The internet has leveled the playing field for earning money, making opportunities available to everyone, regardless of age. Whether you're a tech-savvy teenager or a retired individual looking for an extra income stream, there's a way for you to succeed online.
This guide will provide you with practical, step-by-step advice to start making money online, tailored to different age groups. Along the way, I’ll share examples and direct you to helpful resources to kickstart your journey.
For a dynamic and engaging visual guide, check out our Profit Quests YouTube channel for more actionable tips and strategies.
Making Money Online for Ages 13 and Under
You might think making money online is an impossible task for someone so young. But with a little creativity and the right tools, it's actually quite achievable. Here's how you can start earning money even if you're under 13.
Testing Apps and Games
Many app developers are eager to hear from young users about how their apps work. Platforms like UserTesting or PlaytestCloud allow younger users, with parental consent, to test kid-friendly apps and games. After testing, you'll share feedback on what you enjoyed or found challenging.
For example, a 12-year-old might test a new adventure game on PlaytestCloud. By spending 30 minutes exploring the game and submitting their opinions, they could earn around $10 per session. Over time, this adds up and could fund hobbies or personal projects.
Selling Digital Art on Redbubble
If you’re artistic, platforms like Redbubble are fantastic. Here, you can upload your artwork, which can be printed on items like t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags. Whenever someone buys your design, you earn a commission.
Imagine a teenager uploading their hand-drawn illustrations of cute animals to Redbubble. A popular design could sell dozens of times, earning $2–$5 per item. This way, a young artist could easily make $50–$100 weekly without ever handling shipping or inventory.
Earning Opportunities for Ages 14–17
Teenagers have a bit more freedom and can experiment with a wider range of online earning methods. Here's where their entrepreneurial spirit can shine.
Building an Online Presence
Social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram are treasure troves for teens who want to build a following. You don’t need to be on camera if you’re shy—many successful creators run niche “theme pages.”
For instance, a 15-year-old passionate about gaming might create a TikTok channel dedicated to sharing tips and tricks for popular games like Fortnite or Roblox. By growing their follower count and partnering with brands, they could earn $200–$500 weekly through sponsorships and ads.
Start by creating content around topics you genuinely enjoy. Use tools like Canva for designing eye-catching graphics or CapCut for editing short videos. Over time, these skills will not only earn you money but also provide valuable experience in digital marketing.
Selling Crafts on Etsy
Creative teens can capitalize on their hobbies by selling handmade goods or digital downloads on Etsy. Whether you’re skilled at making jewelry, painting, or designing printables, there’s a market for your creations.
For example, a 16-year-old who loves crafting might create personalized bracelets. By pricing each item at $15 and selling 20 pieces weekly, they could generate $300—far more than a typical part-time job would offer.
Explore your interests and experiment with products to discover what resonates with buyers. Use social media to promote your shop and maximize visibility.
Making Money Online as an Adult
Once you're 18 or older, the online world opens up even more opportunities. Whether you're looking for a side hustle or a full-time income, the possibilities are vast.
Freelancing
Freelancing platforms like Fiverr and Upwork allow you to monetize a wide range of skills, including graphic design, writing, video editing, and coding.
Consider this example: A college student fluent in Spanish might offer translation services on Fiverr. Charging $25 per 500 words, they could earn $125 by completing five small projects in a week.
If you’re unsure about what service to offer, explore popular categories on these platforms and learn a high-demand skill using free courses on YouTube or affordable options on Udemy.
Print-on-Demand
Print-on-demand platforms like Printful and Teespring are ideal for those who love creating designs. Similar to Redbubble, these platforms handle printing and shipping.
For instance, a retiree who enjoys creating motivational quotes could design t-shirts with uplifting messages. By sharing their store link on Facebook groups, they might sell 20 shirts a week, earning $200 in profits.
Scaling to $895/Week: A Practical Strategy
Achieving a consistent $895 weekly income online might seem ambitious, but it’s absolutely possible with the right approach. Here’s a scenario:
1. Teen Entrepreneur Example: A 17-year-old sells custom stickers on Etsy, earning $300 weekly. They also create a YouTube channel to document their journey, earning another $200 in ad revenue and sponsorships.
2. Adult Freelancer Example: A freelance writer lands two recurring clients on Upwork, each paying $350 weekly for content creation.
The key to success is diversifying your income streams and dedicating consistent effort to growing them. Start small, refine your skills, and scale up over time.
Final Thoughts
The internet offers endless possibilities for earning money, no matter your age or background. Whether you’re testing apps as a preteen, building an Etsy shop as a teenager, or freelancing as an adult, there’s a path for you.
Don’t wait to start. Explore your interests, experiment with platforms, and take action today.
You can do this. Your first $895 online might be closer than you think!