Couples arguing and fighting in public

Talking about money isn’t always easy, and for couples, disagreements about spending or saving can turn often small problems into big fights. If you want to keep your partnership strong, it helps to spot the tricky money topics that lead to tension. Here are seven money fights that can drive a wedge between couples—and how to avoid them.

Different Spending Habits

Woman using a calculator to check her total at the grocery store
Image Credit: SpeedKingz via Shutterstock.

One person is a saver, the other a spender, and before you know it, someone’s annoyed about a new gadget or a surprise purchase. If you keep butting heads over shopping, consider setting shared spending limits or talking openly about big buys before you make them.

💸 Take Back Control of Your Finances in 2025 💸
Get Instant Access to our free mini course
5 DAYS TO A BETTER BUDGET

Hidden Debt

Couple sitting on the floor looking upset about a late bill
Image Credit: VitalikRadko via Deposit Photos.

Discovering a partner’s secret credit cards or loans can break trust fast. Hiding debt—big or small—makes it hard to work as a team. Lay everything on the table so you’re both on the same page and can tackle bills together.

Keeping Separate Finances

Man looking at his online bank account on his laptop
Image Credit: Andrey_Popov via Shutterstock.

Some couples do well with “yours, mine, and ours,” but if sharing isn’t handled openly, it can spark suspicion or resentment. Feeling left out of the loop about bank accounts or income can trigger big arguments. Try regular money check-ins to talk through plans, savings, and splits.

Clashing Financial Goals

Couple preparing their budget together
Image Credit: Krakenimages.com via Deposit Photos.

Maybe one of you wants to buy a house, while the other dreams of travel or early retirement. Different goals make it tough to build a plan together. Find time to chat about your future and work on goals you’re both excited about.

Uneven Income or Contributions

Woman's hands holding cash flipping through it
Image Credit: Natnn via Shutterstock.

If one partner brings in much more (or less) money, resentment can pop up—especially if spending doesn’t match expectations. Talking honestly about what each person makes and how you’ll share expenses can cut down on unspoken frustration.

Family and Friends’ Requests

Man arguing with family
Image Credit: Motortion Films via Shutterstock.

Helping loved ones can feel right, but fighting over how much to give (or whether to give at all) can stir up guilt, anger, or regret. Come up with a plan together for when or how you’ll help others financially.

Hiding Purchases

Man trying to take a piggy bank from a woman
Image Credit: VitalikRadko via Deposit Photos.

Buying things in secret to avoid a fight usually blows up later. Even “harmless” spending can cause problems if it becomes a pattern. Being honest about what you buy, and why, builds trust and keeps small issues from exploding.

Keeping Love and Money in Balance

Couple sitting dining out on sushi
Image Credit: EdZbarzhyvetsky via Deposit Photos.

Money can be a tough topic, but it doesn’t have to start a fight. The more you talk about it, the easier it gets. Figure out your goals together, be honest about what matters to each of you, and leave space for both saving and spending.

Budgeting as a Couple – How to Get Your Spouse on Board

Couple working on their finances together
Image Credit: AndreyPopov via Shutterstock.

Are you ready to start budgeting or beginning your own financial journey, but your spouse or your partner is not on board? It can be difficult to get your partner on the same page, financially…but with some love and patience, it is possible. Let’s dive into seven tips for budgeting as a couple so that you can both get on the same financial page with ease. Budgeting as a Couple – How to Get Your Spouse on Board