Talking about money for couples

One in three people say that support when talking to their partner about debt and finances would benefit them.

A recent poll found that UK adults are hiding a collective £69.6bn of secret debt from their partners. Accounting for most of the debt, 5.5m people were hiding an average of £2,000 on credit cards.

Nearly 2/3 of married couples said that they would prefer to talk politics than money.

Sharing your attitudes to money

“A conversation about your finances can be awkward and if you’ve got debt even somewhat distressing” says Jane Morgan, from Direct Line, which carried out the research. “But it’s important to ensure your partner is aware of your financial position. Having these discussions as early as possible to make sure you are prepared.”

Using these questions can help you understand you and your partner’s attitudes to money. Talking about your goals, it’s important to think about what you both want:

• Do you prefer to live for today?
• Are you confident in managing money?
• Do you think it’s important to keep track of income and expenditure?
• Do you like to shop around to make money go further or to buy on impulse?
• Are you open to discussing money?
• Do you feel it’s important to adjust non-essentials when life changes?
• Do you ask for help with your money?

 

There’s more useful information to help you talk to your parner about money from the Money Advice Service.

Get budgeting

Drawing up a budget is a great way to be open about your money and debts.

A great place to start is with this calculator from the Money Advice Service:

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