Navigating family dynamics around birthdays can quickly turn into a minefield when finances aren’t discussed upfront.

One woman found herself roped into planning her husband’s birthday dinner, but her mother-in-law blindsided her when she was suddenly expected to cover the cost too.

Read on for the full story.

I need help… my mother in law asked if i’m okay paying for a dinner for 8 people?

My mother-in-law texted me a few weeks ago to invite some of my husband’s friends to a surprise birthday dinner.

She gave me a list of people to invite and asked me to call and make the reservation, so I did, happily.

But then came a request that made her very uncomfortable.

She first asked me if I wanted to go splits on renting a luxury car for the day—which would be $1300!?

I told her I couldn’t afford that, especially as we have our own birthday plans made (we’re going away for the weekend).

I’m not rich by any means, lol.

The mother-in-law springs it on her last minute.

It’s a few days before our reservation, and she randomly texted me asking if I’m going to need help paying for dinner for everyone???

Is this normal? I can’t afford this. What the heck do I say to that?

I feel so uncomfortable. AITA if I tell her everyone can pay for themselves?

Now this is just plain unfair.

Reddit is sure to have some strong opinions on this.

This user offers a helpful script to get the ball rolling.

Being responsible shouldn’t be confused with being rude.

This mother-in-law needs to understand that she can’t get away with this kind of behavior.

This mother-in-law doesn’t deserve a shred of sympathy here.

A surprise cake is one thing, but a surprise bill is another.

If you thought that was an interesting story, check this one out about a man who created a points system for his inheritance, and a family friend ends up getting almost all of it.