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My sister's 'emergency' loan request from last Christmas still hasn't been paid back.
I used to just hand over cash whenever family asked, no questions asked (you know, trying to be the 'good' sibling). Now, after my sister in Portland borrowed $500 for a 'car repair' that turned into a new TV, I make everyone sign a simple payment plan on a napkin. It feels cold, but it's the only way to keep holidays from getting weird. Has anyone else had to make a hard rule like this with a specific family member?
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tylers725mo ago
Portland must have some really expensive TVs. Honestly, the napkin contract is genius, it's like a polite way of saying you've been burned before. I had to start a "no loans, only gifts" rule with my cousin after the third "I'll pay you back next week" turned into next year. It feels awkward for about five minutes, but then you stop stressing about your own money.
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diana_moore754mo ago
Has anyone thought about what happens when you desperately need the money yourself? If your sister can't pay back a $500 loan right now, she won't be able to pay you back during a real emergency either. The napkin idea just helps you figure out who to trust before things get really serious.
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christopherb245mo ago
Man, I just couldn't do that with my family. The napkin thing would start a bigger fight than the money.
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