Average UK pocket money rates by age
According to national British family surveys and research from UK MoneyHelper (Money & Pensions Service), average weekly pocket money UK rates fall into these standard GBP age bands:
| Age Group | Typical UK Weekly Pocket Money | Common UK Spending Expectations |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 4–6 | £2.50 – £4.00 / week | Sweets, magazine treats, piggy bank saving |
| Ages 7–9 | £4.50 – £7.00 / week | Trading cards, school tuck shop snacks, small toys |
| Ages 10–12 | £7.50 – £11.00 / week | Cinema trips, mobile gaming credits, saving goals |
| Ages 13–16 | £12.00 – £20.00+ / week | High street clothing, bus fares, peer outings |
Popular UK pocket money cards for kids
- NatWest Rooster Money: Contactless Visa debit card for ages 6–17 (free for NatWest customers) with star charts and interest rates.
- GoHenry: A pioneer in UK kids debit cards with custom card designs, automated weekly transfers, and interactive in-app Money Missions.
- HyperJar: Great fee-free UK prepaid card option allowing kids to create digital saving jars for different goals.
UK pocket money tips for parents
- Set up automated standing orders: Avoid scrounging for £1 and £2 coins by setting up a recurring Sunday transfer via online banking.
- Encourage a 3-jar split (£): Help kids divide pocket money into Save, Spend, and Give envelopes or app jars.