Money troubles can easily cause issues in a relationship. When your funds are tight, it can lead to tense situations in which you take your frustration out on your significant other. In order to avoid this misplaced anger, it can be important to address financial concerns in the right way. Whether you’ve recently entered a relationship or you’ve been discussing marriage with your long-term partner, knowing how and when to talk about money can relieve stress and create a more manageable relationship overall. Consider these financial tips to find the healthiest path for your future.

Have a Conversation

Perhaps the most important aspect of avoiding issues related to money is having a conversation about financial goals. In a majority of cases, fights about money stem from a general lack of understanding. For example, you might be living with a lot of debt from previous mistakes or investments. If this is the case, your primary goal is probably to pay down the debt. When you never mention this to a partner, he or she might begin making wild assumptions about why you’re being stingy with your funds.

Getting on the same page about your financial situations can do wonders to clear the air in a relationship. What’s more, it helps to lay a strong foundation for your future. Having a clear understanding of your partner’s financial situation and habits can help limit fights caused by money. This discussion can also get you both on the same page about your future together. The more you know about your partner’s current finances, the easier it will be to know when it is time to take your relationship to the next level of commitment.

Frugal Isn’t Boring

Countless relationship experts and blog posts stress the importance of couples having a consistent date night on the calendar. Whether this is a weekly or monthly event, restricted finances can create tension when the big night rolls around. While it is true you need money to go out to dinner or see a movie, being frugal with your funds does not mean you need to be boring. In fact, it is the perfect opportunity for you to flex your creative muscles and discover exciting alternatives to the traditional date night.

Instead of spending a small fortune on a fancy meal at a fine restaurant, look up the recipe for a decadent dish you can make at home. Purchase quality ingredients and spend time together as a couple learning how to prepare the meal perfectly. Though a bit more involved, this is the kind of date night experience that costs almost nothing and can produce more satisfying results. You’re far more likely to remember the meal that you made together than the dish you decided to order when you visited a popular local eatery. 

Separate and Together

For couples who have been together for many years, financial matters can be an entirely different beast to conquer without a few tips. Though long-term partners and married couples should have at least one shared bank account, it is equally as crucial to have separate accounts. Keeping a level of financial autonomy in a relationship helps to evenly distribute financial tasks. What’s more, you’re less likely to grow resentful about money when you have a personal bank account you can tap into whenever you need to splurge on yourself a bit.

Whether you have been with your romantic partner for a few months or many long years, financial troubles can easily cause chaos. Luckily, it is possible for you to work through these issues without sacrificing your sanity. Use these tips to be open and honest with your partner about your financial standing from the start, and it will become a lot easier for you both to handle whatever money-related problems come along down the road.