Woman's Guide to Splitting the Bill

I believe guys should always pay for the bill on a first date, especially if they’re the ones asking us out. I’ll always reach for my purse at the end of dinner — and in most cases — the guy will usually say something like “thanks, but I’ve got it.” From my personal experience, guys find it quite refreshing when a woman offers to pay. It’s an impressive proactive gesture that is very appreciated, and goes long way in their score book even if they still end up picking up the tab.

There’s no written rulebook for splitting the bill when you’re on dates, but below are simple guidelines to follow.

How to Split the Bill on a Date
  • First Date: Offer to pay.
    Most men I know will want to treat on the first date. It’s one of the small things they can do, to show us that chivalry isn’t dead. When the bill comes, offer to help cover part of it, or at least pay the tip. If he refuses, and insists on paying, then let him pay and offer a thank you in return.
  • Second and Third Dates: Try to pay for part of the date.
    If you’re truly interested in the guy, find a way pay for one of the activities on your date. If the two of you attend a movie, and he pays for the tickets, offer to pay for the popcorn. Or after dinner, offer to treat him to dessert. Most guys will still insist on covering the entire date, and if he does, thank him as usual and he’ll make a mental note of your kind offers. It’ll show that your interested in more than just what’s in his wallet.
  • Fourth Date and Beyond: Pay for the date.
    It’s time to insist on paying for the night to show him you’re not looking for a sugar daddy. Reject any offers to pay when the bill comes. This gesture will show how much you appreciated his generosity during the first few dates, but that you’re independent and willing to contribute to the relationship.
  • Caveat
    Like I said above, “most men” will offer to treat on the first couple of dates, but there are many who will readily take your offers to pay. Heck, there are even some that insist that you pay your half, or even the whole bill. If so, be sure to have your wallet on hand. I can’t speak for these ungentleman-like men, and hopefully you ladies won’t have to either.

    If you do end up dating such a guy, look the other way and find a man that knows how to be a gentleman. Dating can be a little tough on the bank account, but there’s no excuse for being cheap — unless he’s in some kind of financial hardship — and if he is, he should be smart enough to figure out other ways to win your heart other than trying to wine and dine you!