How can I get my mother to return my money?

It's not really your job as a 16 year old to bail out your mom when she has a financial issue. It's not unheard of for teens to be asked to contribute to the household though. And you're correct. You are not old enough to have a non-custodial account, although I believe there are some banks that may allow it. If the money was only loaned to her, it's reasonable to ask what plan she has to reimburse you so that you might live independently some day or help pay for college or to help buy a car so that you can get to and from job/school. Either way, if you go to college and apply for financial aid, they would just make you use that $3k anyway if it was in your name. If your father is the one paying for things for you, then this might be a good time to discuss it with him. If they are no longer together, then maybe you could go live with him, or have him open an account for you so that she doesn't have access to it. It is unfortunate that a parent would do this. But if she has that much of a problem, then someone also should help you put a freeze on your credit so she doesn't try to open things in your name. It must have taken you a really long time to earn that $3,000. It's an expensive lesson and I hope she can pay back at least some of it. Your mom has a problem - even if it's just that she doesn't actually earn a living wage. She's the mom - you're not. But you need to share this with another adult, be it a guidance counselor, father or grandparent and let them help you decide if anything further needs to be done to protect you.

You may never see that money again...now go get  bank account if you can, or find the best hiding place for your money and never give her a dime, when she asks for money, ask her when you get your money back you will, but until them, not a dime.

Have a talk with someone from social services about your situation.