Dealing with someone who keeps asking for money isn’t easy, particularly if they are a close family member or friend. It’s hard to say that you won’t help out, especially if you know that there struggling. But the constant requests can get tiresome, leaving you frustrated and annoyed. Thankfully, there is a way to deal with someone who keeps asking for money without having to be outright rude. Here’s how to do it.
Offer a Straightforward “No”
If someone keeps asking you for money and you don’t want to provide any, don’t be ambiguous about your decision. If you aren’t abundantly clear, the person may think that a bit more prodding will change your mind, causing them to continue to ask, hoping that you’ll give in to the request.
Make sure that you explicitly say “no” when you respond. You can make it apologetic or soften your reply, such as by saying, “I’m sorry, but, no, I can’t give you money,” as long as “no” is part of the equation.
Additionally, avoid phrases like “right now” or “at the moment.” Adding those in makes it seem like you can’t give them money today but might be able to do so later. Since you want to be definitive, make sure you don’t hedge when you respond.
Point Them to Financial Resources
Numerous requests for money suggest that the person may have issues handling their finances. By directly them to the right resources, they may be able to get critical support that gets them onto the right track.
A reputable credit counseling agency could be a solid choice. Along with offering guidance and assistance with activities like budgeting, some credit counseling agencies can also help work with lenders to create payment plans to eliminate debt more quickly.
For financial emergencies, pointing the person to local government social services organizations may be wise, particularly if they are low-income. They may qualify for food or medical assistance, for example, allowing them to make ends meet with greater ease.
Local non-profits may also be able to lend emergency assistance. Some religious or community-oriented organizations can provide support, so they are worth exploring.
Offer Something Other Than Cash
If you’re inclined to help but can’t give them money, it’s okay to offer something else. For example, if they say that they’re having trouble buying food, you could check your pantry for items you can spare and give them instead of money. You could also offer to cook a few extra portions of upcoming, freezer-friendly meals and provide those.
Consider the reason behind their request for money. If you don’t want to offer cash but can provide support in that area, then it’s okay to use that as an alternative solution.
Additionally, you could also offer to help them tackle their finances. If budgeting or side hustles are your strength, see if they’d like some guidance. You could also assist them with arranging a garage sale or listing items for sale online, letting them bring in some cash quickly. That way, you can potentially resolve the issue purely through services instead of with money.
Arrange an Exchange
If your primary concern is giving cash as a gift or loan, then consider using another approach. For example, you could offer to pay the person for their assistance in an area that aligns with their expertise or skills.
Even something simple like having them run an errand or mow your lawn for money is worth considering. That way, they have to earn what’s provided, altering the overall paradigm and turning it into an exchange instead of a gift or loan.
Have you had to deal with someone who keeps asking for money? If so, how did you go about it? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More:
- 51 Reasons I Won’t Lend Money to Friends and Family
- Politely Say “No” to Cosigning Your Kid’s Student Loans
- Lend Money to Yourself to Fix Even the Worst Credit
If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. Check out these helpful tools to help you save more. For investing advice, visit The Motley Fool.
Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.
Comments