My Partner Spends More Money Than Me, What Do I Do?

Step 1: Remove the Judgement 🛍️

Before jumping to conclusions or making judgments, take some time to understand your partner's spending habits. It's essential to recognize that people have different approaches to money. Your partner may simply have a more liberal attitude towards spending while you tend to be more frugal. his doesn't necessarily make them wrong or irresponsible.

Step 2: Have the Open and Honest Conversation 🤝

Communication is key in any relationship, and this applies to financial matters as well. Talk to your partner about your concerns and feelings regarding their spending habits. Ensure that this conversation is non-confrontational and focused on mutual understanding, rather than assigning blame. To achieve this, tell them how their spending makes you feel, rather than telling them they spend too much. Use “I” and “we” words, not “you”. For example, “I am feeling like we go over budget”, or “I feel insecure with our money”, rather than “You spend too much”. If they truly care, they will understand how their habits are impacting you, and will work to make you feel more comfortable.

Step 3: Set Financial Goals Together 💸

Creating joint financial goals is one of the most effective ways to align your spending habits. Discuss what you both want to achieve financially, whether it's saving for a vacation, a house, or retirement. Establishing common goals can provide a sense of purpose and motivation for both of you to manage your finances more effectively! Once you both have a shared goal, your partner will usually be more open about going through your expenses together.

Together with your partner, outline your monthly income, expenses, and savings goals. Having a cash-plan in place can help ensure that both of you are on the same page about your financial priorities and help you work towards your future.

Step 4: Separate Accounts or Joint Accounts? 💳

Consider whether you want to maintain separate bank accounts, a joint account, or a combination of both. Some couples find it helpful to have a shared account for shared expenses, while maintaining separate accounts for personal spending. Discuss and decide what arrangement works best for you as a couple.

Step 5: Compromise and Find Balance ⚖️

In any partnership, compromise is essential. If your partner's spending habits are causing financial strain or making you uncomfortable, negotiate a balance that works for both of you. This may involve some adjustments in your spending and savings patterns.

Step 6: Monitor Progress and Adjust 📉

Regularly review your financial situation and progress towards your goals. If one partner is consistently overspending, it might be necessary to revisit the budget, set stricter limits, or find alternative solutions to manage spending more effectively.

The Bottom Line.

It's important to remember that financial differences are common in relationships, and they don't have to be a deal-breaker. Instead, view them as an opportunity for growth and compromise. By openly communicating, setting goals together, and finding a balance that works for both of you, you can build a strong financial foundation for your relationship. Ultimately, the key is to support each other in creating a happy and financially secure future together.

Meet Debbie 💚

Debbie is where you start your journey to debt freedom. It’s the program that guides, motivates, and rewards you for paying off debt! Debbie users have paid off 3x more debt than the average borrower, as well as saved around $100/month on average. Do you want to be part of this elite crowd? 👀 Join now at joindebbie.com to start earning cash rewards now!

‍