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Pay Up!

My allowance never lasts more than a few days and then I'm broke again. How can I get a raise?

Feeling like your parents have a little too tight of a hold on the wallet? If you think you deserve a raise, you need to learn the fine art of negotiation. Check out some of these tips for keeping down the arguments and bringing up the payments. 

1. Set a good record. If you're expected to do certain jobs around the house in return for your allowance, make sure you've kept up the bargain. Yeah, we know, work stinks, but nothing will make your parents angry faster than you standing in the knee-high grass on the front lawn and asking for more cash.

2. Pick a good time. Don't talk to your parents about money if they just paid bills or did their taxes. Money stresses people out! Wait for a time when everyone is relaxed, like right after Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Then casually ask your parents if you can talk about something. The fact that you want to talk to them at all will catch their attention! 

3. Explain the facts. Keep a money diary for several weeks. Then show your parents a record of your spending, and explain where and how often your allowance comes up short. Sure, it sounds like homework, but try to think like your mom - it looks like you've really got your life organized. 

4. Explain your plans. Parents are much more likely to give you a raise if you want the money for something worthwhile, like saving, investing, or buying a computer - not so you can spend more on nail polish or candy bars. And don't lie! They can smell it when you do. 

5. Negotiate. If the bargaining gets tough, offer something in return for a raise, such as doing more chores or increasing the amount you save for college.

6. Compromise. Give a little and maybe they will, too. Try this: ask them to give you a temporary raise, say for three weeks. That'll give you the chance to prove yourself and them the chance to see what an amazing kid they've got. 

When things get rough, though, remember to stay calm and respectful. A good attitude will often tip the scales and win them over, but a bad attitude can ruin your chances for years!