Should I Have Helped My Dad Fund His Business Idea?

AITA for refusing to lend money to my father for a business venture despite his emotional appeal?

Davy

Published in Interesting
2025-08-20 07:26

Should I Have Helped My Dad Fund His Business Idea?

Are you the "Asshole" in this situation for refusing to lend money to your father for a new business venture? This Reddit thread delves into a complex family dynamic where financial stability clashes with emotional obligations.

The original poster (OP), a 30-year-old man, shared his dilemma of denying his father's request for a significant sum of money due to his dad's history of failed ventures and debt. Despite hearing his father's pitch, the OP ultimately chose to prioritize his own financial well-being over supporting his father's risky business endeavor.

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This decision led to a heated argument where accusations of selfishness and lack of support were thrown around by the father. The comments section is divided, with some users supporting the OP's stance, citing the importance of setting financial boundaries, while others argue for familial support in times of need.

The thread highlights the complexities of navigating family relationships intertwined with money matters and the challenges of balancing personal financial security with emotional ties. The discussion showcases varying perspectives on where the line should be drawn between financial prudence and familial obligations.

Original Post

I (30M) have always had a rocky relationship with my father. He's a charismatic man but tends to make impulsive decisions.

Recently, he approached me for a significant sum of money to invest in a business opportunity. For context, he has a history of failed ventures and debt.

Despite my reservations, I decided to hear him out. He pitched his idea, which did sound promising, but the risk involved made me hesitant.

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I had a long think about it and eventually told him I couldn't lend him the money. I explained my concerns about his track record and how I wasn't in a financial position to risk that amount.

He was furious. Said I was selfish, unsupportive, and that I was letting him down when he needed me the most.

This led to a huge argument where he accused me of not caring about his well-being. Now, I'm torn.

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Did I do the right thing by prioritizing my financial stability, or should I have supported my father despite the risks? So, AITA?