You might be dreading the awkwardness, but don’t fear. The conversation can be laidback and natural, as long as you’re straightforward and confident.
Initiating the conversation
Chances are that neither of you are exactly excited about this topic. Take charge and initiate a conversation. Ramit Sethi, author of “I Will Teach You To Be Rich”, suggests asking your partner for financial advice to get things started, even if you don't really need it. [1] This is a good way to casually ease into a more serious conversation.
Being transparent
If you have student loan debt and any other unpaid balances, you probably should be open, honest, and upfront. Hopefully, this will encourage your partner to do the same. Being transparent allows for you to talk about any big problems before it's too late.
Topics to discuss
Once you are both feeling comfortable enough to be open with each other, you'll want to have a plan of action. Bring your credit report, your credit card statements, and any other important financial items with you to the table. Forty-three percent of people don't know how much their partner earns, according to a survey from Fidelity. Of that 43 percent, 10 percent were off by $25,000 or more when guessing their significant other's salary. [2] So, income might be worth discussing, as well.
Setting goals and planning for the future
Now that everything is on the table, you should consider talking about what's to come. If you have specific goals for your finances, talk about them with your partner and see what they think. Maybe it's time to start thinking long-term and consider a combined financial future.
Talking about money doesn't come easily to anyone, but don't let that deter you from having open conversations. Whether you're in a serious relationship or you're single, Central Bank is always here to help you reach your goals.
Sources:
[1] How to talk to your partner about money: the definitive script, I Will Teach You to be Rich
[2] How to talk with your partner about money, CNBC
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