pay (one's) way

To pay for oneself or another person; to contribute one's or someone else's portion of the cost (of something). I appreciate the offer, but I can pay my way! His parents paid his way all through college, so it's no wonder he has no concept of working to earn his own keep.

pay your way

meet all your expenses out of your own pocket.

pay your/its (own) ˈway

(of a person, group, etc.) have or make enough money to support yourself/itself: I had to work in a cafe in order to pay my way through college. ♢ Each part of the business must be able to pay its own way.