As Valentine’s Day approaches, many couples are reflecting on their relationships and the factors that contribute to their success. While love and compatibility are often at the forefront, financial transparency and communication play a crucial role in sustaining romantic relationships.
According to new research from Experian, financial issues have led to the end of relationships for more than a quarter of Americans.
Financial transparency is essential for building trust and ensuring a healthy relationship. Experian’s research highlights that 1 in 4 U.S. adults have faced ultimatums regarding financial improvements, and 34% have hidden purchases from their partners. These findings underscore the need for open and honest conversations about finances.
Additional key findings include:
| Statement | Total | Gen Z (18-27) | Millennial (28-43) | Gen X (44-59) | Boomer (60-78) | Silent (79+) |
| I discuss financial goals with my partner. | 79% | 80% | 84% | 77% | 77% | 66% |
| I have either been on the giving or receiving end of an ultimatum that finances had to be improved for a relationship to progress. | 25% | 43% | 36% | 18% | 11% | 4% |
| I’ve had a relationship end due to my own or a partner’s financial issues. | 27% | 36% | 40% | 23% | 15% | 0% |
| I typically spend $100 or less on gifts for my partner for special occasions. | 61% | 54% | 53% | 62% | 70% | 72% |
| I typically spend $100 or more on gifts for my partner for special occasions. | 39% | 46% | 47% | 38% | 30% | 28% |
| Saving money as a couple is somewhat or very important to me. | 93% | 94% | 93% | 91% | 93% | 90% |
| I have hidden a purchase from my partner. | 34% | 34% | 36% | 36% | 32% | 20% |
| It’s important that my partner talks to me prior to making any major purchasing decision. | 76% | 71% | 75% | 74% | 81% | 80% |
| My partner and I have a set limit before we need to consult the other prior to making a purchase. | 54% | 73% | 65% | 52% | 40% | 24% |
| My partner and I have a limit of $500 before we agree to consult each other prior to making a purchase. | 33% | 57% | 39% | 32% | 18% | 20% |
Whether you’re newly matched or in a long-term relationship, here are three ways to protect your financial health in relationships:
- Communication is key: Money is not meant to be a taboo topic in relationships. In fact, nearly 80% say they discuss financial goals with their partner. Make money part of your regular conversations with your partner.
- Set a budget: More than 3 in 4 (76%) say it’s important their partner talks to them prior to making any major purchasing decision and 54% of couples have a set limit before they need to consult their partner prior to making a purchase. This is $500 or more for 33% of couples and most couples (61%) spend $100 or less on partner gifts for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. Create a budget, revisit it regularly and determine a spending style that works for you and your partner.
- Create savings goals together: Saving money is top of mind for most and this is true in romantic relationships with 93% claiming it’s important for them to save money as a couple. Opt for date nights at home or find other low-cost ways to spend time together. Experian can also help consumers save money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, negotiating your bills for lower rates and more. [1]
For additional money-saving tips from Experian and personal finance experts, join Experian’s upcoming #CreditChat “Breaking Up with Bad Spending Habits: A Financial Detox Plan” on Feb. 12 at 3 p.m. EST on X or Threads.
By prioritizing financial transparency and communication, couples can build stronger, more resilient relationships. As Valentine’s Day approaches, take the opportunity to discuss your financial goals and set the foundation for a secure financial future together.
Methodology: Experian commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 2,004 adults throughout the United States. The margin of error is +/-2 percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent. Fieldwork took place between January 3 and January 6, 2025.
[1] Subscription Cancellation and Bill Negotiation are available with eligible paid memberships and requires connecting payment account(s) to Experian account. Results will vary. Not all bills or subscriptions are eligible for negotiation/cancellation. Savings are not guaranteed, and some may not see any savings.