Key takeaways
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How and when to initiate a conversation with your partner about money.
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The steps to take when managing your financial future as a couple, such as creating a budget, allocating financial roles, and controlling and eliminating debt.
Money can be a sensitive and challenging topic to discuss as a couple, especially if you have differing views on how to approach your financial affairs. It is, however, well worth pursuing, as open and honest communication about finances is an essential part of building a healthy and enduring relationship.
Financial disagreements and misunderstandings are a common cause of conflict between couples, but by addressing money matters proactively, you can strengthen your bond and establish a solid foundation for your future together.
In this article, we will explore the importance of talking about money with your partner, provide tips for initiating the conversation, and offer strategies to manage finances as a team while navigating those conversations successfully.
Here are some guidelines to follow when approaching the topic of money with your partner.
Choose the right time and place
Initiating a conversation about money requires careful consideration of the timing and setting.
Select a moment when both you and your partner are calm and relaxed, ensuring there are no distractions. Avoid discussing finances during arguments or other stressful situations, as emotions can cloud judgment and lead to further conflict.
A good way to introduce these conversations into your relationship is by arranging to have them at regular intervals. Perhaps, for example, you could organise a monthly dinner date where you can discuss money matters. That way, it just becomes routine and there’s no awkwardness or suspicion about bringing it up.
Be honest and transparent
When discussing money matters, honesty is the foundation of trust.
Share your financial situation openly, including income, expenses, debts, and savings. Being open about your financial history and future goals will help create a deeper connection and mutual understanding.
Assess your attitudes towards money
Before discussing finances with your partner, take some time to reflect on your own beliefs and attitudes about money.
Understand how your past experiences may influence your financial decisions. Identifying any biases or emotional baggage will enable you to communicate more effectively and avoid potential conflicts.
Have an open mind
Remember that everyone has unique experiences and attitudes towards money, which might be influenced by their upbringing, cultural background, and personal beliefs.
Be prepared to listen intently and without judgment. Acknowledge any fears or anxieties you or your partner may have about discussing money and reassure one other that you are in this together.
Avoid interrupting, and validate their feelings and opinions, even if you disagree. Having an open mind will foster a stronger bond between you and help you achieve more positive outcomes.
Define your financial goals together
Discuss and establish common financial goals. Whether it’s saving for a house, paying off debts, or planning for retirement, having shared objectives will strengthen your bond and motivate you to work together towards a brighter financial future.
Create a budget
A budget is an indispensable tool for couples to manage their finances.
Work together to create a budget that aligns with your financial goals and priorities. Allocate funds for essentials (mortgage, groceries, bills, etc.), savings, discretionary spending, and unexpected expenses.
Individual vs. joint accounts
Decide whether you will have individual or joint accounts, or a combination of both.
Some couples find it beneficial to maintain separate accounts for personal spending whilst having a joint account for shared expenses. Choose the approach that best suits your circumstances and comfort levels.
Allocate financial roles
Discuss and allocate financial responsibilities within the relationship. Determine who will handle bill payments, budgeting, investment decisions, and long-term financial planning.
Establishing clear roles and responsibilities will help avoid confusion and potential conflicts.
Address debts together
Debt can be a significant source of stress in a relationship. If either partner carries debts, discuss them openly and explore strategies to tackle them. Prioritise debt repayment to improve financial stability and work together to avoid accumulating additional debt.
Prepare for unexpected events
Life is unpredictable and financial emergencies can arise at any time, so create an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs.
This fund should cover at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This will remove the need to offload any of your savings to cover emergency costs.
Having a safety net in place will provide peace of mind and maintain your financial wellbeing.
Seek professional advice if needed
If you encounter complex financial challenges or differences that are proving difficult to resolve, consider seeking advice from a financial counsellor or speak to us. Professional guidance can offer fresh perspectives and help you work through difficult situations more effectively.
Summary
Talking about money with your partner may feel uncomfortable initially, but it is a necessary step in building a strong and secure relationship. By approaching the conversation with empathy, honesty, and a willingness to work together, you can navigate financial challenges as a team.
Remember that financial communication is an ongoing process. By keeping the lines of communication open, you can continue to grow and support each other on your financial journey, paving the way for a more secure, prosperous, and happy life together.
This article has been prepared by NULIS Nominees (Australia) Limited ABN 80 008 515 633 AFSL 236465 (NULIS) as trustee of the MLC Super Fund ABN 70 732 426 024. NULIS is part of the Insignia Financial group of companies comprising Insignia Financial Ltd ABN 49 100 103 722 and its related bodies corporate (‘Insignia Financial Group’). The information in this article is current as at January 2024 and may be subject to change. This information may constitute general advice. The information in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions based on this information. It is recommended that you consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) before you make any decisions about your superannuation. You can obtain the latest copy of the PDS (or other disclosure documents) and TMD by calling us on 132 652 or by searching for the applicable product at mlc.com.au. You should not rely on this article to determine your personal tax obligations. Please consult a registered tax agent for this purpose. Opinions constitute our judgement at the time of issue. The case study examples (if any) provided in this article have been included for illustrative purposes only and should not be relied upon for decision making. Subject to terms implied by law and which cannot be excluded, neither NULIS nor any member of the Insignia Financial Group accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in the information in this communication.