Earn your keep Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Resource Justification Understand it's about showing you're worthy of what you receive by working. Since he stayed at his aunt's, he helped with chores to earn his keep. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Monetary Earning your keep can involve actions other than paying, such as doing tasks. She didn't pay rent but earned her keep by babysitting. Pro Tip 3/3Expectation of Effort There's an expectation that you must work to earn your place among others. Living in the communal house means everyone must earn their keep.