Complete Legal California Loans Lending Forms For Free

A loan agreement is any written document that memorializes the lending of money. Loan agreements can take several forms. The most basic loan agreement is commonly called an "IOU." These are typically used between friends or relatives for small amounts of money, and simply state the dollar amount that is owed.

If you loan a significant amount of money to your kids ? over $10,000 ? you should consider charging interest. If you don't, the IRS can say the interest you should have charged was a gift. In that case, the interest money goes toward your annual gift-giving limit of $17,000 per individual (as of tax year 2023).

Consider including: Names and addresses of the parties to the agreement. Loan amount (principal). Interest rate. Repayment terms, including dates, and any late fees or penalties. Signature lines.

What should be in a personal loan contract? Names and addresses of the lender and the borrower. Information about the loan co-borrower or cosigner, if it's a joint personal loan. Loan amount and the method for disbursement (lump sum, installments, etc.) Date the loan was provided. Expected repayment date.

The Do's for Lending to Friends and Family Lend Money Only to People You Trust. Limit Loans to What You Can Afford. Get It in Writing. Don't Lend More Than You Can Afford. Don't Let Guilt Drive Your Decision. Don't Lend Someone Your Credit.

The IRS mandates that any loan between family members be made with a signed written agreement, a fixed repayment schedule, and a minimum interest rate. (The IRS publishes Applicable Federal Rates (AFRs) monthly.)