How Old Do You
Have to be to Work?

Kids and parents alike often wonder "How old do you have to be to work?" And are there different rules for when you are working for someone else instead of just working for yourself?

Good questions! Let's answer the second question first - because it may mean that you don't need to answer the age question.

How old do you have to be to work for yourself?

If you are self-employed, there is no minimum age at which you can start working. That's the good news. And it means that you are free to try your hand at any number of jobs that you might enjoy without having to live with a schedule set by an employer.

It also means that you may be subject to a number of other federal or local laws that govern doing business. These can range from needing a business license or getting approval from the homeowners' association to needing to file a federal tax return with self-employment income (if over $400) and pay the related taxes.

That seems like a lot to handle for a preteen or teen entrepreneur, doesn't it? It doesn't need to be. The easiest way to approach it is by starting with this checklist and then doing a little research online. Nearly every government area, local or federal, has a website with the information you need.

Plus, it's good experience for your business (and life) to deal with adults in this way. If it really is a little overwhelming, have your parents sit in on the call or go with you to city hall. Not only does this give you a little added confidence and support, it can also help the folks there know that you are serious and have your family's backing.

How old do you have to be to work for someone else?

The good news here is that if you meet the age requirements, you really just have to find a job, go to work and do a great job. The not-so-good news is that the age requirements under federal law don't work in favor of younger teens. Of course, the law is designed to protect against the child labor practices from decades ago, and are really reasonable in that light.

The detail guidelines can be found at the Department of Labor's website, www.dol.gov

• The minimum age to work is 14.
• Teens ages 14 and 15 are limited to working:
  • non-school hours
  • 3 hours per school day and 18 hours in a school week
  • 8 hours per non-school day and 40 hours in a non-school week
  • between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. except from June 1 to Labor Day when hours are extended to 9 p.m.
• Kids of any age can deliver newspapers; perform in TV, radio or stage work; work in businesses owned by their parents (except in mining, manufacturing or hazardous jobs); or perform babysitting or other minor jobs around the house.

Once you reach age 16, these limitations go away on the federal level. But until then it can be hard to get hired unless you are lifeguarding at your local pool. Also, there may be state labor laws that have further limitations - even after you reach age 16. Employers in your area will likely know these laws and hire accordingly.

In addition to the legalese above, the question of "How old do you have to be to work?" needs to be answered for you and your parents. How does it fit into your family life? Do you need to show a certain amount of responsibility around the house before you can go out on your own? How will you manage other activities and schoolwork?

And it helps to answer these questions before you begin a job search - and as part of your decision on whether to work for yourself or someone else.