A relationship can break down in a number of ways. Some marriages fail because of infidelity, and some couples simply grow apart.
Today, many married couples are feeling the pinch, and money can be a stress point. In fact, financial disagreements are currently one of the leading causes of divorce. What types of financial disputes do couples encounter?
Refusing to work together
If you have been on your own for a long time and have built a successful business or career, it can be difficult to pool resources with your partner. This is a situation that many couples face.
However, married couples are supposed to work as a team. This doesn’t mean having no financial independence at all, but it does mean thinking about joint priorities and coming up with a plan to achieve them. Some spouses never get out of the habit of retaining full control over their own finances, and this can create strain in the relationship.
Financial secrets
Nobody likes to admit that they are in debt. This is especially the case with a new partner, and it can carry over into the marriage. But debts follow people around. They won’t go away until they have been settled.
When a partner finds out that their spouse has significant debts, it can cause a lot of stress. The partner may worry that they will be held liable for the debts. They may worry about losing the family home and much more. Often, it’s not the sum of money that’s the issue but the fact that their partner kept the debts hidden.
Financial disputes between partners tend to be more about trust than sums of money. It can be hard to get over these disagreements. If you’re considering divorce, then it’s best to first look into your legal options.
