However, checking accounts will have limited parental control. If you want control over where your child spends their money, check out our list of best debit cards for kids.

Bank	Best for	Learn more
	Convienence	Learn more
	Parental controls	Learn more
	ATM reimbursements	Learn more
	High interest rate	Learn more
	In-person banking	Learn more
	Use after age 18	Learn more

Capital One MONEY Teen Checking Account

Best for: Convenience

• Age requirements: 8 and up
• Parental controls: Yes
• Monthly fee: $0

The Capital One MONEY Teen Checking account is available for kids eight and older when a parent or guardian signs on as the joint account holder. 

There is no monthly fee or minimum balance requirements. Kids can use the ATM card for free at any MoneyPass or Allpoint ATMs.

Parents do not have to have an account with Capital One to open this account, and the account can be linked to any outside checking account, which is not the case with most banks. Parents can also see all transactions in the app and can set up notifications if desired. Parents won't receive a debit card, but can lock and unlock the child's debit card if needed.

When the child turns 18, the account remains open and the child can open a new standard account and transfer the funds to the new account.

Here's our full Capital One 360 review for more information.

Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking® for Family Banking

Best for: Parental controls

• Age requirements: None (child must be under 18)
• Parental controls: Yes
• Monthly fee: $4.95 (waived while the child is under 25)

Bank of America’s Advantage SafeBalance® for Family Banking checking account has a $25 minimum opening deposit and no monthly fee as long as one owner is under the age of 25.

Parents must have a Bank of America checking account and money can only be deposited by a parent via transfer from another Bank of America account, the ATM, or mobile deposit. Parents can also set spending limits for specific categories.

Kids can spend from the account with their debit card and have a limited/age-appropriate experience with the app.

Member FDIC.

Go to Bank of America

Axos First Checking

Best for: ATM reimbursements

• Age requirements: 13 and up
• Parental controls: Yes
• Monthly fee: $0

Axos First Checking has no monthly fees, no overdraft fees, and no minimum balance requirements. Kids can use their debit card at any ATM and will receive up to $12 a month in ATM fee reimbursements.

Kids can spend up to $500 per day on their debit card and withdraw up to $100 daily in cash from the ATM. Parents can view their teens spending from the app and lock and unlock the debit card as needed. Parents can also set up spending notifications to keep tabs on their teen's activity.

This account is a joint checking account, so both parents and kids are co-owners.

Here's our full Axos Bank review for more information.

Go to Axos Bank

Alliant Credit Union Teen Checking

Best for: High interest rate

• Age requirements: 13 and up
• Parental controls: No
• Monthly fee: $0

Alliant Credit Union’s Teen Checking account is available for parents who open their own Alliant Credit Union checking account. There is no monthly fee and no minimum balance requirements. Both kids and parents are owners, and both will receive a debit card that can be used for free at over 80,000 ATMs, plus you'll receive up to $20 per month in ATM fee reimbursements.

This account earns 0.25% APY as long as you receive electronic statements and have at least one deposit from either direct deposit, an ATM, or another financial institution.

Once your student turns 18, the account will automatically be converted to an Alliant Checking Account, but you will remain a joint owner of the new account unless specifically removed. 

Here's our full Alliant Credit Union review for more information.

Go to Alliant Credit Union

Chase High School Checking

Best for: In-person banking

• Age requirements: 13 and up
• Parental controls: No
• Monthly fee: $5 (waived while the child is under 18)

Chase High School Checking is available to the kids of current Chase customers, and the teen account must be linked to the parent's Chase checking account. There are no monthly fees and no minimum balance requirements.

Parents are co-owners of the account and can receive notifications of account activity, but don't have any controls over spending.

When the child turns 19, the account will automatically convert to a Chase Total Checking account, with the parent as a co-owner on the new account.

Go to Chase

Wells Fargo Clear Access Banking

Best for: Use after age 18

• Age requirements: 13 and up
• Parental controls: Yes
• Monthly fee: $5 (waived while child is under 25)

Wells Fargo’s Clear Access Banking account is for adults, but teens 13-16 can open the account with an adult as a co-owner. 17-year-olds can open the account as a primary owner. Since this is an account for adults, nothing needs to happen when the child turns 18 — other than to remove the parent co-owner.

There is a $25 minimum deposit to open the account, and the $5 monthly fee is waived when the child is under 25. There are no overdraft fees and no fees at Wells Fargo ATMs.

As far as parental controls are concerned, Wells Fargo offers transaction notifications and the ability to set spending and ATM withdrawal limits. 

Go to Wells Fargo

Why Your Teen Should Have a Checking Account

You might be wondering why opening a checking account for your teen can be a good idea. There are several benefits to doing so.

Teaching Them Money Management Skills

So many people in the Gen X and Gen Z groups lament their financial mishaps and mistakes. Personal finance just wasn’t taught to kids back then, and in many places it still isn’t taught. 

Opening a teen checking account for your child can be a great “first step” in helping them learn good money management skills. They can use the account to manage the allowance they earn, or they can use it to learn how to manage money earned from their first job.

By the time they’re ready to leave the nest, they’ll be set up to have a good handle on money management skills. And that may lead them to start investing as a teenger.

Ushering in More Responsibility

Turning 18 and going off to college is a big step from life at home. Many of today’s kids do minimal work in terms of laundry, cooking, and other responsibilities. 

Teaching your child to manage their own money via a checking account is just one more way to usher in responsibility that your child will need to have experience with when they venture out on their own.

A Good Financial Foundation

Once your child learns to manage their checking account, you can move forward with teaching them other financial insights such as investing, saving for a home, and more. 

A checking account can be the first building block in your child’s personal finance repertoire. 

What to Look for in a Teen Checking Account

When shopping around for a checking account for your teen

Fees: There is no reason for your teen to pay a monthly fee on their checking account. Every account on this list either has no monthly fee or waives the fee while the child is a minor. But watch out for other fees, too. Ensure they have convenient access to free ATMs and understand what happens if the account is overdrafted. Some banks allow those transactions to go through and charge a fee, while others deny all transactions that will put the account into the negative.

Access: Accounts will come with a debit card, but not all have check-writing privileges or wide ATM access. If your child needs Zelle or Bill Pay, double-check that the account has access to those features.

Parental controls: Most checking accounts have limited parental controls outside of receiving notifications. Check out the best kid's debit cards if you want more control.

Conclusion

Opening a teen checking account can be a great idea if you’re interested in showing your teen how to manage money, set financial goals, and budget. 

And there are several great teen checking accounts to choose from to help you meet these goals. 

The post Best Checking Accounts for Teens in 2025 appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

It can also teach them the power of compound interest as they watch their balance increase effortlessly. Here are some of the best savings accounts for kids. 

If you are looking for checking accounts, here's our list of best checking accounts for teens.

Bank	Best for	Learn more
	Convenience	Learn more
	High interest rate	Learn more
	ATM access	Learn more
	Educational materials	Learn more

Capital One Kid's Savings Account

Best for: Convenience

• APY: 2.50% APY
• Monthly fee: $0
• Age requirements: Under 18
• Parent account: Can be at any bank

This account has no minimum deposit requirement, no monthly fee, and earns 2.50% APY on all balances. You can link the savings account to a checking account from any bank; it doesn't have to be a Capital One checking, which makes this account especially convenient.

The account is available for children of any age. Anyone under 18 must have an adult as a co-owner; for those under 12, that adult must be a legal guardian. Kids will have an online login to check their account at any time. Parents will see the account on their online banking, and transfers must be made by the parent.

When the child turns 18, they can open a new savings account in their name and transfer the funds to the new account. The Kid's Savings Account will remain as is until it is closed.

Here's our full Capital One 360 review for more info.

Go to Capital One

First Tech Credit Union Start-Up Savings

Best for: High interest rate

• APY: up to 4.00% APY
• Monthly fee: $0
• Age requirements: Under 18
• Parent account: Must be at First Tech

This account makes the list due to its high interest rate. It earns 4.00% APY on balances up to $1,000, after that it earns 0.05% APY. There is no minimum balance requirements and no monthly fee.

To be eligible for membership, you must work at one of the 900 tech partner companies, which include Amazon, Microsoft and Intel. If you don't happen to work there, you can purchase a membership to the Computer History Museum for a one-time $15 fee or the Financial Fitness Association for $8 per year.

When the child turns 18, the account will automatically convert to a standard account.

Go to First Tech Credit Union

Alliant Kids Savings Account

Best for: ATM access

• APY: up to 3.10% APY
• Monthly fee: $0, if e-statements are selected
• Age requirements: Under 13
• Parent account: Must be at Alliant

This account earns 3.10% APY as long as the account has an average daily balance of $100. There is a minimum deposit of $5 to open the account, but Alliant actually gifts this $5 to the child, so they don't actually need anything to start. There is no monthly fee if you receive electronic statements, otherwise it's $1 per month.

The account also comes with an ATM card. There is a $500 daily withdrawal limit and a $10,000 daily deposit limit.

You and your child will both be able to see the account online as joint owners. When the child turns 13, the account will remain as is, but they will have the option to add the teen checking account to their profile.

Go to Alliant Credit Union

PNC S is for Savings Account

Best for: Educational materials

• APY: 0.01% APY
• Monthly fee: $0
• Age requirements: Under 18
• Parent account: Must be at PNC

This account doesn't earn much interest, but it comes with top-of-the-line educational material for kids. PNC partnered with Sesame Street to create its financial curriculum, so your child can learn the basics from Grover and Elmo.

To further the experience, when a deposit is made to the account, it appears in the app where the child can place the money into three jars: spending, sharing, or saving.

There is no minimum deposit to open the account, and the $5 monthly fee is waived until the child turns 18.

Go to PNC Bank

Should You Open a Joint Account or a Custodial Account?

When you open a savings account for your minor children, you have the choice of opening a joint account or a custodial account (called UGMA or UTMA accounts).

But what are the differences between the options? And which should you choose for your child? 

Opening a joint savings account with your child will give your child equal access/ownership to the funds, equal ability to withdraw funds independently, and so on.

This might not bother you if your child is aged ten or under. However, once your child gets older and more independent or reaches driving age, this poses the risk of them withdrawing money without your permission. 

On the other hand, a custodial account is inaccessible by the child until they reach the age of 18. 

While this protection benefit might sound appealing, be aware that there may be tax implications for holding a custodial account for your child. 

Talk to your tax professional for more information. For most families, a joint account is sufficient. 

What to Look for in a Bank Account for Kids

Kids have different needs for their savings accounts than adults. Chances are their balances will be low, activity may be high, and access to education could be important.

No fees: There is no reason for a child to pay a fee to have their bank account. Since money is pretty hard for kids to come by, it would be a shame to give some of it to the bank.

No minimum balance requirements: Kids will likely have pretty low balances and even occasionally take their account to zero. The account should be able to accommodate that without charging a fee.

Educational material: Several banks have financial literacy videos and games to help teach kids about money. Getting them a bank account is a great way for them to start learning about how money works.

Easy access: Since you'll likely be involved in every transaction, especially while the kids are young, it's important that the account will be easy for you to access.

Decent interest rate: Getting a good interest rate on your savings is always a good idea, but this is the final item to look for since the balance will likely be low. Therefore, the difference in earnings between a high and a low rate is likely minimal. But it's nice to earn something so kids can see how interest works.

What Do You Need to Open a Child’s Bank  Account? 

When you go to open your child’s bank account, you should expect to have several items of documentation on hand:

• Your driver’s license or other state-issued ID
• Your Social Security number
• The child’s Social Security number
• The child’s birth certificate

Note that each bank has different rules about what is needed to open an account. However, the above list is standard for most banks, whether you open the account online or in person. 

If you haven’t yet requested a Social Security number for your child, you can do so by following the instructions given by the Social Security Administration. 

What Happens to a Child’s Bank Account When the Child Turns 18?

The bank accounts listed here are created for minor-age children. They have special rules and features that differ from bank accounts designed for adults. 

At most banks, accounts designed for teens will automatically convert to the closest bank account product for adults that the bank offers.

However, although the bank regulations say automatic conversion will happen, it often doesn’t. 

For that reason, if your child turns 18 and you want the account you’ve opened to be converted to a different type of account, it’s probably best to call the bank and request the conversion. 

If your name remains on a bank account with your over-18 child, you could be subject to fees or other penalties associated with the account should your child overdraw the account or have other issues with the account. 

Summary

The best bank accounts for kids offer features and benefits that align with a parent’s goals of teaching their kids about personal finance and money management. 

You’ll do your kids a solid if you prepare them for leaving the nest armed with a full understanding of how to earn, budget, spend, and save their money. 

The post Best Bank Accounts for Kids in 2025: Savings Options appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

Thankfully, there are debit cards designed specifically for kids. With features like parental controls, roundup savings, autopay for chores, and more, kids' debit cards can alleviate parents' fears while allowing kids to learn how to manage their money properly.

The best debit cards for kids have a few things in common: They’re affordable, easy to use, and have sufficient parental control features.

Updated December 2024 with new plan names, features, and pricing for several companies on this list.

	Best for	Learn more
	Large families	Learn more
	Earning interest	Learn more
	Current customers	Learn more
	Investing	Learn more
	Donating to charity	Learn more
	Traditional checking	Learn more
	Chase customers	Learn more
	ATM reimbursements	Learn more

Go to BusyKid

6. Capital One MONEY Teen (8+)

Best For: Traditional checking

• Price: Free
• Chore management: No
• True checking account: Yes

The Capital One MONEY Teen account is available for children ages eight and up when opened as a joint account with a parent. There are no fees for this account and account balances earn interest of 0.10%. 

This is a traditional checking account, not just a debit card linked to an app. It doesn't include any chore features; however, there are parental controls, and the child will have their own app experience.

You can link your own checking account for transfers, and it doesn't have to be a Capital One checking — you can link an external account.

There is a savings goal feature and Capital One also has a kids saving account. 

Here's our full Captial One 360 review for more information.

Go to Capital One

8. Axos First Checking (13+)

Best For: ATM reimbursements

• Price: Free
• Chore management: No
• True checking account: Yes

The Axos First Checking account is available for teens ages 13 to 17. It has no monthly fees and no overdraft fees. It also earns 0.10% APY

Parental notifications are available, you can view all the transactions, and you can activate or deactivate the debit card anytime. This is a traditional checking account with no chore management features.

Your kid will have ATM access, and Axos will reimburse up to $12 a month in ATM fees.

One possible downside of the Axos account is that the daily spending and ATM limits are preset at $500 and $100, respectively. You can’t adjust these limits. 

Here's our full Axos Bank review for more information.

Go to Axos First Checking

Why You Should Get a Debit Card for Your Kid(s)

1. Teach Them Money Management Skills

Giving your child access to a set amount of money each week or month is a great way to teach them money management skills. 

They become responsible for knowing how much money they have in their account and what they will spend it on. 

If money is limited, they gain the experience of choosing which items they want to spend their money on and which purchases they’d rather save for another time. 

These discipline exercises can go a long way in helping them prepare to have good budgeting skills as adults. 

2. Make the Connection Between Work and Money

In real life, you need to work to earn money. And while it’s common for parents to hand their kids cash whenever they need it, doing so regularly isn’t helping prepare them for real life. 

Many kids’ debit cards have features that allow you to assign chores to your child and then schedule a designated amount of pay when those chores are completed. 

This feature can be a great way to help your child understand that work equals money in the real world. 

In addition, you can use the feature to encourage your child to take on extra chores when they need extra money for a large expense.

The result? Less work for you, a great life lesson for your child. 

3. Make Your Life Easier

Along with that, having a debit card for your child can make your life easier. 

Many kids’ debit cards have an automatic deposit feature letting you decide when you want money to go into their account and how much money you want to deposit.

For instance, you could set up an automatic deposit of $50 a week for lunch money. Utilizing this feature for your child’s individual needs can help make your life much easier.

You don’t have to worry about your child regularly harassing you for cash, and your child has steady access to the money they need through their debit card. 

How Kid's Debit Cards Work

There are two kinds of debit cards for kids — a prepaid debit card or a traditional checking account.

Prepaid debit cards (FamZoo, Greenlight, Acorns Early, and Busykid) link to your checking account and then are managed through the app. You load money onto the cards from your personal checking account and then the kids can spend it using the debit card.

Traditional checking accounts (Capital one MONEY Teen, Chase First Banking, and Axos First Checking) work just like your own checking account. It's a real deposit account with an account number and routing number. You'll likely still want to link your own checking account to it for easy transfers, but it's not strictly necessary.

Final Thoughts on the Best Kids Debit Cards

There is no shortage of options when it comes to choosing a debit card for your child. To help narrow the search, we recommend focusing on the most important features to you and the age at which you want your child to have a debit card. Also, if you decide that your child isn't quite ready, that's ok too. But when the time comes, a debit card can help them learn powerful money management skills early in life. 

The post Best Debit Card For Kids in 2025: Why You Should Consider a Debit Card for Your Child appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

Here are seven of the best custodial accounts for kids under 18.

	Best for	Learn more
	Wide array of account options	Learn more
	Easy-to-use trading platform	Learn more
	Optional Youth Account for spending, saving and investing	Learn more
	Robust selection of research tools	Learn more
	Beginning investment education selection	Learn more
	Family-focused platform	Learn more
	Well-known company and platform	Learn more

1. Ally Bank

Best for: Wide array of account options

• Monthly fee: $0
• Minimum opening: $0
• Trading fees: $0 on self-directed stocks, ETFs, options

Ally Bank (formerly GMAC Bank) launched in 2000 as an offshoot of GMAC auto finance company). 

This online-only bank is an FDIC-insured, full-service financial institution. They can help with any financial needs, from mortgages to auto loans to personal banking and investment accounts. 

Here are the types of custodial accounts you’ll find at Ally Bank.

Custodial Online Interest Checking

Ally Bank’s custodial checking account features a debit card that has settings that let you control how, where, and when you use the card. Other features include:

• No minimum balance requirement or opening deposit
• No monthly service fee
• Free ATM withdrawals at over 43,000 Allpoint ATMs
• Free debit card with parental controls
• Interest paid on all balances
• Round-up to savings accounts option

Custodial Online Savings

Ally’s custodial savings account features an optional “Surprise Savings” feature that analyzes money in a linked checking account and transfers it to savings when it senses extra money. Other features include:

• No minimum balance requirement or opening deposit
• No monthly service free
• Free ATM withdrawals at over 43,000 Allpoint ATMs
• Buckets to categorize your savings funds
• Industry-leading interest rates
• Limit of 10 withdrawals per statement cycle

You can also open custodial Money Market or Certificate of Deposit accounts. 

Custodial Investment Account

Ally’s self-directed and robo-advisor accounts are available as custodial accounts and include many research tools. Other features include:

• No fees for self-directed trades on stocks, ETFs, and options
• $9.95 per no-load mutual fund trades
• $1 per bond trade, $4.95 for low-priced securities trades
• $0 opening requirement for self-directed accounts
• $100 opening requirement for robo accounts
• No advisory fees for robo accounts

Ally Bank offers 24/7 customer service by phone or chat. Each account comes with various features so you can tailor your child’s banking needs as desired. 

Go to Ally Bank

2. E-Trade

Best for: Easy-to-use trading platform

• Monthly fee: $0
• Minimum opening: $0
• Trading fees: $0 on stocks, ETFs, options

Beginning in 1982 as TradePlus, the owners branched off with E*Trade in 1991 to become one of the first online investment platforms. Morgan Stanley acquired E*Trade a few years ago and now offers a custodial brokerage account with some attractive features. 

E*Trade Custodial Brokerage Account

The E*Trade custodial brokerage account offers benefits such as a free debit card and checking privileges when you open a brokerage account. Other features include:

• No minimum opening deposit amount
• $0 annual fee for online self-directed trading accounts
• $0 stocks, options, and ETFs
• Option contracts are $0.65 per
• Futures contracts are $1.50 per

One downside of E*Trade is that it, like Vanguard, does not offer fractional shares except in the case of dividend reinvestments. E*Trade also offers Coverdell ESAs and custodial IRAs for income-earning minors. 

Telephone customer support is available Monday to Friday. E*Trade is on our list of the top stockbrokers that offer free trades. 

Go to E*Trade

3. Fidelity

Best for: Optional Youth Account for spending, saving and investing

• Monthly fee: $0
• Minimum opening: $0
• Trading fees: $0 on stocks, ETFs, options

Fidelity is also on our list of best free trade brokers. It was founded in 1946 and is one of the largest asset managers in the world. 

Fidelity Custodial Investment Account

Fidelity has an expansive array of online investment tools for investors. You can leverage the tools to help research investments properly and minimize the risk for your custodial account.

Other features include:

• $0 minimum opening deposit
• $0 maintenance fees
• Zero commissions for online stocks, commissions, and ETF trades

Fidelity’s Custodial Investment account is much like other brokers in many ways. It offers free online trading, a 529 Savings Account, and a youth IRA account. 

However, many choose Fidelity because of its non-custodial Youth Account for teens between 13 and 17. The account allows them to spend, save, and invest. There are no account fees or minimums, and Fidelity includes parental controls and a free debit card.

As a parent, note that you must have an existing Fidelity account for your teen to open a Youth Account. 

Go to Fidelity

4. Firstrade

Best for: Robust selection of research tools

• Monthly fee: $0
• Minimum opening: $0
• Trading fees: $0 on stocks, ETFs, mutual funds

Firstrade is geared toward serious investors looking to open a custodial investment account. The site has a robust selection of research investment tools.

Use Morningstar reports, watchlists, and more to help analyze and choose your child’s investments. 

Firstrade Custodial Brokerage Account

The Firstrade Custodial brokerage account offers benefits such as extended trading hours and equities investments. Other features include:

• $0 fee stock, ETF, and mutual fund trades
• No commissions
• $0 account opening requirement
• No minimum balance requirement

Firstrade offers Coverdell ESAs as well. Open the Firstrade account for your minor child, and have them shadow you as you invest with your Firstrade account. 

If you’re a serious investor, Firstrade offers an excellent avenue for helping your minor kids see you in action while getting in on the action with their account. 

Go to Firstrade

5. Stash

Best for: Beginning investment education selection

• Monthly fee: $9
• Minimum opening: $5
• Trading fees: $0 on stocks and ETFs

Stash has been around since 2015. The investment fintech accommodates custodial investment accounts with minimal fees and fractional share investing options. 

Stash+

Stash has two tiers of investment accounts: Stash Growth and Stash+.

Stash+ is the account you’ll need to open if you want to open custodial investment accounts.

Features include:

• $9 monthly fee for two custodial investment accounts (plus your own)
• $5 opening minimum
• Fractional stock share transactions
• Banking access
• Stash Stock-Back® Card1

You might find the monthly fee is high for your tastes, but remember that the $9 per month includes the option to have three brokerage accounts; one adult account and two custodial accounts. 

Note that you can purchase fractional shares of stock for as little as $0.01, and all Stash accounts offer investment advice when needed.   

Go to Stash

Paid non-client endorsement. See Apple App Store and Google Play reviews. View important disclosures.

Nothing in this material should be construed as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation to buy or sell any security. All investments are subject to risk and may lose value.

1Stash Banking services provided by Stride Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. The Stash Stock-Back® Debit Mastercard® is issued by Stride Bank pursuant to license from Mastercard International. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. Any earned stock rewards will be held in your Stash Invest account. Investment products and services provided by Stash Investments LLC and are Not FDIC Insured, Not Bank Guaranteed, and May Lose Value.

6. Stockpile

Best for: Family-focused platform

• Monthly fee: $4.95
• Minimum opening: $0
• Trading fees: $0 on self-directed stocks, ETFs, options

Stockpile is a brokerage that allows you to bull, sell and gift fractional shares of stock. The goal of founder Avi Lele when he first started the company was to give stock shares to his nieces and nephews. 

Stockpile Custodial Investment Account

Stockpile’s custodial investment account allows you to buy fractional shares of stocks and ETFs for as little as $1. Choose from thousands of popular stocks and ETFs.

Some Stockpile features include: 

• $0 trading fees
• No commissions
• Gift cards available
• No minimum balance requirement

The $4.95 monthly fee includes 1 adult account and up to 5 kid accounts.

You can have relatives and friends gift stock shares to your child’s Stockpile account, but there is a fee for purchasing gift cards. Stockpile’s main benefit is that it lets you buy fractional shares in small amounts with no fees.

Go to Stockpile

7. Vanguard

Best for: Well-known company and platform

• Monthly fee: $0 ($20 annual fee with option to waive)
• Minimum opening: $0 ($3,000 for custodian account)
• Trading fees: $0 on self-directed stocks, ETFs, options

Vanguard was founded in 1975 by investment great John C. Bogle. Also a member of SIPC, Vanguard is well known for its high-performing mutual funds.

Vanguard UGMA/UTMA

The Vanguard UGMA/UTMA account offers a broad line of investment options with an attractive fee schedule for self-directed investors. Some features include:

• $20 annual management fee (can be waived)
• $0 minimum opening deposit ($3,000 minimum for required custodian account)
• Free online ETF, mutual fund, and stock trades
• $1 per-contract for online options trades

The $3,000 minimum investment Vanguard requires for custodians may be a hurdle for some investor custodians. 

While these parameters might take you out of the running for Vanguard when you first start investing, you can always transfer your account from another broker when you reach a balance of $3,000 or more. 

Vanguard also offers a 529 College Savings Plan for minors – a Nevada plan – available to families in all 50 states. 

Go to Vanguard

How Do Custodial Accounts for Kids Work?

Custodial banking and investment accounts are opened and managed by an adult on behalf of a child. The custodian doesn’t have to be a parent or other relative, but they must commit to handling the money in the child’s best interest. This commitment is also known as a “fiduciary relationship.”

There are two main types of custodial banking accounts: 

• UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act)
• UGMA (Uniform Gifts to Minors Act)

UGMA accounts allow minors to own cash assets such as cash, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. UTMA accounts can hold those investments while including other assets such as real estate. 

Make sure you speak with an investment advisor well-versed with custodial accounts to determine which one you should open.

How to Choose a Custodial Account

When choosing a custodial account for your child, you'll first want to consider your needs. Do you need a checking account for everyday spending? Or maybe you just want a savings account for your kids to start saving money. Or perhaps your kids are interested in investing. Also, consider the features you'll need in the account.

Once you know what type of account you want, you'll want to consider convenience. Even though this account is for your child, you'll still need convenient access to it. You may want to look into accounts where you already bank and invest.

Lastly, you'll want to look at the fees the account charges. Excess fees will likely frustrate someone just getting into banking and investing, and you want them to have a positive experience. Plus, they likely don't have much money right now, so every fee can take a big bite out of their balance.

Take your time and choose an account that makes the most sense for your and your family.

Final Thoughts on Custodial Accounts

You can open many types of custodial accounts for kids under 18. You can choose from spending or checking accounts, savings accounts, brokerage accounts, IRA accounts, and education savings accounts.

The custodial account you choose will depend on which benefits you’re searching for your child and the fees, minimum balances, and other features that best fit your needs. 

There’s no need to limit your child to just one custodial account at one institution. Pick and choose custodial accounts based on how they fit the financial goals you have in mind for your child(ren).

And keep fees in mind, as we all know that fees can be vital to how fast (or how slow) your portfolio grows

The post 7 Best Custodial Accounts for Kids Under 18 appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

There are two big perks to finding fun jobs that pay well: making money and having fun – you choose the order of importance. The problem is that too many people spend years working jobs they genuinely dislike for companies that treat them poorly.

If you’re feeling stuck in your work life, I’m here to inspire you with some fun job ideas that also pay well. Some of the jobs on the list make great side hustles, and others offer a career opportunity.

For easier reading, I’ve divided the list into five separate categories:

• Freelance work
• Entertainment Industry
• Animal Industry
• Solopreneur
• And, of course, the good old W-2 job!

What one person finds fun differs from another but we think that you will find a few ideas on this list, let’s dive in!

Fun Freelance Jobs That Pay Well

I’ve been working in the freelance industry for over a decade, and I can honestly say that there’s a lot to love about it! Freelancing is fun in that you get to choose the hours you work and the jobs you take. And you have complete control over how much you charge.

While a beginner freelancer may have to start at a lower pay rate, you can raise your rates as you get better at what you do. Here are some ideas for freelancing jobs that pay well. 

For the average pay, we used data from Indeed if it was available. Otherwise, we relied on Zip Recruiter.

1. Graphic Designer

Average pay: $61,475/yr.

Fun component: The world is your palette.

As a freelance graphic designer, you can take on various job types. You can create t-shirt designs and sell them on a site like Redbubble, or list your talents on Upwork and find work creating web pages, logos, and more. Another option: Design and create ads for print and digital venues.

2. Writer

Average pay: $58,610/yr. 

Fun component: Choose the subject matter you love and get paid to write about it.

Freelance writers have a wide variety of subject matters from which to choose. Write for your favorite blog, freelance for a business’s website, or write a book and sell it on Amazon.

✨ Related: How to Make $200,000+ as a Freelance Writer

3. Musician

Average pay: $52,953/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to share your musical talents in public.

Freelance musicians can make money doing everything from performing at weddings and other events to playing on street corners. 

Consider starting a music YouTube channel and get paid from advertisers as well. 

4. Social Media Manager

Average pay: $58,534/yr.

Fun component: Spend your workday on social media sites.

Freelance social media managers help blog owners and businesses share essential information on social media sites. Marketing skills are a must for social media managers.

5. Virtual Assistant

Average pay: $79,279/yr.

Fun component: You can perform a range of tasks depending on the client.

Virtual assistants work on a variety of tasks for business owners. You can do anything from managing a schedule and assigning projects to overseeing websites. 

6. Online Tutor

Average pay: $51,771/yr.

Fun component: Help kids and adults from around the world.

As an online tutor, you can help kids and adults learn everything from math to science to ESL. Several online tutoring companies provide a curriculum to the independent tutors they hire.

7. Web Designer

Average pay: $53,464/yr.

Fun component: Use your design skills to “wow” website visitors.

Freelance web designers can rake in some serious cash and you can take only the projects that excite you the most.

8. Business Consultant

Average pay: $82,758/yr.

Fun component: Help businesses flourish and grow.

If you’re good at being a visionary for businesses that want to expand and grow, consider freelancing in this field for maximum fun and maximum income. 

9. Resume’ Writer

Average pay: $40,000/yr.

Fun component: Use your writing skills to impress clients’ potential employers.

If you have a way with words and can create stand-out resumes, consider freelancing for workers in one or more industries. 

If you’re good, word will spread, and you can raise your rate. To maximize your income, focus on writing resumes for high-paying positions.

✨ Related: Best Bank Accounts for Freelancers and Side Hustlers

Fun Jobs In the Entertainment Industry That Pay Well

If you desire to work in the entertainment industry, the following jobs are great. Both front- and backroom opportunities exist. 

10. Lighting Designers

Average pay: $85,772/yr.

Fun component: Design light shows for concerts, plays, etc.

You can go to school to be a lighting designer or get experience by working at schools and community theaters. Higher-paying jobs will likely require education.

11. Voiceover Artist

Average pay: $98,259/hr.

Fun component: Use your voice to make commercials and more.

You might like working as a voiceover artist if you have an engaging, soothing, or attractive voice. Learn more about this high-income skill and how to get training for it here. 

12. Stunt Double

Average pay: $35,360/yr.

Fun component: Be the brawn behind actors’ wild stunts.

If you’re in great physical shape (think American Ninja Warrior) and are a risk-taker, you might want to take on this potentially lucrative career. 

13. Fashion Designer

Average pay: $61,732/yr.

Fun component: Embrace your creativity as you design clothing, costumes, and accessories.

If you have a knack for clothing design, this could be the job for you. Education is helpful, and you may want to start as a Fashion Stylist to gain experience. 

14. Animator

Average pay: $51,635/yr

Fun component: Get paid to draw cartoons.

Okay, animation extends beyond drawing cartoons, but it’s a fun job nonetheless. While some animators do get a formal education, many do not. 

Pay can increase with experience, and the best animators can easily make six digits a year. 

15. Entertainment Reporter

Average pay: $60,979/yr.

Fun component: Sharing the scoop on local or national celebrities.

Share the latest news on actors, athletes, politicians, and more when you work at this job. You may have to start small, but you’ll move up in the ranks if you’re good. 

16. Event Planner

Average pay: $56,927/yr.

Fun component: You spend your days planning parties.

Do you love to entertain people? Or do you have a gift for planning great parties? 

Event planners can work for companies or as sole proprietors, planning various event types. 

17. Film Critic

Average pay: $37,714/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to watch movies.

Are you good at dissecting movie plots, acting performances, and more? Film critics work for newspapers and magazines and share their opinions of movies with moviegoers. 

Be careful not to overdose on popcorn. 

18. Disc Jockey

Average pay: $56,842/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to play tunes.

Disc Jockeys can work at radio stations or as sole proprietors playing at weddings and other venues. You’ll need an engaging personality and a broad knowledge of the music of your chosen genre.

✨ Related: Ways to Make $500 a Month Extra on the Side

19. Audio Engineer

Average pay: $113,135/yr.

Fun component: Be the sound engineer for sports and other events.

Audio engineers function as the sound experts for theaters, movie sets, sporting events, and more. Learn on your own, get on-the-job training, or pursue a formal education in the subject. 

20. Makeup Artist

Average pay: $73,393r.

Fun component: Creativity unleashed.

As a makeup artist, you can use your talents to make pretty, scary, or fun faces. Work at news stations, on movie/tv show sets, at local fairs, or as a sole proprietor doing wedding and party venues. 

Although Payscale’s average pay for this job is not high, I’ve seen makeup artists earn a much higher wage in many markets. 

Fun Jobs In the Animal Industry That Pay Well

Are you an animal lover? There are many jobs you can find that will pay you well as you interact with animals. 

21. Zookeeper

Average pay: 42,917/yr.

Fun component: Playing with giraffes!

Zookeepers are responsible for feeding and caring for zoo animals. While beginner zookeepers have lower salaries, experienced zookeepers can make $70k per year or more.

A degree in Zoology will help you move up the ranks faster. 

22. Veterinarian

Average pay: $123,745/yr.

Fun component: Your main clients are dogs and cats.

Yes, you’ll need several years of schooling for this one, but you may find it well worth the effort. Work at a vet office or open your own. Move on to teaching one day if you desire. 

23. Dog Walker

Average pay: $43,702/yr.

Fun component: Exercise and cuddly clientele

As a dog walker, you get to choose your clientele and pay rate. Not surprisingly, more dogs equal more money. 

24. Wildlife Conservation Officer

Average pay: $75,929/yr.

Fun component: Help protect wildlife and enjoy nature at the same time.

Conservation officers have several roles: they ensure compliance to hunting laws, help protect wildlife, and create or direct wildlife programs. 

If you love being outdoors and have a heart for wild animals, you might like this job. Education requirements vary, but typically, at least an A.A. is required. 

25. Pet Sitter

Average pay: $48,339/yr.

Fun component: Hang out with other peoples’ pets

As a pet sitter, you may be responsible for staying with others’ pets while they’re away, or you may be required to care for them a few times a day.

Sole proprietors get to choose their clients and their pay rates. Take as many or as few jobs as you want.

✨ Related: Weekend Side Hustles to Pad Your Bank Account

26. Animal Groomer

Average pay: $54,424/yr.

Fun factor: Styling hair for pups instead of people

Animal lovers with a creative side could do well in this position. Education is required, and standards vary based on the state or company. 

27. Vet Tech

Average pay: $39,265/yr.

Fun factor: Care for animals without years of education.

A Veterinarian Technician assists veterinarians as they work. You’ll be able to care for animals without spending hundreds of thousands on your education. 

28. Animal Nutritionist

Average pay: $54,137/yr. 

Fun component: Create and promote healthy lifestyles in animals.

An Animal Nutritionist creates nutrition plans for a variety of types of animals. You can work with farmers, a zoo, or at local universities. 

You’ll need a degree for this job, and you’ll want to have a strong love for chemistry and other science disciplines. 

29. Marine Biologist

Average pay: $53,418/yr.

Fun component: Working with dolphins!

As a Marine Biologist, you’ll manage the habitat and study the well-being of marine animals. You might find a job at a zoo or with organizations that help preserve ocean life. Degree required. 

Fun Solopreneur Jobs That Pay Well

As a long-time solopreneur, I can vouch for the benefits of working for yourself. For example, you can choose your hours, clients, and pay rate. Here are some fun jobs you can do as a solopreneur.

30. Magician

Average pay: $48,959/yr.

Fun component: No explanation is needed.

Magicians are enormous hits at birthday parties, corporate events, and more. You’ll have to train on your own, but the good news is that there are many free training resources out there. 

The better you are, the higher fee you can command.

✨ Related: Ultimate Freelancer’s Guide: Freelancing Tips and Tricks

31. Personal Trainer

Average pay: $46,889/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to push others to their limits.

You might love being a personal trainer if you love exercising and helping others reach fitness goals. 

Find work at local gyms, hold classes in your home, or make house calls. 

32. Information Security Analyst

Average pay: $91,402/yr.

Fun component: Get inside the minds of hackers.

As an Information Security Analyst, your job is to stop hackers in their tracks. You’re the “good hacker” who finds security breaches and eliminates them. 

You’ll probably need a degree in IT or Network Security for this position. 

33 Interior Designer

Average pay: $69,858/yr.

Fun component: Take drab environments and make them shine

Do you walk into a room and instantly start imagining what you’d design differently? If so, you might want to create an interior design business. 

Independent consultants earn more in this field than salaried employees do – spread the word about your services and photos of your work via social media.

34. Professional Gamer

Average pay: 123,552/yr.

Fun component: You’ll get paid to play

People often think that earning money as a game is a scam. However, I can assure you that it’s not. 

You’ll need to be good at the game you want to make money in – really good. Also, you’ll need to have a theme for the content you stream, something that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Earn money on YouTube and other venues from advertisers and personal donations. The more popular you get, the higher your earning potential.

35. Food Critic

Average pay: $27,040/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to eat.

Food critics get to test run meals at restaurants and then share their views on the meal. As a food critic, you might work for a newspaper publication, a magazine, a television show, or as a sole proprietor. 

You can critique meals anywhere from fine dining establishments to mom-and-pop places.

36. Content Creator

Average pay: $116,615/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to share your opinion.

Content creation is another sole proprietor business that people think is a joke. However, if you’re willing to put in the work, you can make $500 a month up to $50,000 a month or more in passive income.

The key to success is engaging content and marketing it correctly. 

37. Photographer

Average pay: $50,093/yr.

Fun component: Capture the emotions of the world with a lens.

If you’ve got excellent photography skills, you can earn much more than the average pay shown here if you put those skills to work. 

Take photos and sell them on a site such as Shutterstock, or hold photo sessions for families, graduates, or wedding couples. 

38. Nanny

Average pay: $50,686/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to play with kids.

As a nanny or au pair, you’ll work as a caregiver for kids or infants. You may get hired as a live-in nanny with free room and board or work on an hourly wage basis. 

No degree is required (typically), but you must be responsible and like children. Note that nannies often have more responsibility than traditional babysitters.

Fun W-2 Jobs That Pay Well

Several “traditional” jobs are fun and pay well. If you like the idea of a set salary and benefits, choose one of these options. 

39. Art or Music Therapist 

Average pay: $64,305/yr.

Fun component: Use art or music to heal.

Art and music therapists use their medium to help patients heal from various physical or emotional injuries. 

Find work in a rehab center, daycare center, senior living facility, or similar. You will require a degree for these types of positions. 

40. Toy Designer

Average pay: $56,160/yr.

Fun component: Get paid to create fun!

As a Toy Designer, you’ll work at companies such as Hasbro and spend your days creating fun and exciting new toys. Need I say more? Some design education is typically required.

41. Cruise Director

Average pay: $87,739/yr.

Fun component: Spend your days on a cruise ship ensuring people have fun

As a Cruise Director, you plan events and activities for visitors to the ship you work on. 

Most positions require a B.A. in theater, performing arts, entertainment management, etc.

42. Video Game Designer

Average pay: $93,022/yr.

Fun component: Create and play video games.

If you love gaming, you might find your happy place in a career as a video game designer. Spend your days designing games and playing until you fix all the bugs.

A Computer Science or similar degree is often required for these jobs.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – our list of fun jobs that pay well. Which one would you choose? While no job is perfect, remember that you have options if you’re stuck at a job you hate. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s some advice on picking the right side hustle. As you open yourself up to the possibility of change, you might be surprised by the opportunities you find.

The post 42 Fun Jobs That Pay Surprisingly Well in 2025 appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

However, many other fintech companies and online banks offer features similar to Chime, such as a checking, savings, and credit builder account.

	Best for	Learn more
	Low fees	Learn more
	Credit builder account integration	Learn more
	Cash back on debit card purchases	Learn more
	In-person banking	Learn more
	High iterest rates	Learn more

Varo

Best for: Low fees

• Checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees
• Competitive rates on savings account
• Free credit builder account
• No overdraft coverage

Go to Varo

Founded in 2015, Varo was the first U.S. consumer fintech to receive a national bank charter from the OCC. This means it's a real bank, not partnered with a bank for regulatory purposes.

Like Chime, Varo offers checking and savings accounts with no minimums or fees. Transactions at Allpoint ATMs—that's over 40,000 ATMs—are also free. There is a $3.50 fee for out-of-network ATMs.

The savings account earns a competitive interest rate, and with balances over $5,000, you can earn an even higher rate. This makes the Varo savings account very attractive.

The Varo Believe account is a credit builder account available for those with a Varo checking account and at least $200 in monthly direct deposits. The card works like a pre-paid debit card. You load money onto the card, and this amount becomes your credit limit. Make purchases as normal, and the bill is automatically paid on the due date from the money that was pre-loaded onto the card. This payment is reported to all three credit bureaus.

Here's our full Varo review for more information.

Go to Varo

Current

Best for: Credit builder account integration

• Checking and savings with no fees or minimums
• Competitive interest rate on savings
• Free credit builder account
• Free overdraft coverage

Go to Current

Current is a fintech company that partners with Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank for regulatory purposes and to offer FDIC Insurance.

Current offers a spending account and a savings account. The spending account acts like a checking account, but the debit card is actually a secured credit card. The balance in your spending account is your spending limit. As you use the card, the money is removed from your available balance. Then, when the bill is due, it is automatically paid from the reserved funds.

You may also be eligible for up to $500 in overdraft coverage. If you overspend your account, Current will cover the overage for free and will get reimbursed when your direct deposit hits the account. You must have at least $500 a month in direct deposit to qualify.

Here's our full review of Current for more info.

Go to Current

Discover

Best for: Cash back on debit card purchases

• Checking and savings with no fees or minimums
• Competitive interest rate on savings
• Build credit with a traditional secured card
• Free overdraft coverage

Go to Discover

Discover is best known for its credit cards, but it also has some attractive bank accounts. It offers a checking, savings, money market, and CDs.

The checking account has no fees or minimum balance, and it earns 1% cash back on the first $3,000 debit card purchases per month. See website for details.

The savings account also earns a competitive interest rate. Discover also has CDs and a money market account if you want other savings options.

To help you build credit, Discover offers secured and student credit cards, all of which earn cash back.

Member FDIC.

Here's our full review of the Discover Online Savings Account for more info.

Go to Discover

Capital One 360

Best for: In-person banking

• Checking and savings with no fees or minimums
• Competitive interest rates
• Build credit with a traditional secured card

Go to Capital One

Capital One 360 offers attractive online checking and savings options for consumers. The 360 Free Checking account has no monthly or overdraft fees or minimums and earns a small amount of interest on all balances.

With a CapitalOne account, you can use over 70,000 fee-free ATMs. You can also visit a branch or a CapitalOne Cafe for in-person help or to grab a cup of coffee.

The 360 Performance Savings account earns a competitive interest rate, has no minimum balance or maintenance requirements, and has no monthly fees. If you want more savings options, it also offers money market accounts and CDs.

Capital One has several credit cards for credit building, including a secured card that earns cash-back rewards.

Here's our full review of Capital One 360 for more info.

Go to Capital One

Dave

Best for: High interest rates

• Checking and savings with no fees or minimums
• High interest rates
• Free advances for overdrafts
• Side hustle features

Go to Dave

Dave is a fintech that offers a spending account with an interest rate comparable to that of a high-yield savings account. There are no minimum balance requirements, but there is a $1 monthly membership fee.

The savings account is called a “Goals account,” with the same interest rate as the spending account. So, while it's nice to be able to move your money out of checking so you don't accidentally spend it, it's not necessary since they earn the same interest rate, which is nice.

Dave also has a free short-term loan feature that will advance up to $500 to cover overdrafts. You'll agree to a pay off date when you take the advance.

Dave doesn't have a credit-building account, but there is a side hustle feature that can help you bring in more money. 

Go to Dave

Related: MaxMyInterest Review

Fintech vs Bank

From the outside, a bank and a fintech company seem basically the same, but behind the scenes, they are quite different. I think of a fintech is a layer of customer service between you and a “real” bank. Banks need to be registered and are subject to a lot of regulation, which is not true for fintechs.

Fintechs partner with banks to provide banking services and insurance, while the fintech works on the tech portion of your banking experience. They typically have an app through which you access your account, and they often offer features that traditional banks don't — like Chime's SpotMe feature.

Because fintech banks don't have the regulatory burden that banks do, they can be smaller and more nimble, allowing them to have fewer fees and more features than banks.

Fintechs also often have more niche user bases. Large banks, like Chase or Bank of America, aim to service everyone. However, a fintech may target a more specific group, such as only business owners or only those with poor credit. This more targeted audience allows them to offer very specific products that appeal only to those customers.

Pass through FDIC Insurance

When you deposit money into a bank, it doesn't just sit in the vault. The bank will invest it or loan it out to other customers to make money. If the bank goes out of business — say they make poor investments or have a lot of loans default — they will not have enough money to give everyone their deposits back.

That's where FDIC Insurance steps in. The federal government will take over the bank and ensure that everyone gets their checking, or savings, or CDs, or other FDIC-insured accounts back.

Fintechs don't have their own FDIC insurance. Instead, they partner with banks to provide this. Rather than holding your deposits themselves, they open an account at an FDIC-insured bank and put all the deposits there. Your money is actually sitting in the partnered bank in an account in the fintech's name, along with all the other customers from that fintech. Here's what the IRS says about it:

Pass-through refers to arrangements through which deposit accounts are established by a third party for the benefit of one or more other parties, also known as principals. The deposit account can be established for the benefit of a single owner or it can be a commingled account where deposits from multiple principals are deposited in the same account.

Commingled means mixed up with other people's money. So they take everyone's deposits and put them into one big account with FDIC insurance.

Is this a bad thing? Not necessarily. If either the fintech or the partner bank goes out of business, you have insurance on your funds. But it does make things more complicated, and it isn't as straightforward of protection as it would be if you used a traditional bank.

What Is a Credit Builder Account?

A “credit builder account” could be any type of account that helps you build credit, but often it is a secured credit card that works a bit differently than a traditional secured card.

Credit builder accounts often link to a checking account and you use it as a debit card. As you spend money on the card, the funds are removed from your available balance in your checking account. Those purchase amounts are set aside, and then when the credit card bill is due, the funds are used to pay off the credit card. This shows on your credit report as an on-time payment.

Another way a credit builder account can be set up is more like a pre-paid debit card. Instead of linking it to your checking account directly, you can load the card with money, which becomes your credit limit. As you spend, the transaction amounts are removed from your available balance, and when the bill is due, the money you loaded onto the card is used to pay the balance in full.

How is this different from a traditional secured card?

With a secured card, you will send a security deposit. Typically, the amount you send in is your credit limit. Those funds are set aside but are not used to make the card's payment. When the credit card bill is due, you must send in a payment, just like a regular credit card.

The experience of a secured card is just like a regular credit card, except you have to send in a security deposit to qualify for the card. The deposit will be returned to you when your credit is sufficient to qualify for an unsecured card or when you close the account.

Chime Alternatives: Summary

Chime offers several products, including a spending account, a savings account, and a credit builder loan. Many features are free, and your Chime savings account will earn you a competitive interest rate. 

While all of our Chime alternatives offer some of the same features, no other app can offer the same exact features at the same price. Chime is worthy of consideration if you want to build credit and open a spending or high-interest savings account with no monthly fees. 

If you don’t need or want all of those features, you might want to consider one of the alternatives to Chime listed here. 

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The Chime Visa® Debit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Please see back of your Card for its issuing bank.

The post Best Chime Alternatives: Which One Is Best for You? appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

Are you a younger teen searching for your first job or an eager parent interested in helping your 14-year-old find a job? 

Believe it or not, many companies hire kids as young as fourteen. In addition, there are plenty of side hustles 14-year-olds can start themselves.

To help you search for a job, I’ve compiled a list of the best jobs for 14-year-olds. Ready? Let’s dive in!

If your child is a year older, our list of the best jobs for 15-years-olds has more options (as older kids have more options).

1. Work at a Movie Theater

Ever thought about working at a movie theater? There are a variety of jobs available, such as working concessions, taking tickets, and cleaning theaters after a show.

AMC is a popular movie theatre chain that will often hire 14-year-olds. With over 946 theaters in the U.S., there is likely one near you.

Note: Not all AMC (or other) theaters hire 14-year-olds due to local laws. Check with a theater near you for hiring age information. 

2. Become a Social Media Manager

Social media managers manage one or more social media accounts for local businesses. The work can involve anything from taking pictures to creating posts to managing interactions.

The job is suitable for anyone who is good with people and has a sound knowledge of at least a few social media channels, like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.  

One way to find work is to reach out to a business owner who could benefit from an improved social media presence.

If you or your parents have a friend or family member who owns a business, that might be a good place to find your first client.

Or you could reach out to businesses in your area and offer your services.

3. Babysit

Do you love kids? Why not work as a babysitter? Babysitters make anywhere from $10 to $20 an hour in many cities. 

Although babysitting is a big responsibility, you might enjoy the work if you can manage and entertain children (oldest siblings, take note!). 

Tip: Work with your parents to create a profile on Care.com to get immediate advertising for your services.

4. Tutor

If you excel in one or more school subjects, tutoring is a great way to make extra money at fourteen.

Younger students often need help learning math, reading, English, etc. Keep your ears open to parents talking about struggling learners, or approach parents you know to ask if they would like to hire you as a tutor. 

✨ Related: Side Hustles You Can Start with Less than $100

5. Work at a Restaurant 

Have you considered working at a restaurant? Many restaurant chains hire 14-year-olds, including: 

• Chick-fil-A 
• Culver’s 
• Dairy Queen 
• KFC 
• McDonald’s 
• Pizza Hut 
• Taco Bell

If you find work in a restaurant, you’ll be expected to perform numerous duties, including processing transactions, filling orders, doing dishes, and cleaning the restaurant. 

6. Scoop Ice Cream

At fourteen, an ice cream store might be a better gig than a traditional restaurant. Aside from serving customers and cleaning up, you could score some free ice cream!

Ice cream stores that hire 14-year-olds include Baskin Robbins, Bruster’s, and Rita’s Italian Ice.

7. Provide a Service

If you’re looking for a way to make extra money, consider selling your services. There are many different tasks people in your neighborhood are willing to pay someone else to look after.

Some ideas include: 

• Cleaning houses
• Mowing lawns
• Working as a Mother’s Helper
• Running Errands
• Visiting with the homebound
• Washing cars

To find customers, hand out flyers or advertise in your local Facebook Community group.

8. Freelance Your Skills

If you have a more specialized skillset, consider selling your services as a freelancer. Freelancing is one of the best work-from-home jobs because of its flexibility. Not sure what you can try? Start by making a list of things you’re good at, then find a way to use each skill to make money.

For example:

• Do you have graphic design skills? Make and sell t-shirts on Redbubble.
• Are you an artist? Find gigs on Fiverr.
• Are you a talented writer? Search for jobs on Upwork or start your own blog.
• Do you know a few things about website development? Start your own web design business.

Regardless of your skills, there is probably a way you can use them to make money. 

✨ Related: Ultimate Freelancer’s Guide: Freelancing Tips And Tricks

9. Work at a Grocery Store

Many grocery stores hire 14-year-olds to work in various departments. You could work as a cashier, grocery or produce clerk, bagger, cart attendant, etc.

Some national grocery store chains that may hire 14-year-olds include:

• Fareway
• Hy-Vee
• Giant Food
• Giant Eagle
• Kroger
• Safeway
• Publix
• Winn-Dixie

Visit your local grocery store for an application and information on available jobs.

10. Work as a Farmhand

Do you live in a rural area? Why not find work as a farmhand? Farmhands do heavy and sometimes dirty work, but you might find, as I did when I worked as a farmhand, that the atmosphere makes the hard work worth it.

As a farmhand, you’ll help care for animals or work with crops such as corn and potatoes. With this type of work, no two days are exactly alike.

Working as a farmhand can also be a great way to connect with nature. 

11. Start a Pet Care Business

Are you a dog or cat person? If so, you could find work caring for pets.

Look for dog-walking jobs or get paid to pet sit for pet owners who have to leave their pets at home for extended periods because they’re traveling or have a busy schedule.

Advertise your services to neighbors, family, and friends, and create a profile on Rover to help you find work in pet care faster. 

12. Become a Golf Caddy

Golf caddies work at local golf courses. As a golf caddy, you’ll be responsible for providing any of the following services to golfers:

• Carrying their clubs
• Keeping clubs and other equipment clean
• Handing them towels, drinks, and tees when they need them
• Ensure their golf bag is organized

As a golf caddy, you’ll earn an hourly wage with the potential for tips if you do a good job. 

13. Take Surveys

If you don’t need to earn much but would welcome a little extra cash, you could earn money by signing up for paid surveys. 

You are providing feedback to various brands by taking online surveys, helping them develop and market the best products and services.

The best survey sites pay in cash or via PayPal when you take surveys at your convenience. 

Surveys might take between 10 and 40 minutes to complete, depending on the survey and the company. Think you’re too young? Most survey companies hire teens as young as 13 to take surveys. 

✨ Related: The 7 Best Paid Survey Sites

14. Work for a Small Business Owner

Another idea for 14-year-olds who want to work is to find a local tradesperson or retail store owner who needs help for a few hours each day or week.

Reach out to people who own trade businesses, retail stores, and other small businesses to see if they need help. 

15. Get a Seasonal Job

You may be able to find seasonal work as a 14-year-old. For instance, you could work for a landscape company mowing lawns or cleaning pools. 

You might find retail stores willing to hire 14-year-olds to work during the holiday season. Working as a lifeguard could be another seasonal job you could pursue, but you can’t pursue this opportunity until you turn 15 due to federal law.

Capitalize on the seasons and the holidays/events that happen year-round and look for opportunities to work when they’re happening. 

16. Work at an Amusement Park

Amusement parks often hire teens as young as fourteen for a variety of job positions. If you have an amusement park near you, you could be hired to: 

• Work in food service
• Get a job cleaning up the park
• Operate certain rides
• Work as a ticket taker
• Work as a cashier in a souvenir shop 

Contact local amusement parks near you to find out about job openings. Most amusement parks begin hiring before the peak season, so don’t wait until it’s too late.  

17. Work at an Orchard

Orchards of all types often hire teenage workers due to the labor-intensive nature of the work. You could work at an apple orchard, vineyard, or berry farm.

Your responsibilities can vary at an orchard, from picking fruit and helping customers to maintaining plants and trees. 

18. Work at an Animal Shelter

Another job for pet lovers is to work at an animal shelter. Animal shelters hire teens for many different responsibilities, such as:

• Cleaning cages
• Grooming animals
• Feeding animals
• Walking dogs
• Playing with pets
• Stocking shelves

This could be an excellent job if you love animals. It can also be a great volunteer opportunity if you’re looking for a way to give back.

19. Computer Repair Service

Are you a 14-year-old computer whiz? If so, consider starting a computer repair business. 

Many people (myself included) have computers but don’t know enough about them to keep them in optimal running condition. 

Use your skills to your advantage by offering computer services in your neighborhood or among your social circle.  

20. Food Prep Worker

Larger restaurants and cafeterias are always looking for food prep workers.

As a food prep worker, you help get food ready to be available to cafeteria customers. You might stock shelves with drinks, ensure adequate supplies like forks or salt and pepper, and prepare menu offerings. 

Check with hospitals and other large food companies for information on job openings.

21. Flip Products for a Profit

Product flipping, also known as retail arbitrage, is easier than you think. It involves buying something for a lower price and reselling it for a profit. 

For example, let’s say you go to a garage sale (or browse the best online sales sites) and find your favorite video game for sale at a rock-bottom price of $5. 

It’s in great condition, so you buy it and then sell it to a friend for the going rate, which is $35. You’ve just made a $30 profit.

It will take some work to figure out which products can sell for a higher price, but once you do, you can make some serious cash. 

Labor Laws for 14-Year-Olds

As a 14-year-old, you are subject to federal laws regarding when and how much you can work. Here are some of the guidelines employers are required by law to follow if they hire a 14-year-old worker:

• Maximum of three hours of work on a school day
• No more than 18 hours of work during a week in which school is held
• Maximum of eight hours of work on a non-school day
• 40-hour maximum work week during a non-school week
• Work hours must be between 7 am and 7 pm except from June 1 through Labor Day, in which case 14-year-olds can work until 9 pm.

Any business employing a 14-year-old to work outside these parameters violates federal law. Each state may have its own laws and may be more restrictive than above.

There are also laws regarding how much you must be paid as a working 14-year-old. The federal minimum wage for a 14-year-old is $7.25 per hour. However, the law states that businesses can pay workers as little as $4.25 per hour for their first 90 days of employment.

It’s important to note that individual states may have wage laws that deviate from federal laws, allowing workers to be paid more. Therefore, you must also check your state’s minimum wage laws.

Final Thoughts

The best jobs for 14-year-olds pay a decent wage, adhere to state and federal laws, and provide valuable learning experiences. As you can see from our list, the possibilities are almost endless. Many companies hire 14-year-olds for traditional jobs, but starting your own side hustle is also an option.

If you’re ready to make money as a teen but are having trouble finding work, my advice is to be patient and not give up. Also, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Use our list for inspiration. And talk to people you know. Many employers prefer to hire based on referrals from current employees or people whose opinions they trust.

The post Best Jobs for 14-Year-Olds: 21 Jobs for Younger Teenagers appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

If you’re an eager side hustler, there is no shortage of restaurant delivery side hustles available. One popular company hiring gig workers is DoorDash.

DoorDash is based out of San Francisco, California, and opened its doors in 2013. It’s the largest food delivery app company in the United States and serves over 4,000 cities the U.S., Canada, and Australia. The company contracts over 1 million drivers for delivery. 

You can make money shopping for and delivering groceries when it fits your schedule.

But is DoorDash worth it?

The answer can be a little complicated.

In this DoorDash Driver Review, I’ll let you know what it’s like to drive for DoorDash, your earnings potential, and other facts you’ll want to know. Let’s get started!

At a Glance

• Deliver restaurant orders to customers
• Get paid per delivery, plus tips
• Work your own schedule and only take the deliveries you want
• Must be at least 18 and have a reliable vehicle with insurance

Who Should Use DoorDash

DoorDash is a great side hustle for someone who has a reliable car. It can be safer than doing ridesharing since you don’t have to have strangers in your car. You can choose when and how much you work, which is perfect for someone who needs a flexible schedule.

You get paid per delivery from DoorDash and then can also receive tips from your customers. You will also want to keep track of your mileage so you can deduct that expense when you file your taxes. You will also have to have the discipline to set aside enough to pay your income taxes since DoorDash doesn’t withhold taxes from your pay.

DoorDash Alternatives

Item delivered	Restaurant orders	Groceries	Groceries and everyday items
Pay frequency	Weekly	Weekly	Weekly
Requirements	Must be 18, have a driver’s license and a reliable vehicle	Must be 18, have a driver’s license and a reliable vehicle	Must be 18, have a driver’s license and a reliable vehicle
	Learn more	Learn more	Learn more

What Are the Qualifications for DoorDash Drivers?

If you want to deliver for DoorDash, you do need to meet a list of qualifications the company requires:

• You must be at least 18 years of age
• You must use a car, motorcycle, scooter, or (in some cities) bicycle for deliveries
• You’ll need a valid driver’s license and active insurance policy 
• You will need to provide your Social Security Number (in the U.S. only)
• You’ll have to consent to a background check

If you meet these requirements, you can sign up to be a Dasher for DoorDash. 

According to DoorDash, signing up to be a Dasher takes just a few minutes. Applicants are approved to Dash in just a few days. 

After you’re approved, you’ll need to complete a short driver orientation online and then finish your application.

Go to DoorDash

How Does DoorDash Work for Drivers?

Once you’ve completed the Dasher orientation and signup, you’ll download the DoorDash Dasher app onto your phone. 

The app will show you two options for working: Dash Now and Schedule a Shift. You might like the Dash Now option as it allows for more flexibility; you can start and stop as you wish.

However, if there are plenty of Dashers in your area when you want to work, you won’t be allowed to choose the Dash Now option. 

For that reason, scheduling a shift could be a better option. It gives you a guaranteed “in” during your scheduled hours, meaning you’ll have a higher chance of earning cash. 

When you’ve opted to work, whether via Dash Now or Schedule a Shift, you’ll see orders pop up on your screen when they become available. 

Each available order will show you important information you need to make an informed decision as to whether or not you’ll take it, such as:

• The route from the restaurant to the delivery location
• The number of miles you’ll drive
• What time you need to deliver the order by
• How many items will be in the delivery
• What your pay will be

You can use that information to determine whether you can logistically complete the order on time and whether you want to take it. 

If you want the order, click “Accept” and be on your way. You have 45 seconds to accept an order before it disappears and is offered to another driver.

What Happens After You Accept An Order?

Once you accept the order, the app will direct you via GPS to the restaurant. You’ll confirm your arrival at the store or restaurant and confirm the pickup of the order. 

Note that some orders are prepaid, and some require you to pay with your DoorDash Red Card. 

The Red Card is DoorDash’s money, not yours, so you don’t have to pay the cost of the order if the client doesn’t pay it. 

Once you arrive at the delivery destination, you drop off the order and go. And once you’ve completed the order, you’ll be eligible for payment.   

✨ Related: 8 Jobs Like Instacart

DoorDash Payment Options

DoorDash pays you via direct deposit to your bank account. The pay period runs Monday through Sunday, and you are paid the following Wednesday. 

There is a payment option called Fast Pay that will give you your Dasher pay right away. You can use Fast Pay daily; however, a $1.99 fee applies every time you use it. 

How Much Does DoorDash Pay?

Ahh, the all-important question: How much does DoorDash pay?

How much you are paid and how long it will take to complete the delivery will vary from order to order. Finally, how much the customer tips can play a big role in how much you earn. Many factors are involved, so the answer is complicated.

If you are picky and only select orders that meet your earning criteria, you can increase your earnings. For example, alcohol deliveries earn more per order compared to restaurant orders. Actual earnings may differ and depend on several factors, like the number of deliveries you accept and complete, time of day, location, and any costs.

Hourly pay is calculated using average Dasher payouts while on delivery (from when you accept an order until the time you drop it off) over 90 days. It includes compensation from tips, peak pay, and other incentives.

Tips are a factor too. Clients have the option of adding a tip to the order so you can see what it is right away. Or they can decline to add the tip to the order and pay you cash when you get there, but tips are not guaranteed.

DoorDash does have a few incentive programs that could increase your earnings. We’ll talk about those shortly. 

Go to DoorDash

What Are My Expenses with DoorDash?

You will have to pay for your car’s gas and other expenses if you work as a Dasher. 

That includes toll fees, parking fees, tickets, maintenance, and everything else. 

However, the upside is that you can deduct the mileage you put on when you file your taxes. The current 2024 mileage deduction is 67 cents per mile. 

How To Sign Up for DoorDash

Signing up to be a Dasher with DoorDash is easy. Head to the DoorDash website and click on the Become a Dasher tab at the top right-hand side of your screen. 

You’ll answer the questions listed on the application, which takes just a few minutes. DoorDash typically approves Dashers within just a few days. 

How Can I Earn More with DoorDash?

There are things you can do to help you earn more money as a Dasher. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Work During Peak Hours

DoorDash peak hours can vary based on the locale, aside from the obvious ones: the lunch and dinner rush, nights, and weekends. You may have more earning potential if you’re willing to schedule a shift during peak hours.

2. Refer Other Drivers

DoorDash offers referral bonuses when it needs more drivers in a particular area. If a referral bonus is available, you’ll see a banner that says “Refer Friends” on your account homepage. 

However, your referral has to complete a specified number of deliveries before you are eligible to receive your bonus. 

3. Earn Top Dasher Status

DoorDash’s Top Dasher program allows you to earn more money as a Dasher. DoorDash analyzes your Dasher stats on the first of each month. If, in the previous month, you’ve met the following qualifications, you are considered a Top Dasher and will qualify for the program:

• Customer rating of at least 4.7
• An acceptance rate of at least 70%
• Completion rate of at least 95%
• 100+ completed deliveries in the last month
• 200+ lifetime completed deliveries

If you’ve achieved Top Dasher status for the month, you will have 24/7 Dash Now availability even if there are enough Dashers in the area. In addition, you’ll be prioritized over other Dashers when deliveries become available. 

4. Only Take Larger Orders

Typically, larger orders with more items have a higher pay rate. Taking these larger orders can earn you more cash. 

5. Target Bonus Offers

DoorDash occasionally offers bonuses to Dashers. See your account page for details on any bonus offers. 

6. Avoid High Traffic Areas

High-traffic areas can be disappointing for Dashers. The longer it takes to deliver your order, the less money you make because you’re spending more time in traffic. As you work, learn driving routes to help you work around high-traffic times and areas to maximize your income.

7. Be a Great Dasher

And finally, be a great Dasher. As with any service job, excellent service often results in higher tips. 

Be as timely as possible while still navigating traffic safely. Check the order before you leave the restaurant to be sure everything is there. And bring your delivery with a smile. 

Go to DoorDash

DoorDash Alternatives

If you’re interested in grocery delivery as a side hustle, DoorDash is not your only option. Depending upon where you live, you may also be able to find work with the following DoorDash alternatives:

Grubhub

Grubhub sets a per-order pay rate based on how much time and mileage you’ll put into a trip. As with DoorDash, Grubhub lets you keep 100% of your tips, and they pay weekly via direct deposit. 

You must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance. If you are using a bike, you’ll just need a state ID. If you are in Las Vegas, you need to be at least 21.

Here’s our analysis of Grubhub vs DoorDash.

Go to Grubhub

Instacart

Instacart drivers get paid to deliver groceries, but in most cases, you also need to shop for groceries.

Pay is per order and varies based on the order. With Instacart, you keep 100% of the tips, and it will pay you weekly. You must be 18 years old, be eligible to work in the U.S. and have a reliable vehicle.

Go to Instacart

Shipt

Shipt shoppers get paid to shop for and deliver grocery orders. The Shipt website says their shoppers earn an average of $22 per hour between pay, tips, and bonuses.

To work for Shipt, you must be 18, have a social security number and mailing address, a valid driver’s license and insurance, and drive a reliable vehicle. You must also have knowledge of produce selection and the ability to lift 50 pounds.

Go to Shipt

DoorDash FAQs

Is It Worth It to Work for DoorDash?

The answer to that question depends a lot on your situation. The gas mileage of the vehicle you drive, the area you live in, and your available working hours are all factors that affect your earnings. 

And as with any job, the more experience you have, the more you can perfect your Dasher skills and (hopefully) increase your income. 

Go to DoorDash

Final Thoughts

Grocery delivery is a legitimate gig job that doesn’t appear to be going away anytime soon. DoorDash drivers can make a decent income provided they work to take higher-paying jobs, work during peak hours, and minimize expenses. New Dashers may find that the per-hour earnings are low. For that reason, giving excellent service to help maximize the potential for tips is essential.

The post Is DoorDash Worth It? An Honest DoorDash Review 2025 appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

However, there are a few fintechs and banks that don’t use ChexSystems. Knowing which banks don’t use ChexSystems can help you find a great bank, even if you have had trouble opening accounts elsewhere. We’ll share other tips for working around ChexSystems as well.

	Best for	Learn more
	Broad banking services	Learn more
	Building credit	Learn more
	High interest rates	Learn more
	Fee-free overdraft	Learn more
	Low fees	Learn more

1. Chase Bank

Best for: Broad-based banking services

• Minimum opening deposit: $0
• Minimum balance requirement: $0
• Monthly maintenance fee: $4.95 (waivable)
• Early Direct Deposit
• Free ATM usage at Chase ATMs
• No overdraft fees

Go to Chase

Chase is the largest bank in the U.S., and the Chase Secure Banking account is the only Chase checking account that doesn’t use ChexSystems. The $4.95 monthly fee can be waived if you make qualifying electronic deposits of $250 or more per statement period. 

There are no overdraft fees as you can't overdraft the account. You also can’t get paper checks. However, you can get free money orders and cashier’s checks. You can get your direct deposit up to two days early.

With this account, you can use Chase Online Bill Pay to pay bills online for free. You can also send money for free with Zelle. There are also budgeting and credit tools to help you improve your finances.

Go to Chase

2. Current

Best for: Building credit

• Minimum opening deposit: $0
• Minimum balance requirement: $0
• Monthly maintenance fee: $0
• Non-interest-bearing
• Fee-free in-network ATMs
• Rewards for debit card purchases

Go to Current

Current is a financial technology company committed to improving banking. When you get an account with Current you don't get your typical debit card. Instead, the card attached to your account is a secured credit card. When you make a purchase, the money is removed from your account just like a debit card, but the funds are held and then used to pay the credit card on the due date.

This helps you build credit in the background without having to worry about it. You use the card like you would a normal debit card, and on-time payments are reported to the credit bureaus.

The account also comes with “savings pods” that allow you to move money into savings and earn some interest.

Note: When you open a Current account, you can also open teen accounts for your kids. Each teen account comes with a debit card, savings pod, and parental notifications and controls. 

Read our full review of Current here.

Go to Current

3. Acorns

Best for: High interest rates

• Minimum opening deposit: $0
• Minimum balance requirement: $0
• Monthly maintenance fee: $3, $6 or $12
• 3% on checking, 5% on savings
• Free in-network ATM usage 

Go to Acorns

Acorns is a fintech company that lets you round up your expenditures from your checking account and invest them. You can also put a percentage of your paychecks into your Acorns Invest account as well.

Acorns offers three accounts: Personal, Personal Plus, and Premium. The Personal account offers basic banking features. Personal Plus includes investment capabilities, and Premium enhances those investment capabilities and offers banking and investing for your kids as well.

You’ll also get a free Tungsten metal debit card you can use to make point-of-sale purchases and ATM withdrawals. 

This account does not offer paper checks. Account balances are FDIC insured with Acorns’ partner bank. 

Read our full Acorns Review here.

Go to Acorns

4. Chime

Best for: Fee-free overdraft

• Minimum opening deposit: $0
• Minimum balance requirement: $0
• Monthly maintenance fee: $0
• Non-interest bearing
• Free in-network ATM usage

Go to Chime

Chime is a fintech company offering spending accounts, savings accounts, and credit builder accounts. They don’t use ChexSystems, and they don’t run a credit check for new customers. 

You can fund your Chime spending account via Direct Deposit or by linking the account with your Chime-supported bank account. Direct Deposits can come up to two days early with Chime. If you qualify, you can get free overdraft protection for up to $200 as well. 

Read our full Chime credit builder review for more on how this works or see our Chime spending account review for complete information about Chime.

Go to Chime

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. The Chime Visa® Debit Card is issued by The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Please see back of your Card for its issuing bank.

5. GO2bank

Best for: Low fees

• Minimum opening deposit: $01
• Minimum balance requirement: $0
• Monthly maintenance fee: $5 (waived if you have monthly Direct Deposit)
• Non-interest-bearing (savings feature has interest)
• Free nationwide ATM network (See app for free ATM locations. $3 for out-of-network withdrawals. ATM owner may also charge a fee. Limits apply.)

Go to Go2Bank

GO2bank is a digital bank of the fintech company Green Dot. You might remember that Green Dot assists people in making cash deposits to online banks. Now, they’ve opened GO2bank and offer online checking services through GO2bank. Here are some of the GO2bank features:

The monthly maintenance fee is $5, but it’s waived whenever you receive a payroll or government benefits direct deposit in the previous monthly statement period.

You can get up to $200 in overdraft protection if you opt in for that feature. Fees may apply, and eligibility requirements apply.

See the GO2bank website for additional details on overdraft protection and overdraft protection fees.

Go to Go2Bank

1 The GO2bank account comes with a Visa Debit card. If you open an account online, there is no fee or minimum balance requirement. If you open an account by getting a GO2bank debit card in a store, then there is a purchase fee and an initial deposit of $20 – $500 required.

What Is ChexSystems?

In a nutshell, ChexSystems is the bank version of a credit-reporting agency. It operates under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Whereas credit reporting agencies like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion report on your use of credit, ChexSystem reports on your use of deposit accounts at banks and credit unions. 

How Does ChexSystems Work?

ChexSystems monitors your deposit account activity much in the same way that Experian monitors your credit usage. 

The company creates a report for each person who owns a deposit account. Your ChexSystems report might contain items such as:

• Abusive ATM and debit card usage
• Bounced check and/or negative account balance information
• Unpaid negative account balances
• Information about deposit accounts that are involuntarily closed
• Fraud and identity theft information

One thing worth noting; unlike other credit reporting agencies, ChexSystems doesn’t include positive ratings about deposit account behavior.

Instead, a ChexSystems report only includes negative behavior. Some entities have criticized this practice in the past, leading to changes in how long ChexSystems keeps negative items on reports. 

If you haven’t experienced any of the bullet-pointed items mentioned above, you’ll have a clean ChexSystems report with a high score. 

What Are ChexSystems Scores? 

As with credit scores, a ChexSystems score can affect your ability to open a deposit account at a bank or credit union.

A ChexSystems score can land anywhere between 100 and 899. However, you have less insight into how that score affects you than a traditional credit score.

Credit bureaus like Experian are very open about where your credit score lands you in terms of how loan and credit card companies view you.

Conversely, ChexSystems keeps its score-calculating system hidden from the public eye. So, although you can make an educated guess about what a good vs. bad ChexSystems score is, you may never honestly know how ChexSystems ranks deposit account holders. 

What Might Affect Your ChexSystems Score?

You can, however, know what factors might affect your ChexSystems score. Here are examples of some items that may result in a reduced ChexSystems score for you.

• Negative account balances
• Unpaid negative account balances
• Bounced/returned checks
• Both unpaid and paid non-sufficient funds (NSF) checks
• Overuse of debit cards
• Suspected misuse of ATMs
• Suspected fraudulent activity
• Discovered false information provided during the account opening process

If you can keep your deposit account record free from these and similar items, you can be pretty confident that your ChexSystems score will be high.

However, if you have instances of the above circumstances in your deposit account past or present, you should expect your ChexSystems score to suffer. 

No ChexSystems Banks Vs. Second Chance Banks 

We’re talking today about banks that don’t use ChexSystems. But is there a difference between a bank that doesn’t use ChexSystems and a so-called “second chance” bank? 

Banks that don’t use ChexSystems have a cut-and-dried procedure; they don’t contact ChexSystems for information on account applicants. 

There is a chance that they’ll use a similar service such as Early Warning Service. However, they don’t contact ChexSystems. 

Conversely, second chance banks often use ChexSystems to research an applicant’s deposit account history; they choose to issue the account regardless of your ChexSystems score.

However, the downside of using a second-chance bank is that you’ll usually pay higher fees for it. 

The good news is that most second chance banks will let you upgrade to a more mainstream checking account after you’ve had 12 months of positive account activity. 

At the end of the day, both second chance banks and banks that don’t use ChexSystems are good options for people who’ve had banking trouble in the past.

Related: Best No Credit Check Bank Accounts

Final Thoughts

If you have a low ChexSystems score, it’s a good idea to investigate further before exploring other options. For example, you have the right to view a consumer disclosure report if a low ChexSystems score led to you being denied a new bank account. You also have the right to dispute information included in the report.

That said, a low ChexSystems score or negative items on your ChexSystems report no longer means you can’t have a checking account. 

With the emergence of fintech banking accounts, second chance checking accounts, and some banks that don’t use ChexSystems, you can still enjoy the convenience of having your checking account. 

The post 5 Best Banks That Don’t Use ChexSystems appeared first on Best Wallet Hacks.

Gift cards are great, especially when you get them for free. But sometimes, you need cold, hard cash to pay the rent, send a friend some money, or catch up on some bills.

Instead of keeping an unused gift card or two in your desk drawer, you may be able to convert them to cash. If they happen to be Visa gift cards, you have several options. Here are some ways to get the most bang for your gift card buck.

Best Ways to Convert Visa Gift Cards to Cash

We’ve compiled seven ways to exchange Visa gift cards for cash or save money on everyday purchases using gift cards. Before we get started, it’s important to note that converting your Visa gift card to cash will often result in some loss of face value. So you’ll want to ensure you’re willing to sacrifice a few dollars.

1. Sell Your Gift Card on CashCash

Cash Cash is a gift card marketplace that lets you buy and sell gift cards.

When you sell cards via CashCash, they tell you the exact amount of cash you’ll receive. This helps you avoid meeting with buyers in person or getting ripped off with a fraudulent payment. If you choose, you can earn more if you opt for a Prepaid Mastercard instead of cash.

For example, on a $25 Home Depot gift card, you can get $21.25 cash or $21.57 on a Prepaid MasterCard.

If you have a $25 Red Lobster gift card, you can get $17.00 cash. You can also get up to 11% more if you swap to another gift card. A nice feature of CashCash is that it lets you check all these prices without logging in.

👉 Check the value of your gift cards on CardCash

2. Sell Your Gift Card on Facebook Marketplace

One of the easiest ways to get cash for your Visa gift card is to sell it on Facebook Marketplace. The main advantage is that you won’t pay a fee. Your biggest hurdle will be convincing potential buyers that your Visa gift card is legit.

Potential buyers won’t know you, so marketing your cards correctly is crucial. Take pictures and screenshots of web pages from the Visa website displaying the card balance. Also, protect yourself as a seller by looking over the profile and the ratings of potential buyers.

Scam Alert!

There are scams in which a potential buyer asks you to get on a three-way call to verify the balance on the card. While this sounds legit, what often happens is that the potential buyer writes down the card number as you share it with the customer service rep and then uses the balance on the card from there without ever paying you for it. Look out for these scams.

Your best bet is to verify the balance online and then share the screenshot with any potential buyers, as mentioned above. Be sure to block out any information that might make it easy for the card information to be stolen. 

3. Convert Your Gift Card to PayPal or Venmo Cash

Another option is to convert your Visa gift card to Paypal or Venmo cash. To do this, you must have two PayPal (or Venmo) accounts in your name. If not, open a second account using a separate email address.

From there, add your Visa gift card information as a payment method on your first PayPal or Venmo account. Then, you’ll send the money to yourself (as a friend transfer) on your second account, using the gift card as the payment method.

You may incur charges from PayPal on one end or the other, so you’ll want to deduct that amount (they show you the fee beforehand) from the gift card balance so you don’t end up in the red.  

Typically, PayPal charges 2.9% plus $0.30. So, if I had a $75 gift card, the fee would be roughly $2.48. In that case, I’d send myself $72.52 cents to account for the fee.

After sending the money to your second account, transfer it to the bank account that’s linked to the second account. You can expect to wait 1-3 days for the funds to hit your bank account. 

You can choose an instant transfer with both sites. However, there will be an additional fee to get the cash to your bank account faster. 

4. Buy a Money Order with Your Visa Gift Card

To get a money order with your Visa gift card, you simply go to a place that sells money orders and buy one with your gift card. Several places sell money orders, including:

• Banks and credit unions
• Money transfer stores such as Western Union
• Walmart
• Other retailers, such as grocery stores

 After you purchase your money order, you can bring it to your bank or credit union and deposit it just as you would a regular check. It’s important to remember that there are fees for purchasing money orders, which will vary depending on where you purchase your money order.

Walmart indicates a maximum fee of $1 for money orders, making them one of the most cost-effective ways to purchase one. Many financial institutions view a money order similarly to a check, which is why it’s so easy to purchase one using a Visa gift card.

Always purchase your money order from a reputable retailer. The brand of money order may influence whether your bank accepts it and the length of hold they place on the funds.

5. Sell Your Visa Gift Card to an Exchange Kiosk

Consider selling your gift card to an exchange kiosk. Gift card exchange kiosks are located in malls around the world. Do an internet search for a “gift card exchange kiosk near me” to find one close to you.

Not all gift card exchange kiosks will accept Visa gift cards. In addition, many have minimum dollar amounts for gift cards and charge fees for the exchange in cash. Because of this, you’ll want to read the fine print on the website belonging to the company that owns the kiosk before you make the trip to where the kiosk is located.

6. Sell Your Visa Gift Card to a Loved One

You could sell your Visa gift card to a loved one. I’ve done this before, and it has worked out well. The key is to make it an attractive deal for you and the buyer.

For instance, I received a gift card for $25 to a store I would never shop at. The store isn’t my style, but my mom shops there frequently.

So, I offered to sell her my $25 gift card for $20. She appreciated the savings, and I loved getting cash for my gift card. The great thing about selling Visa gift cards to loved ones is that you can use them pretty much anywhere. 

7. Offer the Visa Gift Card for Sale at Work

Another option for converting a gift card to cash is to sell it to a co-worker. This method can be especially successful if you work for a larger company. Most companies have a bulletin board in the lunch area, or you could send a group email to your office or your team. Most people love getting a deal, making selling your Visa gift card to a coworker easy. 

Alternatives to Converting Visa Gift Card into Cash

The following options may not get you physical cash, but they can still help you save money with your Visa gift cards.

Regift Your Visa Gift Card

Have you considered regifting your Visa gift card? For instance, let’s say your dad’s birthday is approaching. Instead of spending cash on his gift, you can give him your Visa gift card, thereby increasing (by not spending) the money you have in hand.

The great thing about regifting a Visa gift card is that it can be used to purchase almost anything. The gift card recipient will have plenty of purchase options at their fingertips while you save money.

Use Your Visa Gift Card to Pay Bills

Believe it or not, you can use a Visa gift card to pay bills. Many utility companies will allow you to pay your bill with a Visa gift card, processing it much like a credit card payment. You save money by reducing the cash from your checking account to pay bills.

Use the money you save to invest, take a vacation, or put it towards another financial goal. Check with the utility companies you have services through to find out if they’ll take your Visa number as payment for the bill you owe. 

Purchase Essential Items With Your Visa Gift Card

Another way to use your Visa gift card is to purchase necessities you’d normally have to pay cash for – groceries, gas, medicines, personal items, and more. By using your Visa gift card to purchase these, you can reduce the cash you pay out of pocket.

For instance, if you spend $1,000 on groceries each month and have a $200 Visa gift card to help pay for groceries, your grocery bill now becomes $800, and you have an extra $200 in your pocket.

The same concept works for gas for your vehicle or any other necessities you need to purchase.

If you pay for necessities using your Visa gift card, you’ll come out ahead as long as you’re not buying items you wouldn’t normally buy. 

Practice Retail Arbitrage

Retail arbitrage involves buying low-price items and reselling them for a profit. If you have a knack for getting a great deal on easy-to-resell items, you could use your Visa gift card to buy items at low clearance prices and then resell them for cash.

For instance, you could buy clearance items at Walmart and resell them on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

There are tons of apps that can help you sell your stuff online. List your clearance finds on multiple apps to maximize sales and collect a profit from your Visa gift card.

Hint: When reselling items you’ve bought online, charge your buyers for shipping so you don’t cut into your profit. You can also set your price to cover shipping costs and offer free shipping.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Visa gift cards are more flexible than store gift cards because you can use them anywhere Visa is accepted. But not everything can be paid for with a gift card. If you need cash, try converting your Visa gift card using one of the abovementioned methods. And always remember to look out for scams when dealing with another party.

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