📝 AITA for refusing to financially support my parents now that I'm doing well financially?

By ladycourt_knee • Score: 1 • April 10, 2025 11:00 AM


I (19F) recently graduated and landed a well-paying job. I’ve been working hard to save and build a future for myself, and I’m finally feeling like I’m in a place where I can enjoy the benefits of all my hard work. The problem is, my parents (in their late 40s) have been struggling financially for a while, and they’ve asked me for help multiple times.

At first, I tried to help out where I could—covering some groceries, paying for a bill here and there, but it’s starting to feel like they’re relying on me. They’ve now asked me to help with their rent and some other ongoing expenses, and to be honest, I’m really uncomfortable with it. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am, and I don’t think it’s my responsibility to carry their financial burdens. They’ve told me they "raised me" and "took care of me," so it’s only fair that I do the same for them now that I’m able. But honestly, I feel like I have my own life to build, and I don’t want to put my financial stability at risk.

I feel guilty, but I just don't think I should have to carry their financial load. They’re both healthy and capable of working, so I don’t think it’s unreasonable for them to figure it out themselves. They’ve gotten upset when I’ve said no, and some relatives have called me selfish.

AITA for refusing to help them more than I already have?

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