How to Make Money at 14: Jobs, Laws, and Tips
Discover how 14-year-olds can responsibly earn money, gain independence, and build early financial skills.
Earning money at a young age offers valuable opportunities to develop financial responsibility and independence. Starting to work at 14 can provide practical experience, build a foundation for future career choices, and help establish early saving habits. This initial exposure to the world of work can also foster a greater understanding of how income is earned and managed.
Understanding Work Regulations for Minors
Working at 14 involves adherence to specific labor laws designed to protect young individuals. Federal regulations, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), set the minimum age for most non-agricultural employment at 14 years old. These laws place limits on the hours a 14- or 15-year-old can work, particularly when school is in session. During school weeks, minors are generally restricted to working a maximum of 3 hours on a school day and up to 18 hours per week.
When school is not in session, 14- and 15-year-olds can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. Work is allowed between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., with an extension to 9:00 p.m. from June 1 through Labor Day. Certain occupations are prohibited for minors due to their hazardous nature, including jobs involving manufacturing, mining, operating most power-driven machinery, or driving motor vehicles. Many states also require minors to obtain work permits, often available through schools or state labor departments, which confirm their eligibility for employment. State laws may have additional rules, and the stricter of federal or state laws applies.
Exploring Job Possibilities
Various job opportunities are suitable for a 14-year-old, aligning with labor laws and developmental stages. Neighborhood and community jobs offer flexibility and often do not require formal employment processes. These can include babysitting, pet sitting, or providing lawn care services like mowing, raking, or gardening for neighbors. Tutoring younger students in subjects where one excels is another excellent option.
Online opportunities, with parental supervision, can provide avenues for earning. These include paid online surveys or age-appropriate content creation. Formal employment options exist in industries like retail or food service. These jobs often involve tasks like cashiering, stocking shelves, bagging groceries, or cleaning, and require adherence to federal and state youth employment regulations.
Strategies for Finding Work
Finding work at 14 often begins by leveraging personal connections and local resources. Start by informing friends, family members, and neighbors about your availability and the types of services you can offer. Word-of-mouth referrals can be highly effective for securing informal jobs like pet care or yard work. For more formal positions, preparing a simple resume or a clear pitch outlining your skills and availability can be beneficial.
Local businesses, retail stores or eateries, might display “help wanted” signs. Visiting these establishments in person to inquire about opportunities can demonstrate initiative. Once a potential job is identified, be prepared for an interview by practicing answers to questions about availability, reliability, and willingness to learn. Presenting yourself as responsible and eager to work can make a positive impression on potential employers.
Handling Your Income
Once earnings begin, managing income responsibly is a valuable skill to develop. A fundamental step involves opening a bank account, typically a joint account with a parent or legal guardian, as minors cannot open accounts independently. This process usually requires identification for both the minor and the adult, such as a state ID or Social Security number. A joint account allows for secure storage of funds, easy deposits, and parental oversight, which can include notifications for transactions.
Developing a budget is beneficial, allocating funds for saving, spending, and sharing. Saving a portion of earnings can contribute to future goals, while a spending plan helps manage spending. Regarding taxes, a 14-year-old’s earned income may be subject to federal income tax if it exceeds certain thresholds. A tax return may be required if earned income exceeds certain thresholds, but due to standard deductions for dependents, many 14-year-olds earning part-time wages will not owe federal income tax. Parents can provide guidance on these tax considerations.