What's Your Story

Your best buddy asks for a loan to cover the security deposit on a new apartment. You want to help-and you want the money back. Should you say yes?

We're preparing an article about the realities of lending money among friends or family. Is it a good idea? What could go wrong? What's the best way to protect your money—and your friendship? Should you make up a loan agreement?

Tell us your experience—thumbs up or down, as lender or borrower—and we may use your account to help develop the article. Of course, we will protect your privacy. Submit your response here by Aug. 4, 2008.

Please include only your first name and the state where you live. If it's OK for us to follow up by e-mail to learn more about your experience, provide your e-mail address. We will use it for no purpose other than to develop the article.