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My mom asked me for a $500 loan and I didn't know what to say
She called me last night saying her car needed a new battery and she was short on cash until her next check. I mean, I have the money in my savings, but it just feels weird. She's helped me out before, but I'm also trying to save for a house. How do you say no to a parent without feeling guilty?
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blair_stone71mo ago
Tell her you can cover half as a gift, not a loan. That way you help but also set a clear limit. I did that with my dad for a tire repair and it stopped the awkward money talk later. It protects your savings goal while still being there for her.
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dylan_rodriguez1mo ago
Half for a tire repair is way more than I'd ever give my dad lol.
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gray1171mo ago
Honestly, that half-as-a-gift idea is smart for a one-time thing. But what if it's never just one thing? I've seen this turn into a pattern - next it's half the phone bill, then half a prescription. You have to ask yourself if you're helping with a crisis or quietly starting to pay a monthly bill they didn't tell you about. The limit has to be for the year, not just the single ask.
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