How Old Do You Have to Be to Sell on Etsy in 2024?

Reading Time: 12 minutes

The quick answer to how old do you have to be to sell on Etsy, is you must be at least 18 years old.

However, individuals who are under 18 can also tap into their entrepreneurial spirit by having a parent, legal guardian, or another trusted adult create and manage an Etsy shop on their behalf.

This way, if you’re a young creator, you still have the opportunity to showcase your products and make a profit as you learn the ropes of online selling.

It is important to note that the adult managing the account is responsible for all financial transactions and compliance with Etsy’s rules and regulations.

If you’re a minor looking to sell on Etsy safely, it’s crucial to have a trustworthy adult who is willing to help you navigate the process and keep your shop running smoothly as you embark on this exciting journey.

Eligibility for Selling on Etsy

Minors on Etsy

Etsy allows minors (under 18 years old) to run their own shops under specific conditions. According to Etsy’s Minors Policy, minors who are at least 13 years old can sell on the platform, but only under the supervision of a parent or legal guardian.

The responsible adult must be the one to manage the Etsy account and be legally bound to the platform’s policies and guidelines.

Parent or Legal Guardian Supervision

A parent or legal guardian must manage the account and transactions for minors. They are responsible for providing accurate account information, setting up shop policies, listing items for sale, completing sales, and ensuring all transactions comply with Etsy’s guidelines.

The parent or legal guardian also needs to monitor the minor’s activities on the site and address any potential risks to the child.

What are the risks of minors selling on Etsy?

While it’s great that young entrepreneurs can sell your items on Etsy, there are some risks for minors, such as:

• Sharing personal information publicly
• Interacting with potentially harmful individuals
• Exposure to inappropriate content
• Taking on too much responsibility

As a parent or legal guardian, it’s important to be aware of these risks and take appropriate measures to ensure your child’s safety.

What can parents do to help their children sell on Etsy safely?

To safeguard your child while selling on Etsy, you can:

1. Monitor your child’s activities on the platform.
2. Set up shop policies with clear guidelines on communication and transactions.
3. Ensure your child doesn’t disclose personal information publicly.
4. Assess potential customers before engaging in transactions.
5. Discuss inappropriate content and educate your child on how to handle it.
6. Provide guidance and support to avoid overwhelming responsibility.

By following these steps, you can effectively mitigate the potential risks and create a safe environment for your child to gain experience as a budding entrepreneur on Etsy.

Opening and Managing an Etsy Shop

Creating an Etsy Account

To start selling on Etsy, you first need to create an Etsy account. To do this, you’ll provide your email address, select a unique shop name, and set a password. After confirming your email, you’ll be guided through the Etsy store setup process.

Setting up Your Etsy Shop

Once your account is created, you’ll start by setting up your shop:

1. Choose your shop’s language, currency, and location.
2. Provide details about the products you plan to sell.
3. To accept payments, you’ll need to set up Etsy Payments, which allows you to accept major credit cards, Etsy gift cards, and more. Alternatively, you can choose to accept PayPal or provide your bank account details for direct payments.
4. Provide your financial information, including your (or your parents) credit card for billing purposes, as well as your tax information.

After completing these steps, you can customize your shop’s appearance and upload your products.

Shop Element	Options
Shop Language	Multiple languages
Accepted Payment	Etsy Payments, PayPal, Direct bank payments
Financial Information	Credit Card, Tax ID

Managing Your Etsy Shop

To effectively manage your Etsy shop, you’ll need to keep track of the following:

• Account Activity: Regularly check your account’s dashboard to stay informed about sales, customer inquiries, and any changes to Etsy’s policies.
• Fees: Etsy charges listing fees, transaction fees, and payment processing fees. Tracking these costs helps you understand your shop’s profitability.
• Shop Reviews: Monitor customer feedback and address any concerns to improve your shop’s reputation and attract more buyers.

By staying organized and proactive in managing your shop, you can build a successful Etsy business.

Products and Listings on Etsy

Types of Products Allowed

On Etsy, you can sell a variety of items, including handmade products, vintage items, craft supplies, printables and print on demand products.

• Handmade products are those that you personally create, design, or assemble.
• Vintage items are those that are at least 20 years old and have a nostalgic or historical value.
• Craft supplies are materials, tools, or components you use in making handmade products.
• Printables are downloadable products such as digital planners, templates or stickers.
• Print on Demand products are when you integrate a print on demand platform with your etsy store and create designs to be printed onto products.

Creating and Optimizing Listings

When listing a product on Etsy, you need to focus on a few key elements to make it appealing and easy to find for potential buyers. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Photos: Upload clear, well-lit, and high-quality photos to showcase products from different angles. This helps customers have a better understanding of what they’re purchasing.
• Description: Write accurate and detailed descriptions, highlighting important information such as size, materials, and any unique features. This makes it easy for shoppers to know exactly what they’re getting.
• Inventory: Keep track of available inventory and update your listings as needed to avoid overselling and ensure a smooth buying experience for your customers.

Getting Paid, Fees, and Taxes

Etsy Payments Process

As an Etsy seller, you’ll receive payments through the Etsy Payments platform, which accepts various forms of payment like credit cards, debit cards, and Etsy gift cards. Once a buyer makes a purchase, the payment is processed and then deposited into your bank account. It’s important to note that there’s a payment processing fee, which varies by location.

Fees and Commissions

When selling on Etsy, it’s important to be aware of the various fees involved. These include:

• Listing Fee: A fee of $0.20 is charged for each item listed in your shop
• Transaction Fee: Etsy charges a 5% fee on the total sale price (including shipping and gift wrapping) for each transaction
• Payment Processing Fee: This fee varies by location and is charged on each sale processed through Etsy Payments

If you choose to use PayPal for accepting payments, you should also consider the PayPal fee, which typically consists of a fixed fee plus a percentage of the transaction amount.

Tax and Legal Obligations

As an Etsy seller, it’s your responsibility to understand and comply with tax rules and regulations applicable to your business. This means:

• Reporting your income to the IRS and paying taxes, if necessary
• Obtaining a DBA (Doing Business As) registration, if you choose to operate under a different business name
• Acquiring any necessary business licenses or permits

To stay compliant, you need to keep accurate records of your business expenses and earnings. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of tax laws to avoid any legal issues in the future.

Marketing and Promotion

Etsy Ads

As an Etsy seller, you can use Etsy Ads to promote your listings and drive more traffic to your shop. By investing in Etsy Ads, your products can appear at the top of search results, increasing visibility and helping you reach potential customers. Each click on your promoted listings will be billed based on the cost-per-click.

Social Media Marketing

In addition to Etsy Ads, you can also use social media platforms to promote your shop and products. By creating engaging and visually appealing content, you can build a following on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.

This helps drive traffic to your Etsy shop, connect with potential customers, and share promotions and discounts easily. You can leverage hashtags, collaborate with influencers, and participate in relevant communities to increase your reach.

Regulations, Policies, and Compliance

Selling on Etsy: Terms of Use

As a seller on Etsy, you are required to adhere to their Terms of Use, a legal agreement that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of both the platform and its users. It is crucial for you to familiarize yourself with these terms to ensure you’re complying with all regulations.

Seller Policies and Guidelines

In addition to the Terms of Use, Etsy has specific Seller Policies and Guidelines that you must follow to determine who is eligible to sell on Etsy, and maintain a successful and positive experience on the platform. These guidelines include:

• Providing accurate information about yourself and your shop
• Ensuring respectful communication with buyers
• Abiding by listing and shipping policies

Etsy also outlines activities that are prohibited, including:

• Selling items that are prohibited by the platform, such as counterfeit items, drugs, or dangerous weapons
• Violating intellectual property rights (copyright, trademark, etc.) without appropriate permission
• Sharing sensitive or private information publicly

By following these policies, you can maintain a trustworthy presence and help foster a supportive community on Etsy.

Local Laws and Regulations

As an Etsy seller, it’s important for you to also be aware of and comply with the local laws and regulations that govern your business operations. This may include:

• Registering your business and obtaining appropriate licenses or permits
• Being aware of and adhering to local tax requirements
• Abiding by any consumer protection laws or regulations, such as providing refunds or exchanges when necessary

Entity	Relevance
Selling on Etsy	Complying with Etsy’s Terms of Use and Seller Policies
Terms of Use	Understanding the legal agreement between users and Etsy
Appropriate Permission	Obtaining permission for using copyrighted or trademarked items
Seller Policies	Following guidelines for listing, shipping, and communication
Prohibited Items	Avoiding the sale of items not allowed on Etsy
Local Laws	Adhering to legal requirements specific to your location
Trademark	Respecting intellectual property rights to avoid infringement

By carefully reviewing and adhering to Etsy’s policies, as well as your local laws and regulations, you can confidently and responsibly grow your business on the platform.

Pros and Cons of Selling on Etsy as a Young Entrepreneur

Pros:

Early Exposure to Entrepreneurship:

• Empowerment Through Early Start: Starting an Etsy shop as a teenager provides a fantastic opportunity for young minds to delve into the world of entrepreneurship. Those between 13 and 18 can experience first-hand how to manage a small business, which is a valuable learning curve.
• Creative Monetization: It allows minors, including those as young as 13, to make money by selling handmade, homemade goods, and digital products. It’s not just an educational journey; it’s a real way to start earning.

Developing Business Skills:

• Skill Development: How to sell on Etsy as a minor involves learning various skills ranging from crafting an etsy listing to understanding Etsy fees. This serves as a solid foundation for any business endeavor.
• Marketing and Online Presence: As they learn how to start an Etsy shop as a teenager, they gain insights into online marketplace dynamics and digital marketing, invaluable in today’s digital world.

Financial Independence:

• Pocket Money to Profits: For teens looking to make money, Etsy offers a platform where the energy and creativity of youth can be channeled into financial gain, encouraging a sense of independence.

Cons:

Eligibility and Verification Hurdles:

• Account Restrictions for Minors: Can a 13 year old sell on Etsy? Yes, but while a 13 year old can sell on Etsy, they must do so under the supervision of an adult until they are 18. This means the Etsy seller account is not entirely in their control, and does Etsy ask for ID? Yes, identification is required to verify the responsible adult.

Managing Legalities and Finances:

• Complexities of Being a Minor: Selling on Etsy as a minor brings complexities, especially when it comes to managing earnings and understanding tax implications. There’s a steep learning curve for someone who is just learning how to start.

Balance with Other Responsibilities:

• Juggling Act: For those between 13 and 18, balancing school, extracurricular activities, and running an Etsy shop can be challenging. The effort to open your Etsy shop and maintain it requires time and dedication, which can be a lot for a busy teen.

While there are challenges associated with starting an Etsy shop as a teenager aged 13 to 18 to sell handmade products, the platform offers an enriching environment that fosters business acumen and creativity. It provides a legitimate avenue for minors to make money online and sell crafts, contributing to their growth and independence. However, it requires careful navigation of rules and a commitment that should be weighed seriously.

Etsy Community and Support

Connecting with Other Etsy Sellers

The Etsy community is incredibly supportive and welcoming to sellers of all ages. Connecting with other Etsy sellers is simple, as there are various forums and groups available on etsy.com. These spaces allow the exchange of ideas, learning from experienced sellers, and growing your network. Local meetups and events are also valuable for developing connections with other creative entrepreneurs in your area.

Etsy Resources and Tools

There are also an abundance of resources and tools designed to support sellers. To ensure your store is secure and user-friendly, Etsy provides a seamless UX and simple tools to help manage your listings, inventory, and customer inquiries. Additionally, they offer tutorial videos and articles that will help you navigate various aspects of your small business.

Some useful resources include:

• Etsy Seller Handbook: A comprehensive guide filled with tips and best practices for managing your shop.
• Etsy Community Forums: An interactive space where you can ask questions and connect with other sellers.
• Etsy Support Team: Easily accessible assistance for technical issues and platform-related concerns.

By utilizing these resources, you’ll be able to confidently manage your shop and provide a seamless experience for customers.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Sell on Etsy – Summary

As an individual looking to sell on Etsy, age plays a crucial role. According to Etsy’s policies, sellers must be at least 18 years old, or have a parent or legal guardian operate the account on their behalf.

It’s essential to understand and adhere to the age requirement to avoid any potential complications on the platform. Moreover, teenagers who wish to start selling on Etsy can seek help from their parents or guardians, ensuring they are following the platform’s guidelines.

Being transparent about one’s age and having the appropriate supervision can lead to a successful and enjoyable experience selling on Etsy. By abiding by the rules, you can ensure a positive experience for both yourself and your customers.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Sell on Etsy – FAQs

What is the minimum age to sell on Etsy?

The minimum age to sell on Etsy is 18 years. However, minors aged 13-17 can use Etsy but they must have a parent or legal guardian manage their Etsy account.

Can a teenager sell on Etsy?

Yes, a teenager between the ages of 13 and 17 can sell on Etsy, but their account must be owned and managed by a parent or legal guardian.

Can you lie about your age on Etsy?

No, lying about your age on Etsy is against their policies and could lead to your account being suspended or terminated.

How can minors sell on Etsy?

Minors can sell on Etsy if they have the permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who owns the account. The adult is responsible for the account and must be the one to manage the shop, process payments, and fulfill orders.

Do I need a parent’s permission to sell on Etsy if I’m under 18?

Yes, if you are under 18, you need the permission of a parent or legal guardian to sell on Etsy. They must manage your account, including setting up the shop, listing items, processing payments, and fulfilling orders.

What information do I need to provide to open a shop on Etsy?

To open a shop on Etsy, you need to provide a valid credit or debit card, a bank account, your full name, a valid email address, and agree to the Etsy’s Seller’s Policy and Terms of Use.

Can I sell on Etsy without a business license?

Etsy does not require sellers to have a business license to sell products. However, depending on your location and what you are selling, you may need a business license or permits by your local or national government.

What can’t you sell on Etsy?

Etsy is a marketplace for handmade items, vintage goods, and craft supplies. Prohibited items include but are not limited to: Alcohol, Tobacco, Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia, and Medical Drugs, Certain Animal Products and Human Remains, Hazardous Materials, Hate Items: Items that Promote, Support, or Glorify Hatred, Illegal Items, Internationally Regulated Items, Pornography and Mature Content, Violent Items: Items that Promote, Support, or Glorify Violence. Check Etsy’s Prohibited Items Policy for a complete list.

Are there any fees for selling on Etsy?

Yes, Etsy charges a listing fee of $0.20 per item, a transaction fee of 5% of the price you display for each listing plus the amount you charge for shipping and gift wrapping, and a payment processing fee depending on the location of your bank.

How can I increase my sales on Etsy?

Increasing sales on Etsy involves several strategies such as optimizing your shop and listings with SEO, providing excellent customer service, promoting your shop through social media, and staying competitive with pricing. Having clear and attractive photos of your products is also key.