Gift Budget Per Person Calculator
Split a total gift budget across everyone on your list and see the per-person amount, with an optional priority weighting for close family.
How it works
Even = total ÷ people · Weighted: unit = total ÷ (close × weight + others) · close gift = unit × weight
The simplest plan divides the budget evenly, but most people want to spend more on immediate family and less on coworkers or acquaintances. The weighted split assigns each close-family person a multiple of a base "unit" and everyone else one unit, so the shares always add back up to your exact total. Raising the weight shifts money toward close family without changing what you spend overall.
Worked example
A $600 budget over 12 people is $50 each evenly. With 4 close-family people weighted 2×, the units are 4×2 + 8 = 16, so a unit is $600 ÷ 16 = $37.50: each close gift is $75 and each of the other eight is $37.50, still $600 in total.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the weighted split still add up to my budget?
The math solves for a base unit so that (close people × weight + other people) × unit equals your total. Because every share is a multiple of that same unit, the individual gifts always sum back to exactly what you entered.
What weight should I use?
A weight of 2 means each close-family gift is twice an ordinary one, which suits most families. Use 1.5 for a gentle tilt or 3 for a strong one. If everyone should get the same, set the close count to 0 and use the even split.
Should I hold back for wrapping and cards?
Yes — decide on a wrapping-and-shipping reserve first, subtract it from your total, and enter only the gift money here. Cards, ribbon and postage add up quickly across a long list.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.