I can't afford Xmas presents - how do I tell them?

[pitstopbunny]

I have several good friends on MySpace & Facebook and they are planning on sending Xmas gifts. I really cannot afford gifts this year apart from my immediate family (Dad & Sister), so how do I tell my friends that I am not gift giving without sounding mean.
To make it worse quite a few sent my birthday presents on my 40th this year. I really am not being Scrooge but I have been on incapcity benefit for the last 4 years & struggle to keep my head above water.
Sorry if this has been asked before, I did try searching!

[blondie83]

If you all know eachother, why don't you suggest a secret santa, that way you just buy one present...

[saxy_jag]

Tell them the truth. As Zacsmaster says, if they're true friends, they'll understand. If they would like to buy something for you and you would rather they didn't, what about asking them to give the money to a charity instead.

Several years ago, we went bankrupt, and we've spent a good number of years struggling. One of the positive outcomes of this is that you realise a)who your true friends are and b)that there's more to Christmas than presents and money.

[pitstopbunny]

Thank you all for your answers - I did just that and explained that as much as I love them all, I simply could not afford gifts & most have been in agreement with me. At the end of the day it is the thought that counts & if they are happy with a hug then it is good all round! xox : )