How Old Do You
Have to be to Work?

Kids and parents alike often wonder "How old do you have to be to work?" How can kids make money if they aren't old enough? Are there different rules for when you are working for someone else instead of just working for yourself? What about jobs for teens?

It may also mean that you to think about federal or local laws that could apply to your business. These can range from needing a business license or getting approval from the homeowners' association to filing a federal tax return with self-employment income (if over $400) and paying 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 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 help you with the phone calls or go to city hall with you. 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 approval.

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, so most jobs for teens are for kids who are 16 or older. The law is designed to protect against the child labor practices from decades ago and has limits on age as well as hours.

The detail guidelines can be found at the Department of Labor's website, www.dol.gov by searching "child labor." But here are the basics:

• 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. 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 for any jobs for teens that they have.

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?

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.