When I first joined the Wasabi Media Group team, I needed money rather badly to buy stuff, for a decent amount of spending money for a YMCA trip I am doing summer, and other usual teen money needs. Since I have began working a steady job, I have gained plenty of money. I think jobs are good for teens, but for young teens, finding a job you legally can work at is hard.
In New Hampshire (where I live), the law basically says that if you are under the age of fourteen, you cannot get a job and if you are under the age of sixteen, you need to get a New Hampshire Youth Employment Certificate, within 3 business days of the first day of employment, from the Superintendent of Schools, Guidance Department, or Principal’s Office in the city or town where you attend school. You may be denied if you have bad grades or a record of trouble. NH law also says 16 or 17 years olds shall be employed by an employer if the employer maintains on file a signed written document from the youth’s parent or legal guardian permitting the youth’s employment. There are some exceptions to the rule, though. For example, I work for Wasabi Media Group, but I’m only thirteen. That is because Wasabi Media Group is a my parents’ business.
Here are some tips on jobs for under working age teens. If your parents have a business, see if you you can work there. If not, there is the old teen stand-by: babysitting. Personally, I babysit and write. If none of these work, try carving out some type of niche work. Generally, competing with stores and/or chains of stores is hard, and you are almost guaranteed to lose. Try something like baking or art. Also, volunteering will get you known, so when you become of working age, more people will hire you.
So, if you are a money strapped teen, try to get a job!