DH (first time i've said that on here...so weird!) and I have been debating about what to do with our finances. I know every couple does things their own way, and we're super confused about where to start. We've both managed our own money in the past, but now that we're married and financially tied I just feel like we need to:
a. Know each other's full financial picture (more on a technical level, we already know what each other has/owes)
b. Know how to pay each other's bills in case an emergency came up
c. Set joint financial goals and possibly a joint budget
I suppose I just feel like if we have a joint budget we are more likely to hold each other accountable and see the rewards as we achieve our joint goals. I don't know where to start though. I've put some questions below if anyone wants to give their input. Mostly just trying to get ideas and see what works for other couples.
1. Do you and your SO/FI/DH have a joint budget?
2. If you have a joint budget, do you have a joint account or do you both keep separate accounts?
3. Do you each have "fun money" that you can spend on whatever you want?
4. How do you maintain your budget? (Spreadsheet, monthly envelopes, different accounts, etc.)
5 . What is awesome about the way you're currently handling finances as a couple?
6. What do you dislike about your current method of handling finances as a couple?
7. Do you have "rewards" when you hit milestones (such as paying off student loans)
8. Are there any books, websites, blogs, etc. that you would recommend relative to this topic?