How to Make Money as a Middle Schooler

Earning money as a middle schooler provides valuable lessons in responsibility and financial independence. It helps young individuals understand the concept of work, the value of money, and the satisfaction of achieving financial goals, laying a strong foundation for future financial literacy.

Age-Appropriate Opportunities

Many opportunities exist for middle schoolers to earn money, often involving tasks that are common within their communities and do not require specialized skills. Babysitting is a popular choice, with average hourly rates for teen babysitters often ranging between $9 and $24, though it can vary based on location and experience. This work typically involves caring for younger children, often for family friends or neighbors.

Similarly, pet care, such as dog walking or pet sitting, offers a flexible way to earn income. Dog walking rates for teenagers range from $10 to $25 per hour or walk, with some areas seeing $20-$40 for a 30-60 minute walk. These roles involve walking dogs, feeding pets, and ensuring their well-being while owners are away. Yard work, such as lawn mowing, weeding, and raking leaves, is another common way to earn. Teenagers charge $10 to $15 per hour for general yard tasks, or a flat rate of $15 to $25 for mowing an average lawn.

Beyond service-based roles, middle schoolers can explore creative ventures by making and selling various items. Simple crafts like greeting cards, friendship bracelets, painted rocks, or beaded keychains can be sold to friends, family, or at local events. Baking is another option, with popular items like cookies, brownies, and cupcakes selling well due to their broad appeal and ease of packaging. These activities not only generate income but also help develop entrepreneurial skills.

Finding Your First Customers

Initial paying opportunities often begin within your existing network, such as family, friends, and neighbors. Informing your network about services offered can lead to direct opportunities or referrals, as people prefer to hire those they know and trust. Clear communication about services and availability helps potential customers understand how you can assist them.

To expand beyond immediate acquaintances, creating simple flyers is effective. Flyers should clearly state services offered, relevant experience, and contact information, ensuring parental permission and supervision for distribution. A compelling headline, easy-to-read fonts, and concise content highlighting service benefits will make flyers more noticeable. Posting flyers on community bulletin boards, with proper authorization, can connect you with more potential clients.

Reliability and good communication build a positive reputation and secure repeat business. Showing up on time, completing tasks as promised, and maintaining a polite demeanor establish trust with customers. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied clients are a powerful tool for expanding your customer base over time.

Handling Your Earnings

Effectively managing earned money is the next important step for a middle schooler. A basic approach is using a piggy bank for immediate savings, providing a tangible way to see earnings grow. For larger amounts or a structured approach, opening a savings account, often a custodial account, with parental assistance is practical.

A custodial account (UGMA or UTMA) is managed by an adult custodian until the minor reaches the age of majority, typically 18 or 21 depending on state law. Funds in these accounts are considered irrevocable gifts to the minor. The custodian is responsible for managing the account for the minor’s benefit.

While informal earnings for middle schoolers are often below federal income tax filing thresholds, it is important to be aware of the requirements. For 2024, a dependent generally needs to file a federal tax return if earned income exceeds $14,600, or unearned income is over $1,300. If self-employment net earnings are $400 or more, a tax return is required. Even if income is below these thresholds, filing might be beneficial if taxes were withheld, as it could result in a refund. Planning how to spend or save earned money, perhaps by setting aside a portion for specific goals, introduces foundational budgeting concepts.