How to get a job as a 13-year-old
Wanting to earn money at 13 shows you're ready to learn, grow, and gain independence. While labor laws prevent 13-year-olds from getting a lot of jobs, there are still plenty of opportunities to earn money. Being 13 is the perfect age to explore different types of work and discover what you enjoy while making some money and building valuable skills.
Quick facts about working at 13
- Most traditional jobs have age restrictions
- Parental permission is usually required
- Work permits are needed in some states
- Focus on safe and age-appropriate opportunities
- Balance work with school responsibilities
15 best jobs for 13 year olds
1. Babysitting
Why it's great: It is the perfect starter job that teaches responsibility
Babysitting is an excellent way to earn money while developing essential life skills. The Red Cross offers certification for people ages 11 and up, which can help you stand out and potentially charge higher rates. Start by watching younger siblings or cousins to gain experience; then, you can move on to family and friends who already know and trust you. You can earn $10-15 per hour with a flexible schedule that works around your school schedule.
2. Pet care and dog walking
Why it's great: Perfect for animal lovers
Pet ownership is rising, which means the demand for pet sitters and dog walkers is increasing. You can start by walking dogs after school or caring for pets while owners are away. Not only do you get to hang out with animals and get some regular exercise, but you can also earn a stream of income once you build a client base.
3. Lawn care and landscaping
Why it's excellent: Year-round income potential
Landscaping provides opportunities to earn money every season - you can have both summer and winter jobs. Focus on mowing lawns and gardening in summer, leaf raking in fall, and snow shoveling in winter. You can set your schedule and rates; many clients prefer hiring the same person regularly. As your business grows, you might even hire friends to help – that's real entrepreneurship!
4. House cleaning
Why it's excellent: High-demand service
Many busy families need help keeping their homes clean and tidy. You can offer laundry, window washing, dishwashing, or general cleaning services. Start with family, friends, or neighbors who know you and build a reputation for thorough and reliable work. This job teaches valuable and practical life skills and can lead to regular weekly jobs.
5. Ebay reselling
Why it's great: Learn business basics
If you have an eye for deals, reselling could be perfect for you. Shop at thrift stores, yard sales, or discount stores and resell items online for a profit. You'll need a parent to oversee the account, but this job teaches valuable business, pricing, and customer service lessons.
6. Camp counselor
Why it's great: Fun summer opportunity
Many camps offer counselor training programs for kids starting at age 13. Although many of these jobs are unpaid, they are a good way to gain work experience and can help you develop leadership skills. It's also a great way to spend your summers outdoors!
7. Junior sports referee
Why it's great: Perfect for sports lovers
If you're passionate about sports and know the rules well, consider becoming a youth sports referee. You'll need to take certification courses, but it's a great way to stay involved in athletics while earning money and developing leadership skills.
8. Social media manager
Why it's great: Get paid to use your digital skills
Many local businesses need help managing their social media presence. If you're social media savvy, you can help create posts, engage with followers, and keep customers updated about products or services. This role teaches valuable marketing and communication skills.
9. Errand runner
Why it's great: Flexible work
Help busy or elderly neighbors with tasks like grocery shopping, post office runs, or car washing. This job will help kids develop time management skills and build connections with neighbors and other people in their community.
10. Coding
Why it's great: Learn valuable tech skills
If you're interested in technology, coding could be your path to earning money online. Learn through online courses or school programs, then offer your services by creating websites or basic apps. You could even develop your own games or applications to sell.
11. Teaching and instruction
Why it's great: Share your expertise
Consider teaching beginners if you excel at music, dance, art, or any other skill. You can offer lessons to younger students, either in person or online. This job helps others while reinforcing your skills and building your teaching abilities.
12. Blogging or vlogging
Why it's great: Get paid to be creative
Share your unique perspective or thoughts through writing or videos. Focus on topics you're passionate about, from video games to book reviews. While it takes time to build an audience, you can eventually earn through advertising, sponsorships, or selling related products.
13. Organization specialist
Why it's great: High-value service
Help people organize their closets, garages, or digital files. Many people need assistance decluttering but need help knowing where to start. This job teaches planning and organizational skills while providing a valuable service that's always in demand.
14. Car washing
Why it's great: An easy-to-start business
Car washing requires minimal costs, can be quick to start, and can pay well. You can simply wash cars or even expand to include detailed interior cleaning. Kids can team up with friends to wash more cars and make the job even more fun.
Safety Tips for 13-Year-Old Workers
Working at 13 means being smart about safety. Always:
- Get parent approval before starting any job
- Work in safe, familiar areas
- Keep personal information private
- Let parents know where and when you're working
- Trust your instincts if something feels wrong
- Only work with people your parents know and trust
- Be careful about online work and never share private details
Smart Money Management with Till
Getting your first paycheck is exciting, but learning to manage your money is just as important as earning it. Till Financial's debit card and app make it easy to:
- Track your earnings in one secure place
- Create savings goals for things you want
- Learn budgeting skills that will last a lifetime
- Get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit
- Manage your money right from your phone
- Be able to pay using Apple Pay or Google Pay
The best part? When you set up direct deposit with Till, you could get your paycheck up to two days early. That means more time to save, plan, and watch your money grow!
Ready to Start Your Work Journey?
Getting a job at 13 is about more than just making money – it's about gaining independence, learning responsibility, and building skills that will be important for later in life. Whether you're babysitting, walking dogs, or shoveling snow, every job teaches practical lessons. Download the Till app to manage your earnings like a pro.
