Parents can now send money to their kids on Google Wallet.
Google Wallet introduces a new feature allowing U.S. parents to manage and transfer money to children under 18, enabling contactless payments via Google Pay while maintaining oversight through Family Link.
Google has announced a new tool within Google Wallet designed to assist parents in managing their children’s finances as the back-to-school season approaches. The feature allows parents in the U.S. to create a secure balance for kids under 18, enabling them to make contactless payments in stores using NFC-enabled Android or Wear OS devices. Parents can transfer funds directly from their own accounts and will soon have the option to set up automated recurring payments for added convenience.
The tool integrates with Family Link, Google’s parental control platform, giving parents full visibility and control over their child’s spending. Features include setting specific spending limits, tracking transactions in real time, and the ability to instantly lock or unlock the balance if necessary. This aims to provide a practical way for families to teach financial responsibility without requiring a traditional bank account.
The new Google Wallet feature is positioned as a solution for families navigating a cashless economy, where digital payments are becoming the norm. By allowing parents to oversee and fund their children’s spending, the tool seeks to balance independence with safety. The automated payment option, expected to launch soon, will further streamline the process for recurring expenses like school lunches or transportation.
The announcement reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to expand its digital payment ecosystem while addressing the needs of families. The feature is available now in the U.S. and builds on existing tools within Google Wallet and Family Link, offering a structured approach to teaching children about money management in a digital-first world.