“A debt is only as serious as you make it, especially when it’s just a joke!” We’ve all had that moment when someone says, “You owe me!” It can feel a little awkward or even tense, depending on the exchange. But why let it become stressful? A little humor can turn it into an amusing, light-hearted moment instead.
I remember a time when a friend jokingly tried to collect on a small favor. Instead of stressing, I hit back with a playful quip that made us both laugh! That’s the power of quick wit; it can defuse even the trickiest situations and keep things friendly.
In this article, you’ll find witty responses to use when someone claims you owe them with you owe me. Get ready to turn any “debt” into a joke!
1. I was just about to pay you in hugs!
Story:
Imagine you’re hanging out with your friend Sarah, and she jokingly reminds you about a small favor she did for you. Instead of stressing, you reply with a playful quip like, “I was just about to pay you in hugs!”
When to Use:
This response is great when you want to keep the mood light-hearted. It works best in casual situations with friends or family who appreciate humor.
When Not to Use:
Avoid this response in professional settings or when someone is seriously expecting repayment. It might feel awkward if the person isn’t in the mood for jokes.
Example:
Sarah: “Hey, don’t forget, you owe me for that favor!”
You: “I was just about to pay you in hugs!”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, mission accomplished. If they seem confused, add, “Hugs are priceless! Best deal ever, right?”
2. I hope you accept payment in chocolate!
Story:
Your buddy Mike reminds you of a small favor he did for you. Instead of making the exchange feel tense, you turn it into an amusing moment by saying, “I hope you accept payment in chocolate!”
When to Use:
Perfect for friendly conversations, especially if the person enjoys sweets. It keeps things playful and light.
When Not to Use:
Avoid this response if the other person is genuinely expecting something valuable or isn’t in the mood for humor.
Example:
Mike: “Remember, you owe me!”
You: “I hope you accept payment in chocolate!”
How to Respond:
If they joke back, offer them a chocolate. If not, follow up with, “Trust me, this is the sweetest deal you’ll ever get!”
3. I’ll pay you back with interest in compliments!
Story:
Lisa helped you out, and now she’s reminding you about it in a friendly way. Instead of worrying, you turn the moment into a fun exchange by saying, “I’ll pay you back with interest in compliments!”
When to Use:
Great when you want to defuse a possibly tense situation and make someone smile. This works best with people who appreciate humor and compliments.
When Not to Use:
Not ideal for professional situations or when the person expects something real in return.
Example:
Lisa: “Don’t forget, you owe me for that favor!”
You: “I’ll pay you back with interest in compliments! You’re honestly the most amazing person I know.”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, keep going with compliments. If they roll their eyes, say, “Hey, I’m giving you premium compliments here!”
4. I’m currently bankrupt in good deeds. Can I pay you in jokes?
Story:
Jake did you a small favor, and now he’s jokingly asking for something in return. Instead of feeling awkward, you keep things light-hearted by saying, “I’m currently bankrupt in good deeds. Can I pay you in jokes?”
When to Use:
Perfect when dealing with friendly people who enjoy humor. It turns a casual reminder into a fun exchange.
When Not to Use:
Avoid this if the person actually needs something from you or doesn’t appreciate jokes.
Example:
Jake: “Hey, you owe me for that thing I did!”
You: “I’m currently bankrupt in good deeds. Can I pay you in jokes?”
How to Respond:
If they’re up for it, tell a funny joke. If they want something else, follow up with, “Fine, I’ll throw in a high five too!”
5. I’m saving up for a grand repayment—one high five at a time!
Story:
Emma reminds you about a favor, but instead of getting stressing over it, you keep it playful by saying, “I’m saving up for a grand repayment—one high five at a time!”
When to Use:
Works well when you want to keep things friendly and not make a big deal out of it.
When Not to Use:
Avoid using this if the other person is being serious or needs an actual repayment.
Example:
Emma: “You totally owe me!”
You: “I’m saving up for a grand repayment—one high five at a time!”
How to Respond:
Give them a high five right away. If they ask for more, say, “Stick around, and I’ll throw in another one later!”
6. Can I interest you in some free advice instead?
Story:
Tom jokingly reminds you about a small favor he did, and instead of feeling tense, you turn it into a fun moment with, “Can I interest you in some free advice instead?”
When to Use:
Best when dealing with friendly people who enjoy amusing responses.
When Not to Use:
Not great if the other person genuinely expects something valuable in return.
Example:
Tom: “You owe me for that favor!”
You: “Can I interest you in some free advice instead?”
How to Respond:
If they play along, give a funny piece of advice. If not, say, “It’s a great deal—advice is priceless!”
7. How about I start a payment plan of one joke a day?
Story:
Jessica reminds you about a favor, and instead of stressing, you make the exchange light-hearted by saying, “How about I start a payment plan of one joke a day?”
When to Use:
Perfect for situations where humor is welcome and both of you enjoy a good laugh.
When Not to Use:
Not suitable if the other person expects real repayment.
Example:
Jessica: “Don’t forget, you owe me!”
You: “How about I start a payment plan of one joke a day?”
How to Respond:
Tell them a joke on the spot, and follow up with, “First payment made. See you tomorrow for the next one!”
8. I’m out of favors, but I can offer you a dance!
Story:
Ryan reminds you of a favor, and instead of making things awkward, you keep it amusing by saying, “I’m out of favors, but I can offer you a dance!”
When to Use:
Great when you want to keep things playful and friendly.
When Not to Use:
Not a good idea in serious situations or with people who don’t appreciate humor.
Example:
Ryan: “You still owe me for that favor!”
You: “I’m out of favors, but I can offer you a dance!”
How to Respond:
Do a little dance or say, “That’s a premium offer! Limited-time only.”
9. Let’s call it even and I’ll owe you a favor for not reminding me again!
Story:
Anna jokingly reminds you about a favor, and you turn it into an amusing moment with, “Let’s call it even and I’ll owe you a favor for not reminding me again!”
When to Use:
Perfect when you both enjoy playful banter.
When Not to Use:
Not ideal if the person is actually serious about the repayment.
Example:
Anna: “You owe me big time!”
You: “Let’s call it even and I’ll owe you a favor for not reminding me again!”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, great. If not, say, “It’s a win-win situation!”
10. Can I pay you back with virtual high fives and a meme?
Story:
David reminds you of a favor, and you turn it into a light-hearted moment with, “Can I pay you back with virtual high fives and a meme?”
When to Use:
Best when texting or chatting online.
When Not to Use:
Not great if the person expects something real in return.
Example:
David: “You owe me for that!”
You: “Can I pay you back with virtual high fives and a meme?”
How to Respond:
Send them a funny meme and say, “Best deal ever, right?”
11. I’ll pay you back with a legendary story about how you helped me!
Story:
Alex helped you out, and now he’s playfully reminding you. Instead of stressing over it, you respond, “I’ll pay you back with a legendary story about how you helped me!”
When to Use:
Perfect for lighthearted situations where you want to turn a simple favor into an epic tale.
When Not to Use:
Not ideal if the person expects something serious in return.
Example:
Alex: “Hey, don’t forget you owe me!”
You: “I’ll pay you back with a legendary story about how you helped me!”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, start exaggerating a funny story. If they look confused, say, “Trust me, this story will go down in history!”
12. I’m working on a special ‘thank you’ song for you. It’s a hit!
Story:
Emily did you a favor, and instead of giving a boring response, you say, “I’m working on a special ‘thank you’ song for you. It’s a hit!”
When to Use:
Best when you want to make someone smile and keep things fun.
When Not to Use:
Avoid this if the person isn’t in the mood for jokes.
Example:
Emily: “Hey, don’t forget you owe me!”
You: “I’m working on a special ‘thank you’ song for you. It’s a hit!”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, hum a random tune and say, “It still needs some work, but the chorus is all about your greatness!”
13. I’ll repay you with a lifetime supply of my bad jokes!
Story:
Jake is teasing you about a favor, and instead of panicking, you hit back with humor: “I’ll repay you with a lifetime supply of my bad jokes!”
When to Use:
Great for playful friends who appreciate a good quip.
When Not to Use:
Not a good idea if they don’t like corny humor.
Example:
Jake: “You owe me big time!”
You: “I’ll repay you with a lifetime supply of my bad jokes!”
How to Respond:
Immediately follow up with a terrible pun, like “Why don’t skeletons fight each other? They don’t have the guts!”
14. How about I send you a thank-you card that says, ‘You’re awesome!’
Story:
Lily did you a favor, and she jokingly reminds you about it. You keep it light-hearted by saying, “How about I send you a thank-you card that says, ‘You’re awesome!’”
When to Use:
Perfect when you want to acknowledge the favor but keep the moment fun.
When Not to Use:
Avoid this if the person expects something more meaningful.
Example:
Lily: “Hey, you owe me!”
You: “How about I send you a thank-you card that says, ‘You’re awesome!’”
How to Respond:
If they laugh, say, “I’ll even add glitter to make it extra special!”
15. I’m fresh out of cash, but I can offer you a virtual cookie!
Story:
Daniel is playfully asking for repayment, and you jokingly reply, “I’m fresh out of cash, but I can offer you a virtual cookie!”
When to Use:
Great for casual conversations when you want to keep things friendly.
When Not to Use:
Not ideal if they actually need money or a real favor.
Example:
Daniel: “Hey, don’t forget what you owe me!”
You: “I’m fresh out of cash, but I can offer you a virtual cookie!”
How to Respond:
Pretend to hand them an invisible cookie and say, “Freshly baked, just for you!
16. Let’s just call it even, and I’ll give you a free shoutout on social media!
Story:
Sophia reminds you of a favor, and instead of getting tense, you turn it into a joke: “Let’s just call it even, and I’ll give you a free shoutout on social media!”
When to Use:
Best when the person enjoys social media and fun exchanges.
When Not to Use:
Avoid if they aren’t active online or expect something serious.
Example:
Sophia: “You owe me big time!”
You: “Let’s just call it even, and I’ll give you a free shoutout on social media!”
How to Respond:
Say, “I’ll write a post about how you’re the best human ever. Hashtag legend!”
17. I’m currently investing in my ‘Apology and Thanks’ fund. You’re first on the list!
Story:
Ethan reminds you of a favor, and instead of stressing, you joke, “I’m currently investing in my ‘Apology and Thanks’ fund. You’re first on the list!”
When to Use:
Works well in playful situations where you want to keep things light.
When Not to Use:
Not for moments when someone genuinely needs a real repayment.
Example:
Ethan: “Hey, don’t forget you owe me!”
You: “I’m currently investing in my ‘Apology and Thanks’ fund. You’re first on the list!”
How to Respond:
Smile and say, “The interest rate is high—expect a lot of gratitude soon!”
18. Can I offer you a lifetime subscription to my gratitude?
Story:
Olivia jokingly claims you owe her. Instead of feeling awkward, you say, “Can I offer you a lifetime subscription to my gratitude?”
When to Use:
Perfect when the person appreciates humor and doesn’t expect a real repayment.
When Not to Use:
Not great if they need something tangible.
Example:
Olivia: “Hey, don’t forget you owe me!”
You: “Can I offer you a lifetime subscription to my gratitude?”
How to Respond:
Say, “It comes with unlimited appreciation and bonus compliments!”
19. I’ll make it up to you with a personal serenade at your next party!
Story:
Matthew jokingly reminds you of a favor, and instead of taking it too seriously, you reply, “I’ll make it up to you with a personal serenade at your next party!”
When to Use:
Perfect for fun-loving friends who enjoy playful humor.
When Not to Use:
Avoid it if the person isn’t a fan of singing or jokes.
Example:
Matthew: “You owe me for that favor!”
You: “I’ll make it up to you with a personal serenade at your next party!”
How to Respond:
Start humming a song and say, “Want a sneak peek? It’s going to be a hit!”
20. I’m out of money, but I can offer you an endless supply of virtual high-fives!
Story:
Emma jokingly says you owe her, and instead of making things tense, you respond, “I’m out of money, but I can offer you an endless supply of virtual high-fives!”
When to Use:
Great when the person is just teasing you and doesn’t expect anything real.
When Not to Use:
Not ideal if they need an actual repayment.
Example:
Emma: “Hey, you owe me!”
You: “I’m out of money, but I can offer you an endless supply of virtual high-fives!”
How to Respond:
Raise your hand and say, “Go ahead, collect your first one now!”
21. How about I give you a special ‘I Owe You’ certificate?
When to Use
This works best in friendly and playful situations when someone jokingly reminds you of a favor. It keeps the exchange fun and light-hearted.
When Not to Use
Avoid this response if the person is seriously claiming repayment, as it may seem like you are stressing them out instead of addressing the situation.
Example
Alex: You owe me one.
You: How about I give you a special ‘I Owe You’ certificate?
How to Respond
Pretend to write out an official-looking certificate and hand it over, saying, “This is a limited edition, non-redeemable coupon for my eternal gratitude.”
22. I’m currently out of cash, but I have a wealth of cheesy jokes
When to Use
Use this when you want to defuse the situation with humor. It works best with someone who enjoys a good laugh.
When Not to Use
Avoid this response if the person is frustrated or actually expecting something valuable in return.
Example
Emma: You still owe me big time.
You: I’m currently out of cash, but I have a wealth of cheesy jokes.
How to Respond
Immediately follow up with a joke like, “Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.”
23. How about a lifetime of my eternal gratitude and a high-five?
When to Use
This is great when you want to acknowledge a favor but still keep things playful and amusing.
When Not to Use
Avoid using this when someone is seriously expecting repayment. It may seem like you are avoiding responsibility.
Example
Sophia: Don’t forget what you owe me.
You: How about a lifetime of my eternal gratitude and a high-five?
How to Respond
Give them the most dramatic high-five ever and say, “You just got the premium gratitude package.”
24. Can I interest you in a handmade ‘Thank You’ card from the heart?
When to Use
Perfect for when you want to sound genuine while still keeping things light-hearted.
When Not to Use
Avoid this if the person is expecting something more than just appreciation.
Example
Jordan: You still owe me, remember?
You: Can I interest you in a handmade ‘Thank You’ card from the heart?
How to Respond
Pretend to draw an imaginary card, hand it over, and say, “This is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, just for you.”
25. I’m fresh out of favors, but I can offer you a virtual hug
When to Use
Great when you want to add humor while still showing appreciation.
When Not to Use
Avoid this if the person expects something real in return.
Example
Chris: You owe me big time.
You: I’m fresh out of favors, but I can offer you a virtual hug.
How to Respond
Stretch your arms out as if you’re giving a huge imaginary hug and say, “Did you feel the warmth? That was premium.”
26. I’m in debt but rich in ‘thank you’s and warm wishes
When to Use
Works best in a friendly exchange when someone is jokingly claiming repayment.
When Not to Use
Not ideal for serious situations where actual payment is expected.
Example
Taylor: I’m waiting for what you owe me.
You: I’m in debt but rich in ‘thank you’s and warm wishes.
How to Respond
Give them an exaggerated bow and say, “Consider yourself officially thanked.”
27. I’ll repay you with a special ‘You’re the Best’ shout-out
When to Use
Great for social media lovers who enjoy a fun public mention.
When Not to Use
Avoid if the person expects something personal and direct in return.
Example
Liam: You still owe me, you know.
You: I’ll repay you with a special ‘You’re the Best’ shout-out.
How to Respond
Look around dramatically and announce, “Attention, everyone! Liam is the greatest person ever!”
28. How about a coupon for one free, unlimited hug?
When to Use
Perfect for close friends who enjoy playful humor.
When Not to Use
Not ideal for casual acquaintances or professional settings.
Example
Mia: Don’t forget what you owe me.
You: How about a coupon for one free, unlimited hug?
How to Respond
Spread your arms wide and say, “This offer is valid for life, no expiration date.”
29. I’m out of cash but rich in goofy dance moves
When to Use
Great for fun and light-hearted situations where you want to make someone laugh.
When Not to Use
Avoid this if the person is expecting a serious response.
Example
Ryan: You still owe me for that thing.
You: I’m out of cash but rich in goofy dance moves.
How to Respond
Break into your silliest dance move and say, “There! That was a VIP-level payment.”
30. Let’s call it even if you promise to laugh at all my terrible puns
When to Use
Perfect for friends who love jokes and enjoy a fun exchange.
When Not to Use
Not ideal for people who dislike puns or are in a serious mood.
Example
Kevin: You owe me, don’t forget.
You: Let’s call it even if you promise to laugh at all my terrible puns.
How to Respond
Immediately say, “Why don’t eggs tell jokes? Because they might crack up!” and wait for their reaction.
31. I can’t pay you back in cash, but I can give you a VIP membership to my friendship club
When to Use
Great for close friends who enjoy a fun and exaggerated response.
When Not to Use
Not ideal for serious financial situations or people who don’t appreciate humor.
Example
Sarah: So, about that favor you owe me…
You: I can’t pay you back in cash, but I can give you a VIP membership to my friendship club.
How to Respond
Tell them, “This exclusive membership comes with unlimited jokes, advice, and the occasional snack recommendation.”
32. I’ll make it up to you by giving you the secret recipe to my happiness
When to Use
Great for philosophical or playful conversations where you want to turn the tables with creativity.
When Not to Use
Avoid this if the person is looking for something tangible in return.
Example
Jack: Don’t forget what you owe me!
You: I’ll make it up to you by giving you the secret recipe to my happiness.
How to Respond
Lean in and whisper, “Step one: Surround yourself with amazing people like me. Step two: Eat lots of chocolate.”
33. I may not have money, but I can offer you my lifelong loyalty—within reason
When to Use
Works well in friendly settings where you can joke about allegiance and loyalty.
When Not to Use
Not ideal for serious situations where actual repayment is expected.
Example
Olivia: You owe me one!
You: I may not have money, but I can offer you my lifelong loyalty—within reason.
How to Respond
Add, “Terms and conditions apply. Loyalty does not include waking up early or running errands on weekends.”
34. How about a custom-made poem all about how amazing you are?
When to Use
Perfect for friends who appreciate creativity and humor.
When Not to Use
Avoid if the person is not interested in sentimental gestures.
Example
Ethan: Don’t forget, you owe me big time.
You: How about a custom-made poem all about how amazing you are?
How to Respond
Recite something quickly like, “Ethan’s great, Ethan’s cool, Ethan helped me—he’s no fool!”
35. I’ll repay you by being your personal hype person for a whole day
When to Use
Great for friends who enjoy positive energy and fun interactions.
When Not to Use
Avoid if the person expects a real repayment and isn’t interested in fun gestures.
Example
Zoe: I’m still waiting for what you owe me.
You: I’ll repay you by being your personal hype person for a whole day.
How to Respond
Start immediately with, “folks, may I introduce the most incredible, kind, and generous person—Zoe!”
Top Editor’s Choice Responses
- I was just about to pay you in hugs!
- I hope you accept payment in chocolate!
- I’ll pay you back with interest in compliments!
- I’m currently bankrupt in good deeds. Can I pay you in jokes?
- I’m saving up for a grand repayment—one high five at a time!
- Can I interest you in some free advice instead?
- How about I start a payment plan of one joke a day?
- I’m out of favors, but I can offer you a dance!
- Let’s call it even and I’ll owe you a favor for not reminding me again!
- Can I pay you back with virtual high fives and a meme?
- I’ll pay you back with a legendary story about how you helped me!
- I’m working on a special ‘thank you’ song for you. It’s a hit!
- I’ll repay you with a lifetime supply of my bad jokes!
- How about I send you a thank you card that says, ‘You’re awesome!’
- I’m fresh out of cash, but I can offer you a virtual cookie!
- Let’s just call it even and I’ll give you a free shoutout on social media!
- Can I offer you a lifetime subscription to my gratitude?
- How about I give you a special ‘I Owe You’ certificate?
- I’ll make it up to you by giving you the secret recipe to my happiness.
- I’ll repay you by being your personal hype person for a whole day.
Conclusion
We’ve all faced that awkward moment when someone jokingly or seriously says, “You owe me!” Instead of letting the situation turn tense, a playful and light-hearted response can make the exchange fun and amusing. Whether you’re using humor to defuse the moment or a quip to keep things friendly, these responses help turn a simple favor into a memorable laugh.
Next time someone claims you owe them, don’t start stressing—just pick a response from this list and enjoy the moment!
I’m Lily Hart, the Admin behind the engaging responses at SayStyles.com! With a knack for blending wit and warmth, I turn every piece of writing into something memorable. From clever advice to fun comebacks, I’m here to make sure every response leaves you smiling and thinking.
