Question: How do I politely tell co-workers that no, I truly do not want to buy chocolate, wrapping paper, cookies, or whatever else their kids are selling to raise funds?-- J.T., Atlanta Advice from Money readers:Tell them, "I have already allocated all my charitable moneys for the year." -- Dan Welch, Columbus
Each year, my husband and I budget a monthly fund for just this sort of thing, so we're always ready. If we don't spend it one month, we pick a charity ourselves and start over again the next month. -- Melissa Washington, via Facebook
Just do it. Buy something cheap for office harmony. -- Jill Brown, Santa Rosa, Calif.
When I worked in an office, I said, "If your child comes in and asks me himself, I would be happy to buy something." This worked wonders 98% of the time. Of course, when a child did come in and asked me in person, I bought something. I was happy to do this, as the child showed initiative. -- Rina01, via CNNMoney.com
The expert take: Simple. Just say (in a super-friendly voice): "I hope you'll understand, but I'm on a serious budget and trying to be very disciplined about my expenditures." But remember: This response will severely limit your chances to ask your co-workers to support your charitable endeavors -- and your ability to swan around the office with $7 coffee drinks. -- Philip Galanes, advice columnist for the New York Times and author of "Social Q's"
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