Venmo net balance between two people

Yesterday I opened Venmo for the first time in what felt like years. Looking at the social feed felt like a time capsule of friends from a bygone era (college). Somehow, many of them seem stuck in a perpetual loop of paying each other back for Chiptole.

I dislike Venmo. Part of this comes from my experience working at Cash App, but also I’ve been lucky enough to have some financial success and I don’t want to split hairs over a burrito. If I hang out with a friend I’m happy to buy dinner, they can get the next one (or they don’t even need to!).

However, some people might capitalize on their generous friends. If you allow this to continue unmoderated for long enough, charges can add up. Per a suggestion from an Instagram follower, I played the tape forward on this and visualized what it might look like if there was a ledger that showed the lifetime amounts paid, received, and “earned” between two accounts.

This brings a whole new meaning to the term “one-sided relationship”. If this feature existed I’m certain some people would be alarmed at how many times they’ve footed the bill for Taco Bell. This would drastically change the dynamics when initiating a new charge on Venmo and might make things more even over time.

Have a friend who hasn’t paid you much on Venmo? Send them this newsletter.

https://sorens.beehiiv.com/