Earning your first euro feels great, because it is money you made yourself. There are many ways to start. The key is to choose something safe, legal and realistic.
This article is the reading companion to the free Mondosol lesson Money Matters: Earn Your First Euro, part of the Money course. Read it, watch the videos, or press play and listen first, then practise in the lesson.
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In this article
Ways to earn as a beginner
| Option | Examples | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Local services | Babysitting, dog walking, gardening, tutoring | Start with people you know and trust |
| A part-time job | Shop, café or holiday work | Age rules and working hours depend on the country |
| Selling things | Clothes, books or games you no longer use | Describe items honestly and meet in safe places |
| Creative or digital work | Simple design, writing or photo help | Build a small example of your work first |
Rules about age and work differ by country. If you are under 18, talk to a parent or guardian first.
Active and passive income
Active income is money you earn by spending your time, like a job or a service. Passive income is money that keeps coming with little extra work, but it usually needs time, money or skill to set up first.
For a first euro, active income is almost always the realistic place to start.
Setting a fair price
- Ask what others charge for the same job in your area.
- Count your time, and any costs such as transport or materials.
- Start modest, then raise the price as you gain experience.
- Agree the price before you start working.
Staying safe and legal
- Never pay money to “get a job” or to start earning.
- Do not share your bank details, passwords or ID with strangers.
- Be careful with offers that promise fast, easy money.
- Tell a trusted adult where you are going and who you are meeting.
- Ask about tax rules. Small earnings may be tax-free, but the rules depend on the country.
Our guide to starting a small business goes further when you are ready.
Your first steps
- Choose one idea that fits your age, skills and time.
- Tell friends and family what you offer.
- Keep a note of what you earn and spend.
- Put part of your first euros aside using a savings goal.
Watch and learn
Two videos explain how to get paid and what kinds of income there are.
Video: “Babysitting is a job: how to get paid” by Babysitter Boss, on YouTube.
Video: “Active vs passive income: a simple explanation” by Easy Peasy Finance, on YouTube.
Take it further
Reading is a good start. These options help you go from knowing to doing.
All courses, live coaching sessions and members-only events, with a 30-day money-back guarantee. See the plans
A live session on Google Meet to turn this topic into your own plan. Book a session
Frequently asked questions
What is a good first job for a teenager?
Babysitting, tutoring, pet care and local help are common starting points. Check the age rules in your country.
Do I have to pay tax on small earnings?
It depends on the country and the amount. Ask a parent or check the official tax authority.
How much should I charge?
Look at what others charge for the same service nearby, then start modestly and raise the price with experience.
Is it safe to sell things online?
It can be, with care. Use trusted platforms, describe items honestly, and never share bank details or passwords.
Should I save my first earnings?
Saving part of it is a great habit. Even a small share builds the routine.
Keep learning
- Course: Money
- Lesson (practise it): Money Matters: Earn Your First Euro
- Read next: How to Start a Small Business and How to Set a Savings Goal
- Related: Your First Pay Cheque
Educational, not financial advice. The example numbers are invented, and this post contains no affiliate links. Mondosol is not a licensed financial adviser.
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