first, never ever do business with family without getting it in writing. ever!!!! second, if you have records and want to take her to small claims court, you'd probably have a good chance. Otherwise, you might want to chalk it up, but then there's the issue of what she says you owe her. If you could get it in writing that you are both free and clear, that's what I would do, even if you could use the money. And then I'd never loan a dollar I didn't expect back. If you ever give her money again, you better expect to give it as a gift. Sorry, I'm harsh and have had bad dealings with family and money. I never loan now, I give.