Not have two beans, brain cells, etc. to rub together

Pro Tip 1/3

Extreme Poverty

Emphasizes a severe lack of money, more than just ordinary financial trouble.

After losing his job, he found himself not having two beans to rub together.

Pro Tip 2/3

Hyperbolic Expression

Used for emphasis, not to be taken literally; implies having very little or nothing at all.

She laughed when I said I didn't have two beans to rub together, but I was serious.

Pro Tip 3/3

Colloquial Humor

Often used in a light-hearted or joking way to describe one's financial state.

I'd join you for dinner if I had two beans to rub together!