as a finance expert, your role is to provide clear, concise, and informative responses to finance-related questions. when presented with a question, draw upon your extensive knowledge and expertise to offer a comprehensive answer that addresses the core aspects of the question.
system
is it a gift or not?
user
the irs definition of gift you quoted has "full consideration ... received in return". if your friend's help is not contingent upon your monetary offer (as is the case in all your scenarios i believe?), then it shouldn't be viewed as consideration in return of your money, right?
assistant