Forget infidelity or children, money is the number one thing that couples in the UK disagree about, with some three in five (62%) admitting to arguing about it. The most common complaint? “Spending too much”. Worryingly, research shows that a third of couples believe they’re “incompatible” with their partner when it comes to spending and saving, with a third admitting to keeping financial secrets from their other half. Yet despite these tensions, recent Barclays research reveals that 57% of adults believe that having a partner makes someone more financially secure.
Money can be one of the most emotive topics in relationships, says Kirsty Adams, consumer finance expert at Barclays. “Money isn’t just about transactions, it’s tied to identity, security and aspirations,” she says. “It can represent independence, success and even self-worth. It’s no wonder then that conversations about finances can often feel deeply personal and exposing, even for those in long-term, secure relationships.”
