12 Unique and Thoughtful Ways to Give Money as a Gift

Giving money as a present—or even requesting it—was once seen as impolite, but that’s no longer the case. "Money is a perfectly appropriate gift," says etiquette expert Elaine Swann, founder of The Swann School of Protocol. "Studies show that it’s the most appreciated gift—the one that people truly want."

When it comes to gifting money, there are many questions to consider. How much should you give to family? What’s the best way to give money to a child? Is adding cash to a Visa gift card a good idea? And how do you politely ask for money as a gift?

Swann suggests that the amount you give should depend on your budget, your relationship with the recipient, and the nature of the occasion. For example, you might be more generous with a cherished niece or nephew graduating from college than with a casual babysitter during the holiday season.

Asking for money as a gift is more accepted now than in the past. However, instead of saying, "Money only, please," Swann recommends explaining the purpose behind the gift. "Be specific and purposeful in your request," Swann advises. "You might say, 'We're getting married, already have everything we need, but we’re saving for home renovations.' Or for your birthday, you could say, 'I’m working hard to pay off the rest of my student loans!' Make it meaningful—not just a request for cash."

Creative Ways to Give Money as a Gift

Swann notes that using platforms like Venmo, Zelle, or other digital methods to send money is perfectly acceptable today. (And if you receive money electronically, it’s also fine to express thanks via email.) "Show your appreciation with a thoughtful email—a quick text might seem too short, and emojis aren't the best way to say thank you," Swann advises.

Here are some more of our favorite ideas for giving money as a gift.

1. Add a Personal Touch with a Heartfelt Note

Regardless of how you give money—even if it’s simply through Venmo—ensure the recipient feels truly valued. "Add a personal note that shows you’ve put some thought into this and that it holds significance," Swann recommends. "If they enjoy gardening or sports, you could write something like, 'Here’s to your next golf game,' or 'A little something for your garden expansion.'" Just like any gift, it’s the thought that counts.

2. Present It in a Thoughtful Fold

Origami techniques are a fun and creative way to present money—fold your bills into hearts to express your affection, or create a bouquet of flowers for a wedding gift. The bills become so beautiful, they’re almost too good to spend!

3. Pair It with Another Gift

While money might be the main gift, it doesn’t have to be the only thing you give. You can tuck the cash inside a basket with sweets, beauty items, or other delightful treats your recipient will appreciate. Or go even further by using money as gift wrap for a present for someone who could really use the extra cash (like a college student on your gift list).

4. Craft a Money Tree

While it's a common saying that money doesn't grow on trees, you can certainly create the illusion that it does! There are a few creative ways to make a money tree gift basket. One option is to attach bills to a styrofoam topiary structure (for easy removal, use gentle scotch tape), or you could tie gift cards or money to the branches of a live plant (we recommend a money plant).

5. Incorporate It into a Surprise Ball

If you’ve never seen a surprise ball, it’s a large bundle of crepe paper that the recipient unwinds, discovering little surprises (like cash) as they go. To create one, you’ll need a good-sized roll of crepe paper, the money gift, and a few additional fun items (such as small figurines, bracelets, or pieces of candy).

6. Have Fun with the Concept of "Dough"

Hide your cash gift inside a loaf of bread, a rolling pin, or even an (empty!) jar of Play-Doh.

7. Conceal Your Money Gift

Giving someone a wad of cash, though exciting, doesn’t always feel very charming. Instead, present the bills in a (pretty) decoy package. You can fold the money and place it in a chocolate box, tea tin, or even inside their favorite snack container.

8. Perfect for the Season

Why not roll up the cash and hide it inside a transparent ornament to hang on your Christmas tree, or tuck it into plastic Easter eggs and let your recipient enjoy a hunt for the surprise? Add an extra fun touch with confetti or tinsel for an added delight!

9. Store It in a Piggy Bank

Place that money where it truly belongs—inside a bank! Buy an adorable piggy bank and fill it with some starting cash to create a sweet dual-purpose gift. If you're in the holiday spirit, why not give Mr. Pig a festive makeover?

10. Make It Exciting

What's more exciting than balloons? Balloons filled with cash! Roll up a dollar bill (or a $20 if you're feeling generous) and tuck it inside the balloon before inflating it. When the recipient pops it, they'll get a delightful surprise.

11. Conceal It in a Book

Imagine the happy ending! Book lovers or those who enjoy journaling will appreciate receiving a classic novel or a beautiful notebook, but they'll be even more surprised to discover money hidden within the cover.

12. Create a Bouquet of Cash

Flowers are lovely but short-lived. This cash, however, should stick around a bit longer. Roll up the bills and nestle them between the petals, or wrap them around the stems (using some paper to keep the money dry from any moisture).