Instead of giving presents that might not last, why not consider financial gift ideas for young adults? These gifts can help them start their journey toward financial success. Let’s explore 8 practical and impactful options.

I never gave my children gifts on their birthdays.
Not even on holidays or special occasions.
There, I said it. Guilty as charged.
I just find it very impractical to buy something they’ll get tired of soon after.
I also don’t want to add to the toys and clothes they will receive anyway.
Now that I have teens, I find myself wanting to give them something.
To make them feel loved and appreciated.
Should I get the latest gadget?
Trendy clothes?
Or perhaps something fun related to their passion?
But deep down, I’m looking for something more meaningful.
A gift that would last beyond the moment and actually help in the future.
I remembered how, as a young adult, I struggled to understand finances and wished someone had given me the tools to start early.
That’s when I decided to focus on financial gifts.
It’s not the most exciting choice at first glance, but it’s one that can make a real difference in their lives.
8 Financial Gift Ideas for Young Adults
1. Savings Accounts
A savings account is a great way to introduce young adults to the importance of saving money. You can help them open an account and even make an initial deposit. Watching their savings grow can teach them valuable lessons about money management.
At 16 years old, I remember getting my very first bank account as my high school graduation gift.
This is definitely one of the most memorable gifts I received.
I felt so grown-up and empowered to plan my financial goals and work on it.
As I saw my money grow, I got more interested with the different savings and investment programs that I can put my money into.
2. Budget Planners
A budget planner is a practical gift that encourages financial organization. With a budget planner, young adults can track their income and expenses, set goals, and plan for the future. It’s a useful tool that can help them stay on top of their finances.
My son wanted a new guitar. But no way was I paying for it!
He didn’t need it. The guitar he was using in school was still in very good condition.
So, when he got his first part-time job, that was his first goal – to buy a guitar.
He tracked his money every payday. He computed how many hours he needed to work to come up with the money.
And he did! His first major purchase from his own hard-earned money!
3. Books on Personal Finance or Passive Income
Books are a fantastic source of knowledge. One of the financial gift ideas for young adults are books that teach about budgeting, investing, or making money through side businesses.
Some great options include Gail Vaz-Oxlade books such as Money-Smart Kids and Debt-Free Forever. These books can inspire and guide young adults to make wise financial decisions.
A book on passive income is Jomar Hilario’s Second Incomes that teaches readers about affiliate marketing. It guides the reader how to earn cash online without needing tons of complicated skills.

Amazing Benefits of the Second Incomes Book:
- Learn how to start making money from home
- Understand affiliate marketing in simple ways
- Get tips on creating second (or third!) income streams
- Plus! Ways to overcome fears about making money differently
The best part? This book breaks down complicated ideas into easy-to-understand pieces. Even if you’re just starting out, you can learn how to create extra income streams.

For easier and more practical application of the book, the author, Jomar Hilario, also offers a complementary online course called Profitable Funnels Mentoring – where students can learn the Insider Profit Secrets of affiliate marketing gurus!

This course has bonuses worth PhP 60,000 in value!

I personally have been a student of Jomar Hilario since 2013.
He has helped me make money from home so I’m able to spend more time with my kids. Instead of being away from them for a 9-5 job.
Most of the skills I have now that makes me valuable to my clients, I learned them from Jomar Hilario.
4. Investments
Introducing young adults to investing can be a life-changing gift. You could help them start with a small investment in stocks or mutual funds.
Investing early can lead to significant financial growth over time.
Most especially when they appreciate the power of compounding interest.
5. Gift Cards for Essentials
Gift cards for groceries, gas, or other essentials can ease the burden of everyday expenses.
This thoughtful gift shows you care and helps them save money for other needs.
6. Emergency Fund Contribution
An emergency fund is an essential part of financial security.
You can contribute to an existing fund or help them start one.
It’s a gift that offers peace of mind and protection against unexpected expenses.
7. Online Courses to Equip Them With Skills for the Future
The world is changing fast!
Technology is everywhere!
Jobs are different now than 5 years ago!
New skills are needed to stay relevant and stand-out from the rest of those looking for a job.
With the emergence of AI, many jobs will be obsolete and non-existent.
That’s why it’s important to learn to leverage AI instead of letting it do your job.
Want to learn future-proof skills, take these courses!

Why Future-Proof Skills Matter:
- Stay Employable
- Companies want employees with skills that can adapt to changes
- People who keeps on learning win!
- Technology changes all the time
- Be Prepared
- Learn before you need to know
- Stay ahead of other people
- Make yourself valuable
- Grow Your Brain
- Learn how to think differently
- Solve problems creatively
- Understand new technologies
8. Financial Counseling Session
A session with a financial advisor or counselor can set a young adult on the right track.
This professional guidance can help them understand their financial situation and create a plan for the future.
This I can vouch for from my personal experience, since my kids are still too young for this.
When my husband and I got our first jobs in Canada as a permanent resident, we sat down with a financial planner.
To help us save, invest and protect our earnings.
Until now, we seek guidance from our financial planner whenever we have big financial goals set.
Final Thoughts
Financial gifts are more than just presents; they are tools for building a secure future.
These financial gift ideas for young adults help them create habits and skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.