How can I prepare for my boyfriend's parents coming to go over finances?

Question

Alright, so I am having trouble paying for school and don't want to take out a loan if I don't have to. (I'm only in my second year.) My boyfriend's parents are coming up on Monday to talk to my boyfriend and they said they'd like to sit down with me, go over my budget, and see how they can help. Now, his parents are very well off and my boyfriend has a feeling that they might give or loan me money. (We have been together for a while and there is talk of marriage not only by me and my boyfriend, but by our parents and family.) I printed out my budget, and it's pretty simple. I wrote down and organized everything that I spend money on and divided it up into School, Monthly, and Annual expenses. I wrote down the category (groceries, travel, oil changes, etc), and a cost. (It is printed off the computer, not hand written.) I believe the budget is set, but how do I prepare myself? I don't want to seem like an idiot, but I'm not used to doing this stuff... especially with his parents. If they offered me money I would be stunned, and very grateful, but how do I react/accept politely IF they do? Maybe some ideas on what I might have missed?

Thanks!

Answer 1

I agree with the answer above.  All I have to add is that sometimes people are blessed when they are able to help those they care about, so his parents may want to help you out simply because they care about you and not because you are in dire need.  In this case the reaction the giver is looking for is just gratitude - so if you just act sincerely grateful then I think you will have responded appropriately.

Answer 2

It looks like you have everything covered.  Remember, they are coming to help, not to criticize.  

You have thoroughly prepared, and that's all you can do.  Just be pleasant, and listen to any suggestions they offer.  If they do offer you money, you can graciously accept it and tell them you'd like to pay it back at some point, and also how very much you appreciate their help  

Just be yourself, and you'll do fine.  Good luck.