Money tends to be a touchy topic with many people, and there are some who consider discussing it rude or off limits. If you aren't sure how cool someone is about discussing finances, either don't bring it up or wade into the shallow end by making a generic statement and then watching the person's reaction.

Questions About Money

Questions about money can make someone squirm, particularly if they are personal.

If you want to know the average wage of a specific career, you are better off doing an Internet search to get a wider range rather than come across as a nosy friend.

Here are some basic etiquette rules you should always follow when talking about finances:

• Never ask a person how much money he or she makes.
• Don't ask someone how much she paid for her house or car.
• Avoid asking specific questions about someone's family or personal budget.

When someone else asks questions that are none of his or her business, never feel obligated to tell personal information. State that this is not open for discussion and change the subject. That sends a very clear and direct message without sarcasm.

Some companies have policies against discussing salary, and breaking the rules may have severe consequences such as dismissal from the position or a written reprimand that will go in the worker's file. However, even if your company doesn't address this issue, you are better off not discussing your salary with the person in the next cubicle, regardless of how curious you may be, even if you have a close relationship.

His or her income has nothing to do with you.

Borrowing and Lending Money

One way to alienate friends is to ask be one of those people who always asks to borrow money. Since finances are such a personal issue, going to a friend when you are in need of some funds can be quite stressful. Remember that once you blur the lines of personal friendship and a business deal, you may never be able to take your relationship back to where it was before you borrowed the money.

Generally it's best to avoid borrowing money from a friend, but if you don't see any other way out of a financial hole, follow these rules:

• Set up a repayment plan with interest.
• Have everything in writing and signed by both parties.
• Never miss a single payment
• If possible, pay the person back early.

If a friend asks to borrow money from you, don't feel obligated to say yes. As awkward as it may be, you should never put your own hard-earned money in jeopardy. Encourage your friend to seek other alternatives, including banks, loan companies, and maybe even family members. You may even offer to help the person come up with a budget to prevent needing loans in the future.

Asking for Donations

All of us have friends who like to collect money for various causes. We have a choice when we see them coming. We can hide, pull out our checkbook, or stand firm and let them know we are unable to contribute at this time. If you are the friend asking for the donation, stop there and thank the person anyway.

If you are the one being asked, and the person continues to beg for the money, say you have already given your answer and would appreciate changing the subject. The person taking the collection should honor your wishes. If not, ask the person to call you after the campaign is over to send a stronger message that you are unable to contribute or not interested.

Paying the Bill

Whether you are dining out with friends or going to a movie, when it comes time to pay, you may feel awkward. The best way to avoid this is to decide before you go out how the check will be divvied. Often the person who invites the other offers to pay. However, you may agree to split the check down the middle or ask for separate checks. Remember to include the tip in your discussion. Doing this up front helps prevent uncomfortable shuffling and awkwardness that can ruin an otherwise delightful evening.