Legal Question in Business Law in New Jersey

Can he legally run an online business?

I live with my 11 year old son in New Jersey. He has been tested and has an extremely high IQ for his age. He recently saw an online business that he would like to run. He would have to promote an affiliate website. There is no customer contact, no phone work, no inventory and no selling. He would simply receive commission checks twice per month. I know he is quite capable of doing this. The question is can an 11-year-old legally operate an online business? He has had a Social Security number since he was one. Are there any laws that would prohibit him from doing this? I have been told of a 16-year-old teen in Florida who has been running an online business for a few years and is now a self-made millionaire. Yes or no? Many thanks for your help.


Asked on 7/07/07, 11:35 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Jef Henninger, Esq Law Offices of Jef Henninger, Esq.

Re: Can he legally run an online business?

This isn't my area of the law but I know of no law that sets an age with regard to running a business.

However, computer crime and computers in general is my area and I give lectures about issues such as affilate programs since I feel that they are a scam. However, with most of these programs, the most you will waste is your time. While I wish you good luck, I suggest you be very careful here.

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Answered on 7/08/07, 9:59 am
Daniel Pepper Pepper Law Group, LLC

Re: Can he legally run an online business?

There is nothing that would prevent a minor from owning an operating an online business, however a minor is not able to enter into contracts in his personal capacity, so you, as the parent, may have to co-sign certain agreements on his behalf.

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Answered on 7/09/07, 10:05 am


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