Financial rules for couples ~Healthy Marriage! Healthy Finances! Healthy Life!

There was a couple on the brink of a divorce because their finances were out of control and considering bankruptcy. John and Beth were financially frustrated and discontinued all communication with each other.  Although they’ve been married for 13 yrs they have always paid the bills separate, have separate accounts, never discussed their financial status and lived like roommates.

Solution:

John and Mary have opened a joint account solely for household and personal bills.  They have designated Mary to pay all the bills and deposit $200 per month in each of their personal accounts.   Although, they are now jointly responsible for the household, the couple maintains some independence, which is important in a healthy relationship.

They have also negotiated an aggressive payment plan with their creditors.  John and Mary are now content in their relationship as they make decisions together and talk every week about their financial and personal future. Since they are now living as husband, wife, and not roommates, the idea of filing bankruptcy and divorce is no longer considered.

The couple disclosed that before there was no need to discuss their finances or concerns since they never commingled their monies.  They never adjusted their financial responsibilities once they were married and continued to apply the same tools as if they were single.  Since marrying their finances, the couple is noticed to be in a happier state of mind.