To think this is rude?

[PinkRiceKrispies]

Colleague was talking about benefits and support from the government. She turned to me and said 'Do you get help ?"
Anyone else think this is inappropriate? I felt really embarrassed

Yes it's rude. What did you say?

Yes it’s rude, it’s none of her business and I’d have declined to answer on that basis.

Very rude!

I just read this to my sister who works in a large shop where everyone gets minimum wage and she laughed at me and said, “you’d be too la di da to answer that - that’d be normal in my staff room.”

I’m with you though - rude!

I work in a kind of minimum wage job and have chronic illness so was probably curious but still very inappropriate. I just said no and then said I needed to get on. Have a feeling she will ask more questions though. Can't believe some people

It is rude to ask about someone's personal finances but even if you did/do claim benefits it's nothing to be ashamed of so no need to feel embarrassed.

Do you mind me asking why it embarrassed you? Genuine question as I wouldn't bat an eyelid if someone asked me that and I'm always interested to know what's going on in other people's heads - hence being on MN!

Maybe she didn’t mean it rude, maybe she’s struggling and wondering if theirs more help she could claim. I don’t work and don’t get any benefits but also I don’t live off my husband. Most people think I live off my husband and often question where my money comes from. I just laugh and say Santa or tooth fairy as none of their business but I’m not offended when people ask.

If she asks again, reply with “that’s quite a personal question, why do you need to know?”

I don't like talking about money. It's a personal question and I don't want to be talking about my financial situation even if others are happy to do so with her.