Our goal is the present research is twofold. First, we seek to replicate earlier findings that prior spending influences current spending decisions. Second, we attempt to understand which of the two components of spending—acquisition liability or payments—drives of the aversive impact of the prior spending. We achieve these objectives using two studies— one controlled laboratory experiment and one field study. Both studies were based on purchasing situations in which acquisition liabilities accrued over a certain period of time and payments were made at a later point in time.