The Age-Old Question: Who should pay on a date?

Once again, I took to the streets and Facebook to ask people the age-old question, “Who should pay on a date?” The responses I received are so varied that I don’t think we’ll ever reach one universal answer.

“I paid on all the dates I’ve been on but according to my friends that are girls, they said pay on the 1st date and on subsequent dates, either split the bill or take turns paying. I use monopoly money sometimes.” - David Le, 26, Allergan employee.

“Either split the bill…or pay for it myself. If the other person ends up fighting until death for the bill then I usually feel obligated to go on a SECOND date and pay for that bill so there are NO expectations….of who knows what!” - Tamara Nguyen, 25.

“Bad date, insist splitting the bill. Good date, always reach for my purse but I expect the guy to say he’s got it and I let him pay.” - Paulina Corral, 25.

“Whoever does the inviting. If he invites, he should plan accordingly and pay. If I invite, I’d pay but would really appreciate if he offers or splits. Don’t fight for it though, draaaama!” - Mara Mendoza, 24, marketing associate.

“Well I personally don’t believe in splitting the bill. General rule should be whoever asked should pay, but regardless, I always try to pay unless my date insists on it. If multiple dates are in the future, take turns paying.” - Jeannie Dinh, 25, Sr. compliance analyst.

“As the dude, I honestly try to pay whenever I can on dates. However, when and if it develops into a relationship, then I would hope the girl would understand it would be polite to offer to split or take turns. I’m all for being a gentleman, but I’m not going to act like your husband until we’re married.” - Spencer vonHershman, 20, blogger.

Me? No matter what the who-should-pay beliefs are, I always reach for my purse. If the other person insists on paying, I’ll let them.