Many 13-year-olds are eager to earn their own money, whether to save for the future, help their families, or simply enjoy more independence. But at this age, opportunities are limited by federal and state labor laws. While most businesses don’t hire kids under 14, there are still plenty of safe, legal, and rewarding jobs for 13-year-olds.
This guide explores the types of work available, legal rules to follow, practical job ideas, and how parents can support their teens as they take their first steps into the working world.
Legal Rules for Working at 13
According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s YouthRules, the minimum age for most non-agricultural jobs is 14 years old. That means 13-year-olds are generally limited to casual or informal jobs, self-employment opportunities, or helping in family-owned businesses.
However, federal law makes some exceptions, and states may have their own rules:
- Agricultural Work: Teens as young as 12 can work on farms with parental consent, outside of school hours.
- Family Businesses: Kids of any age can help in non-hazardous roles at businesses owned by their parents.
- Entertainment Industry: Some states allow minors to work in acting, modeling, and other creative fields with permits.
Before starting, parents should check both federal law and their state’s specific child labor rules. Use the YouthRules State Guide to verify what’s allowed where you live.
Jobs That Hire at 13
Babysitting
Babysitting is one of the most popular jobs for young teens. At 13, many are responsible enough to care for younger children for short periods. The American Red Cross babysitting courses provide training in safety, CPR, and first aid, which gives families peace of mind and helps teens stand out.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Animal-loving teens can earn money by walking dogs, feeding cats, or caring for pets while families are away. This job offers flexibility and is easy to find through word of mouth in neighborhoods.
Lawn Care and Yard Work
From mowing lawns to raking leaves, shoveling snow, or planting flowers, yard work is a classic way for 13-year-olds to earn money. It also teaches entrepreneurship—teens can set rates, create flyers, and build repeat business.
Tutoring and Homework Help
Strong in math, reading, or science? Teens can tutor younger students or help with homework. Parents are often willing to pay a responsible teen to support their child’s learning.
Family Business Assistance
If parents own a shop, restaurant, or office, 13-year-olds can legally help with light tasks such as organizing inventory, cleaning, or answering phones (non-hazardous work only). The U.S. Small Business Administration notes that this kind of hands-on experience can spark early entrepreneurial skills.
Car Washing & Light Detailing
With a bucket, soap, and sponge, teens can offer driveway car washes and light interior cleanups. Consider selling bundles (wash + vacuum) to increase earnings.
House Cleaning or Organizing
Some neighbors may hire a 13-year-old to help with light chores like vacuuming, dusting, or organizing playrooms. Work should be supervised and clearly scoped.
Seasonal Work
Community events often allow younger teens to help in supervised settings:
- Pumpkin patches or Christmas tree lots (greeting, bagging, tidying).
- Summer sports camps (junior helper roles).
- Holiday decorating or gift-wrapping services.
Agricultural Work
Federal law allows 12- and 13-year-olds to do farm work outside of school hours with parental consent. Duties might include fruit picking, basic animal care, or assisting with planting. Rules vary by state—confirm specifics via the YouthRules State Guide.
Online Opportunities (with Parental Oversight)
Most platforms require users to be 18, but there are safe ways to participate via a parent’s account and supervision:
- Selling handmade crafts on Etsy via a parent/guardian account.
- Reselling unused items on local marketplaces.
- Youth-friendly survey or research panels (parent managed).
- Starting a YouTube or TikTok channel with strict family guidelines.
State-by-State Rules (Quick Notes)
- California: Entertainment jobs are allowed with permits; strict hour limits apply.
- New York: Work permits are required for employed minors; even casual work should follow state guidance.
- Texas: Generally follows federal standards; most employment starts at 14, with exceptions for agriculture and family businesses.
For definitive guidance, use the official state-by-state child labor resources.
Benefits of Working at 13
- Financial literacy: Earning money early teaches saving, budgeting, and spending wisely.
- Responsibility: Being on time, completing tasks, and honoring agreements builds character.
- Work ethic: Even small jobs foster persistence and pride in a job well done.
- Confidence and independence: Teens gain pride in contributing to their goals.
- Future readiness: Early experience looks great when applying for jobs at 14–16.
Skills Teens Gain at 13
- Time Management — balancing school, activities, and paid work.
- Communication — speaking with adults, setting expectations, negotiating pay.
- Problem-Solving — handling surprises (weather, scheduling, client needs).
- Entrepreneurship — pricing, simple marketing, and building repeat customers.
Safety Tips for Parents
- Set clear boundaries: Define hours, pay, and safe working environments.
- Screen clients: Prefer trusted neighbors, family friends, or referrals.
- Use certifications: Babysitting/CPR courses via the American Red Cross can boost safety and credibility.
- Review local laws: Check the YouthRules site and your state’s page before accepting paid work.
- Supervise online activity: Parents should control any accounts and communications.
Looking Ahead: Jobs at 14, 15, and Beyond
At 14, many more opportunities open up, including grocery stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and retail. By 16, teens can work longer hours and take on more responsibility. Starting early at 13 helps kids build the confidence and maturity they’ll need as options expand.
Final Thoughts
So, what jobs hire at 13? While traditional employers usually don’t hire at this age, teens can find work in babysitting, pet care, lawn work, tutoring, family businesses, seasonal jobs, and carefully supervised online opportunities. These experiences help kids build responsibility, financial literacy, and independence, setting the stage for future success.
With parental support and a clear understanding of the laws, working at 13 can be a positive and empowering first step into the world of employment.
