Cash Wedding Gift Calculator

Big wedding this weekend? Use this calculator to find out how much money you should give to the couple. You might be surprised by the answer.

Weddings are a huge deal. You need to figure out what to wear, transportation and lodging, and your wedding gift.

Nowadays, most couples don't have Macy's wedding registries. Instead, they prefer the convenience of gift cards or regular old cash. But the amount you should spend depends on a few factors:

• Your income
  
• Their income
  
• Your relationship to them
  
• Wedding location
  
• Is this their first marriage?

How much should a cash wedding gift be?

The average wedding gift is around $100 (per guest), and this baseline is a great place to start. If you're bringing a plus-one, then you can give $200 as a couple.

What is a good cash wedding gift amount for one person?

If you're flying solo and just a casual friend of the bride or groom, then you can spend $75-$100 on your gift.

Even if you're a super close friend of the couple, $500 is the most you should give. $2,000 might be too much.

What is an appropriate amount for a cash wedding gift?

As a rule of thumb, you can give $50-$500 as a single guest, depending on your relationship to the couple. For a casual guest who might not be making a ton of money, $75 should be sufficient.

Of course, if you can afford it, then spend a bit more to help this couple start their new lives. It's no secret that planning a wedding is notoriously expensive and time-consuming. You want to share in this couple's joy.

How to attend a wedding without breaking the bank

Weddings can be pretty pricey for guests, too. Here are a few tips to help you celebrate the happy couple without spending too much.

• Send the gift after the wedding: If you're short on cash when the wedding rolls around, don't worry! It's acceptable to send the gift a couple of months after the big day.

• Look at the gift registry ASAP: Guests buying an item (instead of giving cash) should be sure to look at the registry early. If you wait 'til the day of the wedding, all the affordable gifts will be gone.

• Respect the couple's wishes: If the couple asks for no gifts at all, or maybe just a honeymoon contribution, listen to them! It's much easier on you, too.

Bottom line

Marriage is a big, big milestone for couples. And they want to share this special moment with you.

This calculator gives you a point of reference on how much to spend on your wedding gift. Give what you can afford - and consider how expensive the event might be for the couple to host.

And, of course, dress tastefully and enjoy the night. These two people want to see their friends and family laughing and having a good time.