40th Birthday money

I would gift some money (what I could afford).

Unlikely to be £400 though. That is a lot in my view.
And why £400 anyway... (why not £500 or £5,000 if you have it)?

I have just given my daughter cash for her to spend how she wishes and a lush bottle of wine and some edible treats.
Her boyfriend has done cake/flowers etc.

A cash gift with no strings attached sounds great. £400 would be generous, £40.40 would also be fun.
It is a gift, so how she chooses to use it is entirely up to her.

We have a long tradition with our AC. They both like chocolate so we give them a bar from M and S for each 10 years and individual ones from our local confectioners for ten digits.

Book her a night or two away with dinner included.If she,s struggling she,ll likely appreciate a wee break money will without doubt end up in her purse and be spent on shopping or bills .

Davida1968

Surely the anwer is to give what you can afford and feel comfortable with. (Bearing in mind that you may wish to do the same for other family members in the future?)

We give money gifts for Birthdays - excellent idea, imo. Never a problem with fairness, all gifts are equal throughout the year.

No pockets in a shroud.

Exactly my thoughts Davida1968

Surely the anwer is to give what you can afford and feel comfortable with. (Bearing in mind that you may wish to do the same for other family members in the future?)

If you are giving money make sure she spends it on herself and it doesn't get absorbed into her normal family spending.

£400 is a lot, depends upon your pocket. We certainly couldn’t afford that, but would probs afford £250, with which someone can have a lavish meal out with drinks included, book a spa day, or buy something really nice to wear.
Of course is up to the OP. Money is a tricky one because you can always buy something really nice for a price that matches your pocket but with money you feel you have to give more.

I'm sure she would be very happy with £400 ... but don't leave yourself short ....you don't have to give such large amounts .....whatever you think is fine x

BlueBelle

£400 blimey there’s some folks with good bank balances on here so I d better say no more ! Except Phew

What about a 50th?

£400 blimey there’s some folks with good bank balances on here so I d better say no more ! Except Phew

Georgesgran we're the same. I am thinking £400 but then we'll go for a meal too. Yes 40 son in 3 years time

I gave my DC money for their 40th birthdays. One used it towards a new car and the other for orthodontic work.

I think the title is when or where to draw the line

Yes Georgesgran - I think OP should ask GNHQ to do it for her.

TWO THREADS RUNNING - is there any way OP could get them blended into one?

I think every family is different, even financially, so it depends what we can afford. There probably isn't a 'going rate'.
But it sounds like money is a good idea if she is struggling.
Whatever you can afford really. Or vouchers. My grandchildren in particular seem to like vouchers. (they are all young adults now).
I hope she has a lovely birthday.

Sorry - meant to ask if she is your only or eldest child and what you give to one, you plan to give to the others?

I suppose the answer is what you can afford to give - maybe pad it out with a scented candle, flowers and fizz. You say she is not well off, but are you?

I’m afraid I’m in the OTT category - wouldn’t dare tell what I’ve bought my DDs on significant birthdays. I remind myself that I can’t take it with me!

Thanks both. Yes money is probably best.

I think £400 would probably be very welcome if she is struggling financially.. it could make a real difference..

If she is not well off she will surely be grateful for whatever amount you give her? I would give her the amount you would normally spend on her birthday, plus a bit extra if you can afford it.
In this instance, I feel an “ experience” might seem like a waste of money when she is struggling, but a good idea for others who are not.

That sounds fun!😍

I bought my daughter an escape room experience for her family and myself. It was a complete surprise for them and we loved every minute!

Such good fun!