AITA for Telling My Brother He Can’t Stay with Us After He Got Evicted?

The Family History

My brother, “Mark,” and I have always had a rocky relationship. He’s struggled with stability over the years, bouncing between jobs and living situations. Whenever things went south, he’d crash with family—usually me.

The problem? Mark isn’t exactly a considerate houseguest. The last time he stayed with us, he left a trail of messes, constantly borrowed money he never repaid, and even got into an argument with my partner. It was a nightmare.

The Recent Crisis

A few weeks ago, Mark called me in a panic. He’d been evicted and had nowhere to go. He begged to stay with us “just for a little while.” I wanted to help, but I couldn’t put my family through that chaos again.

I told him no but offered to help him find other housing options and even chip in for a motel for a few nights. Mark didn’t take it well—he accused me of abandoning him and being selfish.

The Fallout

Since then, Mark has been telling family members that I’m heartless. Some agree with him, saying family should always stick together. Others understand that I have to protect my household’s peace.

Community Reactions

Comment 1: NTA. You have every right to set boundaries, especially when his past behavior was disruptive.

Comment 2: ESH. Your brother needs to take responsibility, but maybe you could have offered him a short trial period to prove himself.

Comment 3: Been there—sometimes saying no is the only way to protect your family’s well-being. You did the right thing.

Lessons Learned

This situation reinforced the importance of boundaries. Helping family doesn’t mean sacrificing your own peace and stability. Sometimes tough love is the best option.

Final Thoughts

So, AITA for refusing to let Mark stay with us? Or should I have given him one more chance despite the history? I’m curious to hear your thoughts.