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Cash Clash!

Have you ever had an argument with a friend about money? Money situations between friends can be extremely sticky. Check out our advice, then let us know what you think about how we'd handle these situations! 

Problem #1: Your friend has a lot more money than you, so he always likes to pay for you when you go out. 

Don't let your friend pay your way all the time. It turns you into a charity case and it might end up ruining your friendship. Be up front about your cash flow, and let him know that you have to stick to your spending limits. When there's a big expense coming up, look for ways to earn extra money. (You'll find lots of ideas on YoungBiz.com!)

Problem #2: Your friend has a lot less money than you.  

Be considerate of your friend's personal pride, and don't constantly pay her way. Why? See #1 above! Save her some embarrassment by suggesting inexpensive entertainment (watching movies) and low-cost places to eat (mmmm, Dominoes!) Maybe you can score some points with Mom, too, by cutting out coupons on Sundays and using them when you and your friend hang out. 

Problem #3: You're the only one of your friends who can drive, and one of your buddies never offers to help pay for the gas.

Take charge of the situation. Appoint one person in the group to estimate the expenses for gas and collect an equal amount from each passenger. If your friend still doesn't pay, choose not to invite him the next time you go out.

Problem #4: Your friends want you to chip in on a gift for someone you don't know or don't like.

The best solution is to just say no. Keep your reasons to yourself, and tell them (truthfully!) that you can't chip in. If you don't say anything bad about the person, there's no reason for anyone to say things about you!

Problem #5: A friend buys you an expensive gift, but you don't have that much to spend on her. 

Why are you keeping score? If you're hung up on dollars and cents, you're not really giving a gift ­ you're trading cash. It's much cooler to snap some pics of the two of you, then make her a cool frame with a magnetic back that she can hang in her locker.

Problem #6: Your friend's friend lives in the "rich" part of town. When he finds out you don't, he asks how much money your parents make. 

If you consider money a private subject, you are under no obligation to answer questions from nosy friends. Just change the subject completely. Or look shocked - then crack up and say, “I can't believe you asked me that!" Guess who ends up feeling embarrassed?