The Financial Phases of Marriage

Experiencing financial challenges in your marriage?

I’ve observed four financial phases of marriage, which I call Surprised, Struggle, Stable, and Strength. Financial problems are often the number one cause of divorce. In the first financial stage of marriage, when issues arise, couples are surprised, even shocked. A survey ranked the following financial problems that most affect relationships: too much debt, poor spending habits, inability to make ends meet each month, and no savings. Those who persevere despite their suffering are able to move from the Surprise phase to the Struggle phase of marriage. If they hang in through the Struggling Phase, they advance to Stable, and finally, after remaining steadfast in this phase, they reach Strength.

Marriage takes adjustment – like switching from singles to doubles in tennis. Every mistake affects you both, so you need a shared strategy to tackle money problems together. The biggest shift is realizing how differently you and your spouse handle money. You may be complete opposites: one saves, the other gives; one plans, the other resists budgeting; one enjoys earning, and the other prefers spending. These differences can be surprising, but with perseverance, they can become a strength. By taking small steps to live on a budget, pay off debt, and reach your financial goals, you can establish a long-term financial plan. So, don’t give up hope. You can help others, invest for the future, and make financial decisions that are pleasing to the Lord.

And if you’re caught in the cycle of credit card debt, let Christian Credit Counselors help. They can create a debt management plan specifically for you. For more information, visit online at crown.org/ccc.