Don't bring up finances on first date

Dear Dave,

I've been following your plan, and I've finally gotten out of debt and feel I have control of my finances. I'm also single, and I was wondering if you have any tips for how to gracefully mention financial topics and budgeting when you're on a date.

Paula

Dear Paula,

Well, I don't recommend bringing it up on a first date. If I'm a guy on the initial date with a girl and the first thing out of her mouth is about finances and handling money, that's going to be pretty strange.

Now, if the first date turns into another and another and another, then you might start talking about the deeper things in life and where you both stand. As you start talking about more serious subjects, you'll begin to learn if there's enough of a basis for a real relationship. 

But the first date is just sort of an introduction, right? You're both seeing if there's any initial, mutual compatibility. Asking someone how much they make, or where they are on their debt snowball in this scenario is officially weird—even by my standards. In other words, use manners and tact. They may be old fashioned words these days, but in most cases they work well.

-Dave

Dave Ramsey is America's trusted voice on money and business. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover,EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 6 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.