First Jobs, Paychecks and Taxes
The first job is where money stops being theoretical. It is also where most of the genuinely confusing rules live: how many hours a fifteen year old can legally work, what to put on a W-4, why the check is smaller than hours times rate, and whether any of this means a tax return in April.
Federal rules are the floor here. States can be stricter, and where they differ the stricter rule wins, so every page below says where to check your own state.
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How to Fill Out a W-4 for a Teenager
For one part-time job it is Step 1 and Step 5 only. When exempt is correct, what exempt does not stop, and why Step 3 catches parents out.
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Does My Teenager Have to File Taxes?
Three triggers, any one is enough: earned income over $15,750, unearned over $1,350, or self- employment over $400, on tax year 2025 returns.
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Why Is My Teen's First Paycheck So Small?
Two causes: the pay-period lag, which is temporary, and FICA at 7.65 percent, which is not. Every line on a first pay stub, in the order it appears.
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Work Permits for Minors: What They Are and Whether You Need One
Work permits are state law, not federal, so it depends where you live. What the permit is, who issues it, who has to sign, and how to check your state.
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How Many Hours Can a 14 or 15 Year Old Work?
The federal hour and time-of-day limits for 14 and 15 year olds, what changes at 16, and why your state's rule can be stricter than the federal one.
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Babysitting, Mowing and Taxes: When a Teen Side Hustle Gets Complicated
Net self-employment earnings of $400 trigger a return and 15.3 percent self-employment tax, in tax year 2025 and 2026 alike. Nothing is withheld, so the return brings a bill.
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Before the First Shift: A Teen First Job Checklist
Documents, the W-4, direct deposit, reading a pay stub, hours and transport, and the conversation about where the money goes. Everything to settle before day one.