If you are already getting regular pocket money every week you will, at some stage want to begin to change the structure of this. This is a sign you are getting older and the amount of money will affect the responsibilities you need to take on.

The sooner you manage your own money effectively the more enjoyment you will get out of all the things you are able to buy or enjoy.



Pocket money to allowance
Often pocket money changes to an allowance once you are a teenager. This can also change to a monthly rather than a weekly system.

This means:

• Your money needs to be spread over the whole month. If you have a mobile phone, for instance, you need to make sure there is enough money to pay the cost of the calls at the end of the month. Don't forget your best friend's birthday present!
  
  
• You can plan for large purchases and watch out for bargains and special offers.
  
  
• You can negotiate what the money is spent on (see the section 'What for').
  
  
• You are responsible for what you buy - it is your money.
  
  
• Talk with the adults who give you the money about changing from pocket money to an allowance, or to start a regular allowance.

Check out the other sections of this site before you talk to the adults.

Be prepared for the discussion. If you have thought all the issues through then this will show you are prepared to manage your allowance.