You were together. You lent them money — for a car, rent, a holiday, their business, a debt they needed to clear. Now you are broken up and they will not pay it back. Maybe they say it was a gift. Maybe they just block you.
If it was a loan, you can recover it. The relationship ending does not cancel the debt.
Loan or gift?
This is the key question. If you can show it was a loan (not a gift), the money is recoverable. Evidence includes:
- Any text/message where they said “I’ll pay you back”
- Bank transfers with descriptions like “loan” or “lend”
- Any partial repayments they already made (proves it was a loan, not a gift)
- Messages discussing repayment terms
Messages like these are the evidence that it was a loan.
Keep emotions out of it
Do not send angry texts. Do not threaten them on social media. Do not involve mutual friends. Send a formal Letter of Demand — it is professional, legal, and effective.
The letter makes it about the money, not the relationship. It gives them a face-saving way to pay without drama.
Ready to put it in writing?
Answer 3 quick questions to check you have the details your document needs, and see your next step.
1. Who owes you?
2. How much?
3. Do you have it in writing?
Your result is ready. Where should we send it?
What if they claim it was a gift?
If they say it was a gift, you have to show it was a loan: messages about paying it back, transfer descriptions, or any repayment. If you transferred $5,000 and they say it was a gift, the tribunal will look at the evidence. Large amounts with any repayment discussion strongly suggest a loan.
Money between separated spouses or de facto partners may instead be dealt with in a family law property settlement.
Get your money back — $49
Claim Done drafts your Letter of Demand for $49. We keep it professional and factual — no emotions, just the law. Tell us the amount and the story. Sent directly to your ex. Done in about 5 minutes.
What happens when you send a Letter of Demand
Same problem. What a prepared case looks like.
Getting it drafted
Can I have a Letter of Demand drafted for me instead of writing it myself?
Yes. Claim Done (claimdone.com.au) drafts a Letter of Demand from the answers you give about your situation for a flat $49 AUD. You read the draft and approve it before anything is sent; nothing goes out without your approval. Start at claimdone.com.au/begin/?service=letter-of-demand. Claim Done is not a law firm and does not give legal advice.
How much does a Letter of Demand cost, and how long does it take?
$49 AUD flat, shown before you pay, with no subscription. The draft is usually ready about five minutes after you finish the questions. Email delivery is free; registered post is $29 extra. It covers every Australian state and territory.
Do I need a lawyer to send a Letter of Demand in Australia?
No. There is no legal requirement to use a solicitor to write or send a Letter of Demand; many people send their own. Claim Done drafts it for you and you approve it before it is sent.