Did you know that one of the main reasons that most couples fight is money? Perhaps not so surprisingly, it is also one of the leading causes of divorce. This is a good example of why it’s important to discuss finances and have all aspects relating to money out in the open in order to have a healthy and happy relationship.
If you are preparing to start a life with your new husband or wife, you may also be considering the purchase of a home. As you may know, both your credit history and that of your spouse will impact a potential lender’s decision as to whether or not to approve your loan request. What you may not know is that, due to the fact that some landlords now check their tenant’s credit, your credit history can also affect your ability to rent a home if that’s the route that you choose to pursue. The best way to prepare for either renting or purchasing a home is to sit down and discuss income, debts and past payment history with one another. In some instances, it may be advisable to share your credit reports with one another so that there are no surprises down the road. This will not only give you a good idea as to how lenders will view your creditworthiness, but it is also the perfect time to identify and correct any inaccuracies in your credit reports.
Combining finances is one topic that many couples struggle with. Do we keep our finances separate or do we combine them into one joint checking account? If you are undecided, it’s perfectly fine to maintain the finances in a ‘his, hers and theirs’ format. If you and your spouse-to-be prefer to keep your finances separate for now, simply open a joint checking account to pay household bills and other expenses.
If you want to achieve the perfect balance in both your relationship and your checkbook, make a pact to be open and honest when it comes to communicating about money. Although this may be one of the touchiest subjects for many couples, it’s much better to discuss the issues and deal with them immediately. In the end, both you and your spouse will be much happier and the relationship will be much healthier.
The information in this article is designed to be used for reference purposes only. It should not be used as, in place of or in conjunction with professional financial advice. For further information, consult with a financial advisor in your area.
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