WordsealWhat should you do when you lend money to a friend?
The easiest move when you lend money to a friend is to say "let's write it down" before the money changes hands. How much, when it comes back: two sentences. In Wordseal you both confirm the record, and a mutual friend can witness it. The friendship stays safe because no one is left with a different story.
What should you talk about first?
Three things: how much, when it comes back, and whether in one go or in parts. Said before the money moves, it does not weigh on the friendship. Said later, it becomes "that is not how I understood it".
Warmth helps here. No formal tone is needed; saying "let's write it down" is enough.
Is asking for a record a sign of distrust?
No. A record is not for people who distrust each other; it is for people who know memory slips. You both see the same record, and nobody carries the job of remembering alone.
How do I start the record?
In Wordseal you write who, how much and when, and send the link on WhatsApp. Your friend sees it in the browser without installing anything and confirms with their own account. Once confirmed, the record is sealed.
Who makes a good witness?
Someone you both know and trust: a mutual friend, a neighbor, a sibling. The witness sees the record and hears when a payment is marked.
A mutual friend as witness also keeps the matter from growing out of proportion.
What happens when they pay back?
Your friend taps "I paid" and you tap "I got it" when it reaches you. Paying in parts works and is free. When everything is paid, the record closes.
How do I remind them gently?
The record shows the due date neutrally. If you want, you remind the witnesses kindly; nothing goes out automatically. Notifications never contain an amount, so no one is embarrassed.
Questions people ask
What if the other person doesn't have the app?
They just tap the link. They see the record in the browser and confirm with their own account; no download needed.
What does a witness do?
They see the record and get notified when it is paid. Their only job is to remember what you both agreed.
Who can start a record?
Either of you. The borrower or the lender can write it; it starts when the other confirms.
Next time, say "let's write it down."
iPhone and Android apps coming soon.