My parents are charging me rent. Is this fair?

Question

Ever since I turned 18 my parents have been taking 150$ from me a month. I’m now 22. I know that doesn’t sound like a lot, but I’m only making around 400$ a month from my job. That’s almost 1/3 of all my wages. They’re well off and do not even need the money. I asked them if they’re saving it for me for the future and they laughed in my face and said I sounded entitled and that I should “contribute” to the house. I understand that that is fair, but I could contribute in other ways, especially since I only make 400$ a month, and all of that money goes to my car gas and car insurance. I don’t have any money to save because it all goes to them and my car. What do you think I should do and what should I ask them? Thanks for any help.

Updates

+1 y

Btw-
I understand this is fair and it’s their rules because they own the house, I was just trying to get everyone’s opinions to see if this is unusual or not

Updates

+1 y

I appreciate everyone’s input 😇

lightbulb27 · Accepted Answer

Job of parent is to get their kids positioned well for life.

Getting them through school, with place to live, a job... financial and emotional stability so they can build their family.

It is hard to tell if what they are doing is structured to discipline you or punishment. Personally, I think it is too much rent for your income... but what would you do with the $ if you had extra?

My parents took good care of all their kids through college, helped me live very low cost so I could save money, helped buy a house. I got good education and job and all this put me on solid financial footing. That's how it should be done.

Get a plan and fix your life, that's all the choice you control.

MCheetah · Accepted Answer

It is unfair if you are trying to move out and get a place on your own and they are not helping you to do that (as was the case with my abusive mother). They may be trying to "teach you responsibility" and make sure you can survive on your own, but considering how little you make, I don't think this is the case.

It's a little unfair, but as your parents, they do have the right to charge you rent, as unfair as that may be. I'd only excuse it if you were lazy and didn't have a job or wasn't in school. Try to ask friends if you can move in together, as this is easier for girls. Your parents might just be mean.

DoggyDude · Answer

They are teaching you a good lesson. Also they are treating you as an adult and setting expectations.

Though yes, they are also benefiting from your earnings.

Its fair and its good for you; What you should do though is look at this as a challenge in your life to re-arrange yourself such that your getting value for your money, consider looking for your own place and also consider if you do anything to increase your own earnings. Look around, understand the rental market and take the best deal. Though, its probable you can't get a better deal than that of your family (but by looking for one, carefully and mindful of risks / weighing that up, you may find something better for you and at worst will better aprechiate your current deal).

Anonymous · Answer

I think it's fair. I know it seems very frustrating right now but this is something I wish my parents did to prepare me. When I moved out on my own it was a giant slap in the face. The cost for rent, my car, car insurance, utilities, groceries, etc unfortunately add up and I wasn't ready.

It may not seem like this right now but your parents do this out of love. It's tough growing up and moving out on your own and I can see that your parents just want you to be ready for all 'adulting craziness.'

You're young and i definitely suggest finding your passion in what you love for a job. Definitely look around for a better paying job. I'm not sure what you're interested in doing but I have seen remote jobs that pay $14 for 40 hours a week too if that's something of interest to you.

I also can't say much about your relationship with your parents but I remember when my parents would be too hard on me. It's very difficult to see in the moment but when I look back now, I know they do it out of love. Our parents just have weird ways of showing it sometimes. So also don't forget that.

Anonymous · Answer

After 18, your parents have no obligation to pay your way. It's nice when some parents continue to do so, but others want you to start really learning about the real world that you live in, and you'll often find that it's not fair. What is however fair is them only charging $150/month. There is no apartment anywhere outside of a mud hut with no power and electricity that you can pay that little. The reality of the real world is you wouldn't even be able to afford rent right now elsewhere, let alone, health insurance, food, utilities, savings, etc so please please please be grateful for what you have because there are others who are on the streets and have nothing.

Instead of focusing on what you are being charged, focus on how you can help yourself. If you want to move out, you'll need more money. To get that you need additional income---are there any other side jobs you can do, another job you can find, somethings you can sell online? Look at the cost of apartments in your area and start working on a plan for how you can obtain the money you need to live the life you want. If you have no desire to do any of that, then don't complain because you really really don't want to see what it's like out there with your budget. You'll find out just how harsh the world can be and how.

Effably · Answer

Ultimately you're an adult and if you want to live there they can demand whatever they want, within legal limits.

Is 400$ a normal salary where you live? Given age and experience. Are you working less than full time? Can you step that up? So on.

If paying rent on your own apartment would be more affordable, get one! Moving from home to live on your own is perhaps the Best single feeling I have ever had as an adult. And I have like... pet a duck, jumped from planes, I even totally held the hand of someone I like a few times. Own place still wins.

I would start planning and working towards your exit strategy. Whatever it may be. Even just having a timeframe might make life easier on you.

You could absolutely sit down with them though. Walk over your income, expenditure and your desire to save money for X or Y. Compare it to theirs in a rational and polite way. That is your segway to then propose that you can assume some added responsibility. After all if they lose one hour of income for three hours of chores, well, most well-off households would be very interested.

meetkitty123 · Answer

ARE you Serious! Young lady are you aware of the average price of rent now a days? Its over $1200 and thats not including utilities (electric water, heat, and cooling), cable, wifi, phone or cell phone! Where Im from the rent is $1500 for A 600sq foot STUDIO Meaning a sperate bath but the kitchen living room and your bedroom is all in one open room. And there is nothing else included in the rent. Parking is a separate fee. Oh and let me add many landlords demand you buy rental insurance and put it in their lease contract... which is a separate cost. And while i am on the topic of leases some places charge just to apply for a lease so they can run a credit check.
GIRL YOU NEED A WAKE UP CALL! And thats exactly what your parents are trying to do. You say your 22? Well I was living on my own since I was 18 and it wasn't any fairy tale! After many difficulties and struggles (homelessness too) Lots of hard work. I now own my house (fully paid for). You either need to finish school and or get yourself a better paying job. Heck Just to make ends meet for my family I took a second job part time as a cashier. If you find a job that pays. 10-13 dollars an hour at a part time rate (between 16 to 24 hours a week) you could be making at the least $688 to the most $1,341.6 a month. Good luck hun. I truly wish you the best!

libsaretards · Answer

The IDEAL budget for ALL housing expenses (rent and utilities) is 1/3 of your income, but the reality is, for most people, housing can be about HALF your check. As for housing, car and insurance taking everything you have and leaving you NOTHING, that is reality as well until you find a way to get a high-paying job and HOPE the education/training to get there does not cause you to go into debt that cancels out the higher wages. That is NOT even counting groceries, which MANY people forgo to pay the other bills. Many people have to face this at 18. You are 22 and blessed.

You have it way better than most and honestly do sound entitled. Once you pay off your car, you can then put that towards savings/investments. You have food (pretty sure parents are not letting you starve). You have to suck it up, be patient and then reap the rewards for your patience. Patience, discipline and hard work are how you move up. Whining about what you are lacking will lead your mind to negative thoughts, which is wasted energy to combat on top of your situation. Looking at your blessings and being thankful leads to positive thoughts, which can boost your morale and give you energy to do what must be done.

Massageman · Answer

Let's do the math.
Based on only a four-week/20 work-day month, you are making $20 per day. You need to get a real job.

Now, let's look at percentages. Many financial experts say that your housing should not exceed 30-35% of your income. Actually, even your math is rusty since that would be 3/8 or 37.5% of your income. Even if your folks were to knock that down to equal 33%, that is still $132 a month for your housing. And remember, that includes mortgage, homeowner's insurance, property maintenance, property taxes, utilities, etc. You need to be grateful for what you have.

Let's look at common sense. If you KNOW that you will have a maximum of $268/ month disposable income (assuming you pay no income taxes whatsoever), you are being irresponsible for buying a car which will cost you the car payment, insurance payment (higher because you are only 22) and the increasing cost of gas. You need to get some common sense.

I don't think it's fair either. You are getting far too good of a deal.

zyxacb · Answer

The answer my dad (who was making over $100,000 per year gave: my house, you have a range of choices in life, if you feel more suited to some other arrangement, go there.

When I worked retail, people would come in & complain about what the company should or shouldn't do based on their needs, wants, and desires, my response:

"They are a business & not required to do anything not mandated by law, or deceptive - if you do not want to shop here, you're not required to."

Your parents are trying to make sure you don't become "that person" who walks into others' places, focused on your needs, wants, and desires, because you're the center of the universe & have the right to walk into their universe & dictate rules to them.

Everything you do is your choice. If you have no other perceived better options, and this is your best scenario, you'll need to suck it up, deal with it, and learn to not be entitled & demand accommodation/control over others' resources you didn't earn & have no right to control.

Frenchteacher · Answer

It seems I may be in the minority here but I think rent is theft. It's a bit different when it's your parents, who may be under financial strain. But as you said, they're well off.
As for what you can do, unfortunately you don't have too many options right now. You could simply not pay and force them to literally kick you out. But that might get ugly depending on what they're willing to do. You could try moving out with another family member or good friend who might be willing to put you up for free or less money, in exchange for some services around the house or something. You could try reasoning with them too. You could explain that the help you get now will only benefit you in the long run, and set you up to be even more successful later on. Right now if 33% of your earnings are taken and you are unable to save, you have no chance of making any big purchases later on or putting a down payment on your own place or starting your own business. This is the time in your life when you need support and help, if you're ever going to 'make it'.
Good luck!

MrsMcHenry · Answer

My father tried to charge me over $1,000 a month & I told him I would pay him $800 a month. WAY too much for what I make. I have a son & am a single mother on top of that. I make decent money , but like you only bring home an average of $400 a week. But between 2 credit cards , my car note , car insurance , gas , my son & his after school care , my phone bill ,& other things , PLUS I provide my own food , laundry needs ,& everything else for my son & I ,& take care of my cat ,& my deceased mother's dog ,(which is ultimately his responsibility) it got too much.

So I agree , it's not helping you save up & learn responsibility if you are unable to actually do just that.
Try talking to them & see if you can explain to them that you can't save up and move out if you keep paying them so much a month. Maybe comprise & tell them you'll pay for groceries or the trash bill. Or half the electric bill. Or pay them $100 a month , so you can save for your own place.
I'm 30 years old , with a 6 year old ,& a full time job as an assistant manager ,& still can't afford to move out. Times are tough & they aren't getting any easier.

andreasderjuengere · Answer

May I assume that your people are consumerist Americans?
From what you describe, I'd rather live in a tent and by myself.
However, I don't know 'your' FULL story.

Presently, my stepdaughter and her boyfriend stay in my house.
My house has fixed expenses - no matter if they are there, or not. That's what I arranged... for myself.
They do contribute a little in power bill expenses - but I (we) never asked for that. It's appreciated, though.
If ''family life'' becomes a financial transaction, then we are better off without a ''family''.

I don't say that your folks are ''unfair'' - perhaps, they (and you) are just victims of your culture (or: what your ''culture'' has become)

LovingLoverReturned · Answer

No but i guess it's tough love trying trying make you independent.

Everyone is different so their should be no one size fits all and children shouldn't be forced to grow up fast when it wasn't their choice to be born.
But.. you will know they still love you if you absolutely can not pay the rent for some valid reason and they don't leave you to the streets. Lol. Otherwise, Goodluck, try your best and look at it as tough love.

ShadezMcgee · Answer

Charging you only $150? Shit, I would have taken that over what my parents charged me until I moved out. I got charged $500 a month.

They are probably factoring in food and utilities to your rent. If it is that big a problem, you really only have two options. Pick up another job to increase your wages to save and move out or find a new main job where you make more than you do now.

Honestly speaking, if you are spending over 2/3 of your income on expenses you are living above your means.

What do you do for a job? What's stopping you from getting a better paying one or a second one to give you breathing room outside of rent, gas and insurance for your car?

Losalt · Answer

Charging you rent *is* fair.
They're no longer responsible for you.
However you could ask them if you can agree on a different sum.
Alternatively see if you can find a different insurance company for your car that's cheaper.
Either way, you *need* to save.
You should also consider looking for another job, because that's not much money that's you're earning, and there's likely high demand for labour right now, meaning that if you look for a job you can probably find one with a better income.
And already being in a job is likely to make it easier to find a new one.
So don't resign from your current one till you've been hired in the new one.

I'd you're able to get someone, ideally some kind of boss in your current job to vouch for you and your character that'll probably also help.

Poppykate · Answer

😂 . Sorry, but you do sound entitled. I started working part time at 14. About 90% of my money was going to my parents. My parents believed I should be contributing to the household.

But you are an adult. $200 a month is a bargain for rent! No matter where you live!
You are living a very shelter life. You couldn’t rent anywhere for that price… and pay for food, electricity, phone, food, clothing, Netflix subscription, etc. You need to go back to your parents and Thank them! And if your mum is still doing your laundry 🧺 and cleaning the house etc, you need to give her a bouquet of flowers, and great big warm hug and a big thank you. She deserves it!

midnightmoon05 · Answer

Based on what you said about your parents, they sound like they have their head on their shoulders..…and that I would think you would be looking for a more higher paying job, moved out… then happily take your parents out to dinner from time to time to show them what amazing parent they did to raise you.
be glad you have a home and your parents not kicking you out.
I started my career at 22 and purchased my whole family new set of furnitures…
all my parents kids are very successful because they raised us well.
be grateful and think what you can do for your parents

Seinna · Answer

Yes, if you're not in full time education and have a job then you should contribute. You are an adult after all. It's a bit harsh to take it from you when you just turn 18 because what does that even mean? 18 doesn't mean adulthood in my opinion. But I think the problem is that at 22 you only earn $400 per month... maybe they're trying to motivate you to find something better? I feel anything would be better than that. Unless you are in full time education and working at the same time then yeah they're pricks. But if you don't have anything else holding you back from getting a better job then you should. Because what if you didn't have parents and family home to rely on? Could you rent a place for $150 in your area? If not then you know you're doing something wrong as far as your career goes.

crossdressingrihno · Answer

That doesn't sound like a lot of money to be making honestly

If you're going to college then yeah your parents are a little bit in the wrong and maybe they should take 50 bucks off that since you do need money for yourself

However if you're not currently going to college or something like that then you should be earning more money which means you either haven't been looking for a better job or you're just not putting in time for your job and either way how can your parents be blamed for that

honeynut-scenarios · Answer

I’m sure it’s to prepare you for the future, but if you’re not able to save then I don’t see the point. I’d hope they’d help you in some way when it’s time for you to move out. I get not everyone is as fortunate to come from a wealthy home, but you are and it’s okay to be upset by this. Your phone bill, food on the table, clothes, occasional presents etc should still been seen as a privilege, but you seem humble enough to know that.

itsalyssaagain · Answer

I think it’s fair. Do all parents do it? No. But it’s fair.

I’m 24 and I still live with my parents. I’ve helped them with bills since I was 18. Nobody ever asked me for help but when I had the extra money I did because it’s not moral of me to watch my older parents slave away to pay the bills and I keep the money to myself.

I wish I had even more money to pay for everything for them. They deserve it. I’m an adult and without them wouldn’t be where I am today. They paid for me all these years and gave me the best life they possibly could.

Anonymous · Answer

They're trying to prepare you for what it'll be like on your own (and you are an adult now). This will be true for the rest of your life now (a mortgage for adults or even rent will take up that much of your pay, even when you get a better job). Life sucks! lol Now they shouldn't have laughed at you about saving money, that is good, but I believe their intentions are good here, even though it sucks for you. They're just trying to prepare you for what life will be like and make you responsible, as it will come sooner or later regardless.

exitseven · Answer

You do not say why you only make 400/mo. Are you a student and only able to work part time? If not I suggest you find a different job. Lots of places are hiring.
If you were living in a apartment your landlord would not care that you only made 400 dollars a month.

annabananna · Answer

I personally would let my children stay with me rent free as long as they were contributing to society and trying to figure out their way. Even though that’s how I would parent doesn’t make your parents wrong in how they do things though. I’m sure that they mean well and just wanna make sure you don’t grow up to be an entitled irresponsible brat. It sounds like it’s not a money thing for them but more of a principle thing and that’s ok for them to make that decision since it is their house. Honestly I wouldn’t be surprised if they are secretly saving the money for later.

DaveToo · Answer

I'm gonna answer this a bit late but I'll throw my two cents in as a parent. When my girls were going to school and university they didn't pay rent because it was their job to be educated. One that is accomplished, and if they're still living with me, they paid a portion of their income to me for rent. They were to buy their own food and cook it. In order to learn what life is truly about they had to know that no one gives you a god damn thing. You work for what you have, and you pay those who do for you. That was me until they moved out.

So yes, you do sound like you might feel entitled, since they harbored you, fed you, and paid for your clothing and extracurricular activities as you were growing up. At 22 you could be going to college to gain more education which can lead to far better wages than 400 dollars a month. If you tried to live on your own outside their home you couldn't make it on that. So be glad that is all you have to pay out right now.

motownplayer2000 · Answer

Yes, it’s absolutely fair… lol they are teaching you a lesson in the real world.. because out here… rent is a hell of a lot more, be glad they aren’t making you pay for the amount of energy you consume in the way of electricity and internet.. also, they probably don’t make you pay for your own food.. you see in the real world you have to learn to make “$400” last… so get creative with budgeting. You will learn this valuable lesson when you are older and out the house. I was out of my moms house at 19. Lived in a dorm for a year than split a house with some guys.. trust it’s hits quick when you don’t have money for food or gas.. learn this lesson now so you can take it with you later

padreflint · Answer

How much are you working for the $400/m? Is that a good wage where you are? Sounds like you have to sit down and prioritize a few things. For one you will probably want to move from your parents place eventually. How much is rent in your area? You will need a job that covers rent, utilities, food, toiletries, laundry stuff, vehicle and maintenance, insurances, I could go on, but I hope you get the idea. To me it sounds like you need to work more or get a better job. If you are this cash strapped now, you are going to be in for a shock later in life.

Cathy7734 · Answer

My parents told me if I'm going to college full-time (which I am) I don't have to pay for rent or food. So I get free room and board. However, if I got a full-time job instead, then I would have to pay rent (which is minimal) for one year then I have to move out.

I'm assuming this is what most parents do.

KrisPW · Answer

How are you ever going to move out if you can't pay such a cheap rent now? If everything else goes to your car, then that $150 rent is also buying you food and utilities? phone? Sounds to me like you should feel VERY fortunate that you are getting your basic life necessities so cheaply.

jamesgoldman · Answer

Yeah and you pay only a third, lucky thing

I'm paying half of my income which is about double what you pay but you've got the financial millstone of driving (third worst to student loans and bad debt) thankfully and partially ironically I was in a car crash that has prevented me from driving but that aside is probably the only reason I have anything at all

Guido · Answer

Totally fair. My parents did it to me and I did it to my kids.

From the time they got their first job while in school, I charged them 10% of their take home pay. When done school and had a job, they paid 500/month.

I set up a bank account and saved the money for them as my parents did for me but they did not know it.

When I got married, I got a nice check and a surprise. Since my boys are not married, when they were well established, I gave them their money when they needed it.

It taught them that life is not a free ride and there is a need to work and earn your way in life. Your 22 and only making 400/month. Time to get a full time job and support yourself. With that income, you certainly cannot live on your own. If that is all I made, I would be taking public transportation so I had money for clothes until I made enough money to live off.

Apulu_Imback · Answer

Just go out and live in our own home instead with your parents. I think it's kinda fair because parents need to raise up their kids till 18 only. It is all fair according to law but I don't think it is something appropriate. Like who asks money from their kids for households. My parents won't do that. I guess it is different in your area.

all_hayl · Answer

That’s called real life. Life costs money. You’re lucky they’re only charging you $150. Once you’re 18 you’re legally an adult and they’re no longer obligated to provide for you. Whether it’s “fair” is not only COMPLETELY irrelevant, but even thinking that way seems rather selfish. They spent the last 18 years raising you - which cost them 10s and 10s of thousands of dollars. $150 is a small price to pay. Be grateful that they’re not booting you or changing a lot more.

Dburns1268 · Answer

What is your situation? R u in school and have a part time job? If u aren't in school and u have just a part time job, quit complaining and get another job. When I was married and had 2 children I had a full time job AND a part time job. Grow up!!! If you're in school r they paying your tuition?

HighValue · Answer

Suggest to them that instead of them charging you rent, they could stil claim you on their taxes. that would be much more beneficial to them financially than you paying $150 per month.
Or if they do charge you rent, you should claim yourself on your taxes and you would get "earned income credit" which would be somewhere between $2,000 to $3,000 at the end of the tax year.

LingyRolls · Answer

Totally fair. You're an adult now. You're still acting like a child and sucking from their tit. Charging you rent is their way of trying to motivate you to stop being a loser in moms basement and grow up and pay REAL rent. They're basically playing house with you, on easy mode.

metaldragon563 · Answer

Sounds like you have selfish parents. If they're making a lot of money themselves they're robbing you of your own money to make themselves richer. Doesn't sound like good parents. I could understand if they were poor or something but you stated they aren't. You can go about this in different ways. Either split the finances between your parents, get your own place, or contribute to something else like pay for groceries.

RedBullRacingLemia · Answer

Most parents ask their kids for rent after they get a job and $150 is a fair ammount. Your using their electricty to watch tv, using thier internet to use this website and other stuff, food to eat, water to wash yourself. If you think its unfair move out and see how you can survive. Renting a house for yourself your looking at almost double that thats including maintaince.

_pinkme · Answer

So, here’s the thing. Your parents suck as parents but than not really. On one hand, they could be teaching you a lesson but on the other they could just just be overall terrible parents

You said they don’t need the money so you have to investigate and find out.

Honestly I hate it when parents make kids who didn’t even ask to be here in the first place then throw them out or charge them money at 18.

Honestly, this is all just a complicated situation

sunflower00 · Answer

Since they don’t NEED you to pay rent (as in, they are well off) I find it quite unfair. Even if they were struggling I’d still find it unfair personally. You don’t make much money and how are you supposed to save for your future when they’re taking a decent portion of your money and you need the rest for essentials?

Nidal_AA · Answer

Dam... Im arabian, here parent never do such a thing... Parents keep their children until they are ready to get married and get their own house.
Sometimes especially at older times, even when theur son gets married theg share the house together
Some parents (including mine) even build a house for each one of their sons

Andres77 · Answer

I think it's very fair.
Get more education or get a better job.
The difficulty your parents put you through is basically a lesson. Keep improving yourself.
If you're making just $10/hour then you should be making over $1200 a month, minus taxes et al, you should be bringing home at least $800+.
More hours or get a better job.
Be thankful you have backup... but get out on your own as soon as you can, safely.
Good luck, kiddo.
I hope you find what you need.

Dargil · Answer

No lets see.
You occupy living space.
You benefit from their heating and air conditioning.
You benefit from water and electricity.
You probably benefit from residential and medical insurances
You eat their food unless you choose to eat away.

I agree that 37% of your income is a big bite, but they are trying to instill financial responsibility into your thinking. Rather than $150, how much do you think they should charge?

Answer that and I'll follow up.

Mangospacho · Answer

$150/mo is about 80% less of what you’d have to pay for rent if you had your own place. If you’re only making $400/mo, that’s not even $5,000 per year so it sounds more like an income problem than a rent problem. I did have to pay my parents $100 per month for rent when I was living with them too but that was still nearly $1,000 cheaper than renting.

Daniela1982 · Answer

How do you make only $400 a month. That's only $2.50 an hour. How many hours a week do you work? Are you going out and partying during your "free" hours or something? I suggest you find a job that makes at least minimum wage. Here is what makes me think you are trolling. You say you are 22, but your profile says 24. How much of your post here is made up? 🤔

wingattebaby16 · Answer

my parent told me if i was going to College, then no rent.

if i worked, i was living under their roof, eating their food, watching their tv, using their internet.

my dad charged me $400 a month. It included basic meals. If i wanted soda or snacks, i had to buy them.

My dad was trying to push me to go to college.

i finally moved in with my boyfriend. that didn't work out, so back home, and $400 a month again, plus constant lectures.

connemara_crocodile · Answer

That's amazing. It helps you to learn not to expect things for free and contribute with the expenses of the house.

It's not fair that you spend all the money you make on you while they're spending money on keeping you warm and fed. And $150 in terms of renting is nothing.

Just a help for them with the shops and a lesson for you.

Emiliamazing · Answer

I should think that you would have the brains and some skills to get a better paying job. Are you in college and living at home? If you areonly making $400 a month it doesn’t sound like you are taking on too many hours at whatever job you possess. I’ve been out of school for a very very long time and I think my college campus job paid more than that and I only worked three nights a week.

t-8900 · Answer

Yes it's teaching vyoud discipline and still saving you way more than you'd pay on your own. You might not like it now but you'll appreciate it down the road. My dad was the same way. You have no idea where the money is actually going. For instance my dad put it all back into a bank account and then when I was finally ready to move out he had most of it waiting for me. Only reason it wasn't all was because he got sick with his heart and I desperately wanted to help him.

FriendlyCanadianGuy · Answer

Should serve as a good motivation to get better work...400 a month is very low, even working full time retail at 10$ an hour, you should be making 1600 a month before taxes (and 10$ is really low balling it)

Work harder and 150 will he nothing... man I wish I could have such a cheap rent

SolitarySolace · Answer

They must be trying to push you to move out on your own. If you're 22 now and still living with your parents. I only make $10.50 an hour and I'm getting by on $700 rent 🤷🏻‍♂️ plus gas and groceries. Maybe you should start looking into one bedroom apartments in your area. I'm sure your parents would help you

ausfreak11 · Answer

considering they're well off in my opinion they should be saving it for you to teach you how to save... not make you live on next to nothing. because now they're not setting you up and you're not saving anything.
what are you parents background?

douride2 · Answer

Sounds very fair in this day. I paid $200 a month 25 years ago when I was still living at home. It was still cheaper then when I moved out on my own. As for your income. Have you ever thought of getting a better paying job or possibly a second job if you aren't getting the hours where you work now?

heybay22 · Answer

thats wow…. my parents would never. it seems very American in my opinion. i am living here too but my culture does not do that. on the contrary we help out around the house and everything

Paul09 · Answer

It's fair. My parents never asked for anything. But I started to give 100$ a month. And also paid for satellite which was 70$. I just did not want. To he a free loader, especially since I was working. But staying home till I was 33 helped me a lot, I was able to buy a condo. My mom still loves to buy me food and some stuff from time to time. And I keep telling her to not buy me anything. They have done so much for me.

OddBeMe · Answer

1) 18 is an adult. Adults pay rent.
2) 150 is actually incredibly low rent. Which I also assume includes food.
3) your need for more money a month is a common issue for adults. Adults will learn new skills to get new and higher paying jobs. Or just bitch about it online. Your choice.

ArtemisSilver · Answer

150 is basically nothing it's just a lesson.

I was paying half my parents mortgage at 16 while in school on thereat of being kicked out. That's actual abuse/exploitation.

Hope that gives you some perspective, don't play the victim over peanuts.

Anonymous · Answer

This is pathetic.

1.) Get a real job. At this point even Mcdonalds pays 15/hour in cheap states and 20+ In like Commufornia. No reason u can't make at bare minimum 1000+ a month and thats only if your lazy

2.) You clearly have ZERO understanding of reality, and how high it costs to live

3.) You are immensely entitled if you think that you can just live for free your whole life. Your parents dont owe you ANYTHING when your a freaking 27 year old. GROW UP

Anonymous · Answer

Move out and get your own place. Can't afford it? Get a roomate. That'll show them!
Or you can just accept 150 in the grand scheme of things is a helluva deal. They're not punishing you. They know they're not always going to be around and want to know you'll be able to take care of yourself. If I was them I would gradually increase your rent until you are paying typical rent or until you move out.

Zenit93 · Answer

If they’re trying teach you responsibility, I think they’re doing it in the wrong way. You ought to save and invest what little you make while you’re building your future. I think you can learn responsibility through college rather than living broke.

lovedejj_xo · Answer

I have the downstairs because I paid to have If renovated into a room but yea it’s normal I pay my mom rent which is cheaper than paying for an apartment still. I’m saving for a house only reason why I’m back. Within the next year ill be leaving and paying a mortgage instead which is cheaper. My mom and I settled on 800 I wasn’t giving more than that unless I would just keep my apartment because then I’m not saving especially since I pay for my own shit, my dog, food, etc.

My parents are charging me rent. Is this fair?

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My parents are charging me rent. Is this fair?

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