I think both people should cover their own expenses on early dates. We’ve just met; there’s no emotional connection, and we haven’t spent months talking, so the assumption that the man should pay feels off to me. If there’s real emotional investment or an established ‘us’, I get treating someone. But early on, when it’s basically two individuals with separate finances, I don’t think there’s a default obligation. Honestly, being expected to pay without any discussion also feels off, like I’m just funding our evening rather than being seen for my value outside of money. It’s 2026, and the provider-man/dependent-woman dynamic feels dated to me. Until there’s a real sense of partnership, I lean toward keeping things financially individualistic. I’m curious whether there are women out there who genuinely feel the same way, or if this is a losing battle. submitted by /u/CandidRealism
Originally posted by u/CandidRealism on r/AskMen
Split costs early on - then keep doing that barring a pay imbalance. If one partner makes drastically more and is in a better financial place, they should volunteer to pay more. If it’s closer to equal, keep taking turns paying. Fairness is a sign of respect.