money
CO-BUDGETING
Yours, mine and OURS From splitting the bill to signing a lease: a couple’s guide to co-budgeting like pros. ACCORDING TO THE LATEST Stats SA Marriages and Divorces report, four out of 10 South African marriages don’t make it to their 10th anniversary. Furthermore, US financial counselling company Ramsey Solutions study* notes that arguments about money are the second most cited reason that
couples divorce (after infidelity). That means that setting a healthy co-budgeting foundation – one that both partners agree to and feel is fair – could mean the difference between happily ever after and Splitsville. And it’s a bit more complicated than just going halvies on rent, particularly if one of you earns more.
GET EXPERT HELP Every couple handles budgeting, spending and saving differently. Speak to a financial planner to get personalised advice on how best to tackle your budget. Call 086 123 5433 to book an appointment.
16
Summer 2021/2022
How to get on the same page While we wouldn’t suggest bringing your balance sheet to a first date, a conversation about how you’re going to pool and spend your resources will eventually be necessary if you want your relationship to stay the course. “Communication about finances in a relationship is key,” says FAMSA social worker and relationship counsellor Sandy Jackson. You may assume that because you have the same taste in series and Sunday breakfast spots, you share similar views on money. However, this isn’t guaranteed. “Individuals in a relationship often have differing attitudes towards, and expectations of, money,” says Jackson. “This can be due to factors such as family history, different ‘money personalities’ and differing financial goals.” Talking about finances may feel like a mood killer at first, but it’s the best way to explore your different attitudes to money and sanlamreality.co.za
