So How Much Money Do You Have, Exactly?

I was on this date once where the guy snatched a bank statement out of my wallet as I was pulling out some cash. He did it playfully but I felt pretty violated, and judging by his reaction, he was less than impressed with my balance. Salary snooping is a red flag that you're dating someone who's looking for some payola.

Be aware that this financial skullduggery can be overt like that loser I lusted after or more subtle, like the dude who merely peers over your shoulder at the bank teller or glances at your credit card statement.

Are We Moving Too Fast?

If you feel that your lover is trying to insinuate themselves into your life too quickly, it could be a sign that they're craving your coinage. Attempting to move into your stylish and expensive condo two weeks after hooking up might be cause for concern, for example. They may suggest "buying" a car together -- even though it's you who will be making the payments and they'll cover just the insurance.

Or it could be the pressure to marry before you're ready to take the plunge. There is a very simple way to catch out this gold digger. In a word: pre-nup. The minute you suggest it, the money moocher will act defensively and say that pre-nups aren't romantic, using any tactic not to sign one.

A Final Thought

Use these techniques with caution. Paying for things here and there is fine so long as there is a balance. It's when you feel like you are his or her walking cash machine that you should be suspicious. Protect yourself by maintaining your financial independence.

Keep your own bank account and approach joint accounts and credit cards with caution. And, as always, the best way to deal with your hunch is to hash it out with them. That way, there can be no misunderstanding, and you won't throw away a good relationship by mistake.