Pocket money by age: how much makes sense

Pocket money is a child's first experience with money – and one of the most important lessons for later life. But how much is appropriate? There are no fixed laws, but good guide values.

Orientation chart (guide values)

The following are recommendations for orientation, not fixed rules – every family decides by its own budget:

• 4–5 years: approx. €0.50–1 per week
• 6–7 years: approx. €1.50–2 per week
• 8–9 years: approx. €2–3 per week
• 10–11 years: approx. €14–18 per month
• 12–13 years: approx. €20–25 per month
• 14–15 years: approx. €25–35 per month
• 16–17 years: approx. €35–60 per month

Weekly or monthly?

Younger children grasp short periods better – weekly pocket money makes sense here. From about age 10, switching to a monthly rhythm helps them budget themselves.

The most important rules

Pay regularly and reliably

Pocket money should arrive on time and without begging – only then can children plan. Best on a fixed day.

Don't tie it to performance

Pocket money isn't wages. Linking it to grades or chores waters down the idea. Small extra jobs for extra money are a separate matter.

Allow mistakes

If the money is gone by day three, that's a lesson – not a reason to top up. That's exactly how children learn to budget.

Make saving visible

A piggy bank or – for older kids – their own account makes saving tangible. A bigger goal motivates enormously.

Conclusion

The exact amount is secondary – what counts is regularity, freedom over their own money and allowing mistakes. That's how pocket money becomes real financial education.