Having similar tastes in TV shows or sharing a love for tennis is wonderful in a relationship, but financial compatibility is equally important for long-term harmony. Research shows that money can be a major stressor in relationships: a 2017 Experian survey of recently divorced adults found that 59% cited finances as a factor in their divorce, and 53% believed they weren’t financially compatible with their former spouse. Building financial compatibility with your partner doesn’t mean you have to be carbon copies of each other with your finances. It’s about open communication, shared values, and mutual understanding. This quiz is here to help you assess your level of financial compatibility and provide steps to strengthen it.
Financial compatibility goes beyond income levels or identical money habits. It’s about feeling comfortable with each other’s financial behaviors, supporting shared and individual goals, and fostering trust around finances. Ultimately, financial compatibility is the ability to openly discuss how each partner handles money while feeling secure and supported.
It’s essential to discuss not just finances but also personal beliefs, experiences, and goals around money. This can include sharing details like income, debt, and even credit scores, if you haven’t already. Financial compatibility involves transparency and understanding each other’s perspectives and history with money. Questions like, “What did your family teach you about money?” or “What does retirement look like for you?” can help open this dialogue.
Ready to explore your financial compatibility? Here’s how to start assessing and strengthening this important aspect of your relationship.