The little arrow on your gas tank is pointed at E. Tomorrow is the deadline to purchase the yearbook for $60 before the price goes up. You’re going out tonight to Olive Garden with your friends after the football game. The thing is, you spent your last two dollars at the game and are hoping you can somehow freeload off of them. Fortunately, we have a ladder to help you get out of rock bottom.

According to a survey by Piper Sandler, U.S. teens report about $2,316 in annual discretionary spending. On average, expect a teen who also drives to need somewhere around $800–$1,300 per year just for gas, food, and outings. That’s roughly $70–$110 per month. If they don’t drive, maybe $400–$800 per year. So on average, teens budget around $50–$100 a month. Some teens who work claim to spend $50–$100 a week. You probably want to be part of the latter.

Getting a Job

The simplest and easiest way to make money nowadays is by getting a job. The most obvious option is working at a fast-food chain somewhere in Urbana or in your local area. Working at fast food isn’t for everyone, though, so take a look at all the little shops, restaurants, and franchises in Urbana—spoiler alert: there are a lot! It doesn’t hurt to call and ask if there are any openings or internship opportunities. Another place to check is your local mall. For Urbana, it’s Francis Scott Key Mall. Ask around in the shops you like for an application, and chances are they will hand you one. If none of these options work for you, then contact a family member or family friend and offer tutoring or cleaning services in exchange for money.

Business

Starting a business as a teen can be a smart and empowering move that helps build confidence, creativity, and financial awareness. It teaches life skills like budgeting, communication, and problem-solving—all in a fun way to turn your interests into money. Teens naturally know how to work technology and are in touch with trends, which is helpful for marketing. Running a business also helps develop leadership and independence skills, setting you apart from other college applicants. Financially, starting a business is a money-smart idea because it helps you learn how to save, invest, and manage your money. In the long run, starting a business as a teen opens doors to not just personal growth but also financial freedom and long-term success.

Bitcoin and Stocks

The main source of income for teens nowadays is through Bitcoin and stocks. Many teens turn to these investments to make money instead of working in stores, restaurants, or similar places. Additionally, teens are often influenced by family members or other successful people in their families to make money through digital trading and market investments. It could be a job that parents encourage their kids to do in order to earn money at a young age and continue to invest, making more money over time. These financial tools are also used by many adults who have become very successful over time. However, with investing, it isn’t just about gaining money; it’s also about putting funds into opportunities that can potentially double your money. That said, there is also the possibility of losing money if the stock market you’re investing in goes down. Most teens are aware of how the market works and have gained experience with cryptocurrency and trading platforms. This is how some teens earn their own income at a young age without working in stores or restaurants. Now, it’s as simple as using some cash online to invest in financial markets. It doesn’t matter if you’re making twelve dollars an hour or forty dollars an hour—we all start somewhere. By making some sort of money, you can only go up. Good luck out there, Urbana!