How Much to Give for a Wedding Gift In Cash

How Much to Give for a Wedding Gift (In Cash, 2022)

Deciding on the appropriate amount to give as a wedding gift can be challenging, particularly if you are not familiar with the customary etiquette.

Hang on! We’ve found some unique alternatives to giving cash presents here.

Just in case you opt out of giving cash for the present!

But let’s be honest. Cash is almost always a welcome gift.

So let’s get into it and help you to figure out how much should you give. Whether you’re looking to stick to tradition or something more modern, we’ve got you covered.

How Much to Give for a Wedding Gift in Cash 

How Much To Spend on a Wedding Gift

When you decide how much to give for a wedding gift in cash, there are a few factors to consider. 

  • The first consideration is your relationship with the couple. If you are close family or friends, you may want to give a larger amount than if you are acquaintances. 
  • The second factor is your financial situation. If you can give a large gift, you may want to consider doing so. However, if you are on a tight budget, you can still provide a significant amount without breaking the bank. 
  • The third factor is the wedding itself. If the couple is having a small, intimate ceremony, they may not expect each guest to give them a large sum of money. However, guests may be expected to provide more if they have a large, lavish wedding.

Once you have considered these factors, you can decide how much to give for a wedding gift in cash.

A good rule of thumb is to provide an amount that you are comfortable with and know the couple can use. 

For example, if you are close family or friends, you may want to give $100-$500.

If you are acquaintances, you may want to give $50-$100. If you are on a tight budget, you can still give a significant amount by offering $20-$50.

Wedding gift ideas

Co-workers

When it comes to giving cash as a wedding gift, the average amount given by co-workers is $50.

However, this number can range from $50 to $100, depending on your relationship with the couple and your financial situation. 

If you are close friends with the couple or are in a leadership position at work, you may feel inclined to give a larger amount.

Friends

When it comes to deciding how much to give for a wedding gift in cash, the average amount given by friends is $100.

This number can range depending on your relationship with the couple and your financial situation. 

Ultimately, it is up to you how much you want to give.

The most important thing is that the couple knows you are happy for them and wish them all the best in their marriage.

Relatives 

A $100 to $150 present is appropriate for relatives such as uncles, aunts, cousins, and siblings. If you are unable to give this amount, do not worry. 

Again, it is more important for the couple to know that you support and celebrate their marriage than the actual dollar amount of your gift.

Grandparents

It isn’t easy to generalize how much money grandparents will give as a wedding gift because it varies so much from family to family.

Some grandparents enjoy giving a significant amount of money that can help the couple with their wedding expenses. 

In contrast, others are more comfortable giving a smaller amount or contributing another way.

Ultimately, it is up to the grandparents to decide how much they would like to provide. 

However, if you wonder what the average amount that grandparents give as a wedding gift is, here are some statistics.

Grandparents’ average amount for a grandchild’s wedding is $200. 

This figure includes monetary gifts and contributions towards wedding costs (such as helping to pay for the rehearsal dinner or flowers). 

Parents

Wedding gifts from parents typically fall into the range of $200-$500, with the average being closer to $400.

This amount may be more or less depending on how many children the parents have and their overall financial situation.

 For example, if the couple getting married is the parents’ only child, they may be more inclined to give a more significant gift.   

Cash Gift for Cultural Weddings

How much cash to give as a wedding gift

The amount of cash usually gifted at a wedding varies by culture and religion.

For example, in Chinese and Vietnamese cultures, it is common for guests to give envelopes of cash as a wedding gift. 

The amount of money gifted inside the envelope usually correlates with the giver’s relationship with the couple.

For example, family members would generally give more money than friends. 

The average amount of money given in these envelopes typically ranges from $50-$300.

However, if the giver is not close to the couple, a lower amount such as $20-$50 is more common. 

In contrast, Indian weddings typically have a gifts table where guests can leave cash envelopes or checks as gifts for the newlyweds.

The general rule is that friends usually give around $100-$150, while family members give upwards of $200.

When it comes to weddings, cultural and religious traditions play a big role in how much money is gifted.

It is always best to be aware of the customs before attending a wedding so that you can be prepared with an appropriate gift.

Jewish Weddings

When it comes to Jewish weddings, gift-giving is definitely more favored than cash.

Aside from being more personal, it shows that you’ve gone the extra mile to get something for the couple, especially if you’re close to them.

You can always refer to the couple’s wedding registry if they have one.

If not, Shabbat-related objects like candlesticks are sure to be very useful on days of observance.

But of course, giving money is also an option in Jewish weddings. However, it’s not something as customary compared to other cultures.

But if you decide to give cash, it’s important to remember that the amount should be in multiples of $18. This number has a special meaning in Jewish culture as it means “chai” or “life.”

By keeping your gifts in $18 increments, the couple will surely appreciate you for not only wishing them a happy life ahead—but you’ve also taken the time to learn more about their culture.


Reminder! We’ve found some unique alternatives to giving cash presents here.

Just in case you opt out of giving cash for the present!

African Traditional Weddings 

African traditional weddings are a bit different from other weddings in gift-giving.

It is typical during these sorts of weddings to present the couple with a gift to assist them to begin their new life together. 

This could be anything from money to household items.

If you have a close relationship with the couple, you may choose to give them a more expensive or meaningful present.

Chinese Weddings

It is considered rude not to give a wedding gift in China, especially if you are close to the couple.

The amount you offer as a present should be determined by your relationship with the couple as well as your financial status. 

For example, if you are close friends with the couple, you would give a higher amount than if you were just acquainted.

It is also customary to give the gift in a red envelope. 

The amount of money inside the envelope should be an even number, as odd numbers are considered unlucky.

European Weddings

Europeans tend to be a bit more relaxed than Americans when it comes to weddings. For instance, it’s not uncommon for guests to show up late to a European wedding.

And while gifts are always appreciated, they’re not necessarily expected.

So if you’re wondering how much cash to give for a wedding gift in Europe, there’s no definitive answer.

Ultimately, it depends on your budget and relationship with the couple.

Of course, if you’re close family or friends of the couple, you’ll probably want to give a bit more than if you’re just an acquaintance.

And while no set amount is considered appropriate, $100 is a good starting point. You can always give more or less depending on your budget.

Indian Weddings

Indian weddings are a time of great festivity and celebration.

Families come together to celebrate the union of two people, and the occasion is marked by a lavish display of food, drink, and entertainment. 

One of the most critical aspects of an Indian wedding is the giving and receiving cash gifts.

These gifts symbolize good luck and fortune, and they are often given in large sums. 

The money is usually placed in an envelope and given to the bride or groom by a close relative.

In some cases, the money is given directly to the bride or groom’s parents. 

While some people may view this practice as excessively extravagant, it is an important part of Indian culture and traditions.

Wedding Etiquette of Giving Money

How much money to gift a newlywed couple

If visitors are offering money to the new bride and groom, they should follow certain standard etiquette.

What to Mention When Giving in Person

When giving cash as a wedding gift, it is appropriate to stuff the envelope with crisp new bills.

You can also provide a check, but be sure that it is made out to either the bride or groom or both of them together. 

If you are close to the couple and want to give them a more personal gift, you could write a heartfelt letter expressing your best wishes for their future together.

Whatever you do, be sure to include a note with your gift so that the couple knows who it is from.

When you present the monetary gift to the couple, you might say something like:

  • “Best wishes on this new chapter in your lives. Congratulations.”
  • “Wishing you all the happiness in the world on your wedding day and beyond.”
  • “May your marriage be as beautiful and happy as you both are.”

If you want to get a little more personal, you could say something like:

  • “I’m so happy to be able to share this special day with you and witness the beginning of your beautiful journey together.”
  • “I can’t think of anyone more perfect for each other than the two of you, and I wish you all the happiness in the world.”
  • “Your wedding day is just the beginning of what I know will be a long and happy journey together.”

What to Mention When Giving by Mailing

It is always a nice gesture to include a card with your monetary gift. You can express your well-wishes for the couple on their special day in the card.

If you are sending cash as a wedding gift, it is customary to place the money in an envelope together with the card.

You may also want to consider enclosing a separate note mentioning how you hope the couple will use the money. 

For example, you could say something like, 

  • “Wishing you all the best on your special day. Congratulations.”
  • “I’m so sorry I couldn’t be there on your big day, but I’m happy to be able to send you this gift as a token of my love and best wishes.”
  • “Best wishes to you on this wonderful journey you are about to embark on together.”
  • “I hope your wedding day is everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Should You Give Cash or a Check as a Wedding Gift?

You can give both, cash wedding presents are expected in certain cultures.

It’s a coin flip whether you should provide cash or a cheque.

Giving cash is obviously handier for the couple, but if you don’t have the exact amount of money you want to offer laying around, a check may be more appropriate. 

How Much Do You Spend on a Wedding Present if You Are Unable to Attend?

There is no specific fee; it depends entirely on your budget and level of comfort.

However, if you absolutely must have a starting point, she recommends at least $75.

What Is a Creative Method to Provide Money as a Gift?

Instead of unwrapping their present, you could give them a money roll? 

Use a toilet paper roll to make an easy and enjoyable method to give money.

Put the money in a toilet paper tube to make a present that the recipient may unroll. Save the largest bills for last for a nice surprise.

Do You Include Money in Wedding Invitations?

Yes, you should also put the money in a card wishing them well.

Gifts from their wedding registry and those you believe would be significant to them are also excellent wedding gifts.

Final Thoughts

So, how much money should you offer as a wedding gift? It depends on your relationship with the couple and how much money you want to spend. 

You don’t want to be too cheap or lavish with your gift, so finding the right balance is key. If you’re not sure what that is, $100-$200 is generally a safe range. 

Whatever you do, bring a card letting the newlyweds know how much you enjoyed their special day.

Quick Reminder! We’ve found some unique alternatives to giving cash presents here.