Generation X: Banking On Mom & Dad

" If your adult child wants to use you as a bank hear them out and then make your decision. For example, they want to borrow money for a down payment on a house or to start a business and if you have the funds and are feeling generous consider gifting them the money.

If gifting them the money is not feasible and you want to loan them the money, only lend them what you can afford to lose. Make sure your current lifestyle would not change dramatically if the loan never got repaid. Often times relatives mentally treat loans from family members different than loans from a bank and there is a much higher default rate.

If you want this to be a formal transaction put it in writing and charge them interest. You can get some help here either from an attorney or your accountant to help draw up a loan agreement. If it’s a small loan you can use forms you can find online and include a repayment schedule. Check out NoLo and type in loan agreement "

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