Are you being tested on dates? One woman’s story has the internet buz

First dates can already be nerve-racking, but for one woman, an otherwise ordinary evening took an unexpected—and unsettling—turn.

After a pleasant dinner, her date slid the check toward her and asked, "Is it alright if you pay for this?"

Not wanting to make a scene, she agreed.


That’s when he grinned and told her, "Congratulations, you passed the test! You’re not a gold digger."

Yes, you read that right.


pexels-photo-5911300.jpeg
Navigating the world of modern dating can bring unexpected surprises—sometimes not the good kind. Image Source: Pexels / Katerina Holmes.


The "gold digger test" raises eyebrows

Apparently, this wasn’t a fluke.

The man later admitted that he regularly uses this "test" to weed out women who might be after his money—a habit he says stems from a bad past relationship.

But instead of earning points for cleverness, he quickly lost her respect.

"You’re not some prize that I need to pass tests for," she told him, adding that his behavior made her feel judged, not valued.


She later shared the experience online, sparking an avalanche of reactions.

Many were outraged, calling the tactic manipulative and immature.

One commenter wrote, "If he needs to test someone, maybe he’s not ready to date."

Another added, "If he’s accusing women of being gold diggers, he better have some gold."


Also read:
From flirty texts to graceful goodbyes—how AI can support your love life at any age

Why games like this don’t belong in dating

For many, dating is about building trust, not playing mind games.

Secret tests like this often say more about the tester’s insecurities than the other person’s character.

And let’s be honest—who wants to go on a date just to be put under a microscope?

Open communication is always the better approach.

If finances are a concern, discuss them. If you prefer to split the bill, say so.

What matters is honesty and mutual respect, not traps and tricks.


Source: YouTube / TODAY

Also read: Where love begins: 12 first-date stories that you’ll fall in love and laugh with

The bill debate: A tale as old as time

The question of who pays has long been part of dating culture.

Traditionally, men often picked up the tab.

Today, many prefer to split the check or take turns.

What’s most important is that both people feel comfortable with the arrangement.

It’s not about passing a test—it’s about sharing a moment.

Know the signs: Warning signs to watch for

The "gold digger test" is one of many warning signs that can show up early in dating.

Others include:

  • Secret tests or manipulation: If someone is setting traps rather than building a connection, take note.
  • Comparing you to an ex: You're not their past partner, and you shouldn't be treated like a stand-in.
  • Lack of respect or poor communication: If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, don't ignore it.


Source: YouTube / Steve TV Show


You deserve to be treated with dignity and kindness.

If something feels off, it probably is!

Read next: Protect your heart and wallet: The truth behind the romance scam claiming countless victims

Key Takeaways
  • A woman shared that she ended contact with a man after he performed a "gold digger test" during their first date, asking her to pay the bill and revealing it was a test after she did.
  • The man claimed he routinely tests dates due to past relationship issues, but the woman said it was unfair and disrespectful to treat her like his ex.
  • The story went viral on social media, where many commenters slammed the man's behavior as manipulative and immature.
  • The incident reignited discussions about trust, communication, and red flags in modern dating, especially among older adults navigating the dating world.

Have you ever been put through a "test" on a date? How do you feel about splitting the bill or dating etiquette in general? We’d love to hear your stories and thoughts. After all, the only test you should have to pass on a date is whether you enjoy each other’s company!
 

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