Starting a new role soon and family is expecting "financial gifts"

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP - Khan Academy is free and is entirely adequate for SAT/ACT prep. Share the wisdom.

I am aware of this, but my niece needs in person Support for test prep, which is why I offered. Self study isn't the best option for her.

As her aunt. This is NOT your problem OP.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I'm in my late 30s, single (dating in search of a long-term partner), and living in a medium cost of living city. I'm a first-generation grad and finally got a decent paying job (double the starting salary of my current role). My family and friends have been nothing but supportive of my career, as I've had a lot of setbacks (chronic medical issues and job loss twice in 3 years). I'm finally happy to get back on track, but unfortunately, I have debt (student loans, credit cards, etc.). I will be comfortable, but I plan on saving and paying down as much debt as possible. My oldest sibling is a single parent of 3, and the dad is not in the picture. She expects me to give her a "financial gift." Last year, I did tell her that I would pay for her oldest's SAT or ACT prep course. That's it. Also, my mom gifted me a laptop this year and said that it was my birthday and Christmas gift (which I'm 100% okay with). She let me know that she wants her money back. I explained to her that the laptop was a gift and typically gifts are not paid back. She makes more than I do currently but less than what I will make in my new role. I definitely do not want to be stingy or selfish, but I am not in a place to reach my financial goals and give money to people.

I want to put my foot down now and set the expectations and boundaries that I will not and cannot be their support system. Suggestions?

A gift is a gift and there is no expectation of being paid for it. You have a strange and greedy family. Your sister with three children is responsible for her children, not you.