Almost two-thirds (62%) of couples argue about money, according to new research.
Spending, the balance of financial responsibilities and short-term planning are the most common topics causing disagreements, financial services company Hargreaves Lansdown found.
Other significant bones of contention include giving money away, missing bills, debt and investment choices.
“Some perfect couples never row about money. They agree on everything, and live in a beautiful, harmonious bubble of joy,” says Sarah Coles, head of personal finance at Hargreaves Lansdown.
“The rest of us are a bit more human, clashing over anything from spending to saving and debts to investments. If this is how you live, the art is to find a way to tackle these subjects and come to an agreement that leaves you both better off.”
People aged 18-24 are more likely to row about money and less likely to compromise, the research found.
Couples with children living at home are also more likely to argue.
Disputes are resolved with a compromise by 53% of people, while 21% say they do what they want regardless.
Coles suggests conversations should cover goals and general attitudes to money, not just immediate issues.
“It can help you highlight any differences, so you can find ways to work around them, rather than letting them lie at the heart of every argument you ever have about money.”
Most common heated topics
- Spending (13%)
- Balance of financial responsibilities (8%)
- Short-term planning (6%)
- Giving money away (5%)
- Missing bills (4%)
- Debt (4%)
- Investment choices (3%)
