I started a business 2 years ago and just expanded.  Here's the problem, I was making lots of money until I expanded from my home into a building.  Now everyone is constantly wanting money from me because they think I have it when the reality is they're all just making me broke.

That IS a tough problem, killtherabbit. It's something that's happened to several members of my family, including myself (I am a business owner too).

The key is setting boundaries. It's natural to want to help out the people you care about financially, but you have to draw the line somewhere. After all, you said it yourself they are making you go broke. And that, in turn, will strain your relationship with them. That's another reason you have to draw the line. Not just for your financial sake, but for the sake of your relationships.

There are several ways to set boundaries. With adults and children alike (since I don't really know WHO wants in your pocket), you need to simply explain that you would love to help them out, but you just don't have the financial means. And if someone is in a big bind and really DOES need help, set a limit. Say, "I will give you X amount, because that's really all I can do at the moment. I hope that helps."

After all, I'm assuming you have employees to pay. Starting a business from the ground up (believe me, I know) takes a lot of money and effort -- especially if you didn't have  a startup loan. With the people you are close with (like a spouse, partner, or close relative), simply explain that you like to help in any way you can, but you have to maintain your business for your livelihood.

I know it's embarrassing to say, "I don't have the money" -- especially when you DO have your own business. But owning a business does not necessarily make one rich (at least, not at first), so just come at it from the angle that you have to maintain your business. And even if you DO have money from your business, you still have to be able to pay employees, buy inventory (I don't know what you sell, I'm just giving an example), and pay rent for the building. All of that takes money. You may even be buying healthcare or something. That also takes money. And as much as you may want to help people, they need to respect that and maybe not ask so much! (Especially for frivolous things, though the situation changes if they're really in a bad way financially.)

I hope you get this sorted out and that you can have a nice, happy relationship with these people, without having to worry about them wanting to ask you for money all the time.

sweetie here is a huge hug....much love and huggies