“Can I Have Money?” – The Official Anthem of Teenagers Everywhere
Few phrases are repeated more often (or more dramatically) by teenagers than “Can I have money?” It’s part question, part expectation, and almost always delivered at the least convenient time. From snacks at the gas station to a last-minute movie night, the requests can feel endless. But behind that constant question is an opportunity to teach lifelong lessons about budgeting, earning, and the value of a dollar. So if you’re tired of being your teen’s personal ATM, these tips can help you respond with more than just “again?”
1. Tie Money Requests to Real-World Value
Instead of just handing over cash, ask what it’s for—and use that as a learning moment. Whether it’s for a new hoodie or extra fries, connect the ask to real costs, taxes, and priorities. This helps your teen understand that money doesn’t just appear when they want something. It builds awareness of what things cost and encourages smarter choices. “Can I have money?” becomes less automatic when they realize it comes with responsibility.
2. Set a Monthly Allowance With Boundaries
A set allowance gives teens some freedom while setting clear limits. Decide together what it’s meant to cover—lunches, outings, non-essentials—and let them manage it. If they blow it all the first weekend, resist the urge to refill the pot. Natural consequences can be powerful teachers. Eventually, they’ll learn how to pace their spending without constant reminders.
3. Offer Opportunities to Earn More
If your teen wants more money, great—give them ways to earn it. Extra chores, babysitting gigs, yard work for neighbors, or even freelance gigs for tech-savvy teens can all add up. When they work for the cash, they’re far more thoughtful about how they spend it. Plus, it starts teaching the basic work-money-reward cycle that jobs will later reinforce. “Can I have money?” sounds a lot different when followed by “What can I do to earn it?”
4. Introduce a Budgeting App or Envelope System
If your teen is always broke and confused about where their money went, it’s time to track it. Budgeting apps (like Greenlight or BusyKid) or even the old-school envelope method can help them visualize where every dollar is going. Dividing their money into categories—spending, saving, giving—makes them think twice before buying another coffee. It turns the vague concept of “being out of money” into something real and fixable. Plus, it sets habits that can last into adulthood.
5. Create a “Want vs. Need” Checklist
Teenagers often believe every want is a need. That concert, those jeans, the trending app—urgency comes easy. Having them pause and ask, “Is this something I want, or something I need?” creates space for smarter choices. Make this a regular part of your conversations when the “Can I have money?” question pops up. Over time, they’ll begin to ask themselves first—and sometimes decide the answer is no.
6. Teach Them the Power of Saving for Something Big
Instant gratification rules the teenage brain but saving for something meaningful changes the game. Whether it’s a car, a trip, or a new gaming system, helping them create a savings plan gives them a real goal. Break it down into smaller milestones and celebrate their progress. When they finally buy it with their own money, it feels more rewarding than anything they begged for. The next time they ask, “Can I have money?” they might actually be thinking long-term.
7. Normalize Talking About Money
Money talk doesn’t need to be taboo. Share age-appropriate insights about how your family handles budgeting, bills, and spending priorities. If your teen understands why, you say no—or when you say yes—they’re less likely to push back. These chats build financial literacy without turning it into a lecture. Open dialogue also gives them space to ask questions when they’re confused or curious.
8. Explain How Debit and Credit Really Work
Most teens don’t realize how easy it is to overspend with plastic. If they’re getting access to a debit or credit card, explain how each one works. Go over overdraft fees, interest rates, and minimum payments. Then give them a card with limits they can manage, along with tools to track it. This keeps the phrase “Can I have money?” from turning into “Oops, I already spent it.”
9. Make Giving a Part of Their Financial Plan
Whether it’s donating to a cause or buying a gift for a friend, including generosity in money talk is important. Even a small portion of their allowance or earnings can go toward something bigger than themselves. It teaches empathy, perspective, and balance. When teens see money as a tool—not just for personal gain—they become more thoughtful with every dollar.
10. Celebrate Their Financial Wins
When your teen skips that impulse buy, hits a savings goal, or plans a purchase wisely, let them know you’re proud. Positive reinforcement builds momentum. These wins show them they’re capable and independent, even if they still ask for the occasional \$10. Shifting the conversation from “Can I have money?” to “Let me show you how I handled it” is a big parenting win too.
From Mooching to Money Management
Teaching teens about money isn’t always easy, but it pays off—literally. With a little patience and some smart strategies, you can turn “Can I have money?” into something far more empowering. You’re not just giving them cash; you’re giving them tools to thrive. And that’s worth every penny.
What’s your go-to response when your teen says, “Can I have money?” Share your tips or funny moments in the comments!
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