Shopify Age Requirement: How Old Do You Need to Be to Sell?

Are you dreaming of launching your own business on Shopify but not sure if you're old enough to get started? The Shopify age requirement is something every young entrepreneur should understand before setting up a store. In this article, we’ll explore why age limits exist for online platforms, what Shopify’s minimum age policy is, and what options are available if you're under 18. Let’s dive in and help you start smart, safely, and legally!

Why Age Requirements Matter for Online Businesses

Age rules for online businesses protect both entrepreneurs and platforms. They ensure founders can legally sign contracts and open merchant accounts. Without this, minors could inadvertently violate terms and face penalties.

Platforms require age checks to maintain trust. These checks block underage users from running stores. They also ensure that payment systems and banks only deal with legally eligible individuals.

Legal clarity matters. If the person managing the account is not legally eligible, the contract may not be legally binding. Platforms then risk disputes and liability.

What Is The Age Limit For Opening A Shopify Store?

According to Shopify’s terms, only individuals 18 or older, or those at the legal age in their region, can register for an account. This Shopify age requirement ensures that individuals entering into agreements with Shopify can legally assume the associated responsibilities and obligations.

Shopify's Official Policy on Age

Shopify’s guidelines state that only those who are 18 or of legal adult age in their country can open an account. This policy ensures that account holders can legally enter into binding contracts and manage financial transactions associated with operating an online store.

Although Shopify does not check age directly at sign-up, agreeing to the terms means users implicitly confirm they meet the age requirement.

Can a Minor Sell on Shopify with Parental Consent?

While Shopify's policy requires users to be at least 18 years old, minors can still engage in e-commerce by having a parent or legal guardian create and manage the Shopify account on their behalf. In this arrangement:

• The parent or guardian assumes legal responsibility for the account.

• The minor can be added as a staff member to manage day-to-day operations.

• All financial transactions and tax obligations are handled by the parent or guardian.

This approach allows minors to gain entrepreneurial experience under the supervision and legal protection of an adult.

Legal and Financial Reasons Behind the Age Limit

The Shopify age requirement serves several legal and financial purposes:

• Contractual Capacity: Individuals under 18 may not have the legal capacity to enter into binding contracts. By setting the minimum age at 18, Shopify ensures that account holders can legally assume the responsibilities associated with running an online business.

• Financial Transactions: Managing payments, taxes, and other financial aspects of an online store requires legal accountability. Adults are legally permitted to handle these responsibilities, whereas minors may face legal restrictions.

• Compliance with Laws: Different jurisdictions have varying laws regarding minors and business operations. By setting an age requirement, Shopify ensures compliance with these laws and protects both the platform and its users.

What Are Your Options If You’re Under 18?

As mentioned above, Shopify requires account holders to be adults. However, there are several ways young entrepreneurs can still enter the e-commerce world. Below are practical options to consider if Shopify age requirement is a barrier.

Assign Store Ownership to a Parent or Guardian

One effective method to ensure Shopify age requirement is for a parent or guardian to be the official owner of the Shopify store. It ensures the store stays within Shopify’s guidelines and remains protected under the law.

• Open the Dialogue: Clearly explain the business idea and goals to a trusted adult. Discuss what the store will sell and the expected operations.

• Clarify the Role: Emphasize that Shopify requires the account owner to be 18 or older, so they will need to handle account creation and legal responsibilities.

• Create the Account: The parent or guardian signs up using their personal information and agrees to Shopify’s Terms of Service.

• Assign Permissions: The adult can grant the young entrepreneur access to manage day-to-day tasks without owning the account outright.

• Maintain Communication: Set regular meetings to review store performance and make decisions together.

This arrangement allows minors to gain valuable business experience under adult supervision while avoiding legal complications related to Shopify age requirement.

Seek Parental Support and Permission

Beyond just account ownership, parental involvement is vital for managing the responsibilities tied to running an online business.

• Understand Financial Duties: Both the minor and the guardian should learn about payment processing, taxes, and accounting.

• Recognize Legal Implications: Parents must grasp the legal consequences related to contracts, returns, and customer disputes.

• Develop a Business Plan: Draft a clear plan with objectives, target markets, and marketing strategies to secure parental approval and guidance.

• Separate Finances: Consider opening dedicated bank or payment accounts to keep business money distinct from personal funds.

This foundation builds trust and ensures that all business operations are handled responsibly and meet Shopify age requirement.

Use Alternative Platforms

If managing a Shopify store isn’t possible yet, explore platforms with more flexible age policies or different structures suited for younger sellers.

• Research Platforms for Minors: Some platforms might have lower age limits or parental consent options.

• Compare Features: Evaluate ease of use, support, and fees to find the best fit.

• Consider Marketplaces: Sites like Etsy, eBay, or Depop allow users under 18 to sell with parental permission or as part of a family account.

These alternatives provide a softer entry point for young entrepreneurs to gain experience selling online before transitioning to Shopify.

Use Educational Programs & Resources

Building knowledge is key to future success before reaching Shopify age requirement. Young entrepreneurs can benefit from targeted programs and learning materials.

• Enroll in Youth Entrepreneurship Programs: These offer mentorship, workshops, and tools tailored to young business owners.

• Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer courses on e-commerce, marketing, and business management.

• Join Communities: Forums and social media groups provide support, ideas, and networking opportunities.

• Attend Local Workshops: Check for seminars on business skills, marketing, and digital tools to strengthen expertise.

This ongoing education prepares young sellers for responsible business ownership and growth.

Plan for the Future

Beginning early helps you get ready for complete independence when you reach the required age.

• Build Relevant Skills: Learn the basics of advertising, managing product inventory, assisting buyers, and budgeting.

• Set Goals: Outline clear milestones for launching, scaling, and managing the store independently.

• Prepare to Transfer Ownership: Plan the transition of the Shopify account into the entrepreneur’s name as soon as legally allowed.

• Explore Growth Opportunities: Research new products, marketing channels, and partnerships to expand the business.

Risks of Misrepresenting Your Age on Shopify

Misstating age poses serious dangers. Shopify may suspend or close accounts once they detect underage users during payment setup or policy checks. Business activities come to a halt, and sales history may be permanently lost.

Lying about age may lead to financial trouble. Payment processors might reject transactions or issue chargebacks, leading to expensive conflicts.

Legal exposure can follow. Providing false information breaches Shopify’s Terms of Service related to Shopify age requirement and could lead to enforcement actions. This harms reputation and trust with customers, suppliers, and financial partners.

Risks and Challenges for Minors Running a Shopify Business

Young entrepreneurs face unique hurdles when managing a Shopify store as a minor. Here are the main risks to take into account:

Account Suspension or Termination

Shopify reserves the right to disable or terminate accounts that violate their Terms. Age misrepresentation or underage ownership can trigger policy enforcement. If Shopify identifies the account owner as under 18, it may escalate through the terms violation procedures. This can shut down your store and halt operations immediately.

Legal Liability and Returns/Refunds

Minors cannot legally enter into binding contracts. A minor-run store could leave no party responsible for contracts, taxes, refunds, or disputes. That gap exposes both customers and the business to legal risk. Payment disputes or returns handled by a minor may go unresolved, harming business credibility.

Payment Gateway Restrictions

Most payment processors, including Shopify Payments, Stripe, and PayPal, require users to be 18 or older. Minors typically need a parent or guardian to own the account. Although a minor can link a bank account for deposits, billing and compliance require a parent’s card and identity.

• Without proper setup, the gateway may refuse transaction processing.

• Unexpected freezes or holds can interfere with sales flow.

Examples of Young Entrepreneurs on Shopify (With Parental Help)

Several young entrepreneurs have successfully launched businesses on Shopify, proving that age is not a barrier to creativity or ambition. With guidance and strong ideas, these youth-led brands have grown into impressive ventures.

#1. Moziah Bridges

Moziah started Mo’s Bows when he was just 9 years old, creating handmade bow ties influenced by his grandmother’s sewing skills. His mother managed the financial and shipping aspects, helping the brand grow into a six-figure enterprise. The business gained national attention with appearances on Shark Tank and Vogue and landed retail deals with stores such as Neiman Marcus.

#2. Matteo Galvez

At 16, Matteo founded LOTTA WORLDWIDE, a motivational apparel brand. His mentors and family helped him shape and run the business effectively. Winning Shopify’s BEASTMODE‑A‑Business competition kick‑started his brand, and by age 19, he balanced college, internship, and running his store. His story highlights how structured support can help teens scale through Shopify.

#3. Robert Felder

Robert Felder’s high school journey to Bangladesh, where he saw garment manufacturing hardships, inspired the launch of Bearbottom. This experience sparked his mission to launch a clothing brand focused on ethical sourcing and sustainable fashion.

By college, Bearbottom was already generating steady revenue. Robert chose to scale the business full-time instead of entering the job market. The brand has since donated over 700,000 meals and 100,000 shorts to global communities.

#4. Angelina Ly

Angelina Ly began making slime at 14. Her creations became popular on Instagram and TikTok. She started Fireflyslime and used Shopify to handle orders and expand her online reach. Now studying business in college, she continues to expand her product range and fan base.

#5. Sydney and Toni Loew

While still in middle school, Sydney and Toni Loew introduced Poketti, a stuffed toy brand that includes a handy pocket for phones. Their idea came from an entrepreneurship class project. They later crowdfunded the product on Kickstarter and officially launched their Shopify store.

Poketti has won awards, been featured in the press, and even partnered with Walmart. The sisters’ success shows the power of innovation and planning at any age.

FAQs about Shopify Age Requirement

Can I open a Shopify store if I'm 16?

No. Shopify requires account holders to be at least 18 years old to create a store. A legal adult must sign up and manage the account on your behalf.

Can my parents register a Shopify store for me?

Yes. A parent or guardian can create the account using their own information, and a minor can manage daily operations as a staff member.

Is there a kid-friendly alternative to Shopify?

Some marketplaces, like Etsy or eBay, allow minors to sell with parental permission. However, full-featured e-commerce platforms typically require an age of 18.

Will Shopify close my store if I misrepresent my age?

Yes. If Shopify detects that a user is underage, the account can be suspended or terminated immediately.

Can parents take charge of running a Shopify store for their kids?

Absolutely. Parents can own the account under their name, add the child as a staff member, manage finances, and supervise operations.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the Shopify age requirement is essential for building a secure and compliant online business. While minors cannot open an account independently, there are still many ways to get started with the help of a trusted adult. With the right support, education, and planning, young entrepreneurs can grow their skills and prepare for success on Shopify. Start smart and build your future the right way.