By: Natasha Archary
As beneficial as a bae allowance is, no one should feel under pressure to make provision for this in a relationship.
Last week, the Kaya Drive team discussed how more men are becoming “woke” to being misused just for money.
That said, Boity Thulo definitely set the benchmark for the monthly amount she’s willing to accept in a relationship.
In 2021, the businesswoman revealed that a R450 000 bae allowance would be suitable for her.
Yes, despite her independent wealth, Boity said considering her lifestyle and her needs, R450K would be a start.
Other South African celebrities like Mihlali Ndamase, also spoke out about receiving an allowance of no less than R100K a month.
The demand for a bae allowance
While the amounts that Boity and Mihlali are accustomed to may seem ridiculous to some, there are women who agree that it’s reasonable.
“It costs money to maintain their looks and if a man wants to be with a woman who looks and dresses her best at all times, why must he benefit from that without offering her anything?”
Financial support in relationships is one of the most controversial discussions and couples can and often do part ways because they can’t agree on the matter.
It is to some, a dated practice which has no standing in this day and age as women are more financially independent and can and should support themselves.
With more men speaking out against the pressure to accommodate their partner’s financially, it may be wrong to set this expectation as a standard in your relationships.
While the demand for a bae allowance is still high, there are a few women who say they will never rely on a man to account for her upkeep.
“What I will never put myself through is having a man disrespect me because he’s giving me money. I will never want to hear, ‘you will have nothing if it wasn’t for me!’ So, as much as it would be nice, I’m not going to demand it or ask.”
Vice versa
Many people are adopting this principle in relationships “just as you do not owe him the duty of cooking his meals or spoiling him with wifey duties, your partner isn’t obligated to give you money.”
For a lot of men, being seen as a personal ATM machine in their relationships is mentally and emotionally draining. It’s why so many are reluctant to get into relationships today and would rather enjoy the perks of mjolo without the commitment.
Also read: Are you in a financially abusive relationship? Expert answers
