Everyone knows someone who will take as much as they can get without ever giving anything in return.
Freeloaders, moochers — whatever you call them, they’re the worst. They expect everyone to pony up cash, time, and effort to make their lives easier, and they’ll do everything they can to get out of paying their fair share. Not sure if that “forgetful” friend is actually taking you for a ride? Listen out for these phrases — if you hear them, you’re dealing with an unrepentant freeloader.
1. “I’ll get you back next time, I promise!”
This is the freeloader’s mantra. They’ll say it with a smile, a wink, and maybe even a heartfelt pat on the back. But deep down, you know that “next time” will never come. This phrase is a classic way to avoid paying up in the moment, hoping you’ll forget or feel too awkward to remind them later. Don’t fall for it!
2. “Oh, I left my wallet at home.”
Source: Unsplash This is a common excuse used by freeloaders, especially when it comes to splitting the bill at a restaurant or bar. They might even pat their pockets dramatically or feign surprise, as if they genuinely forgot their wallet. Of course, this conveniently happens every time you go out together. Coincidence? I think not!
3. “I’m a bit short on cash right now, but I’ll definitely pay you back soon.”
This phrase is a masterclass in vagueness. “Soon” could mean anything from next week to never. The freeloader might even throw in a sob story about unexpected expenses or financial hardships to make you feel guilty for asking for your money back. But remember, their financial problems are not your responsibility.
4. “Can you spot me this time? I’m good for it.”
This is a classic guilt-tripping tactic. The freeloader makes it seem like you’re being petty or stingy for not wanting to cover their share. They might even imply that your friendship is on the line if you don’t “help them out.” But remember, true friends respect each other’s financial boundaries and don’t expect handouts.
5. “I’m not really hungry/thirsty, but I’ll have a few bites/sips of yours.”
This one’s a sneaky tactic used by freeloaders who want to enjoy your food or drinks without having to pay for their own. They might nibble on your fries, take a swig of your beer, or even help themselves to a generous portion of your dessert. Don’t be afraid to call them out on it or suggest they order their own.
6. “I’ll Venmo you later.”
Source: Unsplash This is the modern-day equivalent of “I’ll get you back next time.” Given how popular digital payment apps are and the fact that literally everyone is on at least one, it’s become even easier for freeloaders to dodge paying their share. They might promise to send you the money later, but that “later” often turns into never. If someone consistently offers to pay you back electronically but never follows through, it’s time to have a conversation about financial responsibility.
7. “I’m not sure how much I owe you, just let me know.”
Source: Pexels This is a way for the freeloader to avoid taking responsibility for calculating their share. They might hope you’ll forget or underestimate the amount they owe you. Don’t be afraid to do the maths and clearly communicate the amount they need to pay back.
8. “I’m terrible with money, I always overspend.”
Source: Unsplash This is a common excuse used by freeloaders who want to avoid taking responsibility for their financial habits. They might present themselves as helpless or incompetent when it comes to money, hoping you’ll sympathise and let them off the hook. But remember, everyone is capable of managing their finances, and it’s not your job to bail them out.
9. “I don’t have cash on me, can you just pay, and I’ll pay you back later?”
Source: Pexels This is a classic line used by freeloaders who are always unprepared. They might make it seem like a minor inconvenience for you to cover them, but it becomes a recurring pattern. Remember, it’s not your responsibility to always have cash on hand or to act as their personal ATM.
10. “I’ll get the next round!”
Source: Unsplash This empty promise is often uttered with a hearty cheer and a slap on the back. However, the freeloader conveniently “forgets” their offer when the next round comes around. They might even disappear for a mysterious bathroom break or feign ignorance when the bill arrives. Don’t fall for their charm offensive.
11. “I’m so broke, I can’t even afford a coffee.”
Source: Unsplash This sob story is designed to evoke your sympathy and make you feel guilty for asking them to chip in. They might exaggerate their financial woes or conveniently forget about their recent shopping spree or expensive weekend getaway. Remember, everyone has financial challenges, but that doesn’t excuse them from paying their fair share.
12. “Let me know how much I owe you, I’ll transfer it to you later.”
Source: Unsplash This is another tactic used by freeloaders who are hoping you’ll forget or underestimate the amount they owe you. They might even make it seem like they’re doing you a favour by offering to pay you back electronically, but then they conveniently forget or “misplace” your payment information. Don’t be afraid to send them a gentle reminder or request payment upfront.
13. “I’m not really into that kind of thing, but you guys have fun.”
Source: Unsplash This is a common excuse used by freeloaders who want to avoid paying for group activities or outings. They might claim they’re not interested in the concert, the sports game, or the weekend getaway, but they’ll happily tag along and enjoy the experience without contributing financially. It’s important to set clear expectations with your friends and make sure everyone is contributing fairly.
14. “Oh, I thought you were treating me.”
This is a bold tactic used by freeloaders who are hoping to score a freebie. They might feign ignorance or play dumb, pretending they assumed you were generously offering to cover their expenses. Don’t be afraid to correct their misunderstanding and clarify that everyone is expected to pay their own way.
15. “I’ll pay you back when I get paid.”
Source: Unsplash This promise is often accompanied by a specific date or pay cheque, but it’s rarely fulfilled. The freeloader might genuinely intend to pay you back, but then something always comes up, an unexpected expense, a bill that’s due, or a sudden urge to splurge on something else. It’s important to set clear expectations about repayment and not let them off the hook easily.
16. “I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”
Source: Unsplash This vague promise is often used as a bargaining chip by freeloaders. They might offer to cook you dinner, do your laundry, or run errands for you in exchange for not having to pay their share. While these gestures might seem appealing, they often fall short of the actual cost of their debt and can create an uncomfortable power dynamic in the relationship.
17. “I’m just not good with money.”
Source: Unsplash This excuse is typically used to justify a pattern of financial irresponsibility. The freeloader might claim they’re forgetful, disorganised, or simply don’t prioritise money management. However, this doesn’t excuse them from paying their fair share or taking steps to improve their financial habits.
18. “It’s just a few quid, don’t worry about it.”
Source: Unsplash It seems harmless enough on the surface, but it’s actually a classic way for freeloaders to lessen the impact of their actions. They might try to make you feel petty or materialistic for wanting them to pay their share, especially if it’s a small amount. But remember, those “few bucks” can add up over time, and it’s about the principle of fairness and responsibility, not just the amount of money involved.
