How to Survive Money Matters in a Relationship

Be open about money matters to avoid tension or sneaking around.

Relationships are difficult enough without money matters coming up. If you and your partner have financial problems or trouble staying ahead, there are ways for your relationship to survive them without losing your mind. Depending on the relationship, there are many money issues that may crop up, ranging from mild to potentially ruinous problems. As long as both you and your significant other want to solve your problems and continue your relationship, you can survive and even thrive!

Instructions

1. Decide how your finances will be shared when you begin a serious relationship. If you both have jobs, this may be easier. You may open a joint checking and savings account or create individual accounts. Keeping a joint account lets you both see your finances and account for what each other spends.

2. Observe your partner's spending habits to make sure that she is not overspending. If she constantly goes shopping or shows off new things, she may be spending too much money.

3. Ask questions about your partner's spending if you notice any problems. In a relationship, you should be able to ask questions and make sure that your partner isn't making financial mistakes. Encourage your partner to be honest with you and explain how or why they've been spending. Be willing to deal with whatever your partner says and don't get angry.

4. Create a budget together if your spending becomes too much. Set up automatic payments for bills from checking accounts and decide on spending money amounts. Decide how much to put into savings or retirement plans each month.

5. Seek help from financial professionals. Find a money manager to invest your money or advise you on solid investments and safe ways to save. These professionals charge fees, but they help you build a nest egg using strategies that you may not know about.

Tips & Warnings

• If the money problems involve serious psychological issues such as substance abuse or gambling, seek professional psychiatric help.

References

• Divine Caroline: Four Ways to Tackle Relationship Money Matters
• Sound Money Matters: Is Money a Relationship Deal Breaker for You?
• Revolution Health: Money Matters
• Investopedia: Relationship Money Matters
• US News and World Report Health: Money Harmony