Should a Couple Combine Bank Accounts Before Getting Married? Run Through These 7 Questions First

A couple should discuss spending, debt, savings, account access and financial goals before combining bank accounts, because the right setup can make everyday money management much easier – Shutterstock

Marriage can turn “my checking account” and “your checking account” into a much bigger conversation about our money. Some couples happily toss everything into one joint account, while others keep separate accounts and create a shared account for household expenses. Neither approach automatically makes a marriage more financially successful, but choosing without discussing the details can create some awkward surprises.

A joint account also does more than put two names on the same banking app. In most joint accounts, both owners can withdraw money, so each person needs to feel comfortable giving the other that level of access. Before making the leap, these seven questions can help a couple decide whether combining accounts will make life easier.