"I make a solid salary at a job I like, live in a low cost of living area (in a house purchased in 2020 with a blissful 2.9 percent interest rate), drive a paid-off car, have no student loans, and contribute healthy amounts to my 401(k) and a high-yield savings account. My husband and I have a joint checking account for household expenses but most of my money is mine to do with as I please."
"She works hard but lives paycheck-to-paycheck (if the paycheck is even enough to stretch to the next one) and does not have a partner or a supportive family. She lives 3,000 miles away from me, so I am limited in the ways I can support her. I try to be a listening ear and just general good friend, but I also help her out financially when she asks."
A mid-30s married woman is financially comfortable, with a solid salary, no student loans, a paid-off car, a low-cost house bought at 2.9% interest, and robust retirement and savings contributions. Most of her money is discretionary despite a joint checking account for household expenses. A close high-school friend, Sara, lives paycheck-to-paycheck, lacks family or a partner, and lives 3,000 miles away. The woman sends Sara money when asked, typically $50–$200, and often more than requested. She wants to offer more consistent support but worries unsolicited gifts would feel condescending and seeks language to offer help respectfully while protecting her own finances.
Read at Slate Magazine
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