Whether you’re concerned that someone you know has a history of debt, or you’re moving in with a partner and are unsure how to split your bills, every single money-related concern is valid and deserves to be acknowledged.
Why do we need to talk about money more?
It’s important to be as honest and transparent as possible when talking about money, no matter how uncomfortable it may be to initially broach. This is especially poignant if you live with a partner or family member, where you are more than likely paying for bills and utilities jointly.
Normalising talking about money means that you can learn from one another’s experiences and advice, working together to tackle any financial-related challenges you may be facing head on. There’s always something new you can learn, and opening up channels of communication means you can develop healthier financial habits, while also making better informed decisions about spending, budgets, and saving.
Let’s take a look at some of the common scenarios you may be experiencing and how you can navigate conversations around these:
Planning your finances together
You may be about to move in with your partner for the first time, or you may have lived together for years and are looking to readjust your spending habits. Whatever your circumstances and attitudes towards money, being open and honest with one another about how you manage your finances is key. Ensuring you’re both on the same page when it comes to your finances means you’ll be able to set mutual goals, create budgeting plans, and keep on track with your spending. This will help you to plan for the future, and in some cases, make your money work harder.
Debt
If you've not been upfront about your debt with a loved one, it can be a difficult subject to broach. Hiding this information can make the situation more stressful, and the sooner your loved ones know about it, the sooner you can come to a resolution.
Remember, even if the debt is your own, it doesn’t just impact you. If you’re living together and have a joint mortgage, credit card, or bank account, your debt can affect your partner’s credit rating. This can potentially jeopardise your financial responsibility in the eyes of a lender, with many taking the financial history of both individuals into account before making a decision.
If you or your partner are in debt, there are plenty of support services and resources out there to help. Charities such as StepChange provide free, impartial advice to help you tackle debt head on.
Asking for financial support due to a change in circumstance
Perhaps you are at risk of or have recently been made redundant, are struggling to afford your half of the bills, or you’re expecting and are having to readjust your finances accordingly. Whatever issue you may be facing that requires you asking for additional financial support from a family member or partner, honesty is always the best policy.
A change in circumstance is the ideal opportunity for you to sit down with one another and be upfront about the situation at hand and the steps you can take to resolve it. You can review your spending and budgeting methods, set new financial goals, and find new ways of making your money work for you. Working together as a team is essential to overcome any temporary setbacks you may face - and you’ll be all the stronger for it once you come out the other side.
Get in touch
We understand that talking about money can be awkward and at times difficult, and it’s important to acknowledge that you aren’t alone in your feelings. If you have any questions about your mortgage or mortgage affordability, our advisers are on hand to talk you through any concerns you may have, and can offer guidance on potential avenues for support. Contact us today for an impartial, non-judgemental chat.
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