COUPLES & MARRIAGE

Unfortunately, couples planning a life together often avoid talking about finances, and how they will be managed, before marriage. Couples often find themselves at odds over how money is saved or spent, most relying on lessons learned while growing up. Some come from families where parents were careful with every dollar, while others had easy access to cash. Some are natural spenders, while others are savers. There are many possible reasons for conflict, but one fact is clear: sharing perspectives about money early on can be very helpful in resolving issues before they become serious enough to damage a relationship.

Following are some basic tips for successfully merging your financial philosophies when marrying. Set goals. Setting financial goals helps you develop priorities and define the type of lifestyle you will lead.Divide the money management tasks. Decide who will be responsible for balancing the checkbook, filing taxes, and tracking investments, or set up a plan for rotating these and other financial tasks. Establish a realistic budget. A sound budget helps you save regularly, utilize income wisely, and avoid misunderstandings about how money is spent. And, know how much debt your spouse is bringing into your relationship.Couples must enter marriage knowing how much debt they each carry and how it will be paid.

These are just a few of the important, money-related issues couples need to discuss up front. The office of Deborah J Kent can help you create a financial plan you both can live with. The most important tip to remember is: open communication about money in the beginning will help you avoid misunderstandings later.