If “that’s not my problem” sounds too dismissive, try “that’s outside my area,” “I’m not the right person to handle that,” or “that’s beyond my scope.” These set a boundary without unnecessarily shutting the other person down.
Choose a Response That Sets a Boundary
- That’s outside my area
- That’s outside my remit
- That’s beyond my scope
- I’m not the right person to handle that
- That sits with another team
- I don’t have responsibility for that
- I’m not able to help with that
- That’s not something I can resolve
- You’ll need to speak with the relevant team
- That isn’t within my role
- I can’t take ownership of that
- I’m afraid that’s outside my control
That’s outside my area
A neutral way to say the issue falls outside your knowledge, department, or responsibilities. It is useful when you do not want to sound defensive.
That’s outside my remit
A concise professional option, especially common in British English. It means the matter is not part of your assigned responsibilities.
That’s beyond my scope
Suitable for professional or technical settings when the request goes beyond what your role, project, or service covers.
I’m not the right person to handle that
A practical alternative that focuses on fit rather than blame. If possible, follow it with the name of the person or team who can help.
That sits with another team
Useful in workplaces where responsibility belongs elsewhere. It sounds more cooperative than simply saying the matter is not yours.
I don’t have responsibility for that
Direct and factual. It works when roles need to be made clear, though adding a redirect can make it sound more helpful.
I’m not able to help with that
A polite boundary when you cannot assist, whether because of role, expertise, time, or authority.
That’s not something I can resolve
Good for support or service situations where you understand the issue but do not have the ability to fix it yourself.
You’ll need to speak with the relevant team
A useful redirect when another department owns the issue. Replace “the relevant team” with a specific name whenever you can.
That isn’t within my role
Clear and professional when a request falls outside your job responsibilities. It is firmer than “I’m not sure I can help.”
I can’t take ownership of that
Use this when someone is trying to assign responsibility for an issue or task that you cannot reasonably own.
I’m afraid that’s outside my control
Best when the matter is not something you have the authority or ability to change. “I’m afraid” softens an otherwise firm boundary.
Set the Boundary Without Sounding Dismissive
When possible, pair the boundary with a next step: “That’s outside my area, but the finance team should be able to help.” You do not need to accept responsibility for the problem in order to point someone in the right direction.