In the U.S. the age brackets for having your child work in your home-based business depend on federal and state labor laws. Here's a breakdown based on federal rules:
Any Age (Under 14)
Your child can work any age in a business solely owned by parents as long as the work is safe and doesn't interfere with schooling.
Allowed tasks: Light duties like filing, cleaning, packing, or helping with non-hazardous work.
Not allowed: Anything hazardous (e.g., heavy machinery, construction, manufacturing).
Ages 14-15.
Can work in a non-hazardous role but may have hour restrictions if the business is not entirely parent-owned.
Outside school hours: Up to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours per week during the school year.
Summer/vacation: Up to 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week.
Ages 16-17.
Can work any hours in a home-based business.
Cannot perform hazardous jobs: (operating heavy machinery, roofing, or using certain power tools).
Age 18+
No restrictions; considered an adult worker.
Special Tax Considerations.
If your child is under 18, you don't have to withhold Social Security/Medicare taxes if you're a sole proprietorship or partnership (both parents only).
If under 21, their wages aren't subject to federal unemployment tax (FUTA).