Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • Love & Sex

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For

If the relationship is still young, please don't splurge for two before you're sure he's the one.
By Charli Penn · Updated October 26, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
01
New Love Shouldn’t Cost You

New love is the best kind. When you’re all-in on a fresh and fun relationship, it’s easy to feel invincible and full of joy. While you’re living on cloud nine, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on whether you’re spending habits are still grounded. Are you sharing the love equally or just paying for his time and affection? These are the red flags to look out for.

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
02
His Uber Ride To Or From Your Place

If he can’t afford the transportation, are you sure you want to go on this ride? We’re not old fashioned or anything, but finding his own way to you, should be the minimum requirement.

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
03
His Late Bills
Hold up. Wait a minute. This one’s a no-brainer. Paying bills is grown folks’ responsibility 101. Of course it’s tempting to bail a brother out when you love and care for him and he’s struggling financially, but before you do, ask yourself one thing: Is this a one-time mistake or a reoccurring problem?
Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
04
His Meals
Go Dutch or go home. That should be the policy for shared dining experiences unless he has already offered to wine and dine you. Picking up the dinner tab is the beginning of a fast fall down a slipper slope for new couples. Think about it!
Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
05
His Mistakes

Sometimes even the greatest guys carry a heavy load and lots of baggage with them. While it may not be worthy of passing judgment on your part, remember that if his past is interfering with your future together, that’s one major red flag. (Especially if it’s costing you cash.)

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
06
A Vacation

While those last minute vacation deal emails may tempt your inbox daily, you should think twice before splurging on a getaway for two before you’re positive that the love is real at home. Stick to weekend getaways or splitting the bill to protect your bank accounts, heart and peace of mind.

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
07
His Time

If he’s not anxiously awaiting your next great date, tempting him with an offer to fund the moment it won’t make it right. Any man who needs to hear “It’s on me” to show up for you, isn’t much of a man at all.

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
08
An Expensive Birthday Or Holiday Gift
Save the celebratory splurges for later — you don’t need to make a grand (financial) gesture to show him you’re committed to your new love.
Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
09
His Wardrobe

Women often enjoy shopping for their men, it’s normal. We get it. But ladies, please be clear on the difference between buying him that slim fit blazer you spotted that he’ll love and being the bank for a full-fledged shopping spree.

Just Started Dating? These Are 8 Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For
Getty Images
TOPICS:  Dating Advice