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This research dealt with the effects of inequity in close relationships upon dissatisfaction, and with the moderating role of communal orientation – an individual difference variable reflecting a sensitivity to the needs of others, and a desire that others respond to one’s own needs. Study 1 employed a correlational design with a global equity measure, and showed that, as predicted, inequity was related to relational dissatisfaction particularly among individuals low in communal orientation. Study 2 was a vignette experiment, which showed that inequity with respect to household tasks was more aversive to individuals low rather than high in communal orientation. These findings underline the importance of communal orientation as an individual difference characteristic affecting satisfaction with intimate relations.