I haven’t done this in several years since the advent of Venmo/Square Cash/Paypal. Has made the bill-splitting, paying for piano lessons, etc. much simpler. Also I love having a record to go back to if needed (especially when dealing with kids!) and it is so easy/quick to do. Really have almost no need of cash ever.

Unless it’s tax-deductible, why would you want a record? If you pay cash to a restaurant that you know, they’re more likely to give you a discount and/or perks. Cash makes small businesses happy. No transaction fees, tips get paid directly, maybe lower other expenses, who knows?

I’d probably pay the piano teacher in checks since I’d need to 1099 anyway.