Parents, you know how it goes: every time the kid wants to download an app from the iTunes Store, he has to bring you the phone so that you can type in the password. That sort of defeats the purpose of giving him the iPhone so that he's distracted. Fortunately, you can set up an iTunes allowance, which lets you specify a precise amount of cash that your kid can spend on apps without having to bug you each time he wants to try out a new iOS game. The allowance works just like an iTunes gift card, and can be used to purchase music, iOS apps, and Mac apps. It's easy to set up--we'll show you how!
To begin, log in to iTunes with the account you wish to manage the allowance with, and click the Redeem link in the iTunes Store (located in the "Quick Links" section). Once there, click the "Give a Gift on iTunes" link and on the next page select "Set up an Allowance Now."
On the allowance set up page, enter the appropriate information, including your name, the recipient's name, and select the monthly allowance (between $10 and $50). Use the "First Installment" checkbox to select whether to send the allowance now, or wait until the beginning of the next month. If the recipient already has an Apple ID, type in and verify the Apple ID. Otherwise, select the "Create an Apple ID for Recipient" radio button. When you're finished, click Continue.
Once the allowance is created, you will be able to manage, view, change, suspend, or cancel a monthly allowance by logging into your account information page (accessed by clicking Store > View My Account).
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