3 answers
Bella
Student
Whitefish, Montana
1
Question
Asked
2757 views
Hi, I am looking for jobs as a 14 year old and I can't seem to find any and I don't have a phone. Can I get some advice?
I am just looking for some extra cash to have on hand for when I go into high school and for a phone. Please give advicei need some please.
3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Bella, first off, I love your drive! Wanting to earn your own cash at 14 is a solid move, and trust me, that kind of hustle will serve you well in life.
Doc Frick already laid out some fantastic job ideas, and he’s spot on about checking your state’s labor laws first. Some places make it easier for younger teens to work, while others have stricter rules. But don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to make money even if traditional jobs seem out of reach.
If you don’t have a phone yet, that just means you’ll need to get creative with communication. A simple way around this is using email, a home phone, or even asking a parent or trusted adult if you can use theirs for job-related stuff.
Here’s the game plan:
1. Start with your neighborhood. Diana’s suggestion about cleaning bins is genius! Add in washing cars, mowing lawns, shoveling snow (if that applies), or even helping people set up holiday decorations. These are things that people want to do but don’t always have time for.
2. Babysitting or pet sitting. If you like kids or animals, this is a great way to make steady money. Spread the word with neighbors, friends, or family. Even if you start small, word-of-mouth can turn this into a real side hustle.
3. Tutoring or helping with homework. If you’re good at math, writing, or any subject, parents would love to pay someone to help their younger kids. You don’t need a fancy setup—just a good grasp of the subject and a way to explain things.
4. Online jobs (with supervision). Some websites allow younger teens to do small tasks, surveys, or even sell digital art if you’re into that. Just make sure you check with an adult before signing up for anything online.
5. Retail and fast food (in some states). If local laws allow it, places like grocery stores, movie theaters, and fast food spots sometimes hire at 14. They won’t have you on a register, but you might be bagging groceries, cleaning, or helping out in simple ways.
The key to getting started? Ask around. A lot of opportunities don’t come from job postings—they come from someone saying, “Hey, I know a responsible kid who could help with that.”
Doc Frick was right about one more thing—getting to the job is a challenge at 14. If it’s not within walking or biking distance, see if a family member can give you a ride or if you can carpool with a friend.
Buddy the fact that you’re thinking about this now means you’re already ahead of the game. Keep that hustle up, and you’ll have that phone (and a lot more) before you know it!
Selling your own handmade goodies or services! If you're into arts, crafts, or even baking, you could start a little business right from home. Think friendship bracelets, custom keychains, or even homemade cookies. People love supporting young entrepreneurs, especially if you're selling to neighbors or friends at school. Even better? You can walk door-to-door (only to people you or your family know) or ask your parents to post your little business on Facebook or neighborhood apps like Nextdoor. Imagine making cute little "Bella's Treats" or "Handmade by Bella" labels on each item — that's a whole boss move right there. Start small, stay safe, and let your creativity do the talking. Who knows? This could be the start of something bigger than just extra cash for a phone.
A lot of parents would love someone patient and friendly to help their little ones with math, reading, or even organizing their schoolwork. You don't need to be a top student — just someone who can guide them and make learning fun. You could even call it "Bella the Brain Booster" — sounds kinda cool, uhum, just go with what you think is cooler! 😏The best part? You can set your own schedule, charge a little fee per hour, and build your own mini business from scratch. Plus, you're helping others while earning that phone money. If you're good with Google Docs or Canva, you could even make cute flyers and ask neighbors or family friends to spread the word.
"House Plant Babysitter" 🌿? A lot of people travel or get busy and need someone to water their plants, especially those plant lovers who treat their little green babies like family. You can offer to water plants, dust leaves, or even repot small plants — and trust me, people would pay for that! It's an easy gig, doesn't need any fancy skills, and you can even name your little business something fun or so. Bella, You could start by asking family, friends, or neighbors — and who knows, maybe you'll become the go-to plant whisperer in your town!
If you have a bike or even just your good ol' two feet, you can offer to pick up snacks, drinks, or small groceries for neighbors or friends who are too busy (or lazy) to run to the store. You can charge a small delivery fee — and boom, you're making cash while getting some fresh air! You can even get creative with a little handwritten menu of what you're willing to deliver. Oh, right if you got no phone don't worry, Just leave cute little flyers with your name, service, and how people can find you through your family or neighbors. Believe me it works!
One fresh idea to start earning cash is flipping thrift store finds. You can check out local thrift shops or yard sales for clothes, books, or small gadgets, then sell them online through platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. It's a fun little treasure hunt, and with a good eye, you can make some decent money while learning a bit about business and pricing. Plus, no phone needed — you can use a computer or ask a family member to help set things up!
Doc Frick already laid out some fantastic job ideas, and he’s spot on about checking your state’s labor laws first. Some places make it easier for younger teens to work, while others have stricter rules. But don’t worry—there are still plenty of ways to make money even if traditional jobs seem out of reach.
If you don’t have a phone yet, that just means you’ll need to get creative with communication. A simple way around this is using email, a home phone, or even asking a parent or trusted adult if you can use theirs for job-related stuff.
Here’s the game plan:
1. Start with your neighborhood. Diana’s suggestion about cleaning bins is genius! Add in washing cars, mowing lawns, shoveling snow (if that applies), or even helping people set up holiday decorations. These are things that people want to do but don’t always have time for.
2. Babysitting or pet sitting. If you like kids or animals, this is a great way to make steady money. Spread the word with neighbors, friends, or family. Even if you start small, word-of-mouth can turn this into a real side hustle.
3. Tutoring or helping with homework. If you’re good at math, writing, or any subject, parents would love to pay someone to help their younger kids. You don’t need a fancy setup—just a good grasp of the subject and a way to explain things.
4. Online jobs (with supervision). Some websites allow younger teens to do small tasks, surveys, or even sell digital art if you’re into that. Just make sure you check with an adult before signing up for anything online.
5. Retail and fast food (in some states). If local laws allow it, places like grocery stores, movie theaters, and fast food spots sometimes hire at 14. They won’t have you on a register, but you might be bagging groceries, cleaning, or helping out in simple ways.
The key to getting started? Ask around. A lot of opportunities don’t come from job postings—they come from someone saying, “Hey, I know a responsible kid who could help with that.”
Doc Frick was right about one more thing—getting to the job is a challenge at 14. If it’s not within walking or biking distance, see if a family member can give you a ride or if you can carpool with a friend.
Buddy the fact that you’re thinking about this now means you’re already ahead of the game. Keep that hustle up, and you’ll have that phone (and a lot more) before you know it!
Dr recommends the following next steps:
I never even thought about being a house plant babysitter 🌿 — that's genius! Thank you for reminding me that even small hustles can bloom into something bigger. Your words made me feel like I can truly make this happen.
Sama
Aw, thank you 💪! I'm so happy my little plant babysitter idea rooted something in you! Your dreams are definitely blooming, Sama — one small hustle at a time. You've got this stya awesome!
Dr H
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
HOW TO GET A JOB AT 14
Bella, according to the guidelines from the US Department of Labor and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the rules for employment can vary depending on the age of the minor and the nature of the particular job. However, the FLSA sets the minimum age that a minor can work at 14 and also limits the number of hours worked under the age of 16. That said, if you wanted to work for McDonald’s, for example, the first thing you would need to do as a 14 year old is check with the laws regarding working at 14 in your state. For example, in California a work permit is needed if you want to work and you’re under 18 and have not yet graduated high school.
🍔 FAST FOOD WORKER
Unlike working at a more formal or fancy restaurant, another great option for first jobs for 14-year-olds is working at places like McDonald’s or Chick-fil-A. While you can’t earn tips at fast food places, you can often get other great perks. McDonald’s, for example, offers a talent and benefits program that provides assistance with earning a high school and/or college diploma.
🛟 LIFEGUARD
Although most organizations and companies require you to be at least 15 years old, you can start the process of getting CPR-certified and trained when you are 14. If you are someone who is super athletic and a great swimmer and you want to be outdoors, this could be the perfect job for you!
📚 TUTOR
Do you excel in subjects like writing or math? There are some companies out there who hire 14 year old tutors. Or, if you are feeling a little entrepreneurial, you can hire yourself out as a tutor and charge whatever you like! However, it’s important to keep in mind you need to charge what is reflective of your experience and skills. For example, if you have no prior tutoring experience, charging something like $15 per hour is reasonable.
🐶 PET SITTER
This is one of my top first jobs for 14-year-olds because you don’t need a work permit and there is no regulation in terms of when and how many hours you can work. Babysitting was one of my first jobs as a 14 year old. It was perfect. I learned so many valuable skills in that first job like responsibility, work ethic, flexibility, and communications skills like listening and empathy.
🚩GOLF CADDY
If you live in an area with good weather year-round and are looking for places that hire at 14, heading to a local golf course and securing a position as a golf caddy could be an excellent option. The work is a bit physical but isn’t overly difficult. You’ll simply help golfers by carrying clubs and assisting with other simple tasks and is a great summer job option.
📽️ MOVIE THEATRE WORKER
If I could do my teens over again, I’d definitely work at a movie theatre. I don’t know, there’s just something about being at the movies that’s cool. Not to mention you probably get perks like discounted movies, popcorn, and snacks.
🍎 GROCERY STORE BAGGER
While bagging groceries might not seem like the most exciting job, there are many grocery companies who offer tuition reimbursement for both part-time and full-time employees. This type of job, like retail, can lead to a career opportunity later on. For students who want to go into business and management, this is an excellent option in terms of first jobs for 14-year-olds.
⚽ UMPIRE/REFEREE
What you’d do: If you’re interested in refereeing, becoming a junior umpire for recreation and town leagues can be a great entry point. As an umpire, you’ll be officiating sports like baseball or soccer. Knowledge of the rules of the game is essential. You must also be in good shape to keep up with the players.
Ultimately, all of the options above are some of the best jobs for 14-year-olds. They are usually reasonably available and come with decent pay rates, making them great positions for teens looking to take their first steps into the workforce. Now all you gotta do is figure how your going to there without a drivers licence.
Bella, according to the guidelines from the US Department of Labor and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the rules for employment can vary depending on the age of the minor and the nature of the particular job. However, the FLSA sets the minimum age that a minor can work at 14 and also limits the number of hours worked under the age of 16. That said, if you wanted to work for McDonald’s, for example, the first thing you would need to do as a 14 year old is check with the laws regarding working at 14 in your state. For example, in California a work permit is needed if you want to work and you’re under 18 and have not yet graduated high school.
🍔 FAST FOOD WORKER
Unlike working at a more formal or fancy restaurant, another great option for first jobs for 14-year-olds is working at places like McDonald’s or Chick-fil-A. While you can’t earn tips at fast food places, you can often get other great perks. McDonald’s, for example, offers a talent and benefits program that provides assistance with earning a high school and/or college diploma.
🛟 LIFEGUARD
Although most organizations and companies require you to be at least 15 years old, you can start the process of getting CPR-certified and trained when you are 14. If you are someone who is super athletic and a great swimmer and you want to be outdoors, this could be the perfect job for you!
📚 TUTOR
Do you excel in subjects like writing or math? There are some companies out there who hire 14 year old tutors. Or, if you are feeling a little entrepreneurial, you can hire yourself out as a tutor and charge whatever you like! However, it’s important to keep in mind you need to charge what is reflective of your experience and skills. For example, if you have no prior tutoring experience, charging something like $15 per hour is reasonable.
🐶 PET SITTER
This is one of my top first jobs for 14-year-olds because you don’t need a work permit and there is no regulation in terms of when and how many hours you can work. Babysitting was one of my first jobs as a 14 year old. It was perfect. I learned so many valuable skills in that first job like responsibility, work ethic, flexibility, and communications skills like listening and empathy.
🚩GOLF CADDY
If you live in an area with good weather year-round and are looking for places that hire at 14, heading to a local golf course and securing a position as a golf caddy could be an excellent option. The work is a bit physical but isn’t overly difficult. You’ll simply help golfers by carrying clubs and assisting with other simple tasks and is a great summer job option.
📽️ MOVIE THEATRE WORKER
If I could do my teens over again, I’d definitely work at a movie theatre. I don’t know, there’s just something about being at the movies that’s cool. Not to mention you probably get perks like discounted movies, popcorn, and snacks.
🍎 GROCERY STORE BAGGER
While bagging groceries might not seem like the most exciting job, there are many grocery companies who offer tuition reimbursement for both part-time and full-time employees. This type of job, like retail, can lead to a career opportunity later on. For students who want to go into business and management, this is an excellent option in terms of first jobs for 14-year-olds.
⚽ UMPIRE/REFEREE
What you’d do: If you’re interested in refereeing, becoming a junior umpire for recreation and town leagues can be a great entry point. As an umpire, you’ll be officiating sports like baseball or soccer. Knowledge of the rules of the game is essential. You must also be in good shape to keep up with the players.
Ultimately, all of the options above are some of the best jobs for 14-year-olds. They are usually reasonably available and come with decent pay rates, making them great positions for teens looking to take their first steps into the workforce. Now all you gotta do is figure how your going to there without a drivers licence.
The movie theater suggestion lowkey made me want to grab some popcorn right now. ☺️Thank you for taking the time for your guidance and your encouragement means a lot!
Sama
Diana V. MS, CRC, LPCC
16
Answers
Updated
Diana V.’s Answer
Good for you and your work ethic!
My neighbor who is 14 asked the neighbors if he can wash out our garage bins after the garage man comes once a week. He uses our hose, has a broom, and uses dish soap. Obviously he only goes to the houses/ neighbors he knows .
Genius ! Sometimes he even gets a car or two to wash.
I did babysitting for neighbors when I was 14.
The suggestions Doc gives are great too.
Best of luck
My neighbor who is 14 asked the neighbors if he can wash out our garage bins after the garage man comes once a week. He uses our hose, has a broom, and uses dish soap. Obviously he only goes to the houses/ neighbors he knows .
Genius ! Sometimes he even gets a car or two to wash.
I did babysitting for neighbors when I was 14.
The suggestions Doc gives are great too.
Best of luck
Thanks for your encouragement!
Sama
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