Money is a sensitive topic, especially in romantic relationships. As you grow older, you learn that financial stability involves communication with your partner. Asking the right questions may seem uncomfortable, but knowing where you both stand will help you reach financial goals and avoid conflicts.
Here are 10 money questions you must ask your significant other if you’re serious about building a future together.
How do you define financial success?
This question can help you better understand your partner’s vision. It opens up conversations about your goals and gives you perspective on how money influences life.
What are your financial goals?
This question is crucial, especially if you want to assess your compatibility. Knowing your partner’s answer will help guide you in managing the finances.
What are your spending habits?
Understanding how your significant other spends money will give you an idea of where most of it’s going. Knowing this information can help you prioritize how and where to save in the future.
How do you feel about investing?
Investing requires risk-taking, so you need to know your partner’s take on it. It may also be interesting to learn if they understand how it works.
How much debt do you have?
This question can be sensitive, but it’s an important question to ask. Knowing about the level of debt will give you an idea of how much risk you’re taking on.
Can we discuss our finances once a month?
Check-in with each other. Schedule conversations to plan goals and progress. It will help avoid unnecessary arguments.
Should we combine our finances or keep them separate?
This conversation clarifies whether sharing a bank account is necessary and what limits should be set. It will also help avoid confusion about bills.
How do we split the bills?
This question will clear any confusion about who pays what, and you need a strategy that works for the two of you.
Do we let each other know before making big purchases?
Since every relationship is unique, this question can define the boundaries when buying things like a car or other high-priced items.
Where do you see us in five years?
When the relationship starts getting serious, you want to plan for your future as a couple. Asking this question will help you know what needs to be done to be financially secure.
Other important questions to ask:
What does having money mean to you?
What does it mean to be good with money?
Did your family talk about money growing up?
Do you think your parents were good with money?
What is your biggest money regret or mistake?
Work As a Team
This is stuff you want to know before getting serious with someone. Have the conversation now before it becomes a problem. It will also let you know how responsible your partner is.
Money is never just about money. It’s an emotional topic that represents many things to different people. Discussing your finances can strengthen your relationship and help you make more informed decisions about your future together.