Dealing with cheap people can be a challenge, especially if you are on the receiving end. However, there are ways to handle such situations gracefully and maintain friendly relationships. Here are 15 steps that will help you deal with cheap people:

1. Understand their perspective: Try to empathize and see the situation from their eyes. There could be reasons for their frugality such as past financial struggles or upbringing.

2. Focus on the positives: There could be other qualities in the person that you might appreciate, try to focus on those aspects instead.

3. Express your concerns: If you feel that their frugality is causing problems, don’t hesitate to have an open and honest conversation about how it impacts your relationship.

4. Set boundaries: Maintain clear boundaries when it comes to finances in the relationship. For instance, decide beforehand how bills will be split or who will pay for certain expenses.

5. Be assertive: Stand firm on your boundaries and let them know that you will not compromise on certain matters.

6. Don’t absorb all costs: It’s important to share the expenses with the person instead of covering up everything for them – this includes not consistently tipping extra at a restaurant or paying for outings repeatedly.

7. Pick low-cost activities: Choose activities that suit both your budgets so that they don’t feel the need to be miserly and everyone can enjoy together.

8. Respect their lifestyle choice: Not everyone sees money in the same light, so allow them to express their views and respect their choices, avoiding any criticisms or judgments.

9. Offer assistance with budgeting or finances: If they’re open to it, help them find ways in which they can save more effectively without being overly cheap.

10. Be proactive when planning events or outings: Instead of waiting for them to make decisions based on cost, suggest ideas upfront which cater to all budgets.

11. Keep the financial talk separate: Avoid discussing personal finances frequently in social settings, as it might create unnecessary tension and take the focus away from the bonding experience.

12. Choose neutral ground for discussions: Use a neutral location to discuss financial matters or any grievances related to their stinginess.

13. Be patient: Change doesn’t happen overnight; give them time to adjust their behavior and don’t push too hard.

14. Seek professional help if necessary: If the person’s cheapness is causing significant issues, consider seeking external help in addressing the problem, such as a therapist or counselor.

15. Accept that there might be limitations: Understand that some people may never change their frugal ways, so be prepared to compromise in certain situations rather than trying to change them completely. Remember, relationships are built on mutual understanding and accepting each other’s imperfections.