How to Prevent Money from Ruining Your Marriage

Couples fight about money twice as much as they fight about sex. Sharing finances with a partner comes with a lot of issues; mutual trust, respect, self-worth, etc. These are all areas that, if damaged even slightly, can lead to upset and tear the fabric of a marriage apart.

The American divorce rate is nearly twice what it was in 1960, though it has declined somewhat since hitting an all-time high in 1980. This decline suggests a higher rate of marital stability, due to both a higher age of first marriage as well as the reservation of marriage for the economically stable.

The stabilizing influence of financially coordinated efforts and decisions in a marriage can go a long way toward “happily ever after.”

Here are some tips to strengthen the bond from a financial standpoint:

Talk

This would be a good piece of advice for couples on any subject but particularly so with money. Having open and honest communication about money is one of the most important financial decisions a couple can make.

As soon as they get married — or even before — couples should show their entire hand to their partner: student loans, credit card debt, everything. From there, they can start developing a structure that allows for continual open dialogue. Money can be awkward and uncomfortable to open up about, but getting everything out in the open will pay off in spades.

Goals

Talk about your financial goals often and in detail. It’s vital to sit down and coordinate your future plans with regard to finances. Think about it. If you’re not working together toward a common goal, then chances are you’re at odds with one another to some degree. Getting on the same page with one another and understanding each other’s money philosophy so that you can reach common ground is a really important factor.

Retirement and Savings

You’re hopefully going to grow old together. Start planning for it now. Retirement savings plans are easily accessible and are worth every penny you stash away when you’re sitting on that cruise ship smiling at one another, sipping on Mai Tais.

Start a savings account together. And an Emergency Fund. Invest together.

Budget

You probably don’t need to live in a giant mansion, nor do you need the latest shiny fancy car. It’s nice to have nice things, but if those things are beyond your means, do not fall for the consumer trap of going deep into debt to keep up with the Joneses – rather, save your money. Spend less than you earn, and avoid the stress of trying to juggle expensive bills that you can’t afford.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Material contained in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to be used in connection with the evaluation of any investments offered by David Lerner Associates, Inc. This material does not constitute an offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities and should not be considered in connection with the purchase or sale of securities.

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Each taxpayer should seek independent advice from a tax professional based on his or her individual circumstances.

These materials are provided for general information and educational purposes based upon publicly available information from sources believed to be reliable– we cannot assure the accuracy or completeness of these materials. The information in these materials may change at any time and without notice.

David Lerner Associates does not provide tax or legal advice. The information presented here is not specific to any individual's personal circumstances. Member FINRA & SIPC