Dealing with awkward money moments.

Money can get you into sticky situations just as fast as it can get you out of them. This economy is no place to be letting extra funds slip through your fingers, but you don't want to potentially offend a friend. Here's a few weirdo money-moments and how to get yourself out of them with grace.

A Winner Dinner
When going out with your friends, you don't want to get caught up in the funny money business. Usually, the problem is solved by splitting the check equally, but if you noshed a salad while your pal had a three-course meal -- that's a little unbalanced. To solve this cash conundrum, simply ask the waiter for a separate check, (but make sure to ask him in the beginning of the meal so he doesn't have to scurry to do it last minute.) If you have to throw in an extra couple of dollars here or there, you can trust with a loyal pack of pals your generosity will come back around to you. So if your entrée was $10 and your friend's was $12, maybe let that one slide a little.

Life Support
A "down on her luck" pal deserves a drink or a dinner on you, but that tight-fisted friend just needs some sense knocked into them. Often, a lot of us have that friend that somehow manages to sneak in and get you to financially support her social life. Treating a friend is a good way to show generosity, but you've got bills to pay too! Obviously, hanging out with a broke bud is more important than seeing the newest movie the night it opens. Compromise. Rent a movie and get a cheap slice of pizza instead.

Lending Library
Ah, the dreaded lending money situation. There's no right way to handle lending out cash to your pals -- and there's no right way to ensure you get it back. Try this -- if it's a significant sum of money, get the deal in writing. Your friend will most likely understand as long as you put it out there that you really want to help her, but you don't want anything to potentially come between your friendship. If it's fifteen dollars at the grocery store, just make sure she knows the difference between "it's on me" and "I'll spot you."