Who should pay on a first date? | Money Manners

[@aussietaipan8700]

For me, If I asked a woman out for a dinner and movie for the first time, I have asked her out so I will pay. If she asks me out, we will split the bill. The male has to lead and appreciate she is with you. And I love chivalry from the heart

[@JohnHayzII]

You should always split or at least offer to split. Also, make your plans for a spot that you can both afford - that way whoever earns less can also share. Having one person pay the bill can create a weird power imbalance. The person being paid for might feel like they “owe” their partner, which isn’t a healthy set up and the paying one may feel used. And if you do need to split the bill, just ask your date outright. That way, there are no awkward pauses as you and your date figure out who’s paying. Say something like, “Hey, would you mind if we split this?” or, “Could we go dutch on this one?”. At that point you can also suggest paying for the whole thing, if that's really your wish (you won't feel regret later on) and the other person agrees (won't feel like they "owe" anything). The rule saying that whoever asks first should pay also sets a bad precedent that may make people hesistant to ask someone out. Being assertive, proactive or less shy shouldn't be "taxed" so to speak and I think it's more important that both parties WANT to meet and go out together so they both should be prepared to show they value each others time and presence equally.