Money problems feature in most marriage failures. They may not be the sole cause of breakdowns, but money matters always make other problems worse.
Financial stresses highlight and aggravate the many other difficulties that relationships face. There are things you can all do to avoid money hassles and increase the chances of a long and happy marriage.
Start at the beginning. These are the things that a couple considering marriage should do about money matters before their wedding day.
Be Up-front About Money Styles
Couples may be floating on a cloud of romantic intoxication and unwilling to talk about financial matters, but you need to do it. Have a serious talk about you, your partner and your individual money management styles. Tell the truth. Are you good at managing your money? If not, what do you plan to do about it? It will not 'come right' on its own!
Don't lie about debts, don't hide problems - like a sore covered by a bandage and ignored, a money issue that is hidden, can turn into a deadly problem for your marriage. If you have debt, disclose it. Get your spouse to help you plan the way out of it.
If you marry a person who is in debt, in community of property, you will become liable for that debt! You can avoid this unhappy situation and other potential difficulties by having an antenuptial contract.
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