In-Game Spending Limits Guide
How to cap in-game spending on each platform, ordered by how much it actually prevents.
The two controls that prevent almost all unintended in-game spending are removing the saved payment card and enabling purchase approval in family settings — and platforms frequently refund large unauthorised child purchases when asked.
In-Game Spending Limits Guide
Frequently asked
Can I get a refund if my child spent money in a game?
Often, yes. Major platforms have processes for unauthorised purchases by children, banks can dispute card payments, and refusals are frequently reversed on appeal. Ask promptly and in writing rather than assuming it is lost.
Which control is strongest?
Purchase approval, where an adult receives a request for every purchase, combined with no card saved to the account. Everything else is either weaker or easier to bypass.
Why do children spend so much in games?
Because the mechanics are designed to make it feel urgent and social: limited-time offers, seasonal passes, and items visible to friends. Explaining the design is more durable than any setting, and it is the only part that transfers to adulthood.
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