By Kevin Henry
Editor, DAD
Money coach offers tips for doing it right
Combine the expectation of divorce for new couples hovering around 50% with a variety of studies that suggest money is the most divisive topic for couples, and you get a formula for disaster. One finance expert, however, thinks it doesn’t have to be that way.
Jane Honeck, CPA and author of "The Problem With Money? It’s Not About the Money!," believes that while a SmartMoney magazine survey revealed that 70% of all couples talk about money at least once a week, the communication isn’t very effective. Honeck has some solid advice that will help couples make arguments about money a thing of the past.
“Focusing on an overall vision and money plan will keep both of you moving in the same direction,” she said. “Once you have done that, the small everyday decisions about how to spend your money take care of themselves with little or no effort. When we have clear communication and know why we do something, the ‘what to do’ with our money is easy.”
Honeck’s tips include:
- Talk — Talk, talk, talk. Money, like sex, is still a taboo topic, and we often don’t have a clear idea about how our partner thinks or feels about money.
- Find balance — Balance power around money. One person making all the decisions and having all the control is a recipe for disaster. Find ways for both to be equally engaged in all money decisions.
- Make decisions — Decide together what is mine, yours, and ours. Most couples have their own hybrid system for what works best. Find the one that is best for both of you.
- Define your system — Have a clearly defined money management system all the way from who handles the mail to who sends out the checks. Without a well-thought-out operational plan, things fall through the cracks.
- Address problems — When things get tough, address problems immediately (no secrets allowed). Avoiding the issue makes it more toxic and drives a wedge in the relationship.
- Perform checkups — Schedule an annual money checkup with each other. Things change and just like our physical health, money management needs an annual checkup to keep it healthy and relevant.
- Talk a little more — Talk, talk, and talk some more. The most important thing is to have open communication with no blame and shame. We all have hang-ups around money. Treat your partner with compassion.
“Couples need not argue about money,” Honeck added. “And it’s not just about communication. It’s about making a plan and sticking to it together. Information gives you power over your finances. Not talking about them, not making a plan, and not coordinating as a team makes you a victim of your finances. If you control your finances, they will never control you or your marriage.”
About Jane Honeck
Jane Honeck, CPA, is a money coach who specializes in tax and financial planning for professionals, small businesses, and individuals. She is also a certified empowerment trainer who has developed “Cent$ible Living” financial workshops and money coaching sessions to help her clients make meaningful and lasting change in their financial lives.