Can I sue my ex-boyfriend for unwritten loans?

Question:

My live-in boyfriend of two years walked out on me. While we lived together, he paid me minimal housing expenses, but nothing like half. Also, I loaned him money and he's only paid back $100 of a few thousand. Am I legally entitled to any housing compensation or money for the loan, even though there was no written contract for either one?

Answer:

Unless you have a provable agreement, which usually means a written one, you have no right to get back past living expenses.

But you definitely do have a right to be repaid that loan. First, figure out how much he still owes you. Second, ask him in writing to pay you back. Third, if he refuses to pay, think about how you can prove that you made the loan -- for example, you may have a canceled check or a witness who heard the two of you talk about it. Fourth, assuming you have at least some proof, sue in small claims court. For help in preparing and presenting your case, see Everybody's Guide to Small Claims Court (Nolo).

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