Money problems can be one of the worst sources of stress in a marriage. If you and your mate recognize that it is the stress of financial problems that is causing strain in your marriage, you’ll be less likely to take things out on each other. Instead, you can work together to find solutions to these problems and avoid resentment.
First, sit down and discuss the situation with your spouse at a convenient time. Go over the bills and decide together which ones must be paid first. Pay what you can and decide how to deal with the rest. This way, you will agree upon the direction to take and neither person is left to bear all the responsibility.
Do your best to make arrangements for things that cannot be paid right away. Do not ignore the problem; it will not go away. Talk to creditors and set up a payment plan that you and your spouse can live with.
If you made a mistake in balancing your checkbook and you find yourself overdrawn, do not hide it from your spouse. Explain what happened and find a solution. It will be much more difficult to explain if you wait, because you will find yourself being hit with overdraft fees that add up quickly. If you don’t have overdraft protection, you could find yourself in trouble with the law. Confide in your spouse and straighten the problem out as quickly as possible.
If you constantly seem to be struggling, sit down with your spouse and work out a new budget together. You may be living beyond your means, and each of you may be required to compromise and make some sacrifices. One person may need to work overtime, and one or both may need to cut back on casual spending.
Financial problems can quickly drive a wedge between even the closest couples. Don’t let them come between you. Work together to get caught up and to find ways to keep your finances under control.
Related Money Articles:
Living (and Buying) Unconsciously