College Graduation Money Gift

We have so many graduations to go to each year so people I know, but aren't real close with I give $15, the ones I'm closer to I give $20. But if it were family (and I havne't experienced that yet). I'd try to give as much as I could afford especially if we were close. If we weren't as close I'd give $20.

Hello,
I would say do what you can, but look out for you and your family 1st. People understand that money is tight everywhere! Maybe instead of cash- get him a Boarder's gift card, or Barnes & Noble. If you know they have iPods maybe an iTunes gift card in whatever amount you can afford. I know there are websites out there where you can buy gift cards at discounted rates, which is nice. Google it.

What this truly depends upon is what your family can afford. Do not be concerned about what is appropriate or what everyone else is doing. In this economy, you need to do what is best for you. If that means $10, give $10. If you are in a situation that affords more, $50 is a generous amount. Don't overextend yourself.

This would totally depend on your family and your financial situation. You might think about what other kids will be coming along and what precedent you are setting. When my grandkids graduated from high school, the gifts they got were either small things like picture frames or small gas cards or checks for $25 and an occasional $50.

I think it depends on the typical gift you give within a family. I have some nephews I am very close to. For them I may go $50 as a one time gift. However other nieces and nephews who I really don't know but I'm related to I would only give $25. I don't think you're obligated to be more generous when you're related. I give more to some graduates I'm closer to than I do relatives. Just my thoughts.

M.,

A monetary gift, of course, is to the giver's discretion on how much they can afford, but here's what I'm doing this year. My sister-in-law's 2 sons are graduating - one from college and the youngest from high school. When Zach graduated h.s., we gave him $50. So, that's what Ryan will get and since Zach is graduating after 4 years of college, he'll be receiving $100. Now, this is our decision and what *we* can afford to do for them; they're our children's only cousins and we're a pretty close-knit family anyway. Each family is different and finances are a factor for many. So, you give what you feel is appropriate and what you can afford to spend. They're young adults - they'll understand and be appreciative of ANY gift they're given.

BTW, tell them Congratulations!

N.
Okemos, MI

Hi M.---I agree with the other posts. First, it has to be within your means.

If it were me, I would probably give a $50 gift, particularly since they are family members. I think I'd also give my nephew/godson $100 because of the closer relationship I have with him. Another option would be to give a savings bond, one type which doubles in value over a period of years. That way, $25 would be worth $50.

When you give from the heart, you've done a very generous thing. Have fun! D.

I'd say that $50 would be very generous. :)

To be honest, I quit giving money and started giving Tupperware. I don't know how much they have to put in an apartment already, but Tupperware NEVER goes out of style and will generally last a lifetime; that saves them money, time, and helps our planet.

You could go to www.my.tupperware.com/kitgrabowski and pick something out (lots of great items for microwave cooking) or simply get them a gift card. You're likely to be remembered more for the Tupperware than money.

I would say $50 if they are stopping with the 2 year degree and $100 if they are going to a 4 year university (if you can afford it).