Money issues you should talk about in your relationship

Relationships can be rosy, but many people admit that money talks give the relationship a level of tension. Not surprisingly, financial woes are a leading cause of divorce or separation. When you can't see face to face with your partner over money, it can strain all the love you have for each other. To avoid all this, here are some of the things to put forth clearly with your partner. 

Spending habits 

Aim to understand each other's spending habits. In every relationship, there's someone who's more inclined to saving while the other is inclined to spending. Even if your relationship has you on one end, to mean, two savers or two spenders, you need to identify this early and talk about it. You're likely to know this by observing one another and seeing what the other person does with their money. 

Preferences of money use

You're not likely to see this on the first date but over a while of being together. Get to observe and talk about what each of you spends money on. This is important since both of you will know what to expect of your partner and what to caution them against. What both of you spend your money on should be balanced and not hurt the combined finances of you two. 

Any previous or existing debts

Discuss the presence of any debts. Speaking about debts, and how much they amount to is an open step of your relationship. Your partner should even know your credit score if any. This will help you work towards clearing them either together or toning down on your spending so as to become debt free. 

Who handles what financially

Once you've written your budget and shared with each other, get to know who is responsible for what payments. Who among you should pay what bills? This will ensure that both of you are on the same page when it comes to financial matters and that your expectations are met fully. It is important to clearly highlight from the small expenses to the big ones on the person handling them. As such, you avoid any future blame games in the case that a certain financial commitment isn't covered. 

Joint account or personal accounts?

When you're in a relationship, it's key to realize where to save or keep your money as individuals and as a couple. Breaking down whether you want to have separate accounts or not will be key to avoiding strife in your relationship and also determining how best to spend money. 

Your financial goals

Create and discuss a road map that you want to follow financially. Do you want to own a house and hence need to get a mortgage? Maybe you'd like to start saving for your upcoming retirement. Constantly discussing where you are financially and where you're headed as a couple will guide you at all times as you shall be on the same page.