How to Get Money as a Kid With Easy Tasks

Earning money as a child can be a valuable experience, teaching important lessons about financial independence and the effort required to acquire resources. This foundational understanding helps young individuals appreciate the value of money beyond simply receiving an allowance. Engaging in tasks to earn income can foster a sense of responsibility and provide practical insights into basic financial management, contributing to a strong work ethic.

Earning Through Household Tasks

Children can earn money by undertaking specific tasks around their own home, distinct from their regular, expected chores. These paid tasks are additional responsibilities that go beyond daily contributions to the household. For instance, children might earn money by washing the family car, deep cleaning a particular room, or organizing areas like a garage or attic. Other examples include assisting with extensive meal preparation or meticulously putting away large grocery hauls.

Establishing clear communication and agreements between the child and parents or guardians is important before starting any paid household task. This agreement should define the specific task, the expected outcome, and the agreed-upon payment. For younger children, simple tasks like making their bed or picking up toys might earn around $0.50 to $1 per chore, while older children could earn $5 to $10 for more complex tasks like washing the car or mowing the lawn. This approach links effort directly to financial reward, providing practical experience in earning money. Earnings from these activities are considered “earned income.” A child earning above a certain threshold may need to file a tax return.

Earning Through Neighborhood Services

Children can also earn money by offering various services to neighbors and others within their community. These services generally require minimal skill and investment, making them accessible options. Common examples include pet walking or sitting, watering plants for vacationing neighbors, bringing in mail or newspapers, raking leaves, or shoveling snow. Washing neighbors’ cars is another popular service that can provide income.

Parental involvement is important, especially for younger children, to ensure safety and to help establish clear agreements with neighbors regarding the service and payment. Babysitting is a common option, and pre-teens can take Red Cross certification courses to enhance their skills and marketability. Payment for these services can vary widely depending on the task and location, but general rates might range from $5-$10 per hour for babysitting, $10-$20 per visit for pet sitting, or $10-$15 per hour for yard work. Income earned from these services is considered self-employment income and may have tax obligations.

Earning Through Creative Sales

Selling items, whether pre-owned or handmade, offers another avenue for children to earn money and explore entrepreneurial skills. Selling pre-owned items like old toys, books, or clothes can be done through simple venues such as yard sales. With parental assistance, online platforms tailored for selling children’s items, or general marketplaces, can also be utilized. These platforms allow for selling items that children have outgrown or no longer use.

Handmade items also present a creative way to earn money. Running a lemonade stand is a classic example, teaching basic business principles. Other handmade items include simple crafts like friendship bracelets, drawings, painted rocks, or even baked goods, which can be sold with parental permission and supervision. Selling handmade goods can foster creativity and an understanding of how to turn materials into marketable products. Income from selling items is generally considered self-employment income and may have tax obligations.