5 mistakes people make when talking about money with loved ones, according to an etiquette expert

"From asking how much someone spent on their vacation to making offhand comments about a friend's salary, people make plenty of etiquette mistakes when talking about money with loved ones. However, that doesn't mean money should be a topic that's off-limits altogether. That's why Business Insider spoke with etiquette coach Mariah Grumet Humbert about the biggest mistakes people make when talking about this sensitive topic. Here's what she said."

"When you criticize someone for spending money on hobbies, it can seem like you're dismissing things that bring them joy. Because everyone values different things in life, Grumet Humbert said it's important to remember that what seems frivolous to one person might be deeply meaningful to someone else. Whether it's a personal collection of items or an expensive hobby, how someone chooses to spend their money is not anyone else's business."

"Another common mistake is asking someone how much they spent on something, whether it's a wedding, a new house, a car, or a luxurious vacation. It's best to avoid these questions, as they can come across as judgmental. "Basic etiquette is that we don't want to ask somebody how much they spent on something, even if it's your family member," Grumet Humbert told BI."

Money conversations with loved ones require sensitivity. Criticizing spending on hobbies can dismiss things that bring people joy and ignores differing values. How someone chooses to spend money is private and not anyone else's business. Asking how much someone spent on a wedding, house, car, or vacation can come across as intrusive and judgmental. Direct questions about salary are generally poor etiquette. Money is not inherently off-limits, but discussions should be handled with kindness, genuine interest, and a focus on experiences rather than costs. Keep these conversations private and avoid raising sensitive financial questions in public.

Read at Business Insider