There are moments when asking for financial help feels awkward or uncomfortable, even if you’re reaching out to someone you trust. Still, there are situations in life—unexpected bills, sudden expenses, tight gaps between paychecks—where a well-written letter can make all the difference in getting the support you need without damaging the relationship.
Writing that kind of letter takes more than simply stating the amount. The way you phrase your request, the tone you use, and how clearly you outline repayment plans all play a role in how your message is received. These samples below are designed to help you express your needs clearly and respectfully.
Sample Letters of Borrowing Money
Here are 10 helpful examples of letters that cover different situations, from formal business loans to casual requests from family. You’ll find a mix of styles so you can choose one that feels right for you and your situation.
1. Formal Request to a Company for a Personal Loan
Subject: Request for Personal Financial Assistance
[recipient’s address]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I trust you’re doing well and that business is going smoothly. I am writing with a humble request for a short-term personal loan of $2,500. Over the past two months, I have experienced unexpected medical expenses related to a minor surgery and ongoing therapy sessions. These costs were not covered by my insurance, and they have left me financially strained.
After reviewing my budget and options, I believe a loan would be the most practical solution to help me regain stability. I am not asking for a handout but for temporary assistance to bridge this difficult period. My intention is to repay the full amount over five equal monthly installments of $500, starting July 1st. If you prefer another arrangement, I am open to adjusting the repayment terms.
Please rest assured that I take this commitment seriously. I have always honored my obligations and plan to treat this one with the same respect. I am happy to sign a formal agreement or provide additional documentation as needed.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. Your help would significantly reduce my stress and allow me to focus fully on work and recovery.
Sincerely,
[insert sender’s name and designation]
2. Casual Request from a Friend
Subject: Could You Help Me Out with a Loan?
[insert recipient’s address]
Hey [Friend’s Name],
I hope this note finds you well. I’ve been going back and forth about whether I should send this, but after thinking it through, I figured it was worth reaching out.
This month has been rougher than usual. My car broke down last week, and on top of that, a couple of bills hit me all at once. I’m about $300 short of what I need to make it through the next two weeks. If there’s any chance you could lend me that amount, it would take a huge weight off my shoulders.
I want to be clear—I’m not expecting a free pass. I plan to pay you back in full on the 15th. That’s my next payday, and it’s already marked on my calendar. If for any reason that gets delayed, I’ll update you right away and arrange an alternative.
I totally get that this is an ask and that you might not be in a place to help. Either way, I appreciate you for even reading this far. Let me know what works for you.
Thanks again,
[sender’s name and role]
3. Business Loan Request to an Investor
Subject: Business Capital Loan Request
[recipient’s address]
Dear [Investor’s Name],
Thank you for your continued belief in my vision and your support of our business growth. I’m writing today to request a loan of $15,000 to address some immediate financial obligations within our company.
We’ve seen a promising uptick in sales over the last quarter, but we’re facing a temporary cash flow challenge due to outstanding invoices and rising operational costs. This loan would allow us to stabilize operations, settle supplier payments, and ensure staff salaries are paid on time.
Attached to this letter, you’ll find a detailed repayment plan outlining a 12-month repayment schedule with a 5% interest rate. I believe this structure is fair and manageable and demonstrates my commitment to transparency and responsibility.
If you’re open to it, I would love the opportunity to discuss this in person or via video call. Your involvement has been instrumental to our progress, and I want to continue building on that strong foundation.
Thank you once again for your consideration and trust.
Warm regards,
[insert sender’s name and title]
4. Family-Oriented Request from a Younger Sibling
Subject: Need a Small Favor—Hope You Can Help
[insert recipient’s mailing address]
Hi [Sibling’s Name],
I hope everything’s good with you. This isn’t something I do often, but I need a bit of help right now. My car needs a crucial repair, and without it, I can’t make it to work or handle my other responsibilities. I’m short about $450 for the repairs.
I wouldn’t ask if I had other options. I’ve already looked into using my credit card, but the interest rate is just too high, and I don’t want to dig myself into a bigger hole. I’m asking if you could lend me the money, and I’d start repaying you in two parts starting next month.
You’ve always been someone I looked up to, not just because you’re older, but because you’re responsible and thoughtful. If you’re able to help, I’d be really grateful. And if not, I completely understand and appreciate you for reading this far.
Love,
[sender’s full name]
5. Polite Request from an Employee to Their Employer
Subject: Request for Salary Advance
[insert employer’s office address]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to request a salary advance of $1,200 due to an unexpected emergency involving a close family member. The situation required immediate attention, and I had to use my savings for travel and support costs.
If possible, I would appreciate receiving the advance by the end of this week. I propose that the amount be deducted in two equal parts from my next two paychecks. I am willing to sign any acknowledgment or agreement you require.
I truly enjoy working here and want to continue giving my full attention and energy. This support would not only help me financially but also allow me to stay focused on my responsibilities. Thank you for considering this.
Respectfully,
[insert sender’s name and job title]
6. Detailed Request to a Close Cousin
Subject: Short-Term Help Needed
[recipient’s full address here]
Dear [Cousin’s Name],
I hope life’s treating you kindly. I’m reaching out because I need to ask a favor. It’s not easy for me to ask for money, but I find myself in a spot where I really need some help.
Some unexpected bills piled up—rent, utilities, and a school-related fee all came in together, and I’m struggling to manage. I’m asking if you could lend me $700 just to stay afloat until things settle down. I would start repaying you on the 5th of next month in three equal parts.
You’ve always had my back, and I never take that for granted. Please only help if it won’t put you in a difficult place. I just needed to ask.
With much appreciation,
[sender’s name]
7. Short Request from a Student to Their Guardian
Subject: Support Request for Tuition Balance
[insert guardian’s mailing address]
Dear [Guardian’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy. I need to ask for some help with school expenses. Despite budgeting carefully, I came up $500 short on this semester’s tuition.
The university deadline is fast approaching, and I don’t want to risk late fees or a hold on my account. If you could help me cover this, I promise to reduce my spending next semester and find part-time work to support myself better moving forward.
Thanks for always being there for me.
Love,
[student’s name]
8. Direct but Respectful Note to a Longtime Friend
Subject: Personal Loan Request
[recipient’s residential address]
Dear [Friend’s First Name],
Hope everything’s going well. I’m writing this with a little hesitation because I hate asking for help, but I’ve hit a wall financially. I need a $1,000 loan to handle a time-sensitive housing expense that came out of nowhere.
I completely understand if you’re not in a position to help. But if you are, I’d repay you in three installments, with the first payment starting this Friday. Let me know if we can agree on something that feels fair.
I value your friendship deeply, and I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t urgent.
Warmly,
[your full name]
9. Email-Style Message for a Small Favor
Subject: Quick Loan Request
[insert recipient’s email placeholder]
Hey [Name],
This is a bit awkward, but I wanted to ask if you could help me with a short-term loan of $200. I misjudged my budget this month and came up short on rent.
If you’re able to help, I’d pay you back by next Friday at the latest. I completely understand if it’s not something you can do right now.
Thanks either way for taking a moment to read this.
Best,
[sender’s name]
10. Semi-Formal Request from a Neighbor
Subject: Financial Help Request
[insert recipient’s house address]
Dear [Neighbor’s Name],
I hope you and your family are well. I apologize for the unexpected nature of this letter. I’m writing to ask if you might consider lending me $600. A medical emergency caught me off guard, and while I’ve paid most of it, I’m still short by this amount.
I would repay the full amount within six weeks. If you’d prefer it be returned in smaller weekly payments, I’m happy to follow that plan. You’ve always been kind and generous in our conversations, which is why I felt comfortable reaching out.
Thank you for reading and considering my request.
Kindly,
[insert sender’s name and contact information]
Wrap-up: Asking for Money Through Letters
Getting help when things are tight takes courage. Whether you’re asking someone close to you or sending a more formal request, using the right words can make the conversation easier and more respectful.
These sample letters give you a strong starting point. Adjust them to suit your tone and situation, and you’ll be more likely to get the support you need without damaging trust. Keep things clear, honest, and kind—that always leaves a good impression.