This is a sensitive topic, and many couples quarrel over money.

This also tests the trust between couples. Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:21) How we handle the family finances reflects our level of commitment. Since two people have become one and have given their hearts to each other, why can't we share and trust each other in terms of material things?

This means that couples should have a joint account – this is just a technical arrangement; the most important thing is that in terms of mentality, there should no longer be "yours" and "mine", but everything should become "ours".

In terms of mentality, it is "ours", but in terms of actual expenses, who manages the money and how to manage the money is still a big problem. If it is not handled well, there will be disputes and heartaches.

A. Who manages the money after marriage?

In fact, it doesn't matter who manages it. What is important is to have a consensus: how does the money come? Where does the money go? Who will handle it?

Make a budget. Once a budget is made, consensus is established. With a consensus, we can decide which part should be managed by whom according to talents and needs.

Without a budget, there will be many controversies. Financial management starts with a budget. In the process of making a budget, the true face will be revealed. You say you love the Lord but don't offer, you say you accept my parents but are unwilling to support them, do we need to save money to buy a car...

The problem is not how to seize control of the economy, but whether we can accept or change the other party's values. This needs to be discussed until there is a consensus. Once there is a budget, it doesn't matter who manages the money, just execute it according to the budget.

B. Some practical suggestions for financial management

1. Should there be a joint account? : It is recommended to use a joint account for savings and housing, but still keep an individual account to facilitate spending according to the budget.

2. Can I have private money? : If private money refers to an amount that the other party does not know and only you can use, then there should be no private money, otherwise it will destroy trust. But if the amount is not large, and there is an explanation and it is not a secret, and it is convenient for you to buy some small gifts and use in daily life, then you can have private money.

Family Finances