Creative and budget-friendly ways to give money as a birthday gift

Modak
November 19, 2025

Main takeaways

🎁 Digital money gifting can be fun, personal, and budget-friendly with creative approaches.

💡 Simple ideas like digital gift cards, DIY jars, or subscriptions can make cash gifts more thoughtful.

🌍 Giving money digitally is convenient, secure, and perfect for any budget or occasion.

Money is often the most practical and appreciated birthday gift, but sometimes it can feel a bit impersonal. How do you make a cash gift feel more thoughtful and fun? Thankfully, there are many creative ways to give money digitally, plus budget-friendly ideas that add a personal touch.

In this article, we’ll focus on digital money gifting, with Modak leading the charge as the modern solution for teens. Plus, we’ll share some fresh, creative, and affordable gift ideas that go beyond the usual cash gifts, all while keeping the price under $25.

1. Modak a fun way to gift money digitally

When it comes to digital money gifting, Modak is a great solution, especially for teens. Not only can you send money instantly through the app, but you can also add personalized emojis and messages to make the experience feel more special and fun.

With Modak, teens receive their birthday cash directly on their Modak Visa® Debit Card1, which is a safe and convenient way to manage their money. There are no monthly fees4, and they can track their spending, set savings goals, and even earn rewards through fun in-app challenges.

Modak turns money gifting into an educational experience, helping teens learn financial responsibility while enjoying their birthday cash. It’s the perfect way to gift money and give teens the tools to manage it smartly.

2. Digital gift cards with a twist

Gift cards are a classic option, but you can make them feel more personal by adding a fun twist. For example, instead of just handing over a regular gift card, consider sending a customizable digital gift card via email or app, complete with a fun message or design. Many retailers and online platforms allow you to add a personalized greeting, making it feel like you put extra thought into the gift.

You can choose from a variety of popular stores, apps, or even services like Netflix, Spotify, or Amazon, depending on what the recipient would enjoy most. Plus, digital gift cards often come with no shipping costs, making them a budget-friendly option.

3. Personalized cash transfer via payment apps

If you want to give money digitally without going through a traditional bank or credit card, consider using popular payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App. These apps allow you to send money directly to someone’s account with just a few taps.

What makes this extra special is that you can add a personal message or even a fun emoji to make the transfer feel more personal. It’s a fast, and convenient way to send money, and it allows for small amounts that are easy to manage5.

4. DIY money jar with digital twist

For a unique spin on the classic money jar, try combining the physical and digital worlds. Create a DIY jar with a few physical bills inside and attach a note that says, "This is just the start!" Then, send the recipient a digital gift through an app like Modak, Venmo, or PayPal to complete the gift.

This way, the recipient receives a fun physical jar, along with a digital cash gift they can use right away. It’s a creative and personal way to combine traditional and modern gifting methods, while still keeping it budget-friendly.

How Modak makes money gifting better

💳 Modak lets you send digital birthday money instantly with personalized messages.

🎯 Teens can receive gifts directly on their Modak Visa® debit card and learn money management.

📱 The Modak app turns money gifts into financial lessons through saving goals and fun challenges.

Start your financial journey now!

Everything you need, fast, safe and simple.

5. Subscription services as a budget-friendly gift

Instead of giving cash, why not gift a subscription service that delivers fun or useful experiences? Subscription boxes are a great option, and you can find many that are under $25, including:

  • Snack Boxes: Monthly snack boxes or international snack subscriptions are a fun way to try new treats.
  • Streaming Subscriptions: Services like Spotify, Apple Music, or Netflix are perfect for teens who enjoy music or movies.
  • Online Learning or Craft Kits: If the recipient loves learning, consider gifting them a skill-based subscription, such as an online learning platform, or DIY craft kits.

Subscriptions are a great way to keep giving throughout the year, offering new experiences with a one-time gift.

Cat staring at a door

6. Charity donations in their name

For a meaningful yet budget-friendly gift, consider making a charity donation in the recipient’s name. Many organizations allow you to donate small amounts, and this is a great way to give back while also providing a personal touch. 

Some charity websites even offer digital certificates or acknowledgment emails, which can be easily sent to the birthday person.

This type of gift is perfect for someone who values giving back or wants to make an impact. Plus, it’s a great alternative for teens who may already have everything they need.

7. Budget-friendly gift box with cash reveal

Create a budget-friendly yet fun gift box that contains both small trinkets and cash. For example, add small items like candles, snacks, or even fun stationery to a small box, and hide rolled-up bills inside. As the recipient opens the box, they’ll discover their birthday cash hidden among the items. This idea can be done for under $25, and it makes the experience of receiving money more interactive and personal.

8. Customizable digital wallet with cash

A customizable digital wallet can make a great gift for a teen who’s just starting to learn how to manage money. You can add a small amount of birthday money to the wallet and include a note explaining how the app works (e.g., tracking expenses, setting goals). Pair this with Modak, and the recipient will be able to track their spending and learn good financial habits in the process.

Modak visa debit card

FAQs

How can I gift money digitally in a fun way?

Using Modak, you can send birthday money along with emojis and personalized messages. Other options include sending digital gift cards or using apps like Venmo or Cash App to transfer money with a personal note.

What are some budget-friendly ways to give money as a gift?

If you’re on a budget, try giving a digital gift card, a charity donation, or creating a DIY money jar with a combination of physical and digital gifts. You can also consider gifting a subscription service or a budget-friendly gift box with cash hidden inside.

How much money is reasonable to give as a birthday gift?

A reasonable amount depends on your relationship with the recipient and your budget. For close friends or family, $20-$30 is a great range. However, using digital gifting platforms like Modak allows you to send smaller amounts in a fun and meaningful way.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to give money digitally or are on a tight budget, there are plenty of creative options to make the gift special. Modak offers a modern, fun, and educational way to gift money, giving teens the opportunity to learn about money management while receiving birthday cash.

By thinking outside the box and using budget-friendly solutions, you can give meaningful and fun gifts without breaking the bank. Happy gifting!

  1. Deposit account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Legend Bank, N.A., FDIC-Insured. Modak is a financial technology company and not a FDIC insured financial institution. Funds deposited into a Deposit Account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance.
  2. 100 MBX = $1(as of march 2025).. This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. For more information on MBX, click here for more information on MBX
  3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2025). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
  4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.
  5. ​​This material is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Financial planning results vary by individual and are influenced by personal circumstances and goals. Modak does not provide personalized financial advice or guarantee specific outcomes. Always consult with a qualified financial professional before making financial decisions.

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