Splitting Bills Without Ruining Friendships

When you are dividing rent, food, or a Goa trip, money and friendships do not always mix well. Still, it need not be embarrassing. Handling shared expenses like a total adult—but without the boring—is as follows.

Rule 1: Removing Uncertainty

Your BFF is using Splitwise on an app. Add all of your shared expenses—food orders, taxis, Netflix, and groceries. It removes the "who owes whom" uncertainty and maintains fairness. Other choices could be Venmo (if overseas), Settle Up, or perhaps a shared Google Sheets.

Rule 2: Talk ahead.

Agree on money matters before booking a trip or moving in with friends:

• Will rent be divided equally?

• Grocery buyers: who are they?

• Will one pay for it and others reimburse? This helps to avoid uncomfortable later conversations.

Rule 3: Get Back on Track Right Away

Avoid being the person that "forgets" to pay. Given a student budget, even little amounts can seem significant. Try to tidy once a week.

Rule 4: Do not keep score.

Occasionally your friend might cover Uber or your chai. Don't nickel-and-dime everything. Sometimes give; it helps to balance things.

Rule 5: Clearly State Your Big Purchase Plans

Purchasing a speaker or shared refrigerator? Decide: Is it someone's asset or a joint purchase? If necessary, get it written down. Future battles were stayed away from.

The last word is friendships; they are worth more than ₹300. Maintain integrity, openness, and coolness. When it comes to cash, a small amount of clarity goes a long way.