How To Make Money As A Teen: 10 Safe Ways To Start Earning Online
How to make money online as a teen? The truth is, it’s not that hard. You can start earning without experience, without a classic job, and without taking risks. Today’s online tools and community gigs give you simple, safe ways to make money while building independence and practical skills.
There are beginner-friendly side hustles perfect for teens who want to earn money without taking on a full job or complicated responsibilities. In this guide, we will cover only safe, legitimate, and age-appropriate ideas that give both you and your parents peace of mind.
1. Try microtasks and short online jobs
Microtasks are tiny online jobs you can complete in just a few minutes. They include things like rating content, completing online surveys, or trying apps.
With this method, you can earn cash in your free time, while balancing school, homework, and other activities. You do not need experience, and you can work as much or as little as you want.
How and where to get started:
To get started, all you need is a phone or a laptop and an internet connection. You pick tasks you like, complete them, and earn small rewards every time.
You can try beginner-friendly survey sites like JumpTask, which is verified and safe for teens. It’s a Web3 microtask platform that lets you earn small rewards by completing quick online activities. Instead of getting paid in regular currency right away, you earn $JMPT, JumpTask’s own digital token.
Every task you finish adds $JMPT to your balance. Once you reach 0.5 JMPT, you can withdraw your earnings to a compatible wallet, like MetaMask.
You earn money on JumpTask by choosing from simple tasks like:
- Completing surveys
- Trying mini games
- Completing short offers
You can combine this approach with sharing your internet connection to earn passive income through apps like Honeygain that run silently in the background.
Many survey sites also offer basic data entry tasks, which are simple, beginner-friendly jobs that teens can complete safely with a parent’s supervision.
How much you can realistically make: Most microtasks pay a few cents to a couple of dollars per task, depending on what you choose. With consistency, you can make $10 to $50 a week in your spare time. This makes microtasks one of the easiest online jobs for teens out there.
Pro tip: Start with the quickest tasks first so you can get used to the platform and build momentum. Once you understand what types of tasks you enjoy, move to slightly higher-paying options.
Microtasks are great for earning small amounts consistently, but the next idea can bring in bigger money fast.
2. Sell things you no longer need
Selling items you no longer use is one of the fastest ways to make money as a teen. Moreover, this earning method can help you develop healthy money habits, like setting prices, comparing value, and managing small earnings responsibly.
How and where to get started:
- Look around your room for clothes, accessories, books, toys, video games, or gadgets that are still in good condition.
- Clean each item, take clear photos, and write short descriptions that show what the buyer is getting.
- Let your parents handle communication and any in-person meet-ups to keep everything safe.
You can use safe, well-known platforms like:
- Facebook Marketplace: Great for selling items locally, and your parents can manage communication and meeting arrangements for safety.
- Vinted: Best for clothes, shoes, and accessories, and it lets you list items quickly without seller fees.
- eBay: Ideal for collectibles, electronics, and games, and it gives you access to a huge audience of buyers worldwide.
How much you can realistically make: Your earnings will depend on what you choose to sell. Smaller items like books or accessories can bring in $5 to $10 each, while clothes, shoes, or electronics typically get you more money and might sell for $20, $50, or even more.
Pro tip: Group similar items together and sell them as a bundle. Buyers love a good deal, and bundles usually sell faster.
If you prefer earning extra money by helping people directly, the next method will be a great fit.
3. Offer help to neighbors and family friends
Helping neighbors is one of the safest and most reliable ways to earn money as a teen and gain valuable experience in the real world. Most adults, local businesses, or family-run shops need small tasks done around the house, and they prefer hiring someone they already know and trust.
This could be a great choice for you if you want to earn money on your own schedule without committing to a formal part-time job or fixed hours.
How and where to get started:
Think about the simple things you can help with. These might include:
- Dog walking or feeding pets
- Watering plants or taking care of gardens
- Bringing in groceries or packages
- Raking leaves, sweeping patios, or pulling weeds
- Washing cars or running small errands
To get started, ask your parents to spread the word to trusted neighbors, family friends, or coworkers. You can also write a short list of the tasks you’re willing to do and share it with a few people you know well.
How much you can realistically make: Earnings vary depending on the job, but most teens make $5 to $10 for smaller tasks and $10 to $20 or more for bigger ones.
Pro tip: Show up on time and finish the task the way you promised. Reliability is the fastest way to get repeat jobs and recommendations.
If you enjoy creative activities or want to turn your hobbies into income, the next method might inspire you.
4. Turn hobbies into a mini online business
Turning your hobbies into money-making, larger projects is a flexible and fun way to earn extra bucks. You already enjoy the activity, you know how to do it, and you can start small without needing experience.
Whether you like drawing, crafting, baking, gaming, or enjoy making handmade crafts, there is almost always someone out there who wants what you create. Exploring creative hobbies this way can also help you discover skills that might inspire your future careers.
How and where to get started:
Start by picking one hobby you enjoy:
- Crafting handmade items like bracelets, keychains, candles, or stickers
- Creating digital art, simple logos, or phone wallpapers
- If you enjoy graphic design, you can create custom posters, simple logos, or digital downloads that people love buying online.
- Making baked goods for friends, neighbors, or local events
If you want to sell online, ask your parents to help you set up accounts and manage orders. You can use the following platforms to find clients:
These platforms work almost like your own online store, giving you a space where people can browse everything you create. As you improve your photos and descriptions, your products can reach more customers who are interested in unique, handmade, or creative items.
How much you can realistically make: Handmade items often sell for $5 to $15 each, while digital art or custom designs can go for $10 to $30.
Pro tip: You do not have to start with many items. Create a few examples, take bright photos, write short descriptions, and let your parents help you with listing and marketing strategy.
If you want to try earning by sharing your creativity more publicly, the next method might be exactly what you need.
5. Test your creativity on social media
If you enjoy making videos, photos, or designs, you’re already practicing basic content creation skills. These creative abilities can grow into high-income skills later on, especially if you keep practicing and learning new techniques. This could be a great fit for you if you understand trends, platforms, and online culture naturally.
How and where to get started:
Start by choosing a topic you genuinely like.
This could be:
- Crafts, drawing, or DIY projects
- Fitness, sports, or dance routines
- Gaming clips or game reactions
- Outfit ideas or thrifted fashion
If you enjoy design, you can also make social media graphics for your own posts or for people who need help improving their online presence.
You can create content on:
- TikTok: Best for short, fun videos and trends.
- YouTube Shorts: Great if you prefer tutorials or gaming clips.
- Instagram: Perfect for photos, reels, and creative visuals.
You don’t need complex editing. Your phone and good lighting are enough to get started.
How much you can realistically make: Monetization of your social media skills usually starts small. In the beginning, you might earn very little or nothing at all. Once you build an audience, you can earn through views, small creator funds, or simple brand collaborations.
Many teen creators start with $20 to $100 a month once they gain traction. Some platforms also let creators earn through ad revenue, which means you get paid a small amount when people watch or interact with ads on your content.
Pro tip: Focus on consistency. Posting on your social media accounts two or three times a week helps you grow faster than posting one big video once in a while. Pick one platform and focus on it first.
If you like the idea of earning online but prefer something calmer and more structured, the next method might be a great option.
6. Join paid study or research programs for students
Paid studies and research programs are one of the safest and most structured ways for young people to earn money. Many universities, youth research groups, and educational organizations run studies that need honest feedback from teens.
You only need to give your opinion, follow simple instructions, and participate for a short amount of time.
How and where to get started:
Most teen-friendly studies are online and only require a phone or a laptop. Your parents will need to help you sign up because these programs almost always require parental consent.
Each platform also has its own minimum age requirement, so make sure to review the rules before signing up.
You may be asked to answer surveys, join short interviews, test educational tools, or give feedback on student-focused products.
Here are a few well-known, age-appropriate options you can explore with your parents:
- Teen Voice: A safe platform designed specifically for teen opinions and feedback.
- Student Edge Youth Panel - This panel offers paid surveys and research participation tailored specifically for youth and students, requiring parental consent.
How much you can realistically make: Paid studies typically pay between $5 and $30 per session, depending on the length and type of activity. Some short surveys pay a few dollars, while longer interviews or product tests can pay more.
Pro tip: Sign up for email alerts. These studies fill up fast, and getting notified early increases your chances of joining and helps you stay ahead of other applicants.
If you prefer helping people learn and want to earn by sharing your knowledge, the next method will be perfect for you.
7. Offer tech or social media help to adults
Helping adults with basic tech or social media management tasks is one of the easiest ways to pocket some extra cash. You already understand phones, apps, and online features better than many adults, so your knowledge is genuinely helpful.
How and where to get started:
Start by thinking about what you can help with. Adults often need support with:
- Setting up a new phone or organizing photos
- Installing apps or updating their devices
- Learning how to use social media safely
- Connecting Bluetooth devices or smart home gadgets
- Understanding basic computer tasks
- Creating simple accounts or resetting passwords
Ask your parents to help you spread the word to neighbors, family friends, or coworkers. Offer short sessions such as 30 minutes or 1 hour. You can do this in person or through a quick video call, depending on the person’s comfort level.
As you get more confident, you can take on slightly more advanced tasks that resemble early virtual assistant work, such as organizing files, creating simple notes, or helping adults manage online accounts
How much you can realistically make: Most teens charge $10 to $20 per session, depending on the task and the amount of time involved. If you help a few adults each week, you could earn $30 to $80 or more with very little preparation.
Pro tip: Speak slowly and show each step clearly. Adults appreciate patience, and being a good teacher is the best way to keep them coming back for more help.
If you prefer using your school strengths to help others learn, the next method will be a perfect match.
8. Tutor classmates or younger kids
Teaching or online tutoring is a great way to earn money if you enjoy explaining things to other kids and feel confident in one or more school subjects. Parents love hiring responsible teens because the sessions are more affordable and often more comfortable for younger students.
As you build trust and improve your teaching skills, you’ll quickly find enough clients to keep your schedule as full as you want.
How and where to get started:
Begin by choosing the subjects you feel confident teaching, such as:
- Math
- English or reading skills
- Science
- Foreign languages
- Study skills or homework help
Tell your parents which subjects you want to tutor so they can spread the word to neighbors, coworkers, teachers, or family friends. You can tutor in person at home or in a public place with a parent present, or you can tutor online through video calls if your parents prefer that.
You don’t need any special tools. A notebook, a laptop, or a few worksheets are enough to start.
You can use:
- Google Meet or Zoom for online sessions
- Khan Academy: A free learning website with practice problems, videos, and exercises you can use to help other students understand tough topics.
- Quizlet: Great for creating flashcards and study games that make learning vocabulary, formulas, or definitions easier.
- Notion: A simple workspace where you can organize notes, create study guides, and share easy-to-follow homework plans with the students you tutor.
How much you can realistically make: Teens usually charge $10 to $20 per hour, depending on the subject, age group, and location. If you tutor a few times a week, you can make $40 to $100 or more.
Pro tip: Prepare a small lesson plan before each session. Even a simple outline helps make the session smoother and keeps students focused.
Side tip: Ask your parents to help you set up a supervised bank account, so you can deposit part of your tutoring earnings and watch your savings grow. Understanding how savings can grow through compound interest is a great way to stay motivated and build long-term money skills.
If you enjoy earning money through flexible work that depends on seasons or special events, the next method will be perfect for you.
9. Try seasonal or event-based gigs
Seasonal or event-based gigs are great if you prefer flexible work that appears only during certain times of the year, ideally after the school year is done.
These opportunities also make excellent summer side hustles, since many families and local events need extra help during school vacations.
How and where to get started:
Start by thinking about popular jobs in your area, such as:
- Wrapping holiday gifts
- Helping set up or clean up events and parties
- Assisting at birthdays or kids’ gatherings
- Doing yard work during spring and fall
- Helping people decorate for holidays
- Carrying light items during local moves or garage cleanouts
You might even find opportunities to help a small business during busy seasons by organizing products, greeting customers, or assisting at events.
Ask your parents to spread the word to neighbors, family friends, or community groups. You can also check school bulletin boards, local Facebook groups, or family connections.
How much you can realistically make: Earnings vary depending on the task. Simple jobs can earn $10 to $20 per hour, while one-time event help can pay anywhere from $20 to $50 or more.
Pro tip: Tell people your availability early, especially around holidays or busy seasons. Many adults book help ahead of time, and being the first to offer makes you their go-to option.
If you enjoy fun, tech-friendly tasks and want something that feels more like playing than working, the next method will be perfect for you.
10. Become a game tester or review free apps
If you like trying new games or exploring different apps, this might be one of the most enjoyable ways you can earn money. You can earn by playing games to a certain level, checking how smooth the game feels, or giving basic feedback on what you enjoyed.
How and where to get started:
You only need a phone or a laptop. Most game testing or app review tasks ask you to download a game, test certain features, reach a milestone, or try an app for a few minutes. Many platforms give clear instructions so you always know exactly what to do.
Safe, beginner-friendly platforms include:
- JumpTask: Offers game-related microtasks where you earn small rewards for trying games or testing simple products.
- AppNana: A beginner-friendly app where you earn points for reviewing free apps, trying new tools, and giving basic feedback.
- MomoKarma: A trusted platform that lets you earn rewards for testing digital products, completing offers, and sharing quick opinions about different features.
How much you can realistically make: Most game testing tasks pay a few cents to a few dollars each, depending on how long the task takes. With a little consistency, teens typically make $5 to $20 a week by completing a handful of small tasks.
Pro tip: Choose tasks that match your favorite game styles. You’ll enjoy the process much more and complete tasks faster, which boosts your earnings.
Key takeaways
Earning money at a young age helps you gain experience that can prove valuable in your adult years. Here’s what to remember as you explore your first earning options:
- You can start earning money as a teen without a traditional job by using online platforms, simple gigs, or community-based tasks.
- Safe, age-appropriate methods like microtasks, selling items, tutoring, or helping neighbors can help you build confidence, skills, and a healthier financial future.
- Most options require only a phone, a laptop, or basic tools you already have.
- Small, consistent efforts can add up to meaningful income over time.
- Always involve your parents to stay safe and make sure every opportunity is trustworthy.
How to make money fast as a teen? By starting with what you already know, what you already have, and what you’re already capable of.
FAQs
How to make money as a teen online? The safest methods are microtasks, supervised study programs, and platforms designed for younger users. Always choose websites with clear rules and simple tasks that don’t require personal information. It’s best to work with your parents so they can help you review each platform for safety.
You can use platforms like JumpTask with a parent’s help and permission. Your parent should create or supervise the account, help you handle digital rewards, and make sure you follow any age-related guidelines.
Your earnings depend on the method you choose and how consistent you are. Many teens earn $10 to $50 a week from microtasks, $20 to $100 a month from creative projects or social media, and even more from tutoring or seasonal gigs.
Yes, in most cases. Many platforms require parental consent for minors, and it’s always safer to involve your parents when creating accounts, meeting buyers, or withdrawing earnings. Their guidance helps you avoid scams and choose opportunities that are age-appropriate.
Gabriele Zundaite
Digital Marketing Manager
Meet Gabriele, a marketing specialist focused on digital growth and social media. As a Digital Marketing Manager at JumpTask, she helps others discover new ways to earn online by turning creative ideas into real results. With a degree in Marketing Management and a background in growth marketing and community building, Gabriele shares clear, practical advice for anyone ready to start earning or grow their online presence.
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IN THIS ARTICLE
- 1. Try microtasks and short online jobs
- 2. Sell things you no longer need
- 3. Offer help to neighbors and family friends
- 4. Turn hobbies into a mini online business
- 5. Test your creativity on social media
- 6. Join paid study or research programs for students
- 7. Offer tech or social media help to adults
- 8. Tutor classmates or younger kids
- 9. Try seasonal or event-based gigs
- 10. Become a game tester or review free apps
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
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