DEAR ABBY: I am a single person who recently took a trip to an important sporting event with two married couples. My question: What should my share be when it comes to expenses?
For instance, it cost $20 to park our van. Should I pay one-third of the cost with each married couple paying a third? Or should I pay one-fifth of the cost -- with each person paying one-fifth?
I paid one-third of the parking and gas bill. Was this justified, or should I mention to the couples that I am only one-fifth of the group? -- WISCONSINITE
DEAR WISCONSINITE: Unless you are on a very tight budget, assume one-third of the expenses. Otherwise, "take the fifth."