Hi, I'm a fresh grad and just started my traineeship. Am gonna give my parents some money at the end of the month. But uh… my pay is capped at $2.5k... How much do people usually give?

Hey!! I just wanna hop on this even though I'm a little late cause I think I do things a little differently from the others. My parents don't really need or want me to be giving them money, so instead of giving an "allowance" when my dad is earning way more, I just start taking initiative to treat for dinners, buy them stuff etc. I actually bought my parents air tickets to go europe this year (but covid...)

Unless your parents are strapped for money, I think this method is a lot less transactional, especially since you are only earning $2.5k. Save it up for your house or wedding! haha

That is such a great thing that in Asia the children feel they have to support their parents, different in th U.S. and Europe mostly. Maybe You would like to discuss with your siblings or colleagues, or even discuss with your parents what they feel could be O.K. (if your country's culture allows to ask then directly).

🍀

Personally I started with 20% of take home pay (got it from the poly friends I met from work).

Over the past 10+ years, I have expanded to
A) monthly allowance to my parents, + set aside a few hundred (family emergency fund + replace furniture and appliances)

B) covering the hp, star hub and cable bills

C) angpow money for CNY, Xmas, birthdays

D) their medical insurance.

Frankly, don't feel pressure. I had colleagues told me that they give 300 monthly and that is enough (frankly what I have given is many times 300, and I find my parents are like just... OK)

I would however suggest something... Within three years, you should aim an equivalent amount that you could rent out your room for (internal rent allocation). If you parents find that is too much, ask them save for your wedding or hdb down payment lol.

I suggest the equivalent rent method because you should gradually adjust to either having to pay rent or your mortgage when you eventually get married / move out. This sets a good foundation to manage your budget, and not get used to spending much more otherwise. it is very difficult to downgrade your standard of living once you get used to somethings

If you feel OK, you can look through what I have listed for myself. Personally I find the medical insurance policy part most important - you should find out if they have any, or if it needs upgrade - because you want to secure some cover before they develop some conditions after they turn 60++. Don't try to skimp on medical / hospitalization policy - if it bites, it bites damn hard.

You could discuss with them if they feel your contribution is OK. As parents, I think they would want you to still have a comfortable amount to spend / save for marriage and hdb / clear off your education loans or debts.

I think the general rule of thumb is 10%! tho it really depends on you and your parents haha