How to earn money for 16s and under

Want to earn some extra cash? Great! If you're aged 13 to 16 in the UK, you can legally do part-time work – so long as it’s safe, local, and follows the rules. In fact, earning your own money can be seriously helpful, and not just for your finances. It builds confidence, helps you learn new skills and might even help you figure out what you want to do for a living one day.

Financial journalist, Iona Bain, has some top tips that could help you bolster your bank account with some extra funds to spend (or save!).

Jobs for 16 year olds and under

1. Paper round or leaflet delivery

A classic starter job. You can earn money by delivering newspapers or flyers locally, usually before school or on weekends. Expect around £10–£25 a week depending on your round. It builds timekeeping, independence, and fitness: plus, it’s a good way to start handling your own money. You’ll need a bag or trolley, maybe a bike, and some warm clothes in winter. Stick to safe routes and let someone know where you’re going. Make sure your employer follows local council rules and has a permit, and that your parents/legal guardian give the go-ahead. Bonus: fresh air and steps before breakfast.

2. Dog walking or pet sitting

Love animals? Then this one’s for you! You can offer to walk dogs in the local area or help neighbours with pets when they’re out. You could get paid £5–£10 per job. It teaches trust, planning, and time management – and can lead to regular gigs if you’re reliable. Always meet the pet first with an adult around and stick to friendly animals you can manage safely. It's up to the pet owner to decide whether to use you without insurance, which is only available if you're over 16, and they may decide it's too risky. They might feel more comfortable if the pet is healthy, well-trained, low maintenance and you're only looking after it for short periods or walking it very near the owner's home. Don’t forget to ask parents/your legal guardian before taking on any job and always be clear on the owner's rules. It’s a win-win: you get paid, the dog gets exercise, and everyone’s happy.

3. Babysitting

Babysitting can be a great way to earn money if you're mature, reliable and like spending time with children. Many teens start around 14, usually by helping family friends for a couple of hours in the evening or on weekends. It can pay £5 - £10 an hour, depending on age, experience, and how long you're needed. Always get your parents' or legal guardian’s permission, and make sure you're confident handling basic tasks like mealtimes, games and bedtime. You don’t need formal training, but a babysitting or first aid course can help build trust with parents. The parents must be 100% certain that you're mature enough as they take full legal responsibility for anything that might happen, and you shouldn't look after children under the age of 6. The parents should make sure a neighbour or trusted friend is on standby in case of an emergency. Tip: start with people you already know.

4. Gardening, car washing or odd jobs

If you're handy, helpful and up for getting a bit mucky, this is a great way to earn. Many neighbours would happily pay a local teen to mow the lawn, water plants, wash the car or help with simple tasks like organising sheds or sweeping leaves. It’s physical, satisfying and gives you a sense of achievement. You set your own rates (maybe £5–£10 per job) and can work around school hours. Keep it safe: no sharp tools, ladders or anything too heavy. Wear gloves, stay visible, and always let your parents/legal guardian know where you’re working.

5. Saving your earnings

Once you’ve earned some cash, the smartest move is to save and grow it. Open a child savings account with the help of a parent or legal guardian. This will allow you to earn interest, which is offered as a percentage of whatever you save and is a nice reward. You could also explore Junior ISAs with your family for long-term growth. Avoid spending all your money or lending to mates, and never give cash to strangers online promising to make you rich. If you can learn to budget, save and control your spending, you can really make your cash count.

What about online jobs?

Teens under 16 in the UK can earn money online, but only with adult help. Most platforms (like YouTube, Etsy and PayPal) have age restrictions, and under-16s can’t legally sign contracts or run businesses alone. You’ll need a parent or guardian to set up accounts, receive payments and manage any earnings. Safe options include selling crafts with an adult on online craft marketplaces, creating content with supervision, or doing small jobs for family and friends. Avoid anything involving gambling, crypto, or pretending to be older. With the right support, online earning can be fun and educational – but it must stick to the law.

The rules for working whilst in school

The key is to work in a steady, safe way that fits in with school and life. There are also a few rules you’ll need to follow.

You can’t start before 7am or finish after 7pm, and there’s a cap on how many hours you can work each day (e.g. 2 hours on school days, more at weekends and holidays). Some jobs need a work permit from your local council, and you must always ask your parents or legal guardian for permission, as well as tell them where and when you’re working.

The job mustn’t interfere with school, and you can’t do anything unsafe, too heavy, or that adults are paid to do in dangerous conditions.

If you stick to the rules, working will help you grow up more prepared, build money skills and figure out what you want in life.

If you need support

You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.

If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are more links to helpful organisations on the BBC Bitesize Action Line page for young people.