Money cards vs bank accounts

[temm09]

We're going to start giving my DD10 and DD8 weekly pocket money and I'm looking into getting a money card. So many choices though - Osper, Go Henry, Rooster Money, Nimbl, Starling... and all of these have fees which is offputting, but I don't think my kids can have a bank debit card until they're a bit older. The money cards have apps so you can monitor and control spending which sounds cool - but perhaps checking the account statements online with the banking app would be good enough.

I'm also wondering if money cards are a bit babyish and get embarrassing for teens?

Any thoughts on which money card is best... or whether to go for a child account with some sort of card?

A lot of them use Monzo now I believe.

We did bank accounts, they got cards at 11 prior it just built up

I've decided to go for a Rooster card as DS's first card. I was just a bit lazy, and guessed it was easier to get quickly for him, if I'm being honest. If he's sensible with this (in terms of spending and not losing it!) Then the bank account will be the next step. I'm not sure what ornif his friends have cards, he hasn't said, but I can't see why a cash card would be embarrassing for them. The app is quite handy to check spending.

Revolut kids is pretty good, we use that one

I've just had an email today from HyperCard (which I use myself rather like Munzo) advising they are launching their kids card in about 2 weeks I think it said. It's run through your app to manage and it's completely free. Looks good.

You can only get Monzo at 16. My DD had a GoHenry from 8-16 she was very happy with it.

I looked into this a few weeks back.

I’d be interested to know how people do bank accounts as it seems they can’t get a debit card until they’re 13 I think. My dc are younger, so assuming I’d have to get an account in my name.

I’d much prefer a bank acc than money card but I’d trust eldest dc with a bank acc as she’s ridiculously sensible with money

Mine all had Nimbl cards until they were old enough to get a bank account with debit card. Just opened the last one with my 11yo at Lloyd’s.