18 Things Your Kids Should Pay For Once They're Over 18

18 Things Your Kids Should Pay For Once They're Over 18

Wealthy Single Mommy  Creator  Sun, November 9, 2025

Many parents sacrifice their retirement savings to help their kids. Here’s what they should start covering themselves.

Half of all parents are now providing regular financial assistance to their adult children, spending an average of $1,474 per month according to recent studies. While 57% of young adults aged 18-24 still live at home, only 16% are completely financially independent. Many parents sacrifice their own retirement savings to help their kids, with 61% admitting they’ve hurt their own financial security. The transition to adult financial responsibility doesn’t happen overnight, but certain expenses should shift to your adult children as they build independence. Here’s what they should start covering themselves.

1. Cell Phone Bills

Your adult child’s phone is their lifeline to work, friends, and the world. Time to cut that digital umbilical cord. Most parents continue paying phone bills out of habit rather than necessity, even when their kids have steady jobs. Start by having your child take over their portion of the family plan, then encourage them to shop for their own service. This small step teaches budgeting and comparison shopping without breaking the bank.

2. Car Insurance

Once your child turns 18, they’re legally responsible for their own driving. While they might stay on your policy initially for cost savings, they should contribute their portion of the premium. This helps them understand the real cost of driving and builds awareness about maintaining a clean driving record. Give them six months’ notice, then transfer the policy entirely to their name when they’re financially stable.

3. Health Insurance

If your child has a job offering health benefits, they should take advantage of it rather than staying on your plan. Many young adults avoid employer coverage because it seems expensive, but it’s a crucial step toward independence. Walk them through the enrollment process and help them understand deductibles and co-pays. The transition teaches them to navigate insurance systems they’ll use for decades.

4. Groceries and Food

Buying groceries is one of the most practical life skills your adult child can learn. If they’re living at home, start charging them for their portion of the grocery bill. If they’re on their own, resist the urge to stock their pantry during visits. Learning to meal plan, budget for food, and cook basic meals builds genuine independence. You can still enjoy family dinners without footing the bill.

5. Rent or Mortgage Payments

Whether your child lives at home or elsewhere, they should contribute to housing costs. 57% of young adults aged 18-24 still live at home, making this conversation especially relevant for many families. If they’re home, charge a reasonable rent that covers their share of utilities and maintenance. This prevents them from becoming too comfortable and motivates them to work toward their own place. For kids living elsewhere, resist paying their rent except in genuine emergencies that you both define ahead of time.

6. Utilities in Their Own Place

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