Ask Your Family

• Sometimes you don't need to look any farther than your own backyard to pocket some extra dough. Ask Mom and Dad if there are any big jobs around the house they've been itching to get done. Cleaning out the garage or the basement is time-consuming, and your parents may be willing to pay you to take the job off their hands. Offer to babysit younger siblings while your parents enjoy a date night. If you're not getting enough work to keep you busy, cast your net wider and ask aunts, uncles and grandparents if they have any household chores for you.
  
  

Capitalize on a Talent or Interest

• Work can be fun when you figure out how to turn your passion into a money-making opportunity. If you're a whiz on the computer, consider starting your own tech-related business. On-site computer troubleshooting and web design are two possible ideas. If you're really into cars, offer car wash, waxing and interior vacuuming services in your neighborhood. If you're talented at a certain subject in school, you could tutor younger kids in your neighborhood. Those who are skilled in the kitchen can succeed in small-time catering.
  
  

Use Some Elbow Grease

• Think of the things that people usually don't want to do; then set up a business that offers that service. Many of your neighbors may be willing to pay you for lawn mowing and yard maintenance services. If you're a bit of a neat freak, offering a house cleaning or organizing service could be right up your alley. You have more options if you can gather a group of friends to work with you. For example, you could start a profitable painting or home window-washing business if you have more than one set of hands to do the work.
  
  

Tips for Running Your Business

• Make flyers with the name of your business and a phone number or email address so potential customers can contact you. Stick one in the mailbox of every home in your area; then take a stack with you to public locations. Libraries, community centers and grocery stores may let you post on their bulletin boards if you ask for permission. For every customer, write up a service plan, including the agreed-upon price, and get the client to sign. Don't let people take advantage of you; if you run into problems getting a customer to pay, ask an adult for help.