The importance of talking about money in relationships

Eye-opening statistics on money and relationships 

Our recent survey revealed some surprising insights: 

• 52% of couples don’t openly discuss money matters, despite finances being a leading cause of stress.
• 18% of UK adults don’t feel comfortable talking to their partner about money.
• 25% admit to hiding purchases to avoid an argument.
• 40% of divorces cite financial stress as a major factor. 

The 7-minute money chat: A simple solution 

All it takes is seven minutes a week to get financially in sync with your partner. Talking about money doesn’t have to be a big, dramatic sit-down conversation. Just seven minutes a week to check in on your finances together can make a huge difference. The key is being consistent - small, regular chats help prevent financial surprises and keep both partners feeling in control. 

Key areas to cover in your money chats 

Three key areas to cover in these chats are: 

• What’s coming in and going out – A quick check on income and expenses helps stay on top of bills and avoid financial surprises.
• Upcoming costs – Planning ahead for birthdays, holidays, or big purchases can prevent last-minute stress.
• Savings and goals – Whether it’s a house deposit, a holiday, or an emergency fund, aligning on financial goals strengthens relationships. 

Common reasons we avoid money talks 

Despite money being a shared part of life, many of us still find it awkward to discuss: 

• 72% of couples admit to arguing over money, with budgeting and spending habits as the top triggers.
• 15% of couples actively avoid money conversations.
• 18% don’t feel comfortable discussing financial goals.
• 35% say they aren’t aligned with their partner when it comes to money management.
• 40% of divorces cite financial stress as a major factor. 

Tips for making money & love work together

• Start small – If money chats feel overwhelming, begin with a quick check-in on one topic, like monthly bills.
• Stay neutral – Approach discussions as a team rather than placing blame.
• Use tech to help – Budgeting apps and shared spreadsheets make managing money easier.
• Be honest – If you’ve made a financial mistake, own up early and find a solution together. 

There’s a lot of stigma around money, and many people feel ashamed to admit if they’re struggling. But secrecy only makes things worse. If one person is secretly dealing with debt, it will likely come out eventually—often when it’s already caused major problems. Having regular, honest chats, even just for seven minutes a week, means you can tackle issues together before they spiral. 

Start your money conversations today 

Talking about money might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s a crucial part of maintaining a healthy relationship. By dedicating just a few minutes each week to discuss finances, couples can: 

• Prevent misunderstandings
• Reduce stress
• Build a stronger, more transparent partnership. 

So, why not start today? Your relationship—and your bank balance—will thank you.