How do you ask your parents for money they owe you? when i was 18, i came into a settlement and they asked?

Question

if i would help them payoff their RV. so i did, like a faithful child. well, it's 20 years later and all i've heard about "the money" is how they think they should pay it all back to my brother, instead of me. cause when he started out life he got himsef in financial trouble. which i helped him with. and which he has managed to get a brain and get out of debt before it ruined his life....but barely.

we have a strained relationship. and btw, my bro laughed at their repayment plan, he didn't want a cent.

i have just gone through a divorce and am struggling financially. i have my kids on state health care and qualify for food stmps, utility help, etc. but i'd rather just use the money that is actually owed me than to suck it from the state....does that make sense?

Answer 1

yes it does make sense and truthfully there is no easy way to do this if you care about what they are going to say.  But you could tell them they owe you and you are in need right now. If you were in a different situation you wouldn't ask for that back but they have to understand your position at this time.

If your brother remembers ask him to help you remind them that they owe you. Remember they are your parents and even though they love you it doesn't mean they won't take advantage of you if they can. If you let them they will take advantage and they might be relying on the fact that you have not asked. Maybe they are hoping you forgot or are too nice too ask. Remember people will walk all over you if you let them no matter who they are.

Answer 2

When you helped them was anything signed ?  If not the best you can do is ask them and see what they say.  If they deceide to give $$ to your brother see if he will share it.

Answer 3

Are your parents aware of you situation?  I would go to them and just be straight with them.  Tell them that while you haven't asked for it before, you need it now because of your situation.  If they have any decency at all, they will start making payments immediately.  Come up with a plan before you speak to them so there's not doubt.  You could put it in writing (a repayment agreement) that you all can sign.  If they agree, just be thankful and express it to them.  I understand that will be difficult to do but, assuming they do the right thing, now is the time you will most appreciate getting that money back.

Best of luck to you and your kids.