Not a Debt-Free Wannabe

Aaagh

I am really concerned for my sister. We rarely talk about money and I am a fine one to talk as I managed to clock up huge bills on credit cards, but I have now managed to pay these off.

I know she is hugely in debt. She has admitted that she just uses her CC for everything and pays just the minimum each month and says she is paying out way more than she is earning each month. When I ask her if she is worried about things, she says she isn't and that she is just putting her head in the sand and will deal with it 'later'. She and her husband bought their first house last year (she is 40, he is a bit older, not that that makes any difference but just that they are a little older than most that take on first mortgages) and they have a 2 year old daughter. He still goes out drinking every weekend and although he knows she has these debts, they are seen as her problem.

How do I help her without appearing to be sticking my nose where it's not wanted.

racer256

This is a difficult one as my sister is a student and she is definately in debt. You need to speak to her and make it clear that you are here for her 100% debts or no debts. Tell her the extent of your debts to prove to her she can pay them off. Get her to go on this website for ideas and inspiration. Good Luck.

January20

However frustrating this maybe, I think you will have to wait until she has had her LBM before you can help. Any attempt from you to help before she is ready could be viewed as sticking your nose where it's not wanted and could damage your relationship with your sister. Just be there for her when she needs you.

LizD_2

Perhaps get her a copy of The Money Diet? Even if it sits on the shelf, it might eventually engage her.

LJD1_2

I know how hard this is. My mum is very in debt and after worrying and getting upset about it people on here made me realised that you can only do so much. If people aren't ready to hear then they just think you're interfering and get annoyed with you. LizDs idea of getting a copy of the money diet is a good idea. Give her the information and then hope she realises she can do something about it. Good luck xx

Aaagh

Thanks for your comments and suggestions. I have mentioned this site to her before but I don't think she's been on yet. She goes on other chat forums but I think she sees this site (without ever having been on it) as a bit too serious and boring. I'll try and find a tactful way to get her interested on coming on without sounding as if I'm trying to tell her what to do - shouldn't be too difficult to forward some interesting links.

Is The Money Diet Martin's book? I will look into getting that.

Thanks.