The Pocket Money Guide: How Much to Give and How to Raise a Smart Spender

Pocket money isn’t just spare change—it’s your child’s first step toward financial independence. It’s a powerful way to teach kids how to budget, save, and spend responsibly. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from how much allowance is right to how bunq helps make the whole process smooth and educational.

How Much Pocket Money Is “Just Right”?

Let’s face it—figuring out how much allowance to give your child isn’t always straightforward. But it doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With bunq, you can automate their pocket money and use every transfer as a chance to build healthy money habits. No stress. Just smart, simple parenting.

Why Pocket Money Matters

A regular allowance gives kids hands-on experience with money. Here's what they learn:

• Budgeting: Make spending decisions and learn from them.

• Saving: Set goals and work towards them.

• Confidence: Manage their own money, their own way.

• Responsibility: Understand value and trade-offs early on.

So, How Much Should You Give?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a few things can help guide you:

• Your child’s age

• Your household budget

• What they’re responsible for (e.g. snacks, toys, outings)

Set It and Forget It: How bunq Makes It Easy

Giving pocket money shouldn’t be another thing on your to-do list. Here’s how bunq makes it effortless:

1. Open a Child Account.

2. Set up a weekly or monthly allowance.

3. bunq automates the rest—adjust or pause any time.

No more chasing parents for pocket money. No more forgotten transfers.

Help Them Build a Saving Habit

Whether they’re saving up for a toy, a trip, or something special, bunq gives kids the tools to save with purpose:

• Earn up to 2.01% interest, paid out weekly.

• Set savings goals.

• Keep it all age-appropriate and secure.

What Not to Do With Pocket Money

Even with the best intentions, a few things can get in the way:

• Skipping weeks or forgetting payments

• Using money as a reward or punishment

• Controlling every decision

• Avoiding money conversations altogether

Why bunq Is the Best Way to Handle Pocket Money

We built bunq to make money simple—for adults and kids alike. Here’s what you (and your child) get:

• Child Accounts that are safe, educational, and fun

• Automated allowances you can control anytime

• Smart insights from Finn to guide you

• Spaces to budget for saving and spending

• Weekly interest to grow their savings—up to 2.01%

Pocket money is more than just a routine. It’s how your child learns to set goals, make decisions, and grow confident with money. With bunq, you turn allowance into a life lesson—with zero hassle.

Open a Child Account today and set up their allowance in 5 minutes!