Earning money at age 13 is a significant step toward financial independence. This goal requires understanding the legal landscape surrounding youth employment. Federal and state child labor laws place specific restrictions on the types of jobs, working hours, and industries available to minors. The path to a first job involves identifying legal opportunities, particularly in informal settings, and understanding the necessary guidelines for safety.
Understanding the Legal Restrictions on Working at Age 13
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural employment at 14 years old. Therefore, a 13-year-old cannot be a traditional employee of a business covered by the FLSA. This federal law restricts the time and nature of work to ensure the education and well-being of young people are protected. The FLSA prohibits working for an employer in a factory, store, or office setting.
The FLSA strictly prohibits all minors under the age of 18 from working in hazardous occupations. These include tasks like operating power-driven machinery, driving a motor vehicle, or working in excavation. Since the FLSA covers most businesses involved in interstate commerce, most common jobs are off-limits until age 14. State and local child labor laws may impose stricter standards than the FLSA, and the more protective law always applies.
The prohibition on traditional employment means formal job applications for roles in retail or food service are unavailable. Legal pathways are limited to specific exemptions or work defined as casual labor, which is often outside the scope of traditional employment laws. Many states require a work permit or employment certificate for any formal employment, even for these exceptions.
Formal Employment Opportunities
A few select occupations are explicitly exempted from the FLSA’s minimum age requirement, creating paths for a 13-year-old to hold a formal job. One exemption is employment in the entertainment industry, allowing minors to work as actors or performers in television, film, or theater productions. These jobs are highly regulated and often require special permits from state labor departments.
Another exemption is the delivery of newspapers to consumers, which is permissible at any age. Additionally, a child can work for a business wholly owned by their parent or guardian, provided the job is non-hazardous and does not involve mining or manufacturing. Even with these exemptions, state laws may still require the minor to obtain an employment certificate or work permit.
Informal and Neighborhood Job Options
The most realistic route for a 13-year-old to earn money is by performing services as an independent contractor for individuals and neighbors. This casual work is generally not regulated by the FLSA because it does not constitute a traditional employer-employee relationship. In these situations, the young person is essentially running a small, independent service business.
Childcare and Pet Services
Childcare is a common starting point, with babysitting for neighbors or family friends being a flexible option. To increase marketability and demonstrate reliability, the teen should consider taking a certified first aid and CPR course. Pet care services are also in high demand, including dog walking, feeding, and house-sitting for pets. When offering these services, specify the care provided, such as adherence to a dog’s specific walking schedule.
Yard Work and Outdoor Chores
Outdoor work offers a variety of physically active and seasonal opportunities. This category includes mowing lawns, raking leaves, shoveling snow, and weeding garden beds. Other services include car washing, cleaning out garages, or power washing exterior surfaces. Since child labor laws prohibit the use of certain power-driven equipment, focus on manual or smaller, residential equipment.
Digital and Creative Gigs
The digital landscape offers modern opportunities that leverage technology skills. A young person can offer tutoring services to younger children in elementary school subjects, such as reading or basic math. Other creative gigs involve creating simple graphics or logos for local neighborhood groups. They can also assist older adults with basic technology setup, such as connecting streaming devices or troubleshooting smart home equipment.
Running Errands and Assisting Neighbors
Many neighbors appreciate help with simple, non-hazardous tasks that save them time. This can involve running errands to a local store for grocery pick-up or dropping off dry cleaning. Other services include house-sitting (not overnight) to collect mail, water plants, or ensuring the home is secure while owners are briefly away. Organizing tasks like tidying closets, sorting storage areas, or cataloging a book collection also provide valuable assistance.
Essential Tips for Securing Your First Job
Securing neighborhood jobs requires presenting oneself professionally and establishing a reputation for dependability. A young person should create a simple flyer or business card listing the services offered, availability, and contact information. Ensure all marketing materials are approved by a parent. Utilize word-of-mouth marketing by informing family members, teachers, and neighbors about the services.
When speaking with potential clients, clearly state the expectations for the work, the estimated time involved, and any potential limitations. Developing a short, professional script for conversations helps a young person communicate effectively and confidently. Consistently delivering high-quality work and maintaining a courteous demeanor builds a positive reputation and secures repeat business through referrals.
Handling Earnings and Prioritizing Safety
Set a fair rate for services by researching what similar services cost in the local community. Rates can be set per hour for services like babysitting or as a flat rate per task for work like mowing a lawn. Tracking hours worked and payments received is a professional habit that should be established early. This can be done using a simple notebook or a basic spreadsheet.
Payment options include accepting cash immediately upon job completion or using digital transfer apps with parental oversight. Personal safety must always be the highest priority when taking on neighborhood work. A young person should inform a parent of the exact location, duration, and nature of the job before starting work. Avoid entering a stranger’s house alone and schedule outdoor work during daylight hours.