Negotiating the change
This is the time to negotiate for a change from weekly pocket money to a monthly allowance.

Remember that the adults who give you pocket money may not be able to give you money on a monthly basis. Accept their reasons and continue with what they are able to afford and organise.

Don't argue about money matters. Have your facts ready and present these calmly. The answer may be 'no' - but they will see you are able to manage money and are ready to take on further responsibility when they are able to meet their side of the arrangement.

There is no obligation for adults to give pocket money!

I would like to have a monthly allowance of: (you will need to check out the costs of your list below before filling in this section).

I would spend this on: (you might want to include the following:)

• Clothes for special occasions
• All clothes apart from school
• Mobile phone top up
• Treats
• Parties and trips out with my friends
• Presents for family and friends

You would still provide:

• School clothes
• School essentials
• School outings (on negotiation)
• Holidays (although not necessarily the spending money)
• Contribution towards special presents
• Money saving tips

I will not ask for extra money:

• If I have no money left in a month I will not expect to borrow any more.
• If I borrow money I understand you will charge me 1p interest for every 50p borrowed. I will expect to have this deducted from next month's allowance.
• If I want to negotiate a rise I will present you with the facts and figures.
• If you are not able to give me my allowance because of a change in circumstances I will accept a cut in my allowance in negotiation.

You will give me my allowance every month.

• Will not comment on my choice of purchases unless asked.
• Will not bail me out if I run out of money, unless I agree the loan terms.
• Will renegotiate the amount if I present the facts and figures to support this.
• Tell me if I need to have a smaller allowance because of a change of circumstances.

Talk with the adults who give you the money and discuss all the issues. You will NOT get all your own way. Be prepared to have less money, or to have limitations on what you can buy.