We need to talk about the awkward stuff.
Everyone knows that money is the #1 cause of stress in relationships. But most of us wait until it’s too late to talk about it.
If you are building a life with someone, you need to look for these 5 financial red flags.
5. The “I’ll Handle it”
It is actually dangerous if one person controls all the money and the passwords. In fact, 99% of domestic violence cases involve some form of financial control. Aggressive point to start on, I get it, but it’s important.
Even if you aren't good at math, you need access. You need to be able to see the accounts, even if you don't manage them daily. Never let yourself be locked out of your own financial life.
Who’s making all these stock photos?
4. The Saver vs. The Spender
If you want to save for a house and they want to lease a luxury car, you have a problem. The best way to fix this isn't to yell "stop spending." It's to build a shared goal.
When a "spender" sees exactly what their money is building, they usually stop seeing it as a restriction and start seeing it as a game.
Building specific plans towards specific goals - like a “Dream Home” fund - is a great way to stay on track together.
Fulfilled goal builder.
3. The Ostrich Effect
This is when your partner changes the subject every time you bring up budgeting. A recent survey showed that only 41% of couples actually had "the money talk" before moving in together.
The fix? Stop making it emotional. Make it about data.
Ask tough questions and look at the numbers objectively. Spend the time to review what’s actually going on - no just what you hope is happening.
Fulfilled AI can answer questions on your specific finances.
2. The Debt Fog
Is your partner vague about how much they owe? Nearly 1 in 5 people admit to lying to a partner about their debt.
"I think it's about $5,000" usually means it’s $15,000.
People hide debt because they are ashamed. But you can't tackle a monster if you can't see it. You need to get those liabilities out of the dark and onto a dashboard where you can track them.
“Sup?”
1. The "Mystery Bill"
Did you know that 42% of adults have kept a financial secret from their partner?
Little secrets turn into big trust issues. If you notice withdrawals you can’t explain, or if they rush to get the mail before you do, pay attention.
Transparency is the only way this works. You need a "neutral ground" where you can both see the numbers without hiding.
Is it bad to have a bit of play money on the side? No. Is it bad to have your money a complete mystery to your partner? Probably!
Building wealth is a team sport. Make sure you’re playing by the same rules.
Simple account sharing on Fulfilled.
