You just got married! Congratulations! Exciting times are ahead of you as a married couple. Although not the most romantic thing to discuss, a financial checklist for newlyweds is something that should be on the top of your to-do list! In a healthy relationship it is essential that each person’s financial history, habits, goals, and values are open for discussion. You each will have your own financial baggage and therefore, this financial checklist is a vital element of your relationship to work together on debt management.
If paying off debt is on your financial checklist, ACCC can help!
Financial Checklist for Newlyweds
So, Let’s look at 10 things you need to include in your financial checklist as newlyweds!
- To combine or not to combine finances? Decide if you want to pay your bills individually or from a joint account.
- Discuss both of your spending habits. Figure out if either of you has any problem areas that need to be worked on, especially if a joint account is opened.
- Who will manage which financial responsibility? There are several payments that need to be managed such as car insurance, mortgage, rent, and utilities. Decide who will be in charge of what to ensure these bills are paid on time.
- Create a budget together. Use a budgeting worksheet and create a joint budget, especially if you plan on making a big purchase in the future, such as a house.
- Discuss both of your debts. Once you walk down the aisle, your spouse’s debt becomes your debt. Make sure you address any credit card or student loan debt you may be bringing into the marriage as soon as possible.
- Strategize debt repayment. Discuss which debts are more important to pay off first based on interest rates.
- Set your future financial goals. Future plans need to be discussed. Is there a house in your future? A baby?
- Will you open joint accounts? It is very common that couples decide to open a joint account while also keeping their separate accounts.
- Discuss any major purchases. Quite often couples discuss purchases that are over $200 to ensure they are on the same page.
- Review your finances monthly. Things change from month to month so it is important that you revisit your budget to ensure is reflects any significant changes.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
