What to Do When a Relative Constantly Borrows Money and Never Pays It Back

If someone has borrowed money multiple times and never repaid, stop framing it as lending — they have shown you it is giving. Continuing to "lend" while hoping this time will be different just builds resentment on both sides. You feel used; they feel pressured. The dynamic poisons the relationship far more than honest boundary-setting ever would.

Set a clear boundary: "I am not able to lend money anymore, but I am happy to help in other ways." If you do decide to give, set an amount you can afford to lose and call it what it is — a gift, not a loan. Protecting the relationship means protecting yourself from resentment. A painful conversation now prevents years of silent bitterness later.