Tips for Managing Finances with Your Partner or Spouse

Discussing finances with your significant other can be a tough subject to broach and may lead to some uncomfortable conversations. These challenging conversations are not always fun but are necessary for couples who want to align their financial goals and create a harmonious relationship when it comes to money. With so many different fiscal factors to tackle, couples in New Mexico and elsewhere are looking to build a solid financial foundation that supports their shared financial goals and strengthens their connection to each other.

This guide lists the most effective means of managing finances with a significant other, including the importance of communication, budgeting, delegating responsibility, professional financial advice, and more.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY

It’s standard advice for any relationship – communicating with each other openly and honestly is key to achieving positive outcomes. Engage in a candid and transparent conversation about your financial status that includes income, debts, savings, and investments. This kind of transparency regarding your finances allows for a complete understanding of your combined financial landscape and helps facilitate smart financial decision-making.

Further, discussing your financial histories, attitudes towards saving and spending, and future hopes can help set realistic expectations and bring your financial goals into alignment.

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DECIDE ON A BUDGET TOGETHER

Being on the same page is critical when developing a budget that makes sense for both of you. A shared budget should cover all aspects of your financial life, including daily expenditures to long-term savings as well as debt repayment. When budgeting, consider your combined income and be sure to prioritize expenses that line up with your shared goals.

Review and adjust budgets regularly to reflect any changes in your financial situation or with your shared goals. Consistent engagement in this process together helps guarantee that both partners have a voice and a stake in financial decisions and commitments.

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TO MERGE OR NOT TO MERGE?

One of the first important decisions that couples make is whether to merge finances. This decision is a highly personal one and should be based on shared financial goals and mutual trust. For example, joint checking and savings accounts can simplify the management of expenses and savings goals but demand clear communication on how they are used.

Separate accounts, while also maintaining a joint account for common expenses, offer a sensible blend of autonomy and cooperation for both involved. Lastly, some couples opt for completely separate financial arrangements, which are effective when a clear understanding of contributions to shared expenses and goals is held by both partners.

Which arrangement is best for you and yours? Choose an arrangement that strengthens your partnership and supports your shared financial objectives.

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DELEGATING RESPONSIBILITY

Establishing clear roles on important financial tasks and responsibilities such as bill payments, budget tracking, and managing investments and savings is key to avoiding financial conflicts with your partner. These roles prevent important tasks from being overlooked and can reduce stress on the relationship.

Also, regular financial check-ins are also useful for discussion of your budget, financial goals, and consideration of any necessary adjustments or additional financial tasks that need to be taken on.

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ESTABLISH A SHARED EMERGENCY FUND

An emergency fund is a crucial safety net for unanticipated expenses, such as medical emergencies, home and vehicle repairs, or job loss. Savings for three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an accessible account and determining how much each partner can contribute to the fund on a monthly basis is a sensible approach for couples to take.

Emergency funds should be kept separate from personal savings and used solely for genuine emergencies, thereby ensuring that you’re both prepared for the unexpected.

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SET SHORT AND LONG-TERM GOALS

Take a vacation. Pay off credit cards. Build up an emergency fund. There is a wide variety of short-term goals for couples that can provide a clear roadmap for a shared financial journey. Long-term goals like saving for a home, planning for retirement, or funding your children’s education provide the same advantages with the added benefit of setting timelines for goals to be achieved over a lifetime.

Discuss priorities and timelines with your partner and regularly review (and celebrate) your progress with aligning goals and to maintain your momentum.

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EXPAND YOUR FINANCIAL EDUCATION TOGETHER

Education is power. Increasing your financial literacy as a couple can truly empower the both of you to make more informed and deliberate decisions about money. Take advantage of financial education resources like your financial institution’s blog section, books, podcasts, online courses, and seminars.

Learning together can foster discussions about financial strategies, helping to align your approaches towards money management. A shared learning journey can also strengthen your relationship and build confidence in your ability to overcome financial hurdles together.

ASK THE PROFESSIONALS

Consulting with financial professionals can provide personalized advice tailored to your unique financial situation. A financial planner can help create a comprehensive financial plan, including strategies for savings, investment, and retirement planning. They can also offer guidance on tax planning, insurance, and estate planning, ensuring that you’re prepared for what the future may bring.

Regular meetings with a financial advisor can help you and your partner stay on track, adjust your plan as your financial situation changes, and provide peace of mind knowing you’re making informed decisions about your finances.

MANAGING DEBT AND SAVINGS

Effective debt management is a critical aspect of financial planning for couples. It involves developing a smart strategy to pay down debts, such as credit cards, student loans, and mortgages, in a manner that minimizes interest costs and accelerates your freedom from debt. Techniques like the debt snowball or avalanche methods are tried-and-true methods for overcoming debt, depending on what suits your and your partner’s financial preferences.

At the same time, building savings, even while paying off debt, is important for establishing financial security. Prioritizing an emergency fund and then shifting focus to long-term savings goals ensures that you are prepared for the future while working towards financial freedom and empowerment.

DEL NORTE CREDIT UNION IS IMPROVING LIVES IN NEW MEXICO AND BEYOND!

Every couple’s financial situation is unique, and what works best is a personalized approach that aligns with your shared values and goals. With the right strategies and resources, managing finances as a couple can be a rewarding aspect of building a life together.

Grow your savings together with a great rate Share Certificate account from DNCU, tap into the best Savings Accounts in New Mexico, or open an Interest Checking or IRA Share Account or IRA Certificate today to earn more with your money. Visit a DNCU branch near you, make an appointment, or call us at 877-818-DNCU (3628) to get started.