Finance for Couples: How to Create a Joint Budget
Marriage is all about partnership and unity, and that applies to your finances too. When you work together to lay out a joint budget that addresses bills, spending and savings, it could even make your relationship stronger. Continue reading
Pros and Cons of Joint Accounts for Married Couples
Marriage joins two people at the hip financially – both have a right to a share of all marital assets. This can make the question of whether to open a joint account with your spouse somewhat moot, at least if the marriage breaks up, because both spouses are entitled to a portion of the money regardless of whose name is on the account. But some practical considerations apply to maintaining a joint... Continue reading
How Much Can You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
It's the pinnacle of romantic moments: the proposal, the sparkly ring, the kiss. But that dazzling piece of jewelry can cost a pretty penny and might involve a debt that will be carried into the marriage. Picking out a ring and determining a price range requires consultation and financial planning for many modern couples.
Old School Rules and Traditions
The origin of the diamond engagement ring... Continue reading
Ways Marriage Affects Your Taxes
Tax planning is probably the last thing you’re thinking about on the happiest day of your life, but after the excitement of your wedding has settled, it's wise to start financial planning. Once you get married, your tax situation will likely never be the same. Everything from your filing status to your tax bracket can change. You may end up paying more in taxes if you don't plan ahead.
Tax... Continue reading
Second-Marriage Money Mistakes
Date: May 15, 2017
Money problems are a major contributing factor in many divorces. With second marriages, money issues can be even more problematic, as there are often leftover financial obligations from your first marriage. Discussing finances upfront can help prevent money from becoming a huge issue in second marriages.
Failing to Update Beneficiaries
Legal issues regarding finances can get... Continue reading
Does Merging Finances Include Debt?
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"Merging finances" is one of those generic terms that mean different things to different people. Does it mean merging debt? It can, but no law says it has to. In fact, experts recommend that you think long and hard before you take on the separate debt of your partner or spouse.
Money Issues Can Cause Stress in Relationships
If you're concerned about money and how your finances will work when... Continue reading
How to Track Your Charitable Donations Just in Time for Tax Day
April 15, 2016
Thanks to a holiday falling on the same day as Tax Day, the date has been moved to April 18th this year! So, if you’re still working on finalizing your taxes, don’t forget about the charitable donations you made this year. If you donated to any causes close to your heart this year, take a look at some of these tips that can help you easily track your donations, so you can be... Continue reading
How Do I Invest Wedding Money?
A wedding can provide newlyweds with a sizable nest egg, when guests give cash as gifts. Before blowing it all on a luxury honeymoon, consider setting aside a portion of the money for your future. The younger you are, the more powerful a small investment will be. Even at a modest 2.5 percent yearly return, every dollar you set aside today will have doubled in 30 years. Continue reading
Tips for Couples Moving in Together
Moving in together as a couple is a different dance from dating, and you'll have to learn some new moves and practice some old ones to make sure you don't step on each other's toes. You can defy some traditions — like carrying your significant other over the threshold of your new apartment — but you'll have to follow others, like paying rent. Continue reading
