How to Make Money as a 13 Year Old: Legit Ways (2023)

Hey there, young moneymaker! So, you’re a 13-year-old looking to earn some extra cash, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We’re about to embark on a journey filled with opportunities for you to make good money and become the next teenage tycoon. Trust me, this is going to be more fun than trying to convince your parents that chores should come with a salary!

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “How on earth can a 13-year-old like me make money?” Don’t worry, my entrepreneurial friend. We’ve got plenty of tricks up our sleeves that will have you rolling in the dough (figuratively speaking, of course). From starting your own small business to exploring online gigs tailored just for teens like you, we’ll cover it all.

So grab your thinking cap and get ready for some serious brainstorming. Because by the time we’re done here, you’ll have more ideas for making extra money. Get ready to unleash your inner financial genius and show the world what savvy 13-year-olds are capable of!

Selling Food and Drinks

Are you a 13-year-old looking to make some extra cash? Selling food and drinks can be a fun and profitable way to earn money while indulging in your culinary skills. Whether it’s setting up a lemonade stand or baking homemade goodies, there are plenty of opportunities for young entrepreneurs like you to get started.

Set up a Lemonade Stand

One classic option is to set up a lemonade stand right in your neighborhood. On hot summer days, people are always looking for refreshing beverages, and nothing beats a cold glass of lemonade. Here’s how you can make your lemonade stand successful:

1. Location: Find a busy spot in your neighborhood where people frequently pass by. This could be near a park or on the corner of a street with heavy foot traffic.
2. Supplies: You’ll need lemons, sugar, water, cups, ice, and perhaps some additional flavors like strawberry or mint if you want to offer variety.
3. Pricing: Determine how much you want to charge for each cup of lemonade. Consider the cost of ingredients and factor in your desired profit margin.
4. Advertisement: Spread the word about your lemonade stand through word-of-mouth among neighbors and friends. You could also create eye-catching posters or flyers to attract customers passing by.
5. Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service by being polite and friendly to everyone who stops by your stand.

Bake Homemade Cookies or Cupcakes

If you have a knack for baking, selling homemade cookies or cupcakes can be another great way to make money as a 13-year-old. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Recipes: Experiment with different cookie and cupcake recipes until you find ones that are both delicious and easy for you to prepare.
2. Ingredients: Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and any additional flavors or decorations you plan to use.
3. Packaging: Invest in some cute packaging options like bakery boxes or colorful bags to make your treats more appealing.
4. Events and Markets: Look for local events, farmers’ markets, or community gatherings where you can set up a booth to sell your baked goods. These venues often attract people who are eager to support young entrepreneurs.
5. Social Media: Utilize social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook to showcase your delicious creations. Take enticing photos of your cookies and cupcakes and let potential customers know where they can find you.

Offer Healthy Snacks at Sports Games or Community Gatherings

If you’re passionate about healthy eating, consider selling nutritious snacks like fruit cups or smoothies during sports games or community gatherings. Here’s how:

1. Research: Find out if there are any local businesses or organizations that host sports games or community events where you could set up a food stall.
2. Menu Planning– Plan your menu before selling, You need first to determine what might sell well and what’s not based on the location of your business.

Pet Sitting and Walking

If you’re a 13-year-old looking to make some extra money, pet sitting and walking can be a great way to earn cash while having fun with furry friends. Not only will you get to spend time with adorable animals, but you’ll also be providing a valuable service to your neighbors. Here are some talking points on how to get started:

Provide pet-sitting services while neighbors are away on vacation.

When families go on vacation, they often need someone trustworthy to take care of their pets. As a responsible 13-year-old, you can offer your services as a pet sitter. Start by letting your neighbors know that you’re available and reliable. You can create flyers or post them on community bulletin boards to spread the word.

Here are some additional tips for successful pet sitting:

1. Meet with the pet owners beforehand: Schedule a meeting with the owners before they leave so that you can familiarize yourself with their pets’ routines, feeding schedules, and any special instructions.
2. Create a checklist: Make sure you have all the necessary information about each pet, including emergency contact numbers for their owners or veterinarians.
3. Follow instructions carefully: Stick to the feeding schedule and any specific guidelines provided by the owners. Pay attention to details like medication administration or dietary restrictions.
4. Engage in playtime: Pets love attention! Spend quality time playing with them, taking them for walks (if allowed), or engaging in activities they enjoy.

Earn money by walking dogs in your area on a regular basis.

If you enjoy being outdoors and spending time with dogs, dog walking is an excellent option for making money as a 13-year-old. Many busy dog owners would appreciate someone reliable who can give their furry companions some exercise during the day.

Here’s how you can get started as a dog walker:

1. Spread the word: Let your neighbors know that you’re available for dog walking services. You can create simple business cards or use social media platforms to advertise your services.
2. Set reasonable rates: Research the average rates in your area and determine a fair price for your services. Keep in mind that as a young entrepreneur, you may want to offer competitive prices to attract clients initially.
3. Create a schedule: Decide on the number of dogs you can handle at once and establish a schedule that works for both you and the pet owners. Be punctual and reliable so that they can trust you with their furry friends.
4. Ensure safety: Always prioritize safety when walking dogs. Use sturdy leashes, be aware of any potential hazards on your route, and make sure the dogs are comfortable and well-behaved during walks.

Offer additional services such as feeding, grooming, or playing with pets.

To enhance your pet sitting and dog walking business, consider offering additional services like feeding, grooming, or playing with pets. These extras can help differentiate your service from others in the neighborhood and provide added value to pet owners.

Online Store for Flipping Products

Creating an online store is a fantastic way for 13-year-olds to make money by selling second-hand items they find at thrift stores or garage sales. With the rise of e-commerce platforms like eBay and Etsy, it has become easier than ever to reach a wider audience and turn your findings into profit.

To get started with your online store, you’ll need to set up a shop on a platform that suits your needs. Platforms like eBay and Etsy are popular choices due to their large user bases and easy-to-use interfaces. However, don’t limit yourself to just these options; explore other platforms that may cater more specifically to your niche.

Once you have chosen the platform for your online store, it’s time to start sourcing products. Visit local thrift stores, garage sales, or even dollar stores like Dollar Tree where you can find inexpensive items that have potential resale value. Look for unique pieces, vintage items, or collectibles that could attract buyers’ attention.

Next comes an essential aspect of running an online store: product photography. Invest some time in learning how to take high-quality pictures of your items. A well-lit photo with clear details can significantly enhance the appeal of your products and increase the likelihood of making a sale. Experiment with different angles and backgrounds to showcase the item’s features effectively.

Marketing is another crucial component in maximizing sales for your online store. Develop skills in promoting your products through various channels such as social media, email marketing, or even creating your own website dedicated solely to showcasing and selling your inventory.

Consider using social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook to create buzz around new arrivals or special promotions. Engage with potential customers by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses into how you source and curate items for your store.

In addition to social media marketing, having a dedicated website can provide a professional touch and allow you more control over branding and customer experience. There are user-friendly website builders available that can help you create an attractive and functional online store without requiring extensive technical knowledge.

Research similar products on the platform you’re using to get an idea of the market value. Take into account factors such as condition, rarity, and demand when determining your prices. Offering competitive prices can attract more potential buyers and increase your chances of making sales.

Remember, running an online store requires dedication and consistent effort. Regularly update your inventory with new finds, respond promptly to customer inquiries, and strive for excellent customer service to build a positive reputation.

Cleaning and Organizing Services

Another way for a 13-year-old looking to make some extra money is by offering cleaning and organizing services, it can be a great way to earn cash while helping out busy families who need assistance in tidying up their homes. Not only will you be able to showcase your organizational skills, but you’ll also be providing a valuable service that many people are willing to pay for.

Offer cleaning services for busy families who need help tidying up their homes.

Many families lead hectic lives, juggling work, school, and various activities. As a 13-year-old, you can step in and offer your expertise in keeping their homes clean and tidy. Start by creating a list of services you’re comfortable providing, such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, or even doing laundry. By offering these services on a regular basis, you can establish long-term clients who will appreciate the consistent help.

To advertise your cleaning services, consider using flyers that highlight your offerings and contact information. Distribute them in your local area at community centers, grocery stores, or even door-to-door. Leverage the power of social media by creating posts on platforms like Instagram or Facebook to showcase before-and-after photos of areas you’ve cleaned. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients can also go a long way in attracting new customers.

Organize closets, garages, or other spaces that may be overwhelming for others.

In addition to cleaning services, organizing cluttered spaces is another valuable skill you can offer as a 13-year-old entrepreneur. Many people struggle with keeping their closets or garages neat and organized due to lack of time or know-how. This is where your expertise comes into play!

Start by familiarizing yourself with different organizational techniques and products available in the market. You can then offer to declutter and organize these spaces for clients who may feel overwhelmed by the task themselves. Create packages based on the size of the area or the complexity of the job, and clearly outline what you’ll provide in each package. This will help potential clients understand exactly what they can expect from your services.

Consider utilizing apps or online platforms that connect service providers with customers in need of organizing assistance. These platforms can help expand your reach beyond your local area and potentially connect you with clients who are specifically looking for someone to organize their spaces.

By offering cleaning and organizing services, you’ll not only be making money as a 13-year-old but also developing valuable skills that can benefit you in the future. Remember to always communicate clearly with your clients, deliver exceptional service, and continuously seek opportunities to improve your offerings. With dedication and hard work, you can turn your passion for cleanliness and organization into a successful business venture at a young age!

Writing Music Reviews

If you’re a 13-year-old with a passion for music, writing music reviews can be a fun and rewarding way to make money. Not only will you get to share your opinions on different music albums and artists, but you can also build a following and gain exposure for your writing skills. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Start a blog: Creating a blog is an excellent platform for showcasing your music reviews. Choose a catchy name that reflects your personality and the type of content you’ll be sharing. Platforms like WordPress or Blogger offer user-friendly interfaces that make it easy to set up your blog in no time.
2. Share your thoughts: Once your blog is up and running, start writing music reviews! Pick albums or songs that resonate with you, and provide detailed insights into what makes them special or unique. Share your personal experiences and feelings about the music, as this will help readers connect with your perspective.
3. Reach out to musicians: To expand the scope of your reviews, consider reaching out directly to musicians or their management teams. Politely ask if they would be willing to provide review copies of their work in exchange for exposure on your blog. Many artists appreciate the opportunity for additional promotion, especially from young enthusiasts like yourself.
4. Promote through social media: Social media platforms are powerful tools for connecting with fellow music enthusiasts who may be interested in reading your reviews. Create accounts on platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok (if suitable) and share snippets of your reviews along with engaging visuals related to the music you’re discussing.
5. Engage with the community: Actively participate in online communities where people discuss music-related topics. Join forums or Facebook groups dedicated to specific genres or artists that interest you. Engaging in conversations will not only help increase traffic to your blog but also allow you to learn from others and refine your writing skills.
6. Collaborate with other bloggers: Consider collaborating with other music bloggers or content creators who share similar interests. Collaborations can help you expand your reach and introduce you to new readerships. You could co-write reviews, exchange guest posts, or even start a joint podcast where you discuss music together.

Remember, building a successful blog takes time and effort. Stay consistent with your posting schedule, interact with your audience, and continuously improve your writing skills. As your blog grows in popularity, opportunities for monetization may arise through partnerships, sponsored content, or advertising.

So don’t hesitate! Start sharing your love for music through captivating reviews on your blog today. Your unique perspective and passion will surely resonate with fellow music enthusiasts around the world!

Designing and Selling T-Shirts

Designing and selling t-shirts can be a fun and creative way for 13-year-olds to make money. With the rise of print-on-demand platforms, it has become easier than ever to turn your unique designs into profit. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Create unique t-shirt designs using graphic design software or online tools.

To begin, you’ll need to come up with eye-catching and original designs for your t-shirts. There are several options available when it comes to creating these designs:

1. Graphic design software: If you have access to programs like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, you can use them to unleash your creativity and design custom graphics for your t-shirts.
2. Online tools: Don’t worry if you don’t have access to professional software. There are plenty of user-friendly online tools that allow you to create stunning designs without any prior experience in graphic design. Some popular options include Canva, Crello, and Design Wizard.

Remember, the key is to create designs that stand out from the crowd. Consider incorporating elements related to popular trends such as tech gadgets or famous brands while adding your unique twist.

Sell your designs on print-on-demand platforms like Redbubble or Teespring.

Once you’ve created your t-shirt designs, it’s time to bring them to market. Print-on-demand platforms offer an excellent opportunity for young entrepreneurs like yourself as they handle all aspects of production and shipping:

1. Redbubble: This platform allows artists and designers to upload their artwork onto various products, including t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, and more. When someone purchases an item with your design on it, Redbubble takes care of printing and shipping while giving you a portion of the profits.
2. Teespring: Similar to Redbubble, Teespring lets you create and sell custom apparel without any upfront costs or inventory management. You simply upload your designs, set your prices, and promote your products. When a customer makes a purchase, Teespring handles the printing and shipping while providing you with a profit.

Promote your t-shirts through social media influencers who align with your target audience.

To maximize the reach of your t-shirt designs, it’s essential to promote them effectively. One powerful way to do this is by collaborating with social media influencers who have an audience that aligns with your target market:

1. Identify relevant influencers: Look for popular social media users who have a significant following in niches related to fashion, lifestyle, or hobbies that resonate with your t-shirt designs. For example, if you’ve designed golf-themed t-shirts, find influencers known for their love of golf.
2. Reach out and collaborate: Once you’ve identified potential influencers, send them a personalized message explaining why you think they would be a great fit for promoting your t-shirts. Offer them free samples or commission-based partnerships to incentivize their involvement.

Yardwork and Seasonal Crafts

If you’re a 13-year-old looking to make some extra money, yard work, and seasonal crafts can be a great way to earn cash while having fun. Not only will you be able to showcase your creativity and skills, but you’ll also learn the value of hard work and responsibility. Here are some ideas on how you can get started:

Offer services such as mowing lawns, raking leaves, or shoveling snow in your neighborhood.

One of the most common ways for teenagers to make money is by offering yard work services. Many homeowners are willing to pay for help with tasks like mowing lawns, raking leaves, or shoveling snow. To get started, create flyers advertising your services and distribute them in your neighborhood. You can also post on community bulletin boards or use online platforms that connect service providers with customers.

Here are some yard work options you can offer:

• Mowing lawns: Invest in a lawn mower if you don’t already have one and offer your services to neighbors who may not have the time or ability to maintain their own lawns.
• Raking leaves: During the fall season, many people need help cleaning up their yards from fallen leaves. Offer your assistance with raking and bagging leaves.
• Shoveling snow: In areas with snowy winters, shoveling driveways and walkways can be a lucrative job. Be sure to bundle up and stay safe while working in cold weather.

Create seasonal crafts like handmade wreaths or holiday decorations to sell at local markets.

If arts and crafts are more your style, consider creating seasonal crafts that you can sell at local markets or events. Handmade wreaths or holiday decorations are always in demand during festive seasons. Use your artistic skills to design unique pieces that will attract buyers.

To market your crafts effectively:

• Attend local craft fairs: Find out about upcoming craft fairs or markets in your area and reserve a booth to showcase and sell your creations.
• Advertise online: Utilize social media platforms or create a website to showcase your artwork. Take high-quality photos of your crafts and include detailed descriptions to attract potential customers.
• Collaborate with local businesses: Approach local stores or boutiques that may be interested in selling your crafts on consignment. This can help expand your customer base.

Remember, the key is to create eye-catching and well-crafted products that people will want to buy. Consider using different materials, colors, and themes for each season to keep customers coming back for more.

By offering yard work services or creating seasonal crafts, you can turn your spare time into a money-making opportunity. Whether it’s mowing lawns or crafting beautiful wreaths, these jobs will not only earn you some cash but also teach you important skills like responsibility, time management, and customer service. So roll up your sleeves, get creative, and start making money as a 13-year-old entrepreneur!

Success as a Young Entrepreneur

Congratulations on completing the sections on various ways to make money as a 13-year-old! You’ve learned some awesome strategies that can help you kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. Whether it’s selling food and drinks, pet sitting, running an online store, offering cleaning services, writing music reviews, designing and selling t-shirts, or doing yard work and seasonal crafts, you now have a range of options to choose from.

Now that you have this knowledge under your belt, it’s time to take action! Pick the idea that resonates with you the most or combine a few of them together. Start small and gradually expand your business as you gain experience. Remember to stay focused, be persistent in your efforts, and always provide excellent customer service.

So go out there and put your skills into action! With determination and hard work, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. Good luck on your entrepreneurial journey!

FAQs

Can I start my own business at 13 years old?

Absolutely! Age is just a number. As long as you have the passion and dedication to succeed, there are plenty of opportunities for young entrepreneurs like yourself.

How much money can I make from these ideas?

The amount of money you can make will depend on various factors such as the demand for your product or service, how effectively you market yourself, and the effort you put into your business. Start small but aim high – with perseverance and creativity, there’s potential for significant earnings.

Do I need permission from my parents or guardians?

It’s always important to involve your parents or guardians in any business venture you undertake as a minor. They can provide guidance, support, and ensure legal compliance where necessary.

How do I market my products/services?

Utilize social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook to showcase what you offer. Create engaging content that appeals to your target audience, and don’t forget to leverage word-of-mouth marketing by asking satisfied customers to spread the word.

What if I don’t have any initial capital?

No worries! Many of the ideas mentioned in this blog post require minimal startup costs. You can start small and reinvest your earnings to grow your business gradually. Consider offering your services in exchange for referrals or testimonials to build a solid foundation without financial investment.