A Smart Girl's Guide: Money. Nancy Holyoke

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      how to get a raise

      Do you think you should get more allowance? How you talk to your

      parents will be key.

      Pick a good time to talk. If your dad is talking on the phone and

      trying to feed peas to the baby, that is not the moment to march

      in and make your case.

      Don’t rely on comparisons. If you get 50¢ and every girl you know

      gets $5, OK—you can point that out. But if you get $5 and you’ve got

      a friend who gets $8, save your breath. Most parents want to use

      their own judgment—not the neighbors’.

      Say you’ll do extra work around the house. If it’s your job to sweep

      the kitchen after dinner, offer to load the dishwasher, too. If you give

      more, you may get more.

      Say you’ll pay for more of your expenses. Your parents might think

      it’s a good deal if you start paying for your own movies and treats.

      Show your parents that you’re responsible with the money you

      already have. Most adults are going to feel better about giving

      money to a girl who saves a third of her allowance than to a girl who

      blows her entire wad at the mall every payday.

      Accept no for an answer. Your family’s financial situation could

      make it impossible for your parents to give you more in allowance.

      Your parents also might just disagree with you about what the right

      amount should be. Either way, if you keep your cool and accept their