ArcaMax

I agree with your choice to refuse this. You should once again notify your friend (preferably in writing -- keep a copy) that you don't want to be named, and also tell him that, furthermore, if he goes against your wishes you will refuse any proceeds, and so he should name contingent beneficiaries. One hopes his children might receive some money after his death; given the high-drama in his family, unfortunately this might not happen.

Dear Amy: I am a 20-year-old college student home for the summer, working full time.

The people with whom I work celebrate birthdays by throwing " parties" throughout the year. Everyone is expected to contribute money.

I am only working here full time until September, and I am saving money so that I can pay for my student loans, rent, groceries, etc., while I am at school.

I didn't mind chipping in $5 dollars for the first party (even though I did not eat the food they bought because of food allergies), but my boss just asked me to chip in $11 for the next one!

I am only here for a short time and I don't want to rock the boat.

I also don't want to be the only one who doesn't contribute, but I think it is ridiculous to expect that much, just to throw an office birthday party for a co-worker.

Should I offer to bring in some sort of baked good instead? Or should I just suck it up and chip in the money?

-- Broke College Student

Dear Broke: Like most people I have faced various predicaments related to being completely, partially, or merely uncomfortably broke. Like most people, I have tried a variety of responses to this condition, including making up excuses, outright lying, hiding, or faking it until I made it.

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