the only stupid question is one not asked. Ask. (or Axe. Depending...)
do I need to give him the whole story or just say how much does it pay?
why not just walk in and say... hi, im looking for a job doing *this*, i need *this* salary... remember, they need you... not the other way around.
yeah, technically thats true, i am currently working, so while my situation is not ideal, i have at least some money coming in
I wouldn't give them 'the wholllle story.' An employer won't look keenly on a sob story. Just state your minimum salary requirement... what kind of offer it would take you to leave your current job for the new job. That way it'll actually look more professional than if you hadn't put down a salary requirement. If you don't get... remember it as being their loss... and there must be another opportunity out there giving you what you need.