If you’ve spent any time researching how to teach your kids about money, you’ve likely run into these two titans. They both offer a shiny debit card, a chore-tracking app, and the promise of a child who finally understands that money doesn’t grow on trees.
But while they look similar on the surface, choosing the wrong one can mean the difference between a minor monthly annoyance and a major parenting win. Here is the breakdown based on the latest 2026 data to help you decide which is actually worth your hard-earned cash.
Why Greenlight Wins for “Control Freaks” (And Big Families)
Greenlight is the “power user” option. If you have more than one child, Greenlight is a no-brainer because their $5.99 plan covers up to five children, whereas GoHenry costs $5 per child.
But the real “secret sauce” is the granular control. While GoHenry lets you block broad categories, Greenlight gives you store-level and ATM-level controls. You can literally tell the app, “Gavin can spend $20 at Starbucks, but $0 at the gas station.” It’s the ultimate “trust but verify” tool.
The Security & Privacy Edge
In an era of data privacy concerns, the difference here is stark. Greenlight maintains a strict policy: they do not share your child’s data with anyone. According to their latest comparison, GoHenry may share user data with affiliates and third-party providers for marketing and analytics. For many parents, that privacy peace of mind alone is worth the extra dollar a month.
The Verdict: Which is Worth It?
- Choose Greenlight if: You have a bigger family, want the highest level of data privacy, or want a “one-stop shop” that includes investing, cash-back rewards, and physical safety features like location sharing.
- Choose GoHenry (Acorns Early) if: You have exactly one child and only want the bare-bones basics without any interest or cash-back incentives.
The Bottom Line: While GoHenry is a great beginner tool, Greenlight provides substantially more value for the cost. Between the store-specific controls and the fact that kids with savings are 4.5 times more likely to graduate college, Greenlight isn’t just a card—it’s a launchpad for their future.
