Google Wallet has launched a new feature in the US allowing parents to assign digital money to children and teens under 18. This replaces the need for a traditional bank account. Kids can use the balance at stores that accept Google Pay by tapping their phone or smartwatch. Parents can monitor transactions and spending limits directly from their own account.
The feature doesn’t come with a physical card but works through Family Link, where parents can set optional purchase notifications and lock the balance remotely. This helps manage spending habits and protects against lost or stolen devices. Google says this is a 'digital-first way' to teach kids about money, avoiding services like Greenlight or Acorns Early.
How it fits into Google’s family finance tools
Google has been expanding Wallet’s role in managing children's finances. Last year, Wallet added access for kids through Family Link. That began on the Fitbit Ace LTE, a phone for children. Now, the new supervised balance adds an easier option. The traditional method remains available, but digital allowances are now simpler to set up. The feature is limited to US parents for now. Google has not announced any plans to expand supervised balances to other countries.