Friends & family
How to ask your roommate to pay their share of bills
You’re talking to Kai, your roommate. You’ve covered the electric and internet for two months. Kai keeps saying “I’ll send it Friday.” The goal: say the exact amount, get a specific payment date, and agree on a plan so it doesn’t happen again.
Your first line
“Hey Kai, can we talk about the bills for a sec? Your share of electric and wifi for two months is $170. When can you pay it?”
One request: the exact amount, what it covers and a direct question about when. Calm, in person and with no sarcasm.
What Kai might say, and what to say back
Kai: “Yeah, I’ll send it Friday.”
You: “You’ve said Friday a few times, and I get it, things come up. What can you send tonight, and what date for the rest?”
Kai: “Money’s been kind of tight, honestly.”
You: “Thanks for telling me, no judgment. Could you do half tonight and the rest on your next payday?”
Kai: “Can’t we just square up at the end of the month?”
You: “I’d rather not let it build up again. Can we put the bills in a split app so it happens on its own?”
Two things that trip people up
- Sarcasm like “must be nice,” or piling on dishes and guests.Stick to the bills: the amount, what it covers, and a date.
- Accepting “Friday” one more time with no amount.Ask what they can pay now, get a real date for the rest, and agree on a plan going forward.
Now say it out loud
Reading the words isn’t the same as saying them. Practice this one with Kai pushing back like the real person would. Then your coach, June, fixes your exact words. The move to focus on: One request.
Practice this one free3 free reps a day. No sign-up. Out loud or typed.