“Daughter of Wealthy Retirees Struggles with Parents’ Expectation for Monthly Allowance “

A woman recently shared her frustration on social media about her parents’ ongoing expectations for a monthly allowance, despite their significant financial security. In an anonymous post on NUSWhispers, she revealed that her parents own a fully paid S$3.5 million home and draw generous pensions as retired civil servants.

While her parents often call her about investment options for their savings, she and her husband — both bank executives with two children — find themselves struggling financially. Their combined annual income of S$300,000 still limits them to a small condo, covering tuition, occasional holidays, and daily expenses. “I’m on a hamster wheel just to give my kids opportunities,” she wrote, noting that her parents expect her financial support despite their comfortable retirement.

Commenters had mixed views. Some defended the parents, saying the allowance reflects traditional values and gratitude. “They raised you and invested in you,” one user remarked. Others felt that financially secure parents shouldn’t demand support, with one commenter calling it “selfish to pressure children when they’re already set for life.”

Some suggested the couple could ease financial strain by moving to a larger HDB flat, while others advised balancing expectations with their personal limits. The post highlights the challenging balance between financial realities and cultural expectations around family support.