Paying the Bill

Going out with friends is always enjoyable!  The difficult part can come when the bill arrives, and one couple insists on picking up the check.

Here are a few good rules of thumb we've always followed:

1) If you see the friends often, switch who picks up the bill.  One time we'll get it.  The next time they'll get it.  Over time, it ends up a wash.

2)  If people are visiting you from out of town, always insist on picking up the bill.  They drove in / flew in to see you or do what they had planned, so they already spent the money to come.  You ought to treat them.

3)  If you are visiting other people, be ready to pay in case they don't believe in following #2!

4)  If trying to decide who pays, and it's possible to just split down the middle, do it!  Don't count minor details if they're really good friends!

5)  If, after everything, you get into "no, I insist you let me help pay" battle, you've insisted twice on helping to pay or picking it up completely, and they still say they want to pick it up, drop it.  Don't haggle.  You can treat them to something another time.  Allow them to treat you.