BBB offers money management advice for newlyweds

Talk about it

Marriage is an exciting time for a couple, however, once the honeymoon is over, it’s time to sit down and get serious about your finances. After walking down the aisle, the Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) advises newlyweds to take control of their money or risk a rocky financial future.

According to research by Utah State University, married couples that frequently fight over money are more likely to split up. Even when compared to frequent fights over other issues—such as chores, sex and in-laws—fighting about money was a better predictor of a future divorce.

“When considering your financial future, it’s important for newlyweds to realize that they are in it together and nurturing their nest egg can be a rewarding experience—and not just a source of frustration and fights,” said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the BBB. “Have the conversation earlier, rather than later, so that you can develop healthy personal finance habits together.”

In order to start your new life together on the right financial foot, the BBB offers the following advice:

Let Financial Skeletons out of the Closet. After marriage, any personal debt becomes “our debt” and it’s important to sit down early on and discuss what outstanding obligations exist on both sides including car loans, school loans and credit card debt. Review your credit reports to get a better idea of what you are both bringing to the marriage.

Build a Budget. After you’ve gotten a grasp on your debt, it’s time to build a monthly budget. Look at your monthly bills to create a realistic picture of how you spend. Discuss your long term goals—such as buying a house or a car and having kids—and figure out how much money you need to set aside every month to reach those goals.

Designate a Driver but Travel Together. In order to avoid confusion, one person should be assigned to paying the bills every month. This doesn’t mean that the other person takes a back seat role in managing the finances. Have a discussion at least every month about your financial progress in order map your path and nip any bad spending habits in the bud.

Plan for Emergencies. Many young couples fail to save money to get them through hard times such as health problems and unexpected unemployment. Experts recommend you set aside three to six months of salary in a rainy day fund—ideally an interest-bearing account that can be easily accessed.

Save for the Future. Retirement may seem like a long way off to newlyweds, but setting aside money now means reaping big rewards later on. Take advantage of both employers’ retirement matching programs—if available—or set up individual retirement accounts.

Make a Vow to Be Savvy Consumers. Many families have had their life savings decimated after becoming a victim to fraud or identity theft. Check out your BBB’s website to find trustworthy businesses, get educated on the red flags of fraud and learn how to protect your identity.

For more advice on managing your money, visit www.bbb.org/us/consumer-tips-finance/.

The mission of the Better Business Bureau is to promote, through self-regulation, the highest standards of business ethics and conduct; and to instill public confidence in responsible businesses through programs of education and action that inform, protect and assist the general public. Our hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact the BBB atwww.bbb.org or 651-699-1111, toll-free at 1-800-646-6222.

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