7 Easy Financial Actions to Take Before Marriage

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info read my disclosure.

Marriage is a beautiful and meaningful commitment that involves more than just love and emotional connection. It also brings together two people’s lives, including their finances. While love may conquer all, financial disagreements can create stress and strain on a relationship. That’s why discussing finances before you get married is crucial. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why this conversation is important and offer some tips on how to approach it successfully.

Establish Transparency in Marriage

One of the keys to a successful marriage is transparency. This applies not only to your feelings and aspirations but also to your money situation. By sharing your financial history, including income, debts, assets, and expenses, you can build a foundation of trust and openness. 

Be honest about any financial obligations, such as student loans, credit card debt, or outstanding bills. Discussing your financial history might not be the most romantic conversation, but it’s necessary for your future together.

Create Financial Goals with your partner

Discussions before marriage should include setting financial goals. Determine your shared goals, such as buying a home, saving for a comfortable retirement, or starting a family. These goals will serve as a roadmap for your financial journey as a couple. Be prepared to compromise and find a balance between your individual goals and shared objectives.

While on The Money Exchange Podcast, Certified Financial Planner™ and a Certified Financial Therapist-Level I™ Practitioner, Bill Nelson expounded on this by saying it is important that your partner is on board with your financial goals even if it is something that would not be their first choice.

Develop a Budget together

Creating a budget together is a fundamental part of discussing finances before marriage. A budget helps you allocate your resources, manage expenses, and plan for your financial goals. 

Set up a budget that takes into account both of your incomes, monthly expenses, and savings contributions. Be sure to revisit and adjust your budget as needed, especially when life circumstances change.

Decide on Joint or Separate Finances

Deciding whether to combine your finances or keep them separate is an important step in pre-marital financial discussions. Some couples opt for joint bank accounts, while others maintain separate accounts for personal expenses and have a joint account for shared expenses. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so discuss what works best for your relationship. The key is open communication and a mutual understanding of how you’ll manage your finances together.

Plan for Emergencies

Life is unpredictable, and unexpected financial challenges can arise. Discuss how you will handle emergencies or unexpected expenses. 

Consider establishing an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs, such as medical bills, car repairs, or home maintenance. Having a financial safety net in place can help reduce stress during difficult times.

Wanting to learn more tips on planning for emergencies? Subscribe to our newsletter!

Discuss Financial Roles and Responsibilities

Another critical aspect of discussing finances before marriage is determining financial roles and responsibilities. Decide who will be responsible for paying bills, managing investments, and handling day-to-day financial matters. 

This will ensure that both partners are involved and informed about the financial decisions being made which is critical to the growth of one’s marriage according to Bill Nelson on The Money Exchange Podcast.

Seek Professional Guidance together

If you and your partner find it challenging to navigate financial discussions, seeking professional guidance can be beneficial. 

A financial advisor or counselor can help you both understand your financial situation better, create a plan, and offer advice on managing your finances as a couple.

Conclusion

Discussing finances before you get married may not be the most romantic aspect of wedding preparations, but it’s an essential one. Open and honest conversations about money will help build a strong foundation for your future together. 

It’s about much more than just managing your finances; it’s about building trust, setting goals, and ensuring that your marriage is built on a solid financial base. By addressing these financial matters head-on, you can look forward to a stronger, more resilient, and happier partnership.

Want to hear from a financial advisor first hand about how crucial this is? Watch Episode 131 of The Money Exchange Podcast.