Let’s talk about something that happens every day you give someone money to “support” their business, and when things go south, you start asking for your money back.
Now here’s the shocker
In law, the fact that you gave money does not automatically mean the person owes you.
The court will first ask: “Was there an intention to create a legal obligation?”
If your transaction looks more like help, support, or goodwill the law may interpret it as a gift, not a loan.
So, when you tell someone “No worry, just pay me when business picks up” without putting it in writing, you may have just dashed them. The moment you can’t prove that it was a loan, the court will treat it as a voluntary gift and that means you may never recover it.
Here’s the golden rule
If it’s a loan, write it down.
If it’s a partnership, document your share and terms.
If it’s a gift, let it go.
Law deals with intent, not emotions.
No matter how painful the story sounds, without proof of intention, you have no legal ground.
Clarity today will save you from tears tomorrow.
Help people, yes but help yourself with wisdom.
Source: Money Up Academy
