Dear Judge Josh,
I just moved into an apartment with a couple of roommates, and we’re trying to figure out how to split bills fairly without causing World War III. Do you have any tips on how to manage shared expenses without losing our minds (or friendships)?
Hey Roommate Ruckus,
Living with roommates can be a wild ride, but splitting bills doesn’t have to be a sh*tshow! Check out these tips to keep the peace and your wallets happy:
Communicate: Gather ’round, roomies, and have a real talk about money. Set expectations from the get-go and be open about your financial situations. Honesty is the best policy, yo!
Divide and Conquer: Split the bills evenly, or divvy them up based on usage, room size, or personal preference. Just make sure everyone’s on board and feels like it’s a fair shake.
Use Apps to Your Advantage: There’s an app for everything these days, even splitting bills! Check out apps like Splitwise or Venmo to keep track of expenses and make payments a breeze.
Keep Records: Don’t rely on your memory or shaky promises. Write that sh*t down or use a shared spreadsheet to track who owes what. No more “I forgot” excuses!
Address Issues ASAP: Got a problem? Speak up! Letting resentment fester is a recipe for disaster. Keep communication lines open and tackle any issues head-on.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a harmonious (and financially savvy) roommate experience!