A 16-year-old says her dad is taking most of her paycheck — even cash from her room — and she’s ready to walk away from work entirely.
The Backstory and Early Dynamics
After moving in with her dad a year ago, the teen started working as a restaurant hostess in November to save for a car. Earning just over $1,000 a month, she was careful with her money, putting up to 70% into savings.
By February, her dad asked her to cover her phone bill and utilities — about $200 a month. This cut into her savings, but she could still put aside $400–$500 monthly toward her car.
The Moment Things Shifted
In July, her dad demanded $500 more each month for rent. She resisted, but he threatened to close the bank account he had opened for her. She gave in, leaving her with just $300 a month — and only $200 to save.
Things got worse when she discovered her $300 cash stash missing from her room. Her dad admitted to taking it, claiming he was “entitled” to her earnings. He then told her she’d need to hand over another $100 each month because she “shouldn’t have that much money.”
The Final Confrontation
Fed up, she told her dad she planned to quit her job — it wasn’t worth working so hard for so little. Her dad exploded, insisting she “owed it” to him to contribute. She was set to give her two weeks’ notice.
The Fallout
In an update, she decided not to quit after confiding in her boss — a family friend — who agreed to pay her in cash. She now hides the money in a locked box her dad doesn’t know about.
While she says her dad isn’t physically abusive, she admits he struggles with alcoholism and suspects most of the money goes toward alcohol. She’s planning to move out next year and is avoiding legal or CPS involvement.
What Reddit Thinks
Verdict: Mostly NTA (Not The Ahole)**
Sample reactions:
- “NTA — Your dad is stealing from you. This is financial abuse.”
- “I’m glad your boss is helping. Keep your money safe and plan your exit.”
- “Not the A-hole, but be careful. Parents like this often escalate when the money stops.”
A Final Thought
When does parental support turn into exploi