GiftMath
How much should you spend on a gift?
Answer a few quick questions and get a socially safe gift amount for weddings, showers, birthdays, coworkers, graduations, and more.
The gift amount calculator for awkward occasions.
Calculate Gift AmountResults card
Fill out the form to get your recommended amount, safe range, gift type guidance, and optional card wording.
How it works
- 1. Choose the occasion and your relationship to the person.
- 2. Tell GiftMath if you are attending, who you are bringing, and travel burden.
- 3. Pick your budget comfort level.
- 4. Get a socially safe range and a recommended amount that stays practical.
GiftMath is guidance, not a rule. Thoughtfulness and your real budget always matter most.
Common occasion examples
Wedding + close friend + attending: often lands around $75-$125.
Baby shower + coworker + attending: often lands around $30-$65.
Graduation + extended family + not attending: often lands around $20-$70.
Housewarming + friend + attending: often lands around $25-$65.
Frequently asked questions
- How much should I spend on a wedding gift?
- For a wedding, $75-$150 is a typical range. Close friends and family often give $100-$200. Coworkers and acquaintances usually give $50-$75. If you are attending solo with no major travel costs, $75-$125 is socially safe for most relationships. Cash and registry gifts are both fine.
- How much should I spend on a baby shower gift?
- Baby shower gifts typically run $30-$100. Close friends and family often spend $50-$100; coworkers and acquaintances $25-$50. Sticking to the registry is usually the safest and most appreciated choice.
- How much should I give for a graduation gift?
- Graduation gift amounts range from $25-$100 depending on your relationship. Immediate family commonly gives $50-$200. Friends and extended family usually land in the $25-$75 range. Cash, gift cards, or a meaningful physical gift all work well.
- Is it okay to give cash as a gift?
- Cash is widely accepted for weddings, graduations, and milestone birthdays. For baby showers and bridal showers, a registry gift is often preferred. For boss, teacher, or host gifts, a thoughtful physical item or gift card tends to feel more personal than cash.
- How much should I spend on a coworker or boss gift?
- Coworker gifts are typically modest — $15-$50 is a normal range. For a boss or manager, keep it under $40 to avoid it feeling awkward or like you are trying to impress. A group gift from the team is a great option that keeps individual contributions small.
- How much should I spend on a housewarming gift?
- A housewarming gift in the $25-$75 range is generally safe. Something practical for the home — a quality candle, kitchen item, or small decor piece — in the $30-$50 range works well for most friendships.
- Should I spend less on a gift if I am traveling to the event?
- Yes, travel and attendance costs are part of your total contribution. If you are spending significantly on travel, accommodation, or attire to attend, it is perfectly acceptable to give a gift at the lower end of the normal range.
- What if I cannot afford the typical gift amount?
- A thoughtful gift within your budget is always better than overspending. A heartfelt card, a small gesture, or a modest but personal gift is genuinely appreciated. GiftMath will never shame you for spending less — the social norm is a guide, not a rule.