A recent survey reveals many couples are unwilling to merge finances. Some insist on separate bills and bank accounts just in case a relationship doesn’t last.
However, others prefer joint bank accounts and bills in order to make sure that finances are divided fairly. It’s a very complex subject affected by facts such as children, previous relationships, and employment status.
Slightly more than half of the survey respondents said they preferred separate bank accounts, citing financial freedom, but some say their financial actions are due to fear of commitment. Less than half argue for joint bank accounts, reasoning that two people are not officially a couple until they share financial responsibility.
Who is right? It all comes down to the individual couple. What works for me may not work for you. Each couple must decide individually what works for them, but here are some of the pros and cons of merging finances:
Pros
- Everything goes into one account and all bills are paid from it
- Fewer arguments over who pays what
- Bills are covered equally
- Fewer arguments over who covers surprise expenses
Cons
- One spouse spending more than other spouse
- Arguments over how much to spend on big-ticket items
- Things can get messy when it comes to shared property if divorce occurs
The best way to decide is to talk to your partner and come up with a solution. A joint bank account requires cooperation, while separate bank accounts lets each person decide how to manage any extra money. Either way, communication is key to successfully navigating the world of love and money. Have regular money meetings, where you discuss household finances in detail. This will help avoid arguments and possibly financial infidelity.