College is supposed to be the best years of your life, what they fail to tell you is that sometimes it’s also the most broke time of your life. These days whether you’re working on a college degree or just finished it your parents have become a source of income.

After years of trying to gain your independence you’re back to asking your parents for gas money. A new poll commission by the National Endowment for Financial Education found that 60% of parents are providing financial support for their children after they are no longer in school.

Parents are paying for housing, living expenses and transportation costs. As difficult as it may be, sometimes you have to bite the bullet and ask your parents for some spare change (or a couple hundred). Here are some ways to pay it forward.

Clean house – If you’re relying on your parents for money then chances are that psychology degree hasn’t gotten you that dream job just yet. Since you have so much free time on your hands why not make the best out of a not-so-good situation by dusting, doing the dishes, doing the laundry and being the best son or daughter you can be.

Become a babysitter – If you’re the youngest or only child this may not apply to you. However if your younger siblings still need taking care of then why not become their care taker while you look for a more permanent gig? Your parents will thus save money and potentially pay you to watch the kiddies.

Do things before you’re told – Unless your parents have established your old high school chores it is your job to do things before you’re told. Yes, you the adult need to be responsible. If you’re not interested in becoming a full-time maid simply doing things like taking out the trash or mowing the lawn will show your parents that you are there to help them as they are helping you.

Bring back the lemonade stand – Put those college degree skills to work. Set up a way to bring in some of your own income such as finding small projects or contract jobs. Whether you become your town’s computer fix-it guy or girl, write for a local newspaper or work as a personal assistant these little jobs could provide some good income so you don’t have to solely rely on your parents.