Finding a job can be tough, especially when you’re just getting started. As a teenager, it might feel like the odds are stacked against you, but don’t worry—there are plenty of online jobs that can help you earn money and gain valuable experience.
Whether you’re interested in doing surveys, selling handmade items on Etsy, or even starting a blog, the options are endless. Your time and skills are valuable, so make sure you get paid for your hard work!
Best Online Jobs for Teenagers
Here are some of the best online jobs and side hustle ideas for teens looking to make some extra cash:
1. Take Online Surveys
One of the easiest ways to make money online is by answering surveys. There are a ton of legitimate survey and reward sites that pay you for your opinions. It’s a flexible way to earn money in your spare time, but with so many options, it can be hard to know which ones are legit.
To make it easier for you, here’s a list of great survey and reward sites that pay for your input:
| Reward Apps | Minimum Cash Out (PayPal) |
|---|---|
| Swagbucks | $10 |
| InboxDollars | $15 |
| MyPoints | $25 |
| Zap Surveys | $10 |
| KashKick | $10 |
| PrizeRebel | $5 |
| Drop | $25 (Gift Card) |
| Qmee | None |
| Survey Apps | Minimum Cash Out |
|---|---|
| Survey Junkie | $5 |
| Pinecone Research | $3 |
| Toluna Influencers | $10 |
| Branded Surveys | $5 |
| LifePoints | $25 |
| Ipsos iSay | $5 |
| Eureka Surveys | $5 |
| Attapoll | $3 |
| 1Q | None |
| Surveys On The Go | $10 |
| Poll Pay | $5 |
| Survey Club | $25 |
| Survey Pop | $5 |
| Google Opinion Rewards | $2 |
| iPoll | $12 |
| Opinion Outpost | $5 |
2. Play Games and Earn Money
Another fun way to make money online is by playing games. Many reward sites and gaming apps let you earn cash or rewards by playing free or pay-to-play games. I recommend using reward sites like Swagbucks and InboxDollars, which offer multiple ways to make money (like watching videos and taking surveys) in addition to playing games.
Here are some of my favorite gaming apps where you can earn money:
- Swagbucks (iOS, Android)
- InboxDollars (iOS, Android)
- MyPoints (iOS, Android)
- KashKick (iOS, Android)
- Mistplay (Android)
- Gamehag (iOS, Android)
3. Share Your Opinions
If you enjoy listening to new music, websites like Slicethepie allow you to get paid for sharing your thoughts. You don’t need any prior experience—just an internet connection and a computer. The better your reviews, the more money you can earn.
4. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is another great option for teens who enjoy writing. There’s always a demand for content on websites, blogs, and more. You can sign up on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork and start offering your writing services. As you build your portfolio and reputation, you can increase your rates.
5. Proofreading
If you have good grammar and spelling skills, proofreading is a fantastic way to make money from home. You’ll be correcting mistakes in articles, books, or essays. All you need is a good eye for detail and the ability to spot errors. Once you’re confident in your skills, start searching for work on job boards or freelance websites.
6. Sell Handmade Crafts
Are you crafty? Selling your handmade creations is a fun way to turn your creativity into income. Whether it’s jewelry, paintings, soap, or candles, you can easily set up an online shop on Etsy or even your own website. Start by gathering supplies, making your products, and showcasing them online.
7. Virtual Assistant
Being a virtual assistant is another online job that can help you make money. Virtual assistants help businesses with tasks like answering emails, managing social media, and keeping everything organized. If you’re good at staying organized and have good communication skills, this might be the perfect job for you. You can find virtual assistant jobs on freelancing platforms or job boards.
8. Tutoring
Tutoring is always in demand, and it’s something you can do online! Whether it’s math, science, or English, you can set your own rates and schedule. Advertise your tutoring services online, or reach out to friends and family. Be patient, and make learning fun to keep your students engaged.
9. Start a Blog
Blogging is a great way to share your passions and potentially make money. You can make money through ads, affiliate marketing, or even by selling your own products. The key to success is creating high-quality, engaging content and building a loyal following.
10. Launch a YouTube Channel
If you enjoy creating videos, starting a YouTube channel is a fun way to earn money. Pick a topic you love, create content, and promote it on social media. Once you have a following, you can monetize your videos through ads, sponsorships, or product placements.
11. Sell Custom Merchandise
If you’re into designing, platforms like CafePress let you create custom T-shirts, mugs, and phone cases to sell online. You can set up your shop for free and start making money by selling your designs.
12. Graphic Designing
If you’re artistic and enjoy designing, graphic design is a great freelance job. You can work for companies or individuals, or sell digital products like fonts and templates. Start by building a portfolio, showcasing your work, and applying for jobs on freelancing platforms.
13. Get Paid to Walk
Believe it or not, there are apps like Sweatcoin that pay you to walk. Just download the app, hit your daily step goal, and earn points that you can redeem for gift cards or cash.
14. Twitch Streaming
If you’re a gamer, you can make money by streaming on Twitch. Create a channel, play games, and interact with viewers. You can earn money through ads, donations, and sponsorships. Make sure your stream has great quality and engage with your audience to grow your following.
15. Data Entry
Data entry jobs are great for teens who are comfortable typing. The job usually involves entering data like names, phone numbers, and addresses into a system. It’s an easy job to get started with—just make sure you type accurately and meet deadlines.
16. Social Media Manager
If you’re already a pro at social media, why not turn it into a job? As a social media manager, you’ll help businesses manage their online presence. This involves creating content, writing posts, and responding to comments. Start by building your own social media following and showcase your work to attract clients.
17. Pet Sitting
If you love animals, pet sitting can be a fun way to make money. Apps like Rover connect pet owners with sitters. You can look after pets, walk them, and even stay with them while their owners are away.
As a teenager, there are endless online opportunities to make money. Whether you enjoy gaming, writing, or creating art, there’s something for everyone. So, pick what you’re passionate about and get started—your future self will thank you!
FAQs for Teenagers Looking to Make Money Online
1. What are the best ways for teenagers to make money online?
There are many ways for teenagers to make money online, including:
- Freelance work: Offer skills such as writing, graphic design, or social media management.
- Gaming: Stream on platforms like Twitch or YouTube, or participate in gaming competitions.
- Selling products or art: Create and sell custom designs, crafts, or digital art on platforms like Etsy or Redbubble.
- Survey sites: Participate in online surveys or sign up for paid market research.
- Tutoring: If you excel in a subject, consider tutoring younger students online.
2. Do I need to be a certain age to start making money online?
While many platforms require you to be at least 18, there are still plenty of opportunities for younger teens. Some websites allow teens as young as 13, but you’ll need parental consent for many accounts.
3. How can I avoid scams while trying to make money online?
To stay safe, always research any site or job before committing. Look for reviews, check whether the website has a secure payment method, and avoid jobs that require you to pay upfront fees. Legitimate work should always pay you after you complete the task.
4. Can I really make a significant amount of money as a teenager online?
Yes, it’s possible to make good money, but it requires dedication, skill, and time. Building a following on platforms like YouTube or Twitch can lead to substantial earnings, but it often takes consistency and patience to start seeing real income.
5. How do I get paid for my work online?
Most platforms pay through PayPal, direct deposit, or gift cards. Make sure to choose a payment method that works best for you and that is accepted by the platform you’re working with.
6. Do I need any special skills to make money online?
It depends on what you choose to do! If you’re interested in freelance writing or design, you may need some skills in those areas. However, if you’re into gaming or selling products online, you might just need your creativity and time.
7. How do I balance making money online with school and other responsibilities?
The key is time management! Make a schedule that fits your schoolwork and other activities. Start small with online work and gradually increase your workload as you become more comfortable.
Conclusion
The online world offers countless ways for teenagers to make money, whether you’re into gaming, creative arts, or freelancing. The most important part is finding something you’re passionate about and dedicating time to improving your skills. With a little patience, persistence, and smart decision-making, you’ll be on your way to earning money online in no time. Just be sure to stay safe, stay informed, and have fun with it—your future self will definitely thank you!
