Cash is always a good option to give as a high school graduation gift. But how much money should you give? Here is a guide to how much money to give for a high school graduation gift in 2023.
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Graduating high school is a major milestone in a young person’s life, and it’s important to celebrate their achievement with a thoughtful gift.
One of the most common gifts given to high school graduates is money, but many people struggle with determining how much money to give.
There are several factors to consider when deciding on an appropriate amount for a graduation gift. The amount you give may depend on your relationship with the graduate, your financial situation, and your personal beliefs about gift-giving.
It’s important to strike a balance between being generous and practical, so that your gift is both meaningful and useful to the recipient.
We’ve compiled some research and advice from experts to help you figure out how much money to give for a high school graduation.
Should You Give Money As A High School Graduation Gift?
One of the most popular gifts for high school graduates is money. There are several reasons why giving money as a graduation gift can be a good idea.
First, it allows the graduate to choose what they want or need. They may be starting college soon and need to purchase textbooks or supplies, or they may be moving out on their own and need to buy furniture or household items.
Giving money as a high school graduation gift allows them the flexibility to use it as they see fit.
Another reason to consider giving money as a graduation gift is that it can be a practical option for those who are unsure what to give.
Choosing a gift can be difficult, especially if you do not know the graduate well or are unsure of their interests. Giving money can be a safe choice that is sure to be appreciated.
However, there are also some potential downsides to giving money as a graduation gift.
For some people, it may feel impersonal or lacking in sentimentality. It may also be seen as a cop-out or a lazy choice, especially if the giver does not put much thought into the amount or presentation of the gift.
However, there are creative ways to gift money that will make it look like you put a little bit more effort in. We’ll go over some creative ways to gift money later in this post.
Ultimately, whether or not you choose to give money as a high school graduation gift is a personal decision. However, if you do decide to give money, you should make sure you’re gifting an appropriate amount.
How To Determine the Amount of Money to Give
Relationship to the Graduate
When determining how much money to give for a high school graduation gift, it’s important to consider your relationship to the graduate.
If you’re a close family member or friend, you may want to give a more substantial gift than if you’re just an acquaintance.
According to a Verve Credit Union gift-giving guide, acceptable cash amounts for a graduation gift range from $20 to $100 or more, depending on your relationship to the graduate.
Budget
Another important consideration when deciding how much money to give for a high school graduation gift is your budget.
While it’s important to give a gift that reflects your relationship to the graduate, it’s equally important to give a gift that you can afford.
Don’t feel pressured to give more than you can comfortably afford, as the graduate will appreciate any gift given with sincerity and thoughtfulness.
Regional and Cultural Norms
Regional norms can also play a role in determining how much money to give for a high school graduation gift.
The amount of money that is considered an appropriate graduation gift can vary depending on where you live or what your background is.
For example, in some areas, it may be customary to give a larger gift than in others. If you’re unsure what is considered an appropriate gift in your region or culture, it may be helpful to ask friends or family members for guidance.
How Much Money Should You Give For A High School Graduation Gift?
Wondering how much money is appropriate to gift to a high school graduate? In general, here is the amount of money that should be given:
- From parents: $100-300
- Close relatives like grandparents: $50-500
- Distant relatives: $25-75
- Older siblings: $15-50
Of course, the exact amount you give will depend on your own financial status. So let’s dive a little deeper into those numbers.
If you’re a friend, sibling, or extended family member
If you’re giving a graduation gift to a friend, sibling, or extended family member, there’s no set amount you should give.
The amount you choose to give will depend on your relationship with the graduate and your budget.
According to LoveToKnow Teens, the average high school graduation money gift is between $30 and $200 dollars. However, you should feel free to give more or less, depending on your circumstances.
Extended family members typically give between $25-75 as a high school graduation gift, with the average relative giving $50 cash gifts.
If you’re the younger sibling of the graduate, you probably won’t be expected to give any kind of monetary gift. However, older siblings may want to contribute a small cash gift of $15-50 for the graduate to treat themselves to something nice.
If you’re the parent of the graduate
If you’re the parent of the graduate, you may want to give a more substantial gift to mark this significant occasion.
According to Money Tamer, the highest amount for a cash gift should come from you, the parent, or possibly grandparents. This could be anywhere between $100-$300.
However, you could also consider giving a more meaningful gift, such as jewelry, a vehicle, or a contribution to their college fund.
If you’re the grandparent of the graduate
As a grandparent, you may also want to give a more substantial gift to your grandchild.
Grandparents have a special relationship with their grandchildren. Typically, grandparents like to spoil their grandkids.
A cash amount or gift equivalent of $20 to $500 is typical for high school graduations.
If you’re a grandparent with some cash to spare, you’ll likely give $100-500 to celebrate an accomplishment like graduating college.
For grandparents with less cash on hand, $25-$50 is a perfectly appropriate amount for a college graduation gift.
Creative Ways To Gift Money For Graduation
When it comes to gifting money for a high school graduation, it can be difficult to come up with a creative way to present it. Here are six ideas to make your gift stand out:
Money Balloons
Fill clear balloons with cash and confetti for a festive surprise. Simply blow up the balloons and add the cash and confetti before tying them off with ribbon.
The graduate can get the money by popping the balloons. So fun and creative!
Money Cake
Create a cake out of rolled up bills and secure them to a tiered foam structure.
Decorate it with ribbons and bows for a fun and unique way to give cash as a gift.
Money Wreath
This money gift idea could not be easier.
Just roll up some dollar bills and attach them to a foam wreath form. Add decorations such as graduation caps, tassels, and ribbons for a festive touch.
Cash Umbrella
Make it rain for their high school graduation! For this creative gift idea, you’ll just need your cash, an umbrella, paper clips, and string.
Attach the gift money to the inside of the umbrella using string and paperclips. Then close the umbrella carefully.
When the high school graduate opens the umbrella, it’ll “shower” them with cash! So fun.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to giving a high school graduation gift, there is no hard and fast rule for how much money to give. It really depends on your relationship with the graduate and your personal financial situation.
If you’re not comfortable giving cash, there are plenty of other gift ideas to consider. A thoughtful and personalized gift can be just as meaningful as a cash gift.
Whatever gift you choose, remember that it’s the thought that counts. The most important thing is to show your support and encouragement for the graduate as they move on to the next phase of their life.
This post was all about how much money to give for a high school graduation.
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