The digital world has opened up countless opportunities, even for teenagers. If you’re under 18 and living in the UK, the idea of earning money online might sound like a dream – but it’s not just possible, it’s happening every day. Whether you’re saving up for college, supporting your hobbies, or just looking for a productive way to spend your free time, there are remote jobs you can do without paying a penny to start.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best free remote jobs for under 18s in the UK, what makes them great, how to get started, and some practical tips to help you stay safe and successful online.
Why Teens Are Turning to Remote Work
With the growth of flexible work and online education, more teenagers are looking for ways to earn money remotely. Remote jobs offer:
- Flexible hours: Work around school or exams
- No commute: Perfect for those without transport
- Skill-building: Learn useful digital and professional skills
- Independence: Start building financial freedom early
Let’s dive into the best opportunities available – no upfront costs, no scams, and all suitable for people under 18 in the UK.
1. Freelance Writing
If you’re good with words, freelance writing is one of the best online jobs you can start with. Platforms like Medium allow users to write stories and get paid based on views. Some websites even offer writing contests or guest post opportunities for teens.
Skills Needed:
- Strong written English
- Creativity and originality
- Research ability
Where to Start:
- Submit posts on Medium
- Join teen writing forums or Facebook groups
- Check out opportunities on platforms like Wattpad
2. Online Surveys and Market Research
You won’t make a full-time income from surveys, but they’re one of the easiest ways to earn a few pounds here and there. They’re free to join and ideal for short sessions during the day.
Legit UK Survey Sites for Teens:
- Swagbucks UK – Minimum age: 13
- LifePoints – Minimum age: 16
- YouGov – Popular with UK users
Tips for Success:
- Use a separate email for survey signups
- Be consistent – small earnings add up
- Don’t pay to join any site
3. Content Creation (YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram)
If you love being creative, making videos, or sharing your passions, social media can be a great way to grow a following and earn money through ads, sponsorships, or brand deals. You must be at least 13 to use most platforms with parental permission.
Niche Ideas for Teens:
- Study tips and school vlogs
- Gaming content
- Teen fashion or lifestyle
- Art, crafts, or music tutorials
How to Make Money:
- Join the YouTube Partner Program (once eligible)
- Accept brand sponsorships (be transparent!)
- Use affiliate links in your bios
4. Tutoring Younger Students
If you’re good in a subject like maths, science, or English, you can offer tutoring to younger students or classmates. Many parents are willing to pay for help — especially if it’s affordable and flexible.
Where to Offer Services:
- Local Facebook community groups
- Word of mouth through friends or teachers
- Flyers in your school or library
Bonus Tip: You can also tutor online using Zoom, Google Meet, or Skype.
5. Sell Digital Products
Even if you’re under 18, you can create and sell digital items online — think templates, worksheets, notes, or digital art. Websites like Etsy allow parental accounts for users under 18.
Ideas for Digital Products:
- Printable planners for students
- GCSE revision flashcards
- Canva templates for social media
- Clipart or illustrations
Skills Required:
- Basic graphic design
- Creativity and a problem-solving mindset
Tools to Use:
- Canva (free version is enough)
- Google Docs or Sheets
- Procreate (if you have an iPad)
6. Voice Acting or Audiobook Narration
Have a clear speaking voice? You can explore beginner voice-over gigs or read short stories for audiobooks. Some small YouTubers or writers look for teenage voice actors to match their content.
Where to Find Work:
- Casting Call Club
- Fiverr (requires parental approval under 18)
- Discord communities for voice acting
Tip: A quiet room and a phone with decent audio can be enough to get started.
7. Gaming for Cash (Legitimately)
Love gaming? There are legit ways to make money — not by gambling or “get-rich-quick” apps, but through skill and strategy.
Ideas Include:
- Competing in amateur gaming tournaments
- Starting a YouTube or Twitch channel
- Testing beta games for developers (some offer paid reviews)
Important: Always check the age requirements and have permission for any earnings.
8. Blogging About Teenage Life or Hobbies
Blogging isn’t just for adults. Teens can create blogs on anything they’re passionate about — from school life to gaming or beauty. Over time, you can monetize through ads (like Google AdSense), affiliate links, or sponsored posts.
Platforms to Start On:
- WordPress.com (free version available)
- Blogger
- Wix
Tips for Beginners:
- Stick to one niche (e.g., “teen productivity”)
- Post regularly — even once a week is great
- Share your blog on social media to build traffic
9. Remote Graphic Design or Art Commissions
If you’re an artist, offering custom art for profile pictures, logos, or YouTube banners can be a great gig. Many creators prefer working with younger artists for fresh, unique styles.
Where to Promote Your Art:
- Instagram or Twitter
- DeviantArt
- Fiverr (with parental permission)
- Reddit art communities
10. Virtual Assistant for Small Businesses
Some small businesses or content creators are happy to hire teens for basic tasks like managing email, updating a calendar, or handling social media DMs.
Skills That Help:
- Good organisation
- Basic social media use
- Clear communication
How to Find These Jobs:
- Local Facebook or LinkedIn groups
- Ask family/friends if they know anyone needing help
- Try free job boards like Indeed or WorkFromHomeJobs
Important Legal and Safety Tips
As someone under 18, you must keep a few things in mind:
Stay Safe Online
- Never share your home address or personal info
- Ask a parent or guardian to help with payments/accounts
- Use privacy settings on all social platforms
Know the Rules
- In the UK, children under 16 need a work permit for some jobs, even online
- Platforms like PayPal don’t allow accounts for under 18s – use parent/guardian accounts with permission
- Tax may not apply unless you earn over a certain threshold (check GOV.UK)
Final Thoughts
Earning money as a teen in the UK no longer means just paper rounds or babysitting. With the right mindset and a bit of creativity, you can start building real skills- and real income – from your bedroom. The best part? Most of these remote jobs are completely free to start, making them ideal for anyone who’s under 18 and eager to begin.
Focus on one or two ideas, be consistent, and don’t fall for “get rich quick” scams. If you treat your online work like a real opportunity, it can open doors far beyond what you imagine – even before you turn 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as long as they don’t interfere with school, follow child labour laws, and don’t involve unsafe or adult content.
In most cases, yes — especially when signing up for accounts or handling payments.
Ask your parents to help you set up an online payment method like PayPal, or request direct bank transfer if the client is trustworthy.