How to Make Money When You Are 10 Years Old
Discover practical, age-appropriate ways for 10-year-olds to start earning money and learn valuable financial skills.
It is possible for a 10-year-old to begin earning money, providing valuable experiences in responsibility and financial understanding. Engaging in age-appropriate activities can teach important lessons about work ethic and the value of earning. This process offers a practical introduction to managing personal finances.
Earning Money Around the House
A straightforward way to earn money involves taking on extra responsibilities within your own home. These tasks go beyond regular chores and can include special projects like organizing a garage or washing the family car. Parents or guardians can establish clear agreements outlining the specific tasks and the payment for each.
Families often set up a system where simple chores might pay between $0.50 and $2, while more involved tasks such as vacuuming or helping with meal preparation could earn $3 to $5 per chore. Some households prefer a weekly allowance system, where a 10-year-old might receive $10 to $20 for completing a set list of jobs. Consistency in payment helps reinforce the connection between effort and reward.
Earning Money in Your Community
Opportunities also exist to earn money from neighbors and others in your local community. Services like pet sitting, watering plants, or light yard work such as raking leaves or weeding small garden areas are suitable options. Assisting with simple tasks like bringing in mail or newspapers can also provide earning potential.
Parental involvement is important for discussing services, setting fair prices, and ensuring safety during these activities. For example, pet sitting can earn approximately $14 to $16 per hour, depending on the location and specific duties. These types of earnings are generally considered self-employment income, and for a 10-year-old, the amounts earned are typically well below the thresholds for federal income tax filing, which is $15,000 in earned income for 2025.
Making and Selling Things
Creative endeavors offer another avenue for earning money by making and selling items. You could create crafts like friendship bracelets, handmade greeting cards, or even bake simple goods such as cookies or lemonade. Utilizing existing hobbies or developing new skills can transform into profitable ventures.
When making items to sell, consider the cost of materials and set a fair price for your creations. Selling opportunities can include setting up a small stand with parental supervision at a family yard sale or a local community event.