General Savings
09.05.2025 By Amy Miller, AFC®

Marriage is a Milestone: Why Couples Need Shared Financial Goals

September is not just a time for back-to-school and fall planning, it's also one of the most popular months for weddings.

September is not just a time for back-to-school and fall planning, it's also one of the most popular months for weddings. As couples prepare for “I do,” there’s often a whirlwind of decisions around venues, guest lists, and honeymoon plans. But one of the most important things couples can do before walking down the aisle has nothing to do with the wedding at all:

It’s talking about money. (yes – we’re saying it out loud – it’s MONEY!)

When couples avoid conversations around finances, it can create confusion, tension, and even resentment down the road. But when you begin your marriage with clarity, shared values, and aligned financial goals, you’re setting yourselves up for success, not just in your finances, but in your relationship overall.

Why Financial Alignment Matters in Marriage

Money is one of the most common sources of conflict in relationships. Differences in spending styles, savings habits, debt levels, or financial priorities can put strain on even the strongest partnerships, especially when they’re not talked about.

But the good news is this: Financial alignment is completely possible, and it starts with honest, judgment-free conversations.

You don’t need to have the exact same approach to money, but understanding each other’s beliefs, habits, and goals can help you navigate decisions as a team. From buying a home and raising a family, to planning vacations or preparing for retirement, your shared life deserves a shared plan.

Key Financial Topics to Discuss Before Marriage

Here are a few conversation starters to help you and your partner get on the same financial page:

  • How do you view money?
    (Security? Freedom? Stressful? A tool?)
  • What debt are you bringing into the marriage?
    (Student loans? Credit cards? Medical bills?)
  • How will we manage our accounts?
  • What are our short-term and long-term savings goals?
    (Emergency fund? Home? Kids? Travel? Retirement?)
  • How will we manage financial responsibilities?
    (Split bills? One person in charge of budgeting?)
  • How will we make big financial decisions together? 

It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers right away. The goal is to start the dialogue and keep it ongoing.

Setting Financial Goals as a Couple

Once you’ve opened the door to financial communication, it’s time to set some goals together.

Use the following framework:

  • Short-term (1 year): Save for the wedding or honeymoon, Build an Emergency Fund, etc.
  • Mid-term (5 years): Buy a home, Pay off Student Loans, etc.
  • Long-term (5+ years): Save for retirement, children’s education, or future travel.

Use our goal setting worksheet to set realistic goals and break them into actionable steps. Then, commit to reviewing your progress regularly………maybe even make it a fun monthly “money date.”

Marriage is a partnership, and finances are a big part of that. Building your life together means building your financial foundation, too, and the best time to start is before the vows are exchanged.

When you talk openly about money, set shared goals, and support each other’s financial growth, you’re doing more than just managing your budget. You’re investing in your future, your peace of mind, and your relationship.

A Small Step with a Big Impact: Take the Pledge Together

At America Saves, we believe in the power of starting small and saving automatically. One great first step for couples? Take the America Saves Pledge together.

Choose a savings goal as a couple and receive personalized support and tips to stay on track. Whether you’re saving for a wedding, a home, or simply building peace of mind, taking the pledge is a powerful act of commitment………….just like saying “I do.”

 

We’d love to hear how you came together as a couple to understand what matters most to each of you and how you created a financial plan to reach those shared goals. Whether you’re newlyweds or longtime partners, your story can inspire others to start the conversation and save together.

Submit a Saver Story and tell us how you’re working as a team to reach your financial milestones.

Check out these related insights!

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