Are you searching for inventive alternatives to handing out plain gift cards or predictable presents? Do you want to inject some originality and excitement into your gift-giving?
Whether it’s for a birthday bash, graduation celebration, wedding day, or any noteworthy event, these ingenious money gift ideas are guaranteed to delight the recipient.
I’ve put together an impressive collection of 27 creative ways to present money as a gift, ensuring your present is both unforgettable and practical.
From meticulously folding dollar bills into money origami masterpieces to cleverly concealing cash in unexpected locations, this compilation of creative money gift ideas offers something for every personality and occasion.
You’ll discover that crafting these gifts is just as enjoyable as the joy the recipient will experience upon receiving them.
Embrace these imaginative gift ideas and transform the act of gifting money into an extraordinary experience!
27 Creative Ideas for Gifting Money
Sometimes, finding that perfect gift feels impossible, and a generic spa basket or another gift card just doesn’t cut it. In these moments, gifting money can be the most appreciated option, and it doesn’t have to be impersonal! The key is to make it a fun and unique experience.
Here are some of my favorite creative Ideas For Gifting Money, perfect for any occasion:
1. DIY Chocolate Box Surprise
Who can resist a box of chocolates? Especially when it’s secretly filled with cash!
For this creative money gift idea, start with an empty and clean chocolate box. Replace each chocolate with rolled-up dollar bills. For an extra touch, include a few actual chocolates to maintain the sweet surprise and reduce the amount of rolling you need to do.
To personalize it further, consider crafting origami flowers or small money origami figures to fit into the chocolate compartments. This cash-filled chocolate box is a delightful surprise for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any occasion where a mix of sweetness and practicality is appreciated.
2. Pizza “Dough” Money Gift
Imagine the look on their face when your loved one opens a pizza box expecting a delicious pie, only to find it brimming with cash!
This fun gift idea involves arranging dollar bills inside a pizza box, giving a whole new meaning to “pizza dough.” You can fold the bills into triangles to mimic pizza slices, roll some to form a “crust” around the edge, and even use pennies and dimes as “toppings” for a truly authentic pizza appearance.
Consider using candy pizza boxes, which often come in smaller sizes perfect for gifting. If reusing a standard pizza box, line it with parchment paper to prevent any oily residue from transferring to the money. Make sure to have a real pizza on hand to satisfy any pizza cravings sparked by this clever money gift!
3. Cash Scavenger Hunt Adventure
Transform receiving a cash gift into an exciting and interactive experience with a cash scavenger hunt. This idea is perfect for adding an element of fun and adventure to your gift.
Plan a scavenger hunt by hiding money in a designated area. Choose hiding spots that aren’t too obvious but also ensure the money is safe from damage.
Create clues that lead the recipient from one hidden stash to the next, ultimately leading them to the final cash prize. You can hide clues with the money itself or have separate clue locations.
This interactive approach is a fantastic way to gift money for birthdays, holidays, or just for a spontaneous surprise, making the act of giving and receiving cash an unforgettable memory. Remember to keep a detailed list of all hiding places and the amount hidden at each to ensure all the money is accounted for at the end of the hunt!
4. Money Cake Centerpiece
For a truly standout money gift idea, construct a money cake using rolled-up dollar bills as decorations. This impressive centerpiece is ideal for birthdays, graduations, or any celebratory occasion where cash is a much-appreciated gift.
To create the money cake, tightly roll dollar bills and secure them with tape, being careful not to tear the bills. Arrange these rolls upright to form circular layers, mimicking a tiered cake. Use foam bases to create multiple tiers and give the cake height and structure.
Customize the cake’s shape for different occasions: a heart for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, a ring for bridal showers or weddings, or a graduation cap for graduates. Enhance the presentation with ribbons, decorative paper, and other embellishments to complete the cake-like appearance.
Imagine the recipient’s delight as they realize this “cake” is actually made of cash!
5. Balloon Pop Cash Surprise
What’s more exhilarating than popping balloons to uncover hidden treasures? With balloon popping, you can turn a simple cash gift into an exciting activity.
For this fun money gift idea, fill balloons with cash and colorful confetti before inflating them. Invite the recipient to pop the balloons and gather the cash that rains down.
To amplify the fun, turn it into a game like “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” or a dart game. Create a poster, attach the balloons to it, and let the popping games begin!
For an added twist, mix it up by including cash in some balloons and fun coupons in others. These could be anything from traditional coupons to personalized “love coupons” for favors or treats. This interactive and entertaining money gift idea is perfect for both kids and adults, adding a burst of excitement to any celebration.
6. Tissue Box Cash Roll Dispenser
Embrace DIY and recycling with this clever tissue box cash roll. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose everyday items into fun and practical money gift ideas.
Transform an ordinary tissue box into a unique money dispenser by creating a cash roll inside. Connect dollar bills end-to-end using painter’s tape, which is gentler and less likely to tear the bills when they’re separated.
Roll up the connected bills tightly, similar to a roll of toilet paper, and place it inside the tissue box, ensuring the end of the roll peeks out like a tissue. For the ultimate surprise, attach a real tissue to the visible end of the roll. As the recipient pulls out what they think is a tissue, they’ll be delighted to find a stream of cash following behind!
This creative money gift idea is both amusing and practical, suitable for almost any occasion and guaranteed to bring smiles.
7. Birthday “Cheddar” Money Gift
Inject some humor into a birthday gift with a “cheddar” themed cash presentation. This idea plays on the slang term for money, making it a lighthearted and memorable gift.
Simply place the cash bills into a plastic baggie or envelope. Print out a label resembling a cheese brand logo – get creative with names like “Birthday Cheddar” or “[Recipient’s Name]’s Reserve.” Attach the label to the bag or envelope, and you’ve got a funny and unique money gift ready to go.
You can fold, roll, or leave the bills flat, mimicking different forms of cheddar like shreds, blocks, or slices. This practical yet funny money gift idea is easy to assemble and perfect for adding a touch of humor to your present.
8. DIY Personalized Money Bag
Transform a plain paper lunch bag or even a simple ziplock bag into an attractive and personalized money gift bag. This is a simple yet thoughtful way to present cash.
Decorate the bag with stickers, drawings, stamps, or any embellishments that fit the occasion and recipient’s personality. For a birthday, use birthday-themed stickers, draw cakes or balloons, or add glitter for sparkle. For graduation, decorate with graduation caps, diplomas, or school colors. Wedding gifts can be adorned with heart stickers, ring drawings, or elegant patterns. Holiday gifts can feature themed stickers or drawings like Christmas trees for Christmas or pumpkins for Halloween.
Personalize it further by writing the recipient’s name, adding a heartfelt message, or including a relevant quote. This DIY money bag is an easy and budget-friendly way to make cash feel more special and personalized.
9. “Emergency Moolah” Break Glass Frame
For a truly memorable and humorous money gift, frame cash in a “break glass in case of emergency” display. This is one of the most creative money gifts that’s both a decoration and a fun call to action.
This eye-catching gift is perfect for birthdays, graduations, or just because – anytime you want to give cash with a playful twist. The recipient will appreciate the humor and creativity embedded in this unforgettable present.
To make it safe and practical, consider using a frame with plastic “glass” instead of real glass to eliminate any risk of injury. Ensure the frame has an easy-open back, making access to the cash simple without actual glass-breaking. Personalize the frame further with the recipient’s name, decorative stickers, or even small 3D embellishments like flowers or stars to make it extra special.
10. Money Notepad Gift
Combine practicality with a creative twist by making a money notepad using real dollar bills. This gift is perfect for those who appreciate both utility and a bit of surprise.
Simply stack dollar bills to the desired thickness and bind them together at one edge with tape or glue. Attach a piece of cardboard to the back for stability, creating a notepad filled entirely with cash.
For an even easier approach, purchase a regular notepad and cleverly insert bills between the pages. This way, each “note” is actually a piece of money, ready to be “spent.” A money notepad is a unique and functional gift that is sure to be remembered and appreciated.
11. Play “Dough” Money Surprise
For a playful and utterly surprising money gift, tap into childhood nostalgia with Play-Doh. This idea is especially great for kids or those young at heart.
The easiest method is to hide money inside a Play-Doh container. First, remove the Play-Doh and thoroughly clean the container. Then, roll up the dollar bills to fit inside and conceal them within. Present the container as a gift, and watch the recipient’s surprise and delight as they open it to find cash instead of dough!
This interactive and fun birthday gift idea adds an element of playful deception. You can also include a separate container or baggie of Play-Doh as an additional gift, especially if the recipient enjoys it.
12. Cash In A Can Prank Gift
Turn an ordinary can of fruits or vegetables into a clever and slightly deceptive money gift. This idea plays on expectations for a humorous reveal.
Carefully open a can of food from the bottom to preserve the top seal. Empty the contents, thoroughly clean and dry the inside of the can. Roll up the cash bills and place them inside. Then, re-attach the bottom of the can using strong tape or glue to reseal it, making it look unopened.
Present the can as a gift, and watch the recipient’s puzzled expression as they expect a can of veggies but find a treasure of cash instead! This prank-style money gift is sure to elicit laughter and surprise. For even easier handling, consider using snack cans like Pringles cans, which come with resealable lids.
13. Hidden Cash Book Safe
If you’re gifting to a book lover and are unsure of their current reading list, a hidden cash book safe is a perfect blend of thoughtfulness and surprise.
Choose a book—either new or gently used—and create a secret compartment inside to hide the cash. You can buy books already made as safes, or DIY one by carefully cutting out a section of pages in the book’s center to form a cavity.
Place the cash inside the hidden compartment and wrap the book as a gift. This unique money gift is ideal for book enthusiasts, adding an element of mystery and literary charm to your present. The gifted money can then be used to buy whatever book their heart desires, or anything else entirely!
14. Cash Bouquet of Flowers
Flowers are a classic gift, but their beauty is fleeting. Why not make the flowers themselves the gift? A cash bouquet is a stunning and practical alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
Design a bouquet where the “flowers” are crafted from rolled-up dollar bills. Enhance the floral look by using origami techniques to fold bills into more realistic flower shapes.
Attach the money flowers to floral wire or skewers to create stems. Arrange these money flowers in a vase or decorative container, just as you would with real flowers, to create a beautiful and lasting bouquet. Personalize it further by adding paper flowers in the recipient’s favorite colors, ribbons, and decorative washi tape to introduce pops of color and texture.
This eye-catching and unique present is perfect for weddings, graduations, or any special occasion where a memorable and practical gift is desired.
15. Candy Mason Jar with Hidden Cash
Cash is always a welcome gift, and you can make it even sweeter by hiding it in a candy jar. This is a delightful way to combine a treat with a surprise.
Fill a mason jar with colorful candies, or better yet, the recipient’s favorite kinds. Secretly place rolled dollar bills in the center of the jar, hidden amongst the candy.
The recipient will be thrilled to discover a hidden treasure of cash as they enjoy the sweets. Make sure to include a card that hints at the surprise inside, so they don’t miss the cash amidst the candy! A simple note saying “Sweet treats and a hidden surprise inside!” will do the trick.
16. Gift Card Snow Globe Magic
Looking for festive and creative ways to gift money during the holiday season? A gift card snow globe adds a magical and wintry touch to your gift.
Enhance a simple gift card by turning it into a miniature snow globe scene. Fill a wide-mouth mason jar with artificial snow, small bottle brush trees, and tiny winter-themed figurines. You can repurpose old plastic toys or find miniatures at craft stores to create a charming winter landscape inside the jar.
Place the gift card in the center of this winter scene. Then, fill the jar with water, a bit of glycerin (to make the snow fall slowly), and glitter for a sparkling snow effect. Secure the lid tightly to prevent leaks—using duct tape around the lid can add extra security. When shaken, the jar transforms into a beautiful snow globe, with the gift card as a central surprise.
17. “Raining Cash” Umbrella Gift
Make it literally “rain cash” with this fun and interactive gift idea. It’s a whimsical and memorable way to present money.
Attach cash to the inside of an umbrella so that when opened, it appears to rain money down on the recipient. You can find inexpensive umbrellas at thrift stores or discount retailers. Use clear fishing wire or thread to hang the money from the umbrella’s ribs, allowing it to dangle freely.
To enhance the theme, decorate the outside of the umbrella. Glue cotton balls to the top to mimic clouds and craft a construction paper rainbow that extends from the handle up the umbrella. This “raining cash” umbrella is a creative money gift perfect for birthdays, graduations, or any occasion where you want to make a splash.
18. Piggy Bank Treasure Chest
Encourage saving habits by gifting a piggy bank that’s already full of cash and coins. This is a practical and motivational gift, especially suitable for children, teenagers, or anyone aiming to build their savings.
Fill a piggy bank to the brim with a mix of coins and bills. For a personalized touch, decorate the piggy bank to match the recipient’s interests – superhero themes, favorite colors, or patterns. Alternatively, consider a clear shadow box piggy bank, allowing the recipient to see their growing savings. You can personalize it with stickers bearing the recipient’s name to make it extra special.
19. Peppermint “Cash” Mint Rolls
Create festive and nostalgic peppermint “cash” mint rolls, reminiscent of classic candy mints. This is a simple, seasonal, and charming way to gift money.
Roll up a few dollar bills tightly. Use an empty toilet paper tube as a mold to keep the roll compact. Place the rolled bills inside a small plastic bag or wrap them in tissue paper first to keep them clean.
Wrap the toilet paper tube with decorative wrapping paper. Extend the wrapping paper a few inches beyond both ends of the tube. Twist the excess paper on each end into a spiral and tie with ribbon or string to mimic the frilly ends of peppermint candy wrappers. These peppermint “cash” mint rolls are easy to make, festive, and offer a sweet surprise.
20. School Supplies with Hidden Funds
For a practical and surprising money gift, hide cash within everyday school supplies. This idea is excellent for students of any age, perfect for birthdays, graduations, or even as a back-to-school treat.
Choose school supply items that offer hiding spots, such as pencil cases, notebooks, or even inside a new box of crayons. Roll or fold the bills to fit neatly inside these items. For example, you can slip cash into the pockets of a new pencil case or tuck it between the pages of a notebook.
The recipient receives both useful school supplies and a delightful cash surprise, making it a thoughtful and practical gift.
21. Money Confetti Popper Surprise
Add a burst of excitement to your gift with money confetti poppers. This idea is all about creating a celebratory moment.
Fill confetti poppers with cash and colorful confetti. You can buy empty poppers and fill them yourself, or find pre-filled options and customize them by adding cash. If DIY-ing, carefully load rolled-up bills and confetti into the popper.
Present the popper as a gift, and let the recipient unleash a shower of cash and confetti with a satisfying pop! This fun and interactive money gift idea is perfect for birthdays, graduations, New Year’s, or any celebration deserving of extra flair.
22. “Cash Pez-ent” Dispenser
Take a nostalgic trip down memory lane with a Pez dispenser filled with cash. This is a quirky and fun way to gift money, especially to those who appreciate a bit of retro charm.
Purchase a Pez dispenser—you can find them at dollar stores, pharmacies, and toy stores in various character designs, from Disney figures to cartoon favorites.
Carefully disassemble the Pez dispenser and clean it. Roll up dollar bills tightly and insert them into the candy compartment. You can alternate bills with actual Pez candies for an extra sweet surprise. Reassemble the dispenser and present it as a “Cash Pez-ent.”
The recipient will enjoy the nostalgic candy dispenser and be delighted to discover the cash hidden inside.
23. Money Lei of Celebration
Craft a money lei using dollar bills for a unique and festive gift that’s both beautiful and valuable. This is a more time-intensive gift but incredibly rewarding in its presentation.
You’ll need string or ribbon, dollar bills, and optional decorative elements like beads, silk flowers, or small trinkets. Begin by folding each dollar bill accordion-style. Then, fold it in half and secure the center with string or ribbon to create a bow-tie shape.
String these folded bills onto a longer piece of string or ribbon to form a lei. You can alternate with beads, flowers, or other decorative items to add color and flair. Continue adding folded bills until the lei reaches the desired length to comfortably wear around the neck. Knot the ends of the string or ribbon together to complete your money lei. This makes a stunning and wearable cash gift, perfect for graduations, birthdays, or celebratory events.
24. Origami Money Art
Showcase your artistic talents by creating origami shapes from dollar bills. Origami money is a creative and personalized way to gift cash, transforming it into a piece of art.
Learn basic or intricate origami folds using online tutorials or books. Start with simpler shapes like hearts, stars, or butterflies, and gradually advance to more complex designs like animals, shirts, or flowers. Many libraries offer origami books with step-by-step instructions.
Present your origami money creations in a decorative box, frame them, or incorporate them into a larger gift arrangement. The recipient will appreciate the time, effort, and creativity you invested in making this one-of-a-kind money gift.
25. Money Tree of Fortune
Design a money tree using dollar bills as leaves for a symbolic and visually striking cash gift. A money tree represents prosperity and good fortune, making it a meaningful and decorative gift.
Attach rolled or folded dollar bills to a small potted plant, a decorative branch, or a miniature artificial tree to resemble leaves. Use floral wire, clips, or tape to securely attach the bills without damaging them. Place the tree in a decorative pot or container and embellish with ribbons, glitter, or other ornaments to enhance its festive look.
Alternatively, create a DIY tree using a toilet paper roll or paper towel roll as the trunk. Decorate it with paint or ribbons and attach folded dollar bills as leaves. This creative gift idea is perfect for weddings, graduations, housewarmings, or any occasion where you want to convey wishes for prosperity and growth.
26. “Vitamin Cash” Bottle
Give the gift of “health” and wealth with a humorous “vitamin cash” bottle. This is a quirky and unexpected way to present money.
Thoroughly clean and dry an empty vitamin bottle. Roll up dollar bills and insert them into the bottle. Create a new label for the bottle to enhance the theme. You can design a label that reads “Vitamin M” (for money) or “Cash Vitamins – Daily Dose of Wealth.” Add funny dosage instructions like “Take as needed for shopping sprees or rainy days.”
Present the “vitamin cash” bottle with a smile, and watch as the recipient gets a good laugh and a practical gift in one.
27. Game Night Cash Surprise
For an entertaining and totally unexpected money gift, hide cash inside a board game or puzzle. This is a fun way to combine entertainment with a financial gift.
Choose a board game or puzzle that the recipient would enjoy. Select a game box with compartments or spaces where cash can be discreetly hidden. Strategically place rolled or folded bills among the game pieces, inside the game board, or within the puzzle box.
For a truly impressive gift, find a classic game like Monopoly at a thrift store and replace the play money with real bills! While replacing all the money might be extravagant, even adding some real bills to the mix adds a luxurious twist to game night. This game night cash surprise is a fun and interactive gift that keeps on giving.
FAQs About Gifting Money Creatively
How can I give cash creatively as a gift?
The possibilities for creatively gifting cash are practically limitless! Here are a few key approaches:
- Transform the Cash: Fold dollar bills into money origami shapes, creating art that is also money.
- Conceal the Cash: Hide money in unexpected places like everyday items or fun containers to create a surprise element.
- Decorate with Cash: Design money bouquets or trees, turning cash into decorative and visually appealing gifts.
The core idea is to think beyond the typical envelope and find a memorable and unique way to present your cash gift, making it more personal and thoughtful.
Is it okay to give cash as a gift?
Absolutely! Giving cash as a gift is not only acceptable but often highly appreciated in many situations.
Studies and surveys consistently show that cash is frequently the most desired and welcomed gift. Its versatility and practicality are unmatched.
Cash allows recipients the freedom to use it as they see fit, whether for something they need, something they want, or even to save for the future. Never hesitate to gift cash—just aim to present it in a creative and thoughtful manner to elevate the gesture.
What are some prank ways to give money as a gift?
For a gift that combines cash with a playful prank, consider these ideas:
- Cold Hard Cash Block: Freeze money in a block of ice. Fill a container partially with water, place the bills on top, and freeze. Then add more water and refreeze. Wrap the ice block in foil and present it with a card that says, “This is your Cold Hard Cash – literally!”
- Canned Food Surprise: Take a can of the recipient’s least favorite food (like spinach or sardines). Open it from the bottom, remove the contents, clean the can thoroughly, and insert rolled-up cash. Re-seal the can and gift it, watching their initial disappointment turn into surprise upon the reveal.
How do you gift money in a tissue box creatively?
A tissue box offers a unique canvas for creative money gifting. Here are a couple of ideas:
- Cash Tissue Roll: Tape dollar bills end-to-end to create a long roll. Roll it up tightly and insert it into a tissue box, letting the end of the roll peek out like a tissue. When pulled, it reveals a stream of cash.
- Money Tree Tissue Pot: Use a decorated tissue box as the base for a money tree. Fill the box with floral foam and insert branches or skewers to hang money origami “leaves.”
What are some unique ways to give cash as a gift?
To truly surprise and delight your loved ones with a unique cash gift, try:
- Money Origami: Transform ordinary bills into intricate origami art pieces.
- Unexpected Hiding Places: Conceal cash in everyday items or thematic containers related to the recipient’s hobbies or interests.
- Money Tree or Bouquet: Create a decorative display of cash in the form of a tree or floral arrangement.
Is cash a good wedding gift?
Yes, cash is an excellent and highly practical wedding gift. It’s especially appreciated by couples who are just starting out, planning a honeymoon, setting up a new home, or managing wedding expenses.
Is it appropriate to give cash as a birthday gift?
Absolutely! Cash is a thoughtful and versatile birthday gift. It shows that you care and respect the recipient’s autonomy to choose exactly what they want or need, making it a universally appreciated present.
My Final Thoughts on Creative Ideas for Gifting Money
Gifting money doesn’t have to be impersonal or boring. When done creatively, it becomes a thoughtful and meaningful gesture.
With these 27 creative ideas for gifting money, you can transform a simple cash present into an exciting and memorable experience for the recipient.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, graduation, wedding, or any other special occasion, these clever money gift ideas are sure to leave a lasting positive impression and bring joy.
So, go ahead and elevate your gifting game by trying out some of these unique and fun money gift ideas!
