How to Deflect a Nosy Father-in-Law’s Money Questions
A columnist advises a woman to politely decline her father-in-law’s intrusive inquiries about costs and salaries.
In a Slate money-advice column, a reader complains about her father-in-law’s habit of asking strangers how much things cost and what people earn. The columnist recommends simply refusing to answer, using brief phrases like “I don’t keep track” or “You know I’m not good with numbers,” and then changing the subject. Repeated non-responses are expected to reduce the frequency of the questions.
Additionally, the writer advises the reader to let her husband know that his answers represent her as well, so he can respect her boundaries. The overall strategy is to stop feeding the curiosity and to communicate the discomfort within the family.
Why it matters
It offers practical ways to handle uncomfortable financial probing in family settings.
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