35 Good Excuses for Not Giving Money

“Use these 35 polite, effective excuses when you’re asked for money but can’t or don’t want to give it”

There are times when you may be asked for money, but for various reasons, you’re unable or unwilling to give. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or someone else, declining can be uncomfortable. Knowing how to respond politely without offending the other person is key. This article explores 35 respectful, considerate, and practical excuses you can use when faced with such situations.

It’s important to know how to set boundaries without hurting relationships. We will help you craft the right responses when needed. By being prepared, you can protect your finances while maintaining your relationships.

From honest financial concerns to personal reasons, these 35 excuses are designed to help you refuse requests for money without creating friction. Learning how to say “no” when necessary is essential for preserving both your finances and your emotional well-being.

35 Good Excuses for Not Giving Money

•   “I’m working on saving for something important.
• “I’ve already committed my funds elsewhere.”
• “I don’t have extra money to give right now.”
• “I’m trying to cut back on expenses.”
• “I need to take care of some bills first.”
• “I have debts to pay off.”
• “I’m on a tight budget.”
• “I have a financial goal I’m focused on.”
• “I’ve had some unexpected expenses come up.”
• “I’m financially supporting someone else.”
• “I have upcoming payments I need to prepare for.”
• “I’m investing in my future.”
• “I’m dealing with a reduced income.”
• “I’m saving for an emergency fund.”
• “I need to keep my savings intact.”
• “I’m preparing for a big life change.”
• “I have personal financial responsibilities.”
• “I’ve already lent money to others.”
• “I’m trying to manage my expenses better.”
• “I need to prioritize my financial well-being.”
• “I don’t believe in lending money.”
• “I don’t want money to come between us.”
• “I’ve had bad experiences with lending before.”
• “I prefer to keep my finances private.”
• “I don’t feel comfortable lending money right now.”
• “I’ve been advised not to lend money.”
• “I don’t want to mix money with personal relationships.”
• “I’m not in a position to help financially.”
• “I don’t lend money as a policy.”
• “I’m focusing on long-term financial health.”
• “I prefer to give in other ways.”
• “I’ve set financial boundaries for myself.”
• “I’m trying to be more disciplined with my spending.”
• “I’ve had some financial setbacks.”
• “I’m focusing on paying off my debts.”

1. I’m on a tight budget right now

If you’re closely managing your finances, you can use this as a valid reason.

Example: “I’m sorry, but I’m on a tight budget and can’t lend any money at this time.”

2. I have some unexpected expenses coming up

Unexpected costs like repairs or medical bills can be legitimate reasons to say no.

Example: “I’ve had some unforeseen expenses come up, so I’m unable to help financially.”

3. I’m saving for something important

Saving for big goals, like a home or education, is a common reason to hold onto your money.

Example: “I’m currently saving for something important and can’t afford to give out money.”

4. I’ve already committed to other financial responsibilities

If you’ve promised financial assistance elsewhere, this is a good way to decline.

Example: “I’ve already committed financially to other responsibilities, so I can’t offer money right now.”

5. I’m working on building my emergency fund

Setting aside money for emergencies is a responsible financial move that others should respect.

Example: “I’m focusing on building my emergency fund, so I’m not able to lend money.”

6. I have a lot of bills to cover

This is a straightforward reason that most people can relate to.

Example: “I have a lot of bills to cover this month, so I can’t spare any extra money.”

7. I don’t mix finances with personal relationships

It’s okay to have a firm policy on money and relationships.

Example: “I have a rule not to mix finances with personal relationships to avoid complications.”

8. I’m cutting back on unnecessary expenses

This excuse shows that you’re being financially responsible and cautious.

Example: “I’m trying to cut back on unnecessary expenses, so I can’t lend money right now.”

9. I’m paying off debts

If you have debts, that should always be your priority.

Example: “I’m focusing on paying off my debts at the moment and can’t lend out any money.”

10. I’m saving for retirement

This is a long-term goal that requires consistent contributions, making it a valid excuse.

Example: “I’m putting money aside for my retirement, so I can’t lend out funds.”

11. I prefer not to lend money, but I can help in other ways

Offering non-financial support can be a helpful alternative.

Example: “I don’t feel comfortable lending money, but I’d be happy to assist in another way.”

12. I’m trying to live within my means

Living within your means is a responsible approach that many will understand.

Example: “I’m working hard to live within my means, so I’m not in a position to lend money.”

13. I’m focused on a big financial goal

If you have a significant goal, such as buying a house, this is a clear reason.

Example: “I’m saving for a big goal, so I can’t spare any funds at the moment.”

14. I don’t have the extra cash to lend

Sometimes, the simplest answer is the best one—being direct can often work well.

Example: “I don’t have any extra cash to lend right now, unfortunately.”

15. I’m financially planning for the future

Your future financial security is a solid reason not to lend.

Example: “I’m in the middle of planning for my future, so lending money isn’t an option.”

 Best Responses to “What’s Really Doing?”

16. I’m managing some financial setbacks

If you’ve faced a financial setback, this is a genuine reason to decline.

Example: “I’ve had some financial setbacks recently and can’t help with money.”

17. I’m focusing on building my savings

Building savings is crucial, and people usually respect that.

Example: “I’m currently focused on building my savings and can’t lend money.”

18. I don’t feel comfortable lending money

Honesty is often the best policy—state your discomfort directly.

Example: “I don’t feel comfortable lending money, but I hope you understand.”

19. I’ve been advised not to lend money

If financial advisors have warned you about lending, that can be a strong reason.

Example: “I’ve been advised not to lend money to protect my finances.”

20. I need to put myself first financially right now

It’s important to prioritise your own financial well-being.

Example: “I need to focus on my own financial priorities right now.”

21. I’m trying to avoid financial stress

Avoiding financial stress is a healthy boundary to set.

Example: “I’m trying to reduce my financial stress, so I can’t lend money.”

22. I have a family to support

Supporting a family is a priority and valid reason to say no.

Example: “I have to prioritise supporting my family, so I’m unable to lend money.”

23. I need to save for an upcoming expense

If you have a specific expense on the horizon, this is a clear excuse.

Example: “I’m saving for an upcoming expense and don’t have any extra funds available.”

24. I’m setting strict financial boundaries

It’s okay to explain that you’ve set personal financial boundaries.

Example: “I’ve set strict financial boundaries for myself, so I won’t be able to lend money.”

25. I don’t have disposable income right now

Many people are living paycheck to paycheck and don’t have extra to spare.

Example: “I’m currently without disposable income, so I’m unable to lend money.”

26. I’m managing other financial commitments

Other obligations take precedence over lending money.

Example: “I’m handling several financial commitments, so I’m unable to give out any money.”

27. I’m trying to avoid debt

Avoiding debt is a responsible and valid reason to say no.

Example: “I’m working hard to stay out of debt, so I can’t lend you money.”

28. I’m currently in between jobs

If your income is uncertain, this is a legitimate excuse.

Example: “I’m between jobs at the moment, so I don’t have extra money to lend.”

29. I’m focused on my financial recovery

Recovering from a financial loss takes time and effort.

Example: “I’m focused on recovering financially, so I can’t lend any money.”

30. I’m taking a break from lending money

Sometimes, it’s necessary to take a break from lending.

Example: “I’ve decided to take a break from lending money for now.”

31. I’m supporting a charity or cause

If your funds are already allocated to a cause, this is a solid reason.

Example: “I’m already supporting a charity, so I don’t have extra funds.”

32. I’m managing financial responsibilities for someone else

Caring for others financially can be a priority over lending.

Example: “I’m managing financial responsibilities for someone else, so I can’t lend you money.”

33. I’m protecting my financial health

Your financial health is crucial to your overall well-being.

Example: “I’m focused on protecting my financial health and can’t lend money.”

34. I don’t want to create a financial strain between us

It’s wise to avoid creating financial strain in relationships.

Example: “I value our relationship and don’t want to cause any strain by lending money.”

35. I’m practising financial discipline

Practising financial discipline means being mindful of where your money goes.

Example: “I’m trying to be more disciplined with my finances, so I’m unable to lend any money.”

ANSWER TO KEY QUESTION

1. What is a polite way to decline a request for money?

A polite way to decline is by being honest and respectful about your financial situation. For example, you could say, “I’m sorry, but I’m unable to give any money at the moment because I’m focused on my financial goals.”

2. How can I avoid awkwardness when refusing to give money?

Avoid awkwardness by keeping the tone kind and understanding. Show empathy for the person’s situation, but stay firm. You can say something like, “I understand your situation, but unfortunately, I’m not in a position to help financially.”

3. Is it okay to refuse to lend money to family or friends?

Yes, it’s perfectly okay. Financial boundaries are important, even with close family and friends. You can explain that while you care for them, you have your own responsibilities that you need to focus on.

4. What are some legitimate reasons for not lending money?

Legitimate reasons include having your own financial goals, dealing with unexpected expenses, saving for the future, or simply being on a tight budget. Letting others know that you need to prioritise your own finances is a valid reason.

5. How do I ensure I don’t feel guilty for saying no?

It’s important to remember that your financial well-being comes first. Setting boundaries is healthy and necessary. By learning to say “no” respectfully, you are ensuring that you’re not compromising your financial security for others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, declining to lend money doesn’t have to be uncomfortable if done politely and respectfully. By using the 35 alternatives we’ve discussed, you can communicate your financial limitations without damaging your relationships. 

Each excuse is designed to help you set boundaries and prioritise your financial goals while maintaining positive connections with those around you. Understanding how to say “no” when needed is an essential part of financial responsibility and self-care.