There are several safe and creative ways for a 12-year-old to make money online, often with parental assistance or supervision due to platform age restrictions and safety considerations[5].
- Take Surveys or Watch Ads: Some survey and rewards sites like Swagbucks and MyPoints accept users 13 and older with parental consent. These sites pay for watching ads, completing offers, or taking surveys, which can be a simple way to earn small amounts of spending money online[1].
- Sell Photos Online: Photography platforms like Foap allow young teens (with parent consent) to make money by uploading pictures. When brands or businesses use the photos, you get a share of the earnings[1][2].
- Review Music or Products: SliceThePie pays users aged 13 and up to review music and products. The more detailed and helpful your reviews, the more you can earn as your reputation grows[2].
- Create and Sell Art or Designs: Sites like Redbubble let you upload digital art, photography, or designs that get printed on items like stickers and t-shirts—when someone buys one, you earn a commission. These platforms require parental oversight to register account for minors[6].
- Blogging: Starting a blog (with parental help) allows a 12-year-old to build an audience and earn from ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored posts as the blog grows. Platforms like WordPress are free and relatively easy to use[2].
- Sell Old Belongings or Collectibles: With a parent’s help, selling unused toys, books, or collectibles on marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist is possible. The parent must create and oversee the account, which teaches valuable online selling skills[5].
- Monetize Social Media: If you enjoy making videos or sharing creative content and have a parent’s permission, consider building a presence on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram, which all require users to be at least 13 years old. Over time, you could qualify for ad revenue, brand deals, or sponsorships[3].
- Digital Services: If you have special skills (art, writing, video editing), you can offer gigs on platforms such as Fiverr or Upwork. Again, parental assistance is required due to account age minimums and the need for adult oversight[2].
Even though some platforms officially require users to be 13 or older, many ways to make money online as a 12-year-old are possible with adult help and supervision. Always check age requirements, and discuss plans with a parent or guardian for both legal and safety reasons.