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StartupsJuly 17, 2008  Can I get in trouble for doing jobs under
the table, even though I'm underage?  I cut lawns, sell split
and dried wood, make maple syrup and sell it, and do other
assorted jobs. I pocket all the money. Can I get into trouble
for it? Also, what could I do to turn one of these into a
legitimate business, even though im 17? Just because you're a
teenager, don't assume your income isn't taxable. And the IRS
doesnt look kindly upon people who don't pay their taxes and
don't file properly.  "Teenage taxation" is a complicated area.
Depending on the kind of work you're doing, you could be
considered either a household employee (in which case you should
receive W-2 income) or an independent contractor, in which case
you are obligated to pay self-employment taxes.  It all depends
on a number of factors, including the amount you earn, the work
you are doing to earn the money and the extent to which you are
advertising your services.