A loan between family members, or even friends, isn’t help—it’s a trap for both parties. Whenever you loan money to a friend or family member, you’ve become their creditor. You’re now a lender, and they’re a borrower. Family dinners and get-togethers are different when you’re sitting down to eat with your creditors instead of just friends or family. If you want to give money to friends or family (and you can afford it), just give them the money. But make sure it’s a gift with no strings attached