How to Speak with Someone About Seeking Financial Help

Money – and debt – are deeply personal topics that we don’t always feel comfortable discussing, even with our loved ones and close friends. However, we shouldn’t dodge a topic simply because it’s uncomfortable. If you’re worried about a friend, colleague, or family member’s finances, the best way to show you care is to sit him down and tell him. Doing so will not only show that you’re available for support, but can potentially save this person from financial ruin.

But because this is much easier said than done, so here are some tips on how to talk to a loved one about getting financial help.

Declare a judgment-free zone

Because finances are such a delicate topic, it’s important that you reach out in a judgment-free way. If someone you know has mentioned that they have money problems, or you’ve noticed signs that he is struggling, reach out and directly ask if everything is okay.

Make sure your tone of voice conveys that you are coming from a caring place as opposed to a negative or fearmongering one. It’s always helpful to share your own debt journey or financial struggles, so your friends don’t feel alone or like they’ve done something wrong. Even with this approach, your loved one may feel a bit cornered, so allow plenty of space and let your offer to help hang in the air, rather than pushing it on someone.

Propose practical, concrete solutions

While offering to talk is great, offering concrete advice is even better. If your loved one is open to discussing his debt and you have some knowledge on the topic, let him know that you are available to sit down and walk them through some options, such as creating a budget or determining a strategy for paying off a credit card with a high interest rate.

If you’ve been in a similar situation, you can offer advice on various debt relief options, perhaps making a referral to a debt relief company or providing some basic education on debt settlement or debt consolidation.

Sometimes even just being available as an accountability partner is a great first step. Offer monthly or weekly check-ins where you can discuss your friend’s progress and offer encouragement or advice (if it’s requested).

Suggest alte ative, free, or inexpensive activities to enjoy together

Offer your support financially by not spending money together. Make sure you aren’t adding to someone’s debt. Instead of doing expensive activities, suggest an alte ative, free, or inexpensive option. For instance, if you’re used to having expensive dinners out with this person, instead offer to bring over a bottle of wine and cook dinner together. Relieving someone of the stress of missing out on spending time with people they love because they can’t afford it is a great gift to give to a friend.

It’s ultimately up to him, but you can help

Ultimately, it is up to the individual who is in debt to look at his or her debt relief options and figure out the right path to pay off debt. With your support, however, the chances are higher that your loved one will get the help he needs and turn his finances around.