Facebook Marketplace is a feature on Facebook that allows users to buy and sell items locally. However, Facebook requires users to be at least 18 years old to access Marketplace. So if you are under 18, you will not be able to use Marketplace through your regular Facebook account.
Why does Facebook require you to be 18 for Marketplace?
Facebook put the 18+ age restriction in place for a few key reasons:
- Legal contracts – When buying and selling items, you are entering into legal contracts. Minors under 18 generally cannot enter into legal contracts without parental consent.
- Safety – Facebook wanted to keep minors safe by restricting their access to transactions with strangers through Marketplace.
- Compliance – There are various laws and regulations around minors conducting business transactions online. The 18+ requirement helps Facebook comply with these rules.
Ways for under 18 users to access Facebook Marketplace
While Facebook restricts access to those under 18, there are some workarounds that may provide limited access to Marketplace for younger users:
Use a parent or guardian’s account
The simplest option is to use a parent or legal guardian’s Facebook account to access Marketplace. As long as your parent provides permission and supervision, this can give you access to buy and sell on Marketplace under their account.
Create a new Facebook account
You can create a new Facebook account using your parent or guardian’s name and information and a different email address. While not encouraged, this would essentially create a fake account over 18 that could access Marketplace.
Use a business or organization account
Facebook allows official business pages and organization accounts to access Marketplace, regardless of age. If you have an official business as a minor, like a clothing brand or creative services, you can create a separate Facebook business page and likely access Marketplace.
Other options for minors to buy and sell online
If the workarounds still do not allow you access to Facebook Marketplace, here are some other options for minors under 18 to buy and sell items online:
Ask a parent or guardian to buy/sell on your behalf
The easiest option is to have a parent make transactions through Marketplace for you. You can browse Marketplace yourself and find items you want, then have your parent complete the transaction using their account.
Use other sales platforms and apps
There are many other options similar to Facebook Marketplace that may be more lenient on age restrictions. Some options to explore include:
- Craigslist – In most areas, Craigslist allows minors to post with parental approval.
- OfferUp – Requires parental consent for 13-17 year olds to use the app.
- eBay – Allows minors to sell with parental approval and supervision.
- LetGo – Age restriction is 13+ with parental supervision.
- Poshmark – Requires users to be at least 13 years old to buy and sell.
Sell your items through local options
You can also use more traditional approaches to buy and sell without using an online platform. Some options include:
- Garage sales
- Consignment shops
- Bulletin boards
- Flea markets
- Friends and family networks
Table summarizing options for under 18 users
| Platform | Age Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook Marketplace | 18+ | Can use parent/guardian account with permission. |
| Craigslist | Parental approval | Policies vary by location. |
| OfferUp | 13+ with parental consent | Provides tips for safe meetups. |
| eBay | Parental supervision | Specifically prohibits children under 18 from selling without consent. |
| LetGo | 13+ with parental supervision | Requires phone verification from parent/guardian. |
| Poshmark | 13+ | Provides tips for safe sales. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal for minors to sell online?
No, it is not necessarily illegal, but there are regulations in place around minors conducting business transactions. Most sales platforms require parental/guardian consent and involvement for good reason.
Can I get in trouble for creating a fake Facebook account?
Yes, creating a fake account violates Facebook’s terms of service. If discovered, Facebook may ban the account and restrict your ability to create future accounts when you reach 18.
What information do I need to sell online under 18?
You will need a parent or guardian’s written consent. They may also need to provide contact information, copies of ID, and assist with taxes if you earn substantial income from sales.
Is it safe for minors to conduct transactions through sites like Facebook Marketplace?
There are always risks with online transactions. Parents should closely supervise all online sales activities for minors, and only allow transactions through reputable platforms that provide safety tips.
What are some safe practices for minors buying and selling online?
Safety tips include:
- Always tell your parent/guardian about every transaction
- Communicate only through the platform, not directly
- Meet in a public place, bring your parent/guardian
- Do not share personal contact information
- Do not meet alone or enter another user’s home/vehicle
- Use payment methods that provide protection, like Paypal
Conclusion
While Facebook strictly prohibits those under 18 from accessing Marketplace, there are some workarounds that may provide limited use with parental involvement. The safest option is using parent/guardian accounts or exploring alternative sales platforms more suitable for minors. For any online sales activity, minors must have adult supervision for legal compliance, safety, and wise decision making.