. Partner with friends or use what’s already available. You got this—start small and GROW big!
17. Branded Surveys
Ever heard of Branded Surveys? You can EARN CASH just by sharing your opinions on survey sites! It’s super SIMPLE. Sign up on BrandedSurveys.com.
Fill out your profile to get matched with the BEST surveys. Each one takes about 10-15 mins. After completion, you earn points you can convert to money or gift cards.
Answer surveys during downtime—waiting for the bus or between classes. In no time, you could be making $100 a month or MORE by answering surveys alone! According to SurveyPolice, it’s one of the highest-rated platforms. Get started now and let your opinions PAY OFF!
18. Join PTC/Paid to Click Website
PTC websites pay you to click and view ads. Simple, right? Think of sites like NeoBux and Swagbucks. You click, watch a few seconds of an ad, and earn some cash.
It’s an easy gig for teens, especially when you’ve got some free time on your hands.
Here’s the key: don’t expect to get rich overnight. It’s more of a side hustle. But, let’s add some depth—combine it with other gigs for maximizing earnings.
Use referral programs. For example, with NeoBux, you can refer friends and earn a commission on their clicks as well. Happy clicking!
19. Start Dog Walking
Dog walking is an amazing way to make cash and stay active. You just need to find some dog owners in your neighborhood who need help.
You can earn about $15-$25 per walk, depending on your area.
Use apps like Rover or Wag to find gigs and manage bookings. Stay reliable and offer extra services like feeding or basic training. Seriously, exercise, fun, and furry friends – you can’t beat it!
20. Test Websites
Testing websites is an EASY way to make some quick cash. You basically get paid to surf the web. Cool, right? Companies will pay YOU to test their sites and provide feedback. It’s like being a mystery shopper but online.
I’ve done it myself and it’s pretty fun. You’ll usually get $10 per test ($10 for 20 minutes, not bad!).
Check out UserTesting, where you can make up to $60 per test. Always be HONEST with your feedback. Brands want real, useful insight. Plus, it helps them improve, and you keep getting gigs!
Remember, it’s super simple. Sign up, complete a few practice tests, and watch the CASH roll in. 🤑
21. Watch Ads for Money
Watching ads for cash? Easy peasy. There are legit sites like Swagbucks that PAY you for watching ads. Just sign up, and start making quick cash by watching videos. I tried it once and pocketed up to $50 in a month.
Plus, it’s super chill—do it while you’re chilling, waiting in lines, or during boring commercials.
Combine this with other activities to maximize earnings. It’s a WIN-WIN. You get paid for stuff you already do. According to Statista, over 7 billion people have smartphones. So, why not monetize that screen time?
22. Start Mowing Lawns
Mowing lawns is a simple yet lucrative gig for teens. Got a mower? Great, you’re halfway there! Start by offering your services to neighbors or friends.
Trust me, there’s always someone looking to get rid of that grass. You can charge around $25 per lawn, and if you get 4 clients, that’s $100 in a weekend—easy!
Offer to trim hedges or clear leaves for a little extra cash. Lawn care is a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S. So yeah, get out and make those lawns look FRESH!
23. Wash Cars for Cash
Washing cars is an AWESOME way to earn some cash as a teen. It’s something anyone can do! Start by rounding up some basic supplies: a bucket, soap, sponges, and a hose. Washing cars is about more than just getting them clean; it’s about doing a job that leaves customers HAPPY.
Focus on the details. Make sure you’re getting into all the nooks and crannies of the car.
My neighbor’s kid once earned $50 in a day just by washing other neighbors’ cars. So, next time your busy parents or neighbors ask if you can help them out with their car, offer to wash it for a small fee.
24. Try Baby Sitting
BABYSITTING is another quick way for teens to make money. You can start by spreading the word among friends and family or using apps like Sittercity and Care.com. Parents always need a break, and they’re willing to pay well for trustworthy sitters.
One cool tip? Create a BABYSITTING KIT. Pack it with games, crafts, and activities to keep the kids entertained (parents love this!).
Parents are generally willing to pay more for someone with CPR certification. So, get certified! Babysitting isn’t just about earning $$; it’s about becoming responsible and trustworthy. No kidding! Get creative, be reliable, and watch the bucks roll in.
25. Become a Lifeguard
Wanna earn some serious cash while you chill by the pool? Becoming a lifeguard might be for you! You’ll need to get certified first—check out the Red Cross Lifeguard Certification program. It covers everything from CPR to rescue techniques. Expect to spend 25-30 hours getting trained, but it’s worth it!
Most lifeguards earn between $12-$15 an hour. And hey, it’s not just about the money. You’ll gain valuable skills like first aid and leadership.
I did this one summer and made over $2,000! Plus, the free sun tan isn’t bad either.
Key Considerations to Successfully Make Money As a Teen Without a Job
Don’t underestimate the power of networking and persistence. ASK friends and family for leads. CONSISTENCY is KING. Set CLEAR goals, and TRACK your progress.
LEVERAGE social media to showcase your skills. Stay AUTHENTIC and ENGAGED with your followers. HUSTLE hard, but remember to HAVE FUN too!
How to Invest Your Money As a Teenager
Okay, so you’ve made some cash. Now what? Let’s TALK investments, so your money can GROW.
First thing first, set up a savings account. Get yourself a high-yield savings account. Your money earns interest while you sleep!
Next, consider a custodial IRA. This is for the long term. Think RETIREMENT! Start early, and your future self will thank you. Also, look into micro-investing apps. These apps let you invest small amounts. Even pennies!
Also, don’t forget about stocks. But WAIT, learn first. Educate yourself. Read books, watch YouTube videos, and talk to folks who’ve done it. You don’t wanna lose it all because you didn’t know what you were doing.
Legal Restrictions on Age
You gotta know the rules before diving in. Most money-making gigs for teens have age restrictions.
For example, many online paid surveys require you to be at least 13. Babysitting? You need to be mature enough, generally around 14.
Driving-related gigs? Forget it till you’re 16 or 18, depending on where you live.
Most importantly, always talk to your parents or guardians. They often need to sign consent forms for stuff. It’s not just “rules,” it’s also for your safety. That’s the boring but NECESSARY part.
Watch Out for Scams
Scams are EVERYWHERE! They are looking to steal your money and time.
Never, I mean NEVER, pay upfront for a “job.” That’s a big red flag. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Check reviews. Look at company ratings. Ask for opinions in community forums.
Spot phishing emails and dodgy links. They can look real but they’re traps. Trust your gut. If it feels off, walk away.
Always be skeptical and ask questions. Keep your personal info safe. No sharing your bank details or social security number. Safety first!
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it! 25 awesome ways to make money as a teen without a traditional job. Whether you’re game to start a YouTube channel or keen to try dog walking, there’s a gig for you. These tips aren’t just about the cash; they’re about building money management skills and setting you up for the future.
Why should you listen to me? I’ve BEEN THERE. I tried a lot of these myself and learned what works and what doesn’t. Don’t just take my word for it, dive in and try it out. Making more money as a teen can be super fun and rewarding.
Remember, no hustle is too small, and every effort counts. Crush your goals, stack that cash, and most importantly, have FUN doing it. You’ll be amazed at how these small steps can lead to BIG change. Let’s get out there and make it happen! 💪🚀
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get paid for online Jobs as a Teen?
You usually get paid through PayPal or direct deposit. Some platforms might even send you a check. Make sure you have your financial literacy game strong so you don’t miss out on making money online. I usually opt for PayPal. Simple and quick!
What is the minimum wage for teenagers?
Minimum wage varies. In the US, it’s around $7.25 per hour, but your state may have different rates. Check your local laws to make sure you’re getting paid what you deserve.
Does a teenager need their parent’s permission to get a job?
Most of the time, yep. If you’re under 18, you usually need a parent’s okay. Plus, they might need to sign some forms. It’s good to chat with them first, so they know what’s up and can support you.
Can teenagers open a bank account?
YES! Most banks let teens open accounts with a parent or guardian. It’s simple. Just bring your ID and proof of address. You can start saving money, use a debit card, and even track spending through mobile apps. Jump on it and get money-smart early!
