NatWest Rooster Money

NatWest Rooster Money: financial education for kids with card and app

NatWest Rooster Money is a pocket money management app and prepaid card aimed at families with children aged 3 to 17. The service combines digital tools so that kids learn to spend, save, earn, and give, while parents stay in control. The company operates in the UK and has been part of the NatWest Group since October 2021, when it was integrated into the bank; in May 2022 it officially adopted the name NatWest Rooster Money.

Products and age stages

The offering is organised into three tiers based on the child's age. For the youngest, from age 3, there is a Star Chart that introduces positive habits early on. From age 5, the Virtual Money Tracker allows you to keep track of pocket money and spending without the need for real deposits. For ages 6 to 17, the Rooster Card is a prepaid debit card linked to the app, which includes chore and pocket money management. To get the card, the parent or guardian must be over 18 and a UK resident.

Features for parents and kids

The app offers separate logins for parents and kids. Parents can manage all pocket money in one place, set spending limits, and receive real-time notifications. The card does not allow overdrafts and is designed so that kids make spending decisions when they are out and about. For children, the interface aims to make money management appealing and encourage their participation. The app includes a chore manager that teaches the importance of earning money, and tools to save towards goals.

Pricing and conditions

The site's catalogue indicated that the Rooster Card costs £1.99 per month or £19.99 per year, with the possibility of other additional fees. A one-month free trial was offered, and after it ends, the subscription renews automatically. For NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, or Ulster Bank customers, there was an exclusive card offer. Terms and eligibility criteria apply.

Educational resources and content

The company publishes guides and materials to help families talk about money. Topics covered include using the contactless card for transport, the right amount of pocket money, the difference between needs and wants, and resources such as the Primers. It also produces the Pocket Money Index, a report based on data from its users about kids' pocket money. The company has appeared in media such as The Times, Telegraph, Guardian, Wall Street Journal, and Which?, according to its own presentation.

Origins and team

Rooster Money was born with the aim of getting kids familiar with the financial world from an early age. The company maintains that basic money habits are formed around age 7, citing research from the Money Advice Service. Its team is made up of developers, designers, product specialists, customer support, finance, data, and marketing, and works remotely with regular meetups. World Learning Limited, a company registered in England and Wales with number 06830114, is the entity behind the service.

Location and contact

250 Bishopsgate, London EC2M 4AA