Budgeting as a couple

5 tips for budgeting as a couple

Crush your relationship goals by creating a plan to focus your spending on what you value together.

Couple budgeting tips:

Talk about what matters to you.

Learning how to have open conversations about money and goals with your partner can be crucial to your joint success. Do you and your partner know each other’s values? And does your budgeting and spending reflect those values? When your values are aligned, you have the opportunity to reach better outcomes as a united front. And if you have differing values or priorities, talk about those, too. You can still support each other while reaching your unique goals.

 

Read more: How to talk about money with your partner

Track your income and expenses

Spending less than you earn is crucial for hitting your money goals as a couple—which means knowing exactly how much you’re spending versus bringing in. List all of your joint income—including any from side hustles—as well as bills, purchases, and other expenses to get an idea of where you stand in terms of your monthly cash flow. (For tips on spending less and saving more, check out the podcast, Money and Mindset With Bright and Brian.)

Map out your goals

Your short- and long-term goals should be reflected in how you budget. Making room for your priorities, like building an emergency fund or buying a home, can help you better plan for your future. Understanding your goals can also help you decide on a plan to pay down debt, invest for retirement, or save enough to reach your financial goals.

Common items couples budget for:

  • Housing
  • Pets
  • Food
  • Savings
  • Transportation
  • Debt payoff
  • Healthcare
  • Travel
  • Child care
  • Date nights

Use a budgeting tool

Ask any handyman: Most jobs are easier when you have the right tools. A budgeting tool that works for you, like our Super Budget Spreadsheet, can make budgeting easier. There are many digital apps and tools available that can also help you stay organized, allowing you to create spending categories and set limits for each. 

Download Super Budget Spreadsheet (XLSX)

Keep each other accountable

Once you have a plan, don’t let your hard work go to waste! Have a regular household budget meeting to check in and make sure you’re both on track with your shared and individual money goals. When you work together and stick to your plan, your bank account—and relationship—will benefit. Check in together consistently to celebrate your progress toward goals and ensure the budget is working.

This content does not constitute legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health advice. You are encouraged to consult with competent legal, tax, accounting, financial, investment, or mental health professionals based on your specific circumstances. We do not make any warranties as to accuracy or completeness of this information, do not endorse any third-party companies, products, or services described here, and take no liability for your use of this information.

Debt versus savings calculator

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