Discussing finances with a partner can be a cornerstone of a healthy relationship, yet according to new research, it’s not a universal practice. Nearly half (48%) of Brits discuss their finances with their partner—but the majority still avoid the topic.
To delve deeper into how people talk about money and finances in their relationships, the money team at Compare the Market surveyed over 4,400 people in relationships in the UK. The survey explored if they discuss finances with their partner and the topics they cover if they do. To help those who want more open lines of communication about finances in their relationship, but aren’t sure how to approach it, the team also shared tips on how to discuss this with a significant other.
Just under half (48%) of Brits discuss finances with their partner
While less than half of Brits discuss finances with their partner, the data revealed that older generations are typically more likely to have these conversations than younger people. Over two-thirds (71%) of Baby Boomers (60-78) and 66% of those aged over 78 state they share financial conversations. In contrast, the percentage drops by generation, with 55% of Generation X (44-59), 44% of Millennials (28-43) and just 35% of Gen Z (16-27). This may partly reflect the fact that younger individuals are less likely to be in serious financial partnerships.
The money team commented, “When couples engage in conversations about finances, it can help foster honesty and transparency in their relationship, which could contribute to reducing potential conflicts relating to money. Discussing financial goals—such as saving for a home, planning for children, or managing debt—can encourage alignment and support both partners in working toward a shared vision for their future. Taking a transparent approach to money might also help create a sense of teamwork, where both partners feel they are contributing to their shared life in meaningful ways.”
Interestingly, those earning between £65k and £100k are least likely to be discussing finances with their partners, while those with incomes over £100k tend to be more open (50%). Lower earners are more open too, with 52% of those earning between £15k and £25k open to discussing finances with their partner.
Nearly a fifth of Brits feel embarrassed or awkward discussing finances with their partner
| Rank | Reason for not discussing finances with partner | % |
| 1 | A desire for financial independence | 13% |
| Fear of judgement | 13% | |
| 2 | A desire for control over your finances | 12% |
| I feel uncomfortable | 12% | |
| 3 | Embarrassment | 11% |
| Awkwardness | 11% | |
| 4 | Negative past experiences | 9% |
| Lack of trust | 9% | |
| 5 | Prefer not to say | 4% |
The most common reason why Brits don’t discuss finances with their partner is because they have a desire for financial independence or a fear of judgement (both 13%). A desire for control over finances and feeling uncomfortable was voted by 12% of people. 19% of Brits feel either awkward or embarrassed discussing finances.
Breaking the results down by generation, fear of judgement is the top reason for Gen Z, with 17% saying this—the highest of any reason across all generations. As they are in the early stages of adulthood, it is possible that they are also in the early stages of their careers or relationships, meaning they could be more wary about discussing money with their partners.
Couples are most likely to be open about large purchases, like buying a car or furniture, and their salary
| Rank | Financial topic | % that discuss this with a partner |
| 1 | Large purchases (e.g. car, furniture, etc) | 74% |
| 2 | Your salary | 66% |
| 3 | Financial difficulties | 62% |
| How much you have saved | 62% | |
| Spending on socialising | 62% |
*Please note that this table only shows the results ranking in the top three.
Diving into the topics couples are most open about, large purchases, such as a car or furniture, tops the list, with 74% stating they discuss this. In second place is one’s salary, as 66% say they are open about this in their relationship. Taking joint third are financial difficulties,how much a person has saved, and spending on socialising with 62% respectively.
Spending on clothing and accessories is the most commonly avoided topic when discussing finances with a partner
| Rank | Financial topic | % that doesn’t discuss this with a partner |
| 1 | Spending on clothes and accessories | 29% |
| 2 | How much you have saved | 26% |
| 3 | Spending on socialising | 25% |
| My credit card spend | 25% |
*Please note that this table only shows the results ranking in the top three
Despite the importance of financial transparency, certain topics remain less discussed in relationships. One of the least openly talked-about topics is clothing or accessory purchases (29%), which could be due to several reasons, such as perceived judgment or differing priorities.
How much one may have in savings is also a commonly avoided topic, as over a quarter (26%) of couples say they avoid this. Conversations about savings can be difficult, especially if partners have different savings habits or priorities. While more than half of couples are open about their spending on socialising, a quarter of Brits surveyed don’t discuss this. The same amount of people keep spending on credit cards to themselves, while over one in five couples (22%) also avoid the topic of credit card debt.
The money team at Compare the Market shares tips on how to discuss finances with a partner:
- Foster honest and open communication
“Honesty and transparency are important elements to addressing financial challenges in a relationship. It’s promising to see that 55% of Brits discuss debts with their partner, and almost two-thirds are open about financial difficulties.
Openly discussing your financial situation—including income, debts, savings, and spending habits—can help build trust and mutual understanding. Sharing worries instead of keeping them to yourself can prevent resentment and pave the way for solutions you can tackle together, such as creating a budget or seeking advice from a financial adviser. Regular, supportive discussions about financial goals and priorities can also help ensure both partners are aligned in their long-term vision.”
- Create a joint savings goal
“Nearly a quarter of Brits say they contribute to a shared fund for expenses. Creating a joint financial goal, for example, saving up for a holiday or home renovations can be a great way to work together as a team and make financial planning feel more rewarding. To stay on track, consider automating contributions to your shared fund. A regular savings account could be a suitable option, where you get rewarded (typically with higher interest rates) for depositing money each month. This could not only keep you motivated but also reinforce a sense of achievement as you can see your money grow.”
- Make it fun
“Turning financial discussions into an enjoyable activity can help reduce any tension and make the topic feel less intimidating. Consider setting aside a monthly ‘financial date night’ or planning a fun activity where discussing your finances becomes the main focus. By approaching these conversations in a relaxed and positive setting, you can take the pressure off the situation, making it easier for both of you to engage openly.”
