4 ways to stop fighting about money

Money is a sticky subject for even the strongest of relationships. According to a 2021 poll from the American Institute of CPAs, nearly three-quarters of Americans who cohabit or are married say financial issues cause relationship tension. Almost half say money has created intimacy problems. It’s little wonder, then, that many couples would rather avoid the subject altogether.

“It’s not the most romantic thing to talk about,” says Ramani Durvasula, PhD, psychologist and author of Should I Stay or Should I Go? Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist. But talking about money is a necessity if you’re going to maintain a realistic spending plan, keep your finances afloat, and reach mutual goals. These four truths can help you cut the bickering and have healthier, more productive money conversations.