Quick answer
Teenagers can make money with babysitting, pet sitting, yard work, tutoring younger kids and selling old gear at almost any age, then take a first job at 14 or older in places like stores, restaurants and offices. Federal law limits 14 and 15 year olds to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours in school weeks, and bans hazardous jobs until 18. Many states add rules, including work permits.
Jobs by age
| Age | Common options |
|---|---|
| Under 14 | Babysitting, yard work, pet sitting, newspaper delivery, working for a parent's business |
| 14 and 15 | Retail, food service with limits, office work, with federal hour limits |
| 16 and 17 | Most non-hazardous jobs, any hours under federal law; states may limit |
First paycheck tips
Ask a parent to help open a teen checking or savings account and set a savings goal.
Common questions
What is the minimum age to work?
Generally 14 for most non-farm jobs under federal law. Babysitting and some other work have no federal minimum age.
Do teens pay taxes?
Teens pay tax on earnings above the filing threshold, and may want to file to get withholding back.
Do teens need a work permit?
In many states. Your school or state labor department can tell you.
Where these facts come from
- U.S. Department of Labor: YouthRules
- U.S. Department of Labor: state minimum wage laws
- IRS: Gig Economy Tax Center
Sources checked October 10, 2026. Programs and rules change; confirm details with the agency or company before you act.
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