How to Split the Bill
The check just arrived; now what? Whether you sipped tap water all night or ordered a rare bottle of wine, we have an answer.
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You Will Need
- Separate checks
- Common sense
- Courtesy
Steps
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Step 1
Ask for a separate check
Don't be shy about asking for a separate check – especially if you're fearful of getting stuck paying for everyone else's extravagance. Just be sure to do it at the beginning of the evening.
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Allay the awkwardness by suggesting separate checks for everyone, unless you're in such a large group that it would be a huge imposition on the server.
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Step 2
Be gracious
If the group has agreed to split the bill evenly and everyone's share is in the same ballpark, don't insist on breaking down the bill to the last penny.
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Step 3
Pay your fair share
Offer to pay your fair share if you ordered more lavishly than anyone else. If, on the other hand, you were the person who just had a salad, announce, "here's my share," plop down what you owe, including money for the tip, and don't feel bad about it.
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If you are estimating your share, always err on the side of overpaying.
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Step 4
Don't penalize singles
Don't penalize singles. If three couples are dining with a solo, the check should not be split four ways – it should be divided based on seven people.
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Step 5
Do account for children
Do take children into account. Childless dining companions shouldn't pay for your kids just because they order from the children's menu and don't drink booze.
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Step 6
Man up
If you’ve invited someone out to dinner on a first date, expect to pay, especially if you’re a man. After that, you can split checks or take turns picking up the tab.
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Step 7
Treat people right
Don't treat anyone to their meal if you can't afford to treat everyone.
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Step 8
Give them the business
If it's a business meal, pick up the check if you extended the invitation – unless the other person is trying to get your business. In that case, it's appropriate for that person to pay.
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Seventy-five percent of survey respondents think that a man should pay for dinner if he has invited a woman out on a date; eight percent think the couple should split the check; and two percent think the person who earns the most money should pay.
