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How open are you about money in your relationship?
Examples Of Financial Infidelity
Financial infidelity is a big problem in relationships and could include:
Not being open about a second house.
Not disclosing a credit card or multiple credit cards.
Being dishonest about a large amount of debt.
Hiding your genuine salary because you fear your partner may overspend.
Maintaining hidden savings and investment accounts.
Mishandling your partner’s funds.
Keeping a large purchase private.
There are multiple reasons people might commit financial infidelity, but if you’re not open about money in relationships, at some point, the individuals in the relationships are likely to hit a breaking point.
Introduce More Transparency Into Your Relationship
Things you can do to be more open about personal finance in your relationship:
Disclose purchases when you’re about to make them or immediately after the fact. Some partners chat about every purchase they make; others only mention large purchases over a certain number.
Get on the same page about the budget. Try to have these conversations before you partner up or marry someone to avoid situations like “different-page” budgeting (i.e., having different mindsets about family spending).
Whenever you’re thinking about opening a new loan or line of credit, chat about it first with your partner and ensure you both are okay with it.
Create a debt repayment plan together and talk about all of your debts so you both are 100% aware of everything owed.
Be responsible and respectful. If one partner is more prudent about finance, then be open to listening to their advice and implementing it. When partners are not on the same page because one party wants to be irresponsible with money, it creates pointless friction. There is often one person who is more responsible with money in a relationship.
Have consistent conversations about spending, budgeting, debt, and investing. The more consistent your discussions are, the earlier you can catch potential pitfalls.
If you have a gambling, shopping, and spending addiction, get help instead of putting your partner through the wringer and mishandling your shared finances. Addictions require help and assistance from external resources, and there is hope to eradicate the addiction and take back control of your finances.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.