I was poor earlier in life. Spending the $50 does nothing to make someone not feel poor but it does, in some way, medicate the feeling. It's the same reason some wealthier people I've met have bought new iPhones and computers every time the next generation rolls around. There isn't a need for it beyond an emotional benefit. But those are important because life is a balancing act. When you're poor you know you're an inch away from being homeless and it weighs heavily. A night of having fun might be temporary but it's memorable and helps tip the scale towards sanity, even if more economically prudent decisions would help in the long term.

Recognizing everyone is different, the question is, how much hardship can you endure before you just give up?

"It's the same reason some wealthier people I've met have bought new iPhones and computers every time the next generation rolls around."

If wealthy people would only spend their money wisely there wouldn't be a need for things like inheritance tax breaks and family trusts to prop up their wealth. :D

If you're on SSI, you're not allowed more than 2k in savings and assets. Other assistance programs also have asset limits.

And a splurge for the impoverished isn't '$50 here and there'. My last 'splurge' was 12 dollars for a pair of fleece lined tights so I don't freeze on my way in to work (I walk to work). Or 3-4 bucks at McD's once every two weeks or so.

There’s a difference between being part of the working poor and on SSI. I don’t think there should be benefits cliffs of course, and that’s a different problem than what I was envisioning of eg someone who makes $15-30k/yr working a low wage job or jobs.

The $50 figure was what I was replying to. I don’t see how inexpensive clothes or $4 at McD’s is a splurge.

> I don’t see how inexpensive clothes or $4 at McD’s is a splurge.

I'm supporting 2 people on 15/hr. Those are splurges. The 'splurge' is not being cold for 15 minutes on my way to work or having a night where I can choose what to eat for dinner.