Disclaimer: We’re an accounting firm sharing general insights based on our experience with athletes. This isn’t tax or legal advice—consult a licensed CPA or tax expert for your specific situation.
Hey, parents! Did you know your high school athlete might be missing out on cash right now? Thanks to Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) rules, the game’s changed—your kid can turn their skills, popularity, or even that viral TikTok dunk into money before college. We’ve spent years working with pro athletes on big deals, and we’re here to break it down for you in a chill, practical way. This isn’t just about extra cash (though that’s sweet); it’s about setting your athlete up smart.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five simple steps to get your high school star earning with NIL today. We’ll sprinkle in some everyday examples and money tips to keep it all above board. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Figure Out Your State’s NIL Rules (No Surprises Allowed)
Why It’s a Big Deal
Before your athlete starts raking it in, you need the rulebook. NIL depends on your state and high school association. Mess it up, and it could jeopardize their eligibility or that college scholarship you’re banking on. California and Texas are on board with high school NIL, but some states aren’t there yet.
What to Do Today
Jump online and check your state athletic association’s site—five minutes max. Search “NIL policy” or “athlete endorsements,” or just call them. We’ve heard of a dad in Florida whose son almost signed a $200 gym deal, but a quick look showed his district wasn’t cool with it. Bullet dodged!
Money Tip
NIL earnings can mean taxes later—even for teens. Knowing the rules now keeps you in the clear. Save your state’s NIL info somewhere handy (a digital file or that junk drawer). Future you will high-five you.
Step 2: Spot Your Athlete’s Money-Making Superpowers
What Makes Them Shine?
Your kid’s already a star—now pinpoint what makes them marketable. Got 5,000 Instagram followers? A viral highlight reel? Or just local fame? Even a small crowd or a fun story can turn into cash.
What to Do Today
Grab a coffee, sit with your athlete tonight, and brainstorm. What’s their hook? We’ve heard of a
cheerleader in Ohio with 2,000 TikTok followers scoring $150 from a salon for her stunts. Another kid’s goofy post-game interviews caught a small brand’s eye. List three strengths—that’s your launchpad.
Money Tip
Think like a business. A 1,000-follower account might snag $50 from a pizza place; a viral clip could pull $500 from a sports drink brand. More buzz, more bucks. Jot it down—it’s their NIL treasure map.
Step 3: Set Up an NIL Money System (Keep It Simple)
Why It’s Smart
Mixing NIL cash with family funds is a headache when it’s time to sort it out. Treating it like a mini-business keeps things clean and teaches your kid real-world skills. No fancy LLC needed yet—just a basic
setup.
What to Do Today
Head to your bank or use an app to open a separate account for their NIL earnings—quick and free. Label it “[Their Name] NIL Fund.” We’ve heard of a teen who made $300 from a car wash ad, and keeping it separate saved a ton of hassle. Sole proprietorship? That’s just their name for now—no paperwork unless it grows.
Money Tip
Every dollar in there is business cash—their “pro starter kit.” Sponsors pay, it lands there. Keeps it neat and separate from birthday cash or college savings.
Bonus Parent Move
Let them pick the card design—makes it fun. You’re their first money coach, and we’re here to back you up.
Step 4: Score Their First NIL Deal (Yes, Today!)
Where to Start
No big agency required—local businesses like car dealerships or gyms are game, and platforms like Opendorse or NIL Club are starting to include high schoolers. Small wins stack up quick.
What to Do Today
Help your athlete craft a pitch: “Hey, I’m [Name], a local track star with 3,000 followers—want to
sponsor my next post for $100?” Reach out to three businesses via email or phone today. We know of a kid in Georgia who pitched a sports store—$75 and free cleats for one Instagram story. Start small—$50 is a win!
Money Tip
Get it in writing—an email like “$100 for one post on [date]” is enough. It’s proof and keeps it legit. First deals might range $50-$500, depending on their reach. Local spots love hometown heroes—lean into that.
Parent Pep Talk
You’re their manager now—practice the pitch with them. Keep it relaxed but sharp. Make the first call if they’re nervous—they’ll thank you when the money rolls in.
Step 5: Track the Cash and Stay Ready (Don’t Sleep on This)
Why It’s a Must
NIL money isn’t just free cash—it’s income, and that means tracking it. We’ve seen pros scramble because they didn’t log early earnings—don’t let that happen to your kid. It’s simple to stay on top.
What to Do Today
Download a free app like QuickBooks Self-Employed or use a Google Sheet. Log every deal—date, payer, amount. Earn $100 from a smoothie shop? Record it. We’ve heard of a Texas teen who made $1,200 in a semester, and skipping this step was a mess later. Start today.
Money Tip
NIL earnings might mean taxes—we can’t say how much to save (ask a tax pro!), but stashing some in that account is wise. Big earnings from one source might mean a 1099 form next year. For now, track and save what feels smart.
Parent Hack
Turn it into a lesson—show them $100 earned, some saved, some spent. They’ll feel like a pro and pick up a habit most adults skip.
Wrapping It Up: Your Athlete’s NIL Journey Starts Now
There you go—five steps to get your high school athlete earning with NIL today: check rules, spot strengths, set up a system, land a deal, track the cash. It’s not just pocket money—one $100 gig could buy new gear; a few could chip in for college.
We’ve heard of a Colorado teen starting with a $50 bakery shoutout—six months later, she’s at $1,000 with a sports chain. It builds fast when you play it smart. Pick one step—like checking your state’s rules—before bed. Need more? Save this or talk to a pro who gets athletes (too many wait and miss out).
You’re not just a parent—you’re their money coach in this wild NIL world. One pitch, one saved dollar today could set them up big. Let’s get that first check—go team!
