Simply explain to them why you need the money. Kids are trusting + understanding. My parents never NEEDED the money, but there would be rare times they didn't take enough out of the bank when they went last, or were going to the bank tomorrow (aka for w/e reason they didn't have the cash on them), and just needed to cover a quick expense (like a visit from a plumber or electrician). My mom would usually ask, my dad was a bit more awkward about it and took without telling, intending to replace it later and me never being the wiser. Needless to say, the latter backfires when you want to buy a game and find the game money suddenly doesn't exist.

Don't steal it. Ask him to help you. He probably will. And if he doesn't, borrow money from a friend or from a family member. Just taking the money because you can will destroy his trust in you and make him feel like he owns nothing. It will also give him a really poor example of conduct. Is stealing something you want to teach him?

It makes me sick to see comments about just take the money. You people are scum. Do the the right thing and explain to your child that you need to borrow it and you give it him back.

Don't steal it! Nicely ask him/her if you could borrow some. He'll feel important and helpful. At that age, it's very hard to experience a feeling of that sort.

Please just ask. My parents borrow money from me all the time but they're good about paying it back and I don't have a problem lending even if I don't get it back. Just ask

I don't like at all how these comments act like it's okay ITS NOT not at all Your kid shouldn't be part of paying the bills. EVER

The thing is, an 8 year old doesn't need money yet, so he shouldn't care especially is it will keep him alive and cared fore.

just talk to him about it. tell him that if you don't pay the bills, you won't have a house. then ask him if you could have some of the money. he'll probably say yes.

Things like that are a good lesson for the kids. I remember when my parents have had such difficulties and I've grown to know that money is just an instrument and also if you do your best they'll always come around when you really need them.

I'd say you've lived long enough. Time to become a villain!