How much pocket money do you give your kids?

A financial incentive can go a long way when it comes to encouraging kids to do their bit around the house. But giving pocket money doesn’t come cheap.

According to GoHenry, seven to 18-year-olds got an average of £9.90 a week in pocket money between January and April 2026.

That’s 1.2% higher than it was a year earlier.

On the one hand, that suggests parents are being more generous when rewarding their little ones.

But on the other, that increase is lower than the rate of inflation.

So it could also show that rising living costs are starting to weigh down on hard-pressed parents.

What tasks are children getting pocket money for?

On average, children are getting a £1.14 reward for tidying their room and £1.21 for helping around the house.

Parents are even more generous with other tasks, giving £1.31 to kids who brush their teeth and £1.39 to those who do their homework.

On top of that, a child can expect around £1.42 for looking after the household pet.

Kids saving up for treats

While parents might be counting the cost of giving children pocket money when money is tight, it’s worth bearing in mind that you’re helping them learn good financial habits.

Rather than blowing their money straight away, kids are saving nearly £4 a week, so they can get treats and items they really want, such as snacks in the supermarket and health and beauty products.

That can only stand them in good stead in later life.

Help is available if you're struggling

If you're a parent and struggling with day-to-day living costs, then support may be available.

If your income is no longer stretching far enough to cover your outgoings, get in touch. 

We can help you check that you're claiming all the benefits you're entitled to, as well as support you in creating a realistic budget that works for your circumstances.