If you are considering lending money, there are some important things to consider first. You don’t want to end up in a situation that could leave you in debt or stressed out. In fact, you should never lend more than you can afford to lose.
Don’t lend more than you can afford to lose
While it is true that you can’t go wrong if you are willing to lend your mate a few bucks, you should also be cautious about where you lend it. After all, if you aren’t careful, you might end up owing someone more than you bargained for.
Fortunately, there is an easy way to avoid all this headache. Take the time to jot down a few simple guidelines to follow when it comes to making that next loan. Not only will you be less likely to run into trouble down the road, you will also be more likely to receive a more favorable interest rate. By being aware of your limits, you’ll be able to protect your finances, your credit score and your relationships.
One of the most important lessons to remember is to never make the same mistake twice. As a general rule, never loan money to people you haven’t lent it to before. This is especially true if you have debt of any kind.
Structure a loan agreement
When lending money, you need to structure a loan agreement that has certain components. These components must be included to ensure the protection of both parties.
Loan agreements are legally enforceable contracts that detail terms and conditions of a loan. They should include the full names of both the lender and borrower, their addresses, and their telephone numbers. The agreement should also state whether a default is possible. If a default is stated, the lender is required to remedy the issue.
In addition, lenders should provide details about the payment method and the interest rate. Typically, a repayment schedule requires periodic payments until the full loan amount is paid. For smaller loans, a single lump sum may be required.
Other provisions should include the date of signing, the governing law, and the county in which legal proceedings will be conducted. You can notarize a loan agreement if you are sure that the parties are present when the signatures are made.
Get your money back
If you’re in the market for a loan, you need to consider the consequences of a missed payment. You also need to be careful about the tactics you use to get your money back. Aggressiveness can backfire and lead to further friction. For example, if you borrow from a friend and don’t pay it back right away, you may be unable to reach your friend to recoup the debt.
The best way to recoup your loan is to be clear on the terms of your loan, the amount lent, and your expectations as to the repayment schedule. While you’re at it, you might want to have a written contract. This will provide a reference point during your payback period.
A great way to make the loan easier on you is to make sure you’ve got a good emergency fund. A hefty emergency fund will help you weather a financial calamity. Also, you may want to keep an eye out for ways to improve your budget.