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Depop has become a leading platform for buying and selling fashion, particularly popular among younger audiences in the UK.
However, questions often arise regarding the age requirements for using the app, especially for those interested in selling.
Understanding Depop’s policies is essential to ensure safe and legal use of the platform. This guide explores the minimum age to sell on Depop, how payment systems are regulated, and what steps parents or guardians should take to support younger users.
What Is The Minimum Age Requirement To Create A Depop Account?
Depop sets a minimum age requirement of 13 years old to create an account. This allows younger users to engage with the platform by browsing, following other users, and listing items. However, limitations apply when it comes to the actual sale and purchase of items.
The core issue with under-18 users revolves around financial transactions. Although teenagers are welcome to participate in the Depop community, they are restricted from independently managing payments unless they are 18 or older.
This age threshold is consistent with laws regarding legal contracts and financial accountability in the UK.
Creating an account is easy for users aged 13 and above. Still, the functionality of that account is limited if the user is not yet legally allowed to engage in financial contracts, particularly those involving online payment systems.
Can Teenagers Under 18 Sell On Depop?
Teenagers aged 13 to 17 can list their items on Depop, but they face limitations when it comes to completing sales.
Since payments must be processed through Depop Payments or PayPal, both of which have age restrictions, underage users cannot directly receive funds without adult involvement.
Depop recommends that minors seek parental or guardian assistance to handle transactions. This includes:
- Using a parent or guardian’s payment account (PayPal or linked card)
- Providing identification documents, if requested, through an adult
- Having conversations about the responsibilities involved in selling items online
Teen users may also be required to supply a form of identity or even tax identification, depending on their country and the platform’s verification requirements.
Depop’s support content also states clearly that anyone under the age of 18 must get appropriate permissions and guidance from a parent or guardian before selling.
Why Does Depop Require Users To Be Over 18 For Payments?
The requirement for users to be at least 18 years old when using payment systems like PayPal and Depop Payments is rooted in legal standards.
These platforms require users to enter legally binding contracts, which minors cannot lawfully agree to under UK law.
PayPal explicitly prohibits individuals under 18 from creating accounts. When a user signs up for PayPal, they are bound by its User Agreement, a legal contract requiring adult consent and understanding. Even guest checkout options still operate under the legal framework of this agreement.
Depop Payments functions separately from PayPal and also enforces strict verification measures.
It offers users in the UK multiple ways to pay or receive money, but only after completing identity checks and providing valid financial information. This process is not suited for minors.
Here is a breakdown of why the age limit matters for payments:
| Payment Platform | Legal Contract Requirement | Minimum Age | Used On Depop |
| PayPal | Required | 18+ | Global |
| Depop Payments | Required | 18+ | UK, US, AUS |
Minors cannot meet these conditions legally, which makes adult supervision essential if they wish to use the platform for transactions.
What Payment Methods Are Allowed On Depop For UK Users?
Depop offers several payment methods specifically tailored to UK users. These methods include both traditional and newer digital options designed for secure, traceable transactions.
- Depop Payments: This in-house payment system accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and standard debit/credit card payments. Users in the UK can also access Klarna through Depop Payments, provided they are at least 18 years old.
- PayPal: Still widely used, PayPal allows payments for Depop users globally. However, it cannot be used independently by anyone under 18. If a younger user wants to use PayPal, they must do so under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
- Klarna: Available in the UK and US, Klarna provides a “buy now, pay later” service. The minimum age requirement for Klarna is also 18, making it another tool unsuitable for solo teenage use.
Depop has made it clear that all transactions must go through the official “Buy” button. Payments outside of this method, including direct bank transfers or payments sent through messaging, are not covered under Depop’s buyer or seller protection schemes.
| Payment Method | Availability | Age Limit | Covered By Depop Protection |
| Depop Payments | UK, US, AUS | 18+ | Yes |
| PayPal | Global | 18+ | Yes |
| Klarna | UK, US | 18+ | Yes |
| Direct Transfer | Not recommended | No protection | No |
How Can Parents Or Guardians Support Young Depop Users?
Parents play a critical role in helping teenagers use Depop safely and within legal guidelines. Since the platform permits users as young as 13 to create an account, it becomes the guardian’s responsibility to ensure their child uses it appropriately when it involves sales.
Support from parents can come in different forms:
- Helping set up the Depop account and understanding its features
- Allowing use of their PayPal or payment details responsibly
- Reviewing listings, messages, and transaction history
- Discussing how to handle returns, disputes, or complaints
- Explaining the risks associated with giving out personal information
Depop offers an entire help section for parents, encouraging open dialogue about safe usage. This is especially important in cases where the teenager is keen to start a side hustle or explore fashion selling as a business opportunity.
Guardians should also be aware that if they permit the use of their financial information, they will be held accountable for any outcomes such as chargebacks, claims, or tax reporting.
What Safety And Security Features Does Depop Offer For Younger Users?
Depop takes user safety seriously, particularly when it comes to protecting younger users on the platform.
As a marketplace that welcomes individuals as young as 13, the platform has implemented a variety of safety and security measures to help safeguard its community from harmful content, inappropriate behaviour, and financial fraud.
These features are designed not only to comply with legal regulations but also to build trust and transparency for users, including teens and their guardians.
Blocking And Reporting Features
One of the most immediate tools available to users is the ability to block and report others. If a user feels threatened, uncomfortable, or simply wants to cut off contact with someone, they can use the block function to:
- Prevent the blocked user from viewing their profile or items
- Stop the blocked user from messaging them
- Remove any ongoing communication or interaction
Alongside blocking, the reporting feature allows users to notify Depop of:
- Inappropriate content, such as harassment, hate speech, or bullying
- Listings that violate community guidelines (e.g., counterfeit goods or illegal items)
- Users attempting to take transactions off the platform, which is a violation of Depop’s policies
Depop’s moderation team reviews all submitted reports. If the reported content or user is found to be in breach of guidelines, Depop will take actions that range from warnings to account bans.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Depop offers optional two-factor authentication, a critical layer of security that significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access.
When enabled, 2FA requires users to enter an additional security code sent to their device or email whenever they log in.
This feature is particularly important for younger users, who may reuse passwords or lack awareness of digital security risks.
With 2FA in place, it becomes much harder for hackers to gain control of an account, even if the password is compromised.
Password Management And Recovery
Forgotten or compromised passwords can be reset easily through Depop’s built-in password recovery system. Users can visit depop.com/password-reset or navigate through the app via Profile > Settings to initiate the reset process.
It’s advised that users choose strong, unique passwords and update them regularly. Parents may also wish to assist younger children in setting up secure credentials and in enabling email recovery options.
Moderation And Community Guidelines
Depop actively monitors activity on the platform to enforce its Community Guidelines, which are designed to keep interactions respectful, inclusive, and safe. These guidelines prohibit:
- Bullying, harassment, or any form of abusive behaviour
- Discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation
- Promotion or sale of prohibited items, including weapons, drugs, or explicit content
- Glorification or encouragement of self-harm or eating disorders
- Any threat of violence or intimidation
Accounts that engage in this behaviour are subject to immediate action, including permanent bans. Depop encourages users to report any violations they come across.
Listing And Content Controls
Depop regularly removes listings that breach its policies. Prohibited items include:
- Counterfeit designer goods
- Controlled substances or drug paraphernalia
- Firearms or weapons
- Adult or sexually explicit materials
- Stolen goods or items obtained through fraudulent means
Younger users are particularly vulnerable to scammers and sellers dealing in counterfeit items. Depop’s enforcement of its policies helps ensure that the marketplace remains legitimate and suitable for users of all ages.
Safe Payment Systems And Buyer Protection
Depop provides secure, in-app payment systems that ensure all transactions are traceable and protected. When buyers use the “Buy” button within the app, they’re covered by Depop Protection, which includes support for:
- Non-delivery of items
- Items significantly not as described
- Fraudulent sellers
Depop Protection is only available for purchases completed using Depop Payments or PayPal via the in-app process.
Transactions conducted outside of this system, such as through direct messaging or bank transfers, are not protected. This policy is heavily enforced to protect buyers, particularly younger ones, from scams.
Parental Oversight And Educational Resources
Depop also supports parents by offering educational materials specifically designed to help guardians understand how the platform works. These resources provide:
- Guidance on how their child can use Depop safely
- Instructions for reporting issues or inappropriate users
- Explanations of account security and responsibilities
- Clarifications about who is legally responsible for sales and income
Parents are advised to keep communication open with their children about their online activity and to be involved in managing the account when financial information is being used.
Are There Any Legal Or Tax Responsibilities For Underage Sellers?
Selling on Depop may seem like a simple way to earn money, but it carries real-world financial responsibilities, even for underage users operating through a parent or guardian.
If a parent’s financial or identification information is used:
- The adult becomes the legal account holder for any disputes or payment issues
- Earnings could potentially be subject to income tax, depending on the volume of sales
- The parent is responsible for record-keeping and communication with tax authorities
Depop may ask for identity verification or tax documents, such as a National Insurance number in the UK or a Social Security number in the US. This information must match the adult account holder if the user is underage.
Additionally, under UK law, repeated selling of items for profit can qualify as self-employment, meaning tax filings may be required even for small-scale sellers if the annual income exceeds the personal allowance.
Conclusion
Depop offers a safe and engaging platform for young fashion enthusiasts to explore online selling, but it comes with important limitations for those under 18.
While anyone 13 or older can sign up, actual selling requires adult supervision, especially for financial transactions.
With appropriate parental involvement and a clear understanding of Depop’s payment and safety policies, teenagers can learn valuable entrepreneurial skills while staying within legal and platform-specific boundaries.
FAQs About Selling on Depop for Under 18s
Can a 16-year-old legally sell on Depop?
A 16-year-old can list items but cannot legally receive payments through PayPal or Depop Payments without using a parent’s or guardian’s account and permission.
What happens if Depop finds out I used someone else’s details without permission?
Using another person’s ID or payment method without permission is considered fraud and can lead to account suspension or legal action.
Are there alternatives to Depop for underage sellers?
Some platforms may offer limited selling features to minors, but most require users to be 18 or older for transactions. Always check age policies before signing up.
Is it safe for teenagers to buy from Depop?
Yes, as long as the “Buy” button is used within the app. This ensures protection through Depop’s payment systems.
Do I need to pay tax if I sell on Depop as a teenager?
If a teen sells regularly and generates income, the parent or guardian responsible for the account may need to declare it as part of their income.
Can a parent create a Depop account for their child?
Depop’s policies require individuals to manage their own accounts, but a parent may assist by allowing the child to use their payment methods under supervision.
How can I report bullying or inappropriate behaviour on Depop?
Use the report feature within the app or contact the Depop Help Centre. You can also block users to prevent further interaction.