#15 Taking Friends Out “On the Government”

Plenty of unemployed people will bemoan their situations and make every effort to remind their friends and family that they’re struggling to make ends meet without a job “in this economy”. Then there are the cool unemployed people who will make every effort to make light of their situation so as not to burden said friends and family with guilt for still being employed. These are the types of people who will gladly insist they cover the bill for dinner or drinks. “Don’t worry, I’m not paying for it. This meal is on the government,” they’ll say, acting as if their once disposable income didn’t slip through their hands like a buttered baby. 

If you come across one of the cool unemployed people, take them up on their offer and don’t feel bad about it. Think of it this way, while he or she is collecting regular unemployment checks every two weeks, you’re the one actually struggling to make ends meet as your company (on the brink of collapse) continues to miss payroll, leaving you scrambling to pay rent, bills, and past due loans. You deserve a treat. Plus you’ve given your friend a reason to get showered, dressed, and out of the house and that earns you a drink. 

Just remember to be careful, if you’re quick to judge them for abusing unemployment benefits, you will likely not get another chance at a free meal. In fact, such behavior could lead to your friend purposely saving all the unemployed complaining for your ears only. Also try not to be greedy and expect the tab to be picked up every time; the government still has plenty of other things to pay for, like a new clothes, a video game console, matinee movies (while everyone else is working, ha ha!), or a weekend getaway.

Tags: abusing unemployment benefits, on the government, unemployment check