Pellets

So, we are still finding our way through “child-at-college-finances.” Last month we deposited her monthly budget into her account and notified her. Ten days later she called to ask, “How long was the money supposed to last?” It was an ominous question. To her credit, she did not ask for more money, just was inquiring about the length of the budget cycle but we checked her balance on-line and it was like 18 cents. Not a good sign.

You know, being able to check her balance we can also check her activity. She uses her debit card for everything and does not withdraw cash. So we can see where she’s spending her money and I’m happy to report that it is all for groceries and stuff: no manicures, spas or encyclopedias. She’s not living extravagantly nor being wasteful; it is just that she is unaccustomed to the timing that budgeting requires. For her first 18+ years, we have unwittingly taught her that you spend, frugally, and then when you run out of money, Mom gives you more.

I reasoned that since it is not a matter of unchecked spending, it may be too large an “influx” interval. This month we’re trying weekly budgeting, and so far it seems to be working much better. A week seems to be more within her grasp. It made me think, would daily be even better? Hourly? “You have a quarter from 10 to 11 this morning, at which time you get another quarter. I could just camp out at the bank. Maybe give them a little sign when it was OK to release the coin. Hopefully it won’t come to that.