Pocket Money — Recommended Amounts and Rules for Every Age

Why Pocket Money Matters

Pocket money helps children learn money management — budgeting, saving, and making decisions. In Germany, there is no legal entitlement to pocket money, but youth authorities and family experts strongly recommend it from preschool age onwards.

Recommended Amounts by Age

The following table is based on recommendations from the German Youth Institute (DJI) and youth authorities:

Important: These amounts are recommendations and depend on family income. Less is not a failure — what matters is that your child learns to manage money.

Weekly or Monthly?

• Under 10 years: weekly — children cannot yet plan for an entire month.
• From 10 years onwards: monthly — promotes long-term planning and budgeting.

Budgetgeld — The Next Step

From around 14–16 years, you can introduce additional Budgetgeld (budget money). Your child receives a fixed amount for specific expenses such as:

• Clothing
• School supplies
• Mobile phone costs
• Leisure activities

Budgetgeld typically amounts to €100–150 per month (in addition to pocket money) and fosters true independence.

Taschengeldparagraph (§ 110 BGB)

The so-called Taschengeldparagraph regulates the legal capacity of minors:

• Children from 7 years old may make small purchases with their pocket money independently.
• A purchase is valid if the child pays immediately and in full (e.g., sweets, toys).
• Installment purchases, subscriptions, and online purchases with payment obligations are invalid without parental consent.

Jugendkonto — From What Age?

Many banks offer free youth accounts from age 7:

• Sparkasse, Volksbank: Pocket money account with debit card (no overdraft possible).
• Online banks (e.g., DKB): Account from age 7, Visa debit card from age 14.
• Advantage: Your child learns cashless payment and can safely store monetary gifts.

Rules for Pocket Money

1. Pay on time and regularly — your child must be able to rely on it.
2. Do not reduce as punishment — pocket money is not a disciplinary tool.
3. Do not top up — if your child runs out of money before month's end, they learn from experience.
4. Do not force saving — let your child decide (but incentives are allowed: "If you save €20, I'll add €10").
5. Talk about money — explain prices, advertising, and the difference between wanting and needing.

As of: March 2026. All information without guarantee.