If you’re 13 and looking for a job, the best options are informal, flexible, and low-risk roles that don’t conflict with child labor laws. In the US and UK, most formal employment is off-limits until age 14 or 16, but you can legally earn money through babysitting, pet sitting, dog walking, lawn mowing, snow shoveling, newspaper delivery, helping with farm work, or tutoring younger kids. Some local businesses may hire 13-year-olds for light tasks like cleaning, stocking shelves, or running errands, but only with a parent’s permission and limited hours.
I’ve seen many teens start with these jobs and build valuable skills like time management, customer service, and responsibility. The key is to check your local labor laws—in the US, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) restricts hours and prohibits hazardous work for anyone under 16. For example, you can work up to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours per week during the school year, but only outside school hours.
Here’s a quick overview of common jobs for 13-year-olds and typical pay ranges:
| Job Type | Typical Pay (per hour) | Notes |
|---|
| Babysitting | $10–$20 | Often paid per child; requires some experience |
| Dog walking / Pet sitting | $10–$15 | Great for active kids |
| Lawn mowing / Yard work | $15–$25 | Includes equipment; ask for help with heavy tools |
| Snow shoveling | $15–$30 | Seasonal, depends on snowfall |
| Newspaper delivery | $8–$15 | Usually early morning routes |
| Tutoring (younger kids) | $10–$20 | Need good grades in a subject |
| Farm work (light chores) | $10–$15 | Often allowed with family or neighbor farms |
The most important thing is to talk to your parents first and let them help you find safe, age-appropriate opportunities. Many teens also succeed by creating their own jobs—posting flyers for pet care or helping elderly neighbors with small tasks.
