What to Do If My Kid Bought Something Expensive?

Finding out your child bought something costly without your permission can be shocking, stressful, and confusing. Whether it’s a $500 game console, an in-app purchase, or something they ordered online using your card—don’t panic. This guide will help you understand your next steps and how to prevent it from happening again.

Why Would a Child Make an Expensive Purchase?

Before jumping to conclusions, try to understand the “why.” Kids may buy expensive items for a few reasons:

• Curiosity – They’re exploring or unaware of the consequences.
• Peer pressure – Friends may influence them.
• Accidental taps – Especially with in-game or in-app purchases.
• Lack of rules – They may not know the boundaries with money.

Knowing the reason helps you choose the right response—whether it’s a refund request, a calm talk, or a parental control adjustment.

Can I Get a Refund for What My Kid Bought?

Yes, in many cases you can get a refund—especially for digital purchases.

For Apple (App Store or iTunes):

• Visit reportaproblem.apple.com
• Sign in with your Apple ID
• Find the item and select “Report a Problem”
• Choose the reason (e.g., “My child made this purchase without permission”)

Apple is generally good about refunding unintended purchases, especially for minors.

For Google Play:

• Visit play.google.com/store/account
• Click “Order History”
• Select “Report a problem” next to the item
• Choose the appropriate reason

Refunds are usually issued if requested within 48 hours.

For Amazon:

• Go to Your Orders
• Find the item
• Select Return or Replace Items or contact support
• Explain the situation clearly

Amazon may not refund digital content but often assists with physical products.

Pro Tip:

Be honest and act quickly. The sooner you request a refund, the better your chances.

Is It Legal for a Child to Make Online Purchases?

No. Legally, children (minors) can’t enter into binding contracts, including most purchase agreements. This means you can often reverse unauthorized transactions if:

• Your child is under 18
• They didn’t have your permission
• The company didn’t use age-gating or safeguards

Many companies comply with child protection laws like COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act).

How Do I Talk to My Child About Unauthorized Spending?

This is a teachable moment. Keep your cool and follow these steps:

1. Stay Calm – Don’t yell or punish immediately.
2. Ask Questions – Why did they make the purchase?
3. Explain Money – Help them understand value and responsibility.
4. Set Rules – Clearly state what’s allowed and what’s not.
5. Apply Consequences – A loss of screen time or allowance can help reinforce boundaries.

Use it as a Lesson:

Discuss digital responsibility, real-world consequences, and self-control.

What If My Kid Used My Credit Card Without Permission?

If your child used your card without permission, you can often:

• Dispute the charge with your credit card company
• Contact the merchant to explain the situation
• Request a refund (mention that the user was a minor)

Most banks have fraud protection that may cover such cases.

Important:

If your child is older (teen), the bank may not consider it fraud unless it was truly unauthorized and against your instructions.

How to Prevent Kids From Making Future Purchases?

1. Use Parental Controls

Most platforms have settings to restrict purchases:

• Apple Family Sharing – Require parental approval
• Google Family Link – Set spending limits and require approval
• Amazon Household – Manage child profiles with restricted access

2. Remove Payment Methods

Don’t store cards on devices they use.

3. Use Gift Cards

If you allow purchases, load a fixed-value gift card instead of linking a credit card.

4. Set Strong Passwords

Ensure that purchases require a password, Face ID, or fingerprint scan that only you control.

5. Monitor Account Activity

Regularly check your purchase history or bank statements.

What Are the Most Common Expensive Purchases Kids Make?

Here are frequent examples:

• In-game items (skins, gems, coins)
• Subscriptions (Disney+, Roblox, YouTube Premium)
• Physical toys or tech (iPads, gaming consoles)
• Sneaker or fashion items (especially teens)

These purchases often happen on:

• App Store / Google Play
• Amazon
• Gaming platforms (PlayStation Store, Xbox Live, Nintendo eShop)

What If My Child Is Addicted to Buying Things Online?

If this is a pattern and not a one-time mistake, it may indicate:

• A need for attention or control
• Poor impulse management
• Exposure to marketing or peer influence

What You Can Do:

• Set clear digital rules
• Limit screen time
• Block shopping apps
• Seek professional help if addiction-like behavior continues

You’re not alone. Many parents face this, and counselors or therapists can help guide families through it.

Can I Press Charges or Take Legal Action?

Legally, you’re responsible for your child’s actions—but pressing charges against a minor is generally not advisable.

However, you can file a dispute or take legal action against:

• The platform or merchant (if they failed to protect against child purchases)
• A third party (if someone else encouraged your child)

In most cases, customer support and refund channels are your best bet.

Should I Punish My Child for Buying Something Expensive?

Discipline should be:

• Age-appropriate
• Educational, not aggressive
• Consistent and fair

Consider:

• A cooling-off period (no tech for a few days)
• Earning back money through chores
• Helping them donate or return items if possible

It’s less about punishment and more about teaching responsibility.

How Do I Know If My Child Is Ready to Handle Money?

Look for signs like:

• Asking permission before buying
• Understanding saving vs. spending
• Showing interest in budgeting or allowance

Consider starting with:

• A simple allowance
• A child debit card like Greenlight or GoHenry
• Discussions about needs vs. wants

Teaching financial literacy early builds lifelong skills.

Are There Apps That Help Prevent Unauthorized Purchases?

Yes. Here are some popular ones:

Use these tools along with conversations—not as a replacement for parenting.

What to Do If My Kid Bought Something Expensive

It’s frustrating when kids spend money without permission, but it’s also an opportunity. Here’s a summary of what to do:

1. Stay calm – Don’t overreact.
2. Check the details – What was bought, where, and how?
3. Request a refund – Through the platform or credit card company.
4. Talk to your child – Understand and educate.
5. Set up protections – Parental controls, passwords, gift cards.
6. Monitor regularly – Stay aware of their digital habits.
7. Teach money habits – Make it a family learning moment.

By taking a balanced approach, you can protect your finances and help your child grow into a responsible spender.