Guide · By DueTrack Studio · Updated 2026-10-29
How to keep track of money you lent (or borrowed) from friends
Record every personal loan the moment it happens: who, how much, the date, and when it should be paid back. Log partial repayments as they arrive so the balance stays accurate. A shared, written record — even a short message confirming the amount — prevents most misunderstandings.
What should you record when you lend money?
- Person's name.
- Amount and currency.
- Date lent or borrowed.
- Agreed repayment date, if any.
- Each repayment, with its date.
How do you avoid awkwardness when lending money?
- Agree the amount and timing in writing, even by message.
- Lend only what you could afford never to see again.
- Send a friendly reminder on the agreed date, with the exact balance.
Questions
My friend owes me money and I keep forgetting how much. What's the easiest way to track it?
Write down the amount, date and name the moment you lend it, and log each repayment as it arrives. An app with a lending section keeps the running balance for you.
Should I charge interest to a friend?
Usually not for small personal loans — but write down the amount and repayment plan either way.