This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
Including the full-time-stay-at-home partners and parents
Maintaining a relationship where only one partner earns income is not foolproof.
If sh*t were to hit the fan (which doesn’t always include separation), what is the financial plan?
For some, it might include:
Savings
Life Insurance
Disability & Accidental Insurance
But not everyone has enough of these to flourish financially without the primary partner bringing in income.
Whether you are a full-time parent or partner does not mean you can’t earn income. You may be busy with obligations as your partner earns the full-time income, which means it might make most sense to look for income opportunities that don’t take up too much time (e.g., passive income).
It is healthy to maintain an income at all times.
Whether you use it or not is up to you and your partner.
If your partner provides for the household, you can dump all this income into savings or use it for meaningful activities.
In the Case of Separation
Some people will rely on child support, alimony, and settlements. But not everyone has the luxury of receiving these items. Furthermore, these things do not guarantee financial independence.
But the bigger statement to consider is, having to rely on someone financially is unappealing (unless you physically or mentally are incapable of earning income).
Do you really want to relinquish total financial independence?
Could You Support Yourself?
If things went south, could you provide yourself with similar or better housing, transportation, and food?
Many people can’t, which is why they don’t get separations.
Ever notice that after some couples get separated, one partner seems to do better than the other? Every now and then, you will have both partners flourish financially, but usually, it’s one.
I have a friend who is stuck in a relationship with their partner because they need their financial support. Until they obtain financial independence, they are stuck.
The Biggest Con
The primary con about relinquishing your financial independence to care for the kids, house, or other duties, is that you’re putting your financial status in the hands of someone else.
They’re deciding your income limit and where your income comes from.
You’re not in total control – even if you’re managing it.
My Situation
During one of my previous relationships, I was without income for six months, but I still contributed as if I was earning.
Did I have to do this? No, but I could.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.