Let’s talk about money!

Around Valentine’s Day, we see romantic gestures, love notes, and heartfelt gifts everywhere. But beyond flowers and chocolates, there’s another form of affection that is essential in every relationship: talking openly about money. Financial topics may not seem romantic, but they are just as important for a stable partnership as mutual trust and shared future plans.

"Yet, the topic often remains unspoken—shame and uncertainty frequently stand in the way of open discussions," says Lena Kamionka, Financial Health Expert at Anyfin. Here, she shares tips on how couples at any stage of their relationship can talk about finances to build trust and avoid misunderstandings.

The first dates: Discovering common ground

When you’re just getting to know each other, discussing money might feel like “too much, too soon.” But having a lighthearted conversation about your attitudes toward money or spending habits can be surprisingly helpful in identifying shared values and laying a solid foundation for your relationship. For example: How do you feel about saving, investing, or debt? What do you like to spend money on? If one of you loves spending on travel while the other prefers saving for long-term goals, recognizing these differences early on can be beneficial.

Moving in together: Establishing clear rules

A shared home means shared responsibilities—including financial ones. Talk early on about how you plan to split costs and whether you want to create a household budget. Will you use a joint account, or do you prefer to keep things separate? Clear agreements from the start help prevent misunderstandings and keep daily life harmonious.

Starting a family: Aligning future plans

Major life changes like marriage or having children often come with new financial commitments. At this stage, you should discuss long-term goals such as parental leave, saving for your child’s education, retirement planning, or career adjustments. Planning together helps set a budget, establish priorities, and gives both partners a greater sense of security for the future.

Breaking up: Navigating challenges

When a relationship ends, it’s always a difficult time. That’s why it’s especially important to handle financial matters with care and respect. This process can be less stressful if you’ve previously had open conversations about money. Address discussions about joint accounts, property, or other financial matters clearly and transparently. Having clear agreements can make navigating tough situations easier.

Regular money dates: Building trust

No matter what stage your relationship is in, regular conversations about finances can keep discussions open and relaxed. For example, you could schedule a “Money Date” every two months. Take time to talk about goals, track expenses, and celebrate progress. And why not make it a special evening with a home-cooked meal by candlelight? “Talking about finances doesn’t have to be difficult,” says Lena Kamionka. “On the contrary: These conversations can bring couples closer together and strengthen mutual trust.”

About Lena Kamionka

Lena Kamionka is a Financial Health Expert at Anyfin. As a copywriter, she combines her financial knowledge with a passion for clear and accessible communication. Her specialty: transforming complex financial topics into easy-to-understand messages to help customers manage their debt.

About Anyfin

Anyfin is a fintech on a mission to improve millions of financial lives by making loan repayments simpler. The company was founded in 2017 by Mikael Hussain, Sven Perkmann, and Filip Polhem, all of whom have extensive experience from tech giants like Klarna, Spotify, and iZettle. Anyfin is currently operating in its home market of Sweden as well as in Germany, Finland, and Norway.