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.
Ask the uncomfortable questions to experience a more comfortable relationship
In a dating relationship, should money be a factor when you’re financially sound, or is it okay to teach your significant other the basics about personal finance?
Person 1: I’m done teaching
One person said they’ve been teaching their dating partners their entire relationship history, and shit ain’t working.
Person 2: Set A Baseline
Another person suggested that a person should have a baseline.
What is the minimum salary your significant other should earn?
What is the minimum amount of knowledge about personal finance they should have?
Person 3: Financial Differences Take A Toll
Another person said they’re tired of dealing with dating partners that frequently complain about money or can’t keep up.
When it comes to relationships and finance, things can escalate quickly. People frequently stay in or step out of relationships because of money.
Money is a top factor for divorce and separation. For good reason, too; it’s a critical tool.
10 Lessons Regarding Relationships & Money
1. If You’re Not On The Same Wavelength
Two people on two different pages spells trouble ahead. You can always balance each other out if one person enjoys spending or saving more than the other, but never reaching an agreement will not work in the long term.
2. If You Don’t Earn Similar Income Have A Conversation
Splitting things down the middle 50/50 might be easy on one person but not on the other.
Are you okay with being the one that pays for more or the one that always contributes less? And vice versa; is your partner okay with it?
Something to think about.
3. Joint Or Separate Bank Accounts
I think both are equally important – especially if you share bills. However, if someone tends to be less responsible with how they utilize money, I would be slow to set up a joint bank account.
4. Talk About Debt Early
It might seem like someone is rolling in cash, and they very well might be, but what does the inside of their financial closet look like?
Do they have debt? If so, how much?
What types of debt do they have?
What types of expenditures do they invest their money in?
What is their debt payoff plan?
Are they accumulating more debt or paying it off?
5. Discuss Financial Goals
Surprisingly, people don’t have financial goals; if they do, they’re vague goals without firm timelines.
Learn what your dating partner or potential partner’s financial goals are in the short-term and the long-term.
Do their goals align with yours?
Does it matter how much they earn?
It’s not always so much about what a person earns versus what they do with their money. However, how much a person earns can dictate their lifestyle.
A person that earns $500,000 usually lives differently than someone who earns $50,000. There are, of course, people who live minimalistic lifestyles and don’t waste their money on materialistic things.
But you’re average high-income earner will live differently than your average income earner.
If you’re a high-income earner, do you want to date someone who earns ten times less than you, or does it not matter?
These are all questions and points to think about.
It’s not shallow; it’s called being more intentional about how you mix finance and your romantic relationships.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.