And that’s often the root of misunderstandings – before people in a relationship get married, they only have their own needs to think about.  Living together will inevitably change all of that.

This is the part where a lot of couples have trouble with since they don’t really bother to think about reconciling their past and present priorities.  Ironically, this puts high-income couples at greater risk since their complacency (knowing that they have enough) will catch up to them.

The fact of the matter is that living together means having updated priorities; refusing to deal with this reality is one of the most typical factors which lead to bigger financial problems in the future.

So the first thing you have to come to grips with is that you’ll have to exercise greater discretion when considering any type of major or habitual purchases that may impact your overall budget as a couple.

While it may be easier for some to spend their money, it’s vital to consider your priorities and long-terms goals in the context of the marriage.  Most couples fight over money because they haven’t clearly defined their financial plan.

Obviously, a difference in your respective ideas on money management will lead to disagreements.  Going through the relationship without reconciling these things is a sure-fire recipe for disaster.

That’s why it’s so important that you and your partner set aside enough time to discuss your financial obligations and how to meet all of them.

Another factor to think about is your individual values when it comes to money.  Everybody is raised differently, and this means what your family taught you about money may not be the same as your partner’s.

Once you’ve acknowledged your differences, you’ll then figure out who’s inherently better at handling finances, who’s more impulsive and so on.  Assigning clear roles in this regard keeps everyone relatively happy and avoids unfulfilled expectations.

Identifying your roles in this sense will greatly help clear up a lot of potential misunderstandings which can quickly get blown out of proportion.

However, it doesn’t stop there.  Handling your money isn’t just about saving up for your expenses such as utility bills, house payments and car loans.  You also have to think about saving a bit for yourselves.

The actual amount a couple puts away for their individual savings doesn’t have to be big.  What’s important each person has just a bit of room to treat themselves once in a while.

After all, mental pressure can build up and a little self-care every now and then is a great way to stay happy and focused.  So while you’re keeping your collective savings well-maintained, don’t forget to give yourself a sense of control over your personal life.

Financial marriage problems can be kept bay with the right approach.  All you really need is to make enough effort to communicate to each other exactly how you both intend to earn, spend and handle the money that comes into your relationship.