When it comes to the levels of support between parents and adult children, it’s more common for moms and dads to be offering assistance to their kids, at least when they are younger and finding their feet. However, it can also happen the other way around as well. There are plenty of adult children who find themselves in a better financial position than their parents, and then feel obligated to help them out. It’s a natural instinct.

However, depending on factors such as income level and attitude, it is possible for this kind of arrangement to be taken too far. It’s unfortunate, but some families start to treat their kids like a free ATM that doesn’t need anything in return. This inevitably leads to tension, and at its worst, can permanently sever relationships. It is rarely a good idea to treat your children like a primary bill payer or retirement plan.