FAQs
When you say no, don't offer explanations or excuses. Doing so only opens the door to a discussion and prompts your friend or family member to try to overcome your objections. Say, “I'm sorry, but I can't give you a loan.” When the person asks, “Why not?” just repeat your statement.
How do you say no if someone asks to borrow something? ›
“Keep it simple, 'I know this is a tough time and I am so sorry I am unable to help. '” This, of course, can be more complicated if the person asking is someone you truly care for, but if you don't have the extra funds or simply prefer not to lend the money, Smith said it's fine to politely decline.
How to stop family members from asking for money? ›
Tips For Dealing With Family Who Ask For Money Constantly:
- 1-Start saying no. This won't be easy, but the sooner you stop loaning money to family members, the sooner they will stop asking for it. ...
- 2-Provide alternatives. ...
- 3-Procrastinate. ...
- 4-Don't borrow money from family.
If I don't want to give money to someone who asks me, rather than go past and ignore him, I will look at the person and kindly say, “I'm sorry, I don't have any money.” Typically, the person will respond politely with “God bless you” or “Have a nice day,” and then move on to the next person.
How do you politely refuse to lend money? ›
Be clear about your 'no' e.g. “I'm sorry, my friend, but I can't lend you money.” You don't have to offer an excuse. Express your gratitude, e.g. “That you've asked for help with money does means a lot to me.”
How do you say "no money" in a nice way? ›
Different ways to say you don't have enough money for personal relationships:
- I'm a bit low on funds.
- I'm a bit short on cash at the moment.
- I'm broke.
- I can't afford it.
- I'm strapped for cash.
DON'T EXPLAIN OR MAKE EXCUSES.
Doing so only opens the door to a discussion and prompts your friend or family member to try to overcome your objections. Say, “I'm sorry, but I can't give you a loan.” When the person asks, “Why not?” just repeat your statement. Eventually, your friend or family member will stop asking.
How do you politely say no when someone asks for something? ›
Say No and Apologize
- Sorry, but I'm swamped (busy) right now!
- Sorry, but it just won't work for me.
- Sorry, but I have something else.
- Sorry, but I can't make it.
- My apologies, but I can't right now.
- My apologies, but it's not possible.
- I don't think it will work. I'm sorry.
- I can't. My apologies.
Be clear on how much money you're willing to gift or lend. If you're not comfortable being a revolving piggy bank, let your relative know you're willing to help them one time, then they need to find another option. Say, “I am willing to help you; however, I don't want this to happen regularly.
How do you set boundaries with family asking for money? ›
Setting Healthy Financial Boundaries with Family Members
- Identify those seeking recurring financial requests.
- Be brutally honest about your feelings.
- Ask yourself the right question.
- Address the family member's situation realistically.
- Breaking the Cycle of Financial Dependency Can Lead to Positive Changes.
It may be a good idea to say no to someone who asks for money if you truly can't afford to give it or if you believe the money will be wasted on wants vs. needs. You should also consider saying no if you suspect the money will be used for illegal purposes.
Should I let a family member borrow money? ›
If you have to overextend your credit or risk not paying your own bills to provide a family member money, it's probably not the right decision to lend it. You don't want to put yourself in the position to have to be the next family member asking to borrow money because you were too generous.
How do you politely say no to beggars? ›
A flat “No” to their request might seem rude and uncaring. Instead, try something like, “I'd like to help, but I don't have any cash.” It's respectful, and it allows you to avoid feeling like a villain. Ask the beggar what they need. You could give your spare change, but you can't control what it will be used for.
How to respond to a stranger asking for money? ›
Ok there are three main approaches to this scenario.
- flat out say no and ask them to go away.
- Be polite and say no sorry I just spent it(even if you have a wallet full)
- Or don't even answer the question and just ask them to go.
You can also respond “no”, or “sorry”. If you feel the need to offer something, consider offering water or a gift card for food. To make an impact, consider redirecting your generosity by donating to local organizations that provide valuable services to the unsheltered.
How to politely decline a request for money? ›
DON'T EXPLAIN OR MAKE EXCUSES.
Doing so only opens the door to a discussion and prompts your friend or family member to try to overcome your objections. Say, “I'm sorry, but I can't give you a loan.” When the person asks, “Why not?” just repeat your statement. Eventually, your friend or family member will stop asking.
How do you respond to a stranger asking for money? ›
Ok there are three main approaches to this scenario.
- flat out say no and ask them to go away.
- Be polite and say no sorry I just spent it(even if you have a wallet full)
- Or don't even answer the question and just ask them to go.
Here are a few variations to practice:
- Thanks for thinking of me. I can't right now/I can't make it/I can't attend.
- I'm at capacity right now, so I will decline. Thanks for understanding.
- No, not at this time.
A flat “No” to their request might seem rude and uncaring. Instead, try something like, “I'd like to help, but I don't have any cash.” It's respectful, and it allows you to avoid feeling like a villain. Ask the beggar what they need. You could give your spare change, but you can't control what it will be used for.
