My brother is seven years younger than me and still lives with our parents. He’s about to go to college, and my parents said I should cover his tuition in full. I’m willing to pay even half, but not the entire amount, otherwise my whole salary would be gone. My parents live comfortably and go on vacations, and my brother doesn’t want to get a part-time job. I don’t understand why I’m the only one who has to pay. What should I do?

4   
  • Eileen Austen

    2d
    Best answer

    You aren’t responsible for your brother. Don’t feel compelled to do this. You did not ask for a sibling. If your parents wanted more than one child it... was their responsibility to provide what was required. Not yours.  more

    24
  • tell your parents that your brother is THEIR son, not yours, and that if they want someone to pay his tuition other than himself, to look in a mirror... to see who that person would be. put your foot down - it sounds like they've been using you all your life and he's the golden child that's never had to fend for himself. more

    1
  • Do not pay one dime of your brothers tuition. It is your parents and his responsibility. Dont allow people to use you!!! Move if you have to but stand... your ground on this. more

    1
  • That's crazy. You are being used. Your brother can get his lazy butt a job and if he really wants to go to college and get loans your parents can... co-sign since they don't want to pay. Let your brother figure it out, take a gap year and grow up. Get away from that toxic situation. more

    1
  • Your brother should apply for various student loans that are available for those in his position. And, maybe, your parents should divert some of their... vacation money toward your brother’s tuition. I would suggest you establish some boundaries on what appears to be parental arrogance and control. more

    1
  • No

    1
  • Let your parents be considerate and take on their full role you have personal life to live and life ahead is tough for you if you don't allocate... resources well more

    2
  • I had the same task .
    It is good to hear you are willing to foot half.Let them meet the rest. Going for vacations is not investing in him, wastage.

    1
  • Live kind-hearted

    1
  • dont pay anything. you are not his parent

    1
  • “It’s generous that you’re willing to help, but it’s not reasonable to expect you to cover everything—especially when your parents are financially... stable and your brother can contribute as well. College is a family decision, not a solo responsibility. Sit down with your parents and explain your limits clearly: you’re willing to help with part of the tuition, but paying all of it would jeopardize your own future. Encourage your brother to look into scholarships, financial aid, or part-time work. Supporting him should be a shared effort, not a burden on just you.” more

    2
  • well, I think you need to talk to your brother about it. If its a life issue, then work something out with him individually. I'm sure there's... more nuance to it then what's posted in this 2 sentence issue. Perhaps they paid for his and not the youngers? Work it out with the family and make sure you have some guarantees as well. (house down payment etc) more

    1
  • It's not your responsibility Bro. I don't think you want to live the rest of your life feeling like your brother owes you something when he becomes... successful and lives lavishly while you scamper for scraps. Younger siblings don't give a shit. Just my 2 cents more

    2
  • I always found in situations like this Sight and Sound demonstrations are the best! So send them a huge poster size picture of your hand with your... middle finger up high! To be accompanied by an audio tape of Godzilla roaring word: NO! more

  • Under what circumstance do they think they have the right to pressure you into paying for your brother??

    5
  • Who is the parent here?

    4
  • This is a joke right?
    If you don't pay what happens?

    6
  • Ask why? Why is it YOU that needs to pay for your brother’s tuition, when THEY, live comfortably, and go on vacations (which means they have the $$$$... to pay for HIS tuition). I commend you for considering even paying half (I’m an older sibling so I understand YOUR “parent-like” relationship towards your younger sibling). However, you need to have this conversation with your PARENTS, and ask, “Why ME?” and not THEM. The fact you’re asking for advice regarding this situation should tell you everything you need to know. more

    3
  • It's good to do good but when that good will be detrimental to your emotional and mental health, it's better to consider yourself and your immediate... family first. Advise your brother to get something done, he can take student loan and be paying back when he's okay or got a job to pay back, he has to be responsible for his life... more

    6
  • Don’t pay his tuition, you have your own family to provide for. He’s your brother not your child, don’t pay a dime. Take care of your family, if your... parents don’t want to pay his tuition, then obviously they see something in him that makes them hesitate about paying his tuition and they’re trying to put the responsibility on you. Don’t fall for the okey doke!!! Stand your ground just say NO!!!! more

    3
  • You should speak to your parents. You can share expenses with them. I am sure they'll understand. Don't hype your economic status.

    2