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View Full Version : Do I owe my boyfriend the money he gave me


condos2
Jul 10, 2012, 08:38 AM
I was in a relationship which just recently ended.. My ex boyfriend begged me to allow him to help me financially since I was struggeling... when I wouldn't go to him he would get very upset. I started allowing him to help.. He paid off some medical bills approx 1500.00. Purchased a couch for me and paid my rent for me twice. The relationship has recently ended and he is threatening to take the couch and other items he has purchased. He has also threatened to take me to court to recover the money he gave me. Is this possible? Do I technically owe this money to him and these items he gave me as gifts?

AK lawyer
Jul 10, 2012, 10:15 AM
From what you say, no. A gift from a romantic partner remains a gift after the romance is over. But of course he may not see it that way.

The question boils down to whether it was a gift or a loan. Without something said or written at the time, from either of you, suggesting that it was anything but a gift, he will be hard-pressed to prove otherwise.

If you lived together at the time, I guess the couch could be considered his (if he claims he didn't give it to you but simply bought it to help furnish the place the two of you shared). On the other hand, with respect to the rent payments, (and I apologize if I am incorrectly assuming you lived together), it would be reasonable for him to help pay the rent. But that too is something a court would have to decide on the basis of all the circumstances.