9 Easy Ways to Discuss Finance with Your Partner

1. Establish a Money DateEarly

Every month, a money date should be brief, no more than 20 minutes. Keeping them short reduces the chances of the conversation becoming heated.

2. Start Small

Start simple when talking about money with your partner. You don't need to get into your retirement plans, investments, or anything else.

3. Don’t Ambush Your Partner

There are a few intrinsically awkward issues to discuss, and one of them is money. That means that not everyone is as comfortable discussing money.

4. Work on Your Money Goals Together

Set a financial goal with your partner to build a support structure that holds both of you accountable. 

5. Avoid Shaming Your Partner

When someone is ashamed of something, the last thing they want to do is discuss it. Avoid having your first money conversation with your partner be a terrible experience. 

6. Discuss Spending and Earning Money

Spending, saving, budgeting, investing, and other financial topics are frequently discussed with your partner. However, money discussions should also involve how you and your partner make money.

7. Discuss Debt

Debt is one of the most serious financial concerns that may develop in someone's life, and it has a tremendous impact on any relationship.

8. Understand the Why & Not Just the Numbers

Sometimes a purchase or a paycheck figure is merely a piece of the puzzle. Some people are overjoyed to earn $60,000 each year, while others aspire for something more.

9. Allow For Differing Opinions

Money discussions with your partner are not competitions. There should be no winner or loser. Instead, any decision might have merits and cons, and differing viewpoints are appropriate.