Borrowing from friends to repay loans? Why it may cost more than you think

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When you're short of money on a loan repayment date, going to a friend for assistance can seem the simplest and most secure solution. There's no paperwork, no interest, and a mutually beneficial sense of good will. But when you're counting on a friend to pay back an official loan, things can very quickly get complicated in relationships — and could actually make your financial situation worse if you're not mindful.

The money risk does not go away

Exchanging one debt for another does not repair the initial problem — it just shuffles the burden. A lender who lends you money informally may not charge interest, but the obligation remains. If you do not repay them in a timely manner, you may damage a valued relationship and experience pressure without access to formal lenders. Wretchedly, your initial lender can still penalize you for default when the payment is overdue.

Fuzzy words may lead to confusion

Unlike banks or NBFCs, your friend will not break down repayment duration or in writing. This could lead to confusion. Were they referring to repayment in one month or three? Were you to pay in full or instalments? Without information, even informal loans could turn into conflict or annoyance, especially if financial stress lingers.

It affects your credit behaviour, but not your credit rating

Borrowing money from a friend will not be recorded on your credit rating, but it can prevent you from improving your spending habits. Employing informal support rather than clearing arrears, being more frugal with your finances, or seeking advice from a financial expert could become a habit. Over time, this delays real recovery and can cause dependence or management cycles.

There are alternatives better suited

Don't borrow from a friend until you've asked your lender if he or she can restructure the loan, or offer a temporary stay of foreclosure. Instead, consider credit counselling or a low-interest loan from a solid financial institution. If your friend is willing, you could even ask him or her to co-sign a legal loan — which brings clarity to both parties in terms of the law and official repayment terms.

Save the friendship — and your finances

Friendships are built on trust, not business. Mixing business with friendship should be a last option, not a first instinct. If you must borrow, be honest, write down clear terms, and prioritize repayment. Otherwise, you're not just risking more than money — you're risking the loss of a friend.