Finances are a central theme of arguments among couples during every stage of their lives, according to XO Group and Chase Card Services.
More than half of engaged couples (55%) argue about whether wedding-related expenses are the best way to spend the money they have. Just under half (49%) get into disagreements because they’re stressed by not being able to afford the kind of wedding they want.
Even financial assistance from parents can cause strife for engaged couples. More than a fifth of couples (22%) have gotten into arguments related to interference from parents who felt their financial assistance entitled them to make decisions about the wedding plans.
After The Wedding
Three quarters of married couples disagree about finances and expenses. Among these, 45% argue because they want items they can’t afford, and 41% argue about how to allocate their spending. Three in 10 married women believe they’re more frugal than their husbands.
More than a third of married couples (34%) argue about when to start a family.
Starting A?Family
Three quarters of pregnant couples wish their finances were in better shape, and 58% say they didn’t wait until they were financially secure before having a baby. Almost a quarter of couples who are expecting babies (22%) admit to wishing they’d taken a bit more time for themselves before getting pregnant.
More than two thirds (68%) are unsure whether their current incomes will be sufficient. One in 10 say they aren’t at all financially prepared for the expenses of raising a child.
More than a third of couples who are expecting babies (35%) argue about whether they can afford it. Three in 10 say being able to afford to give their children the life they deserve is their number-one worry.
Sources: XO Group, Carley Roney, Cofounder, 195 Broadway, 25th Fl., New York, NY 10007; 212-219-8555; www.xogroupinc.com. Price: Contact for information.
Chase Card Services, Erin Smolenski, Communications and Public Affairs, 302-282-8460; erin.smolenski@chase.com; www.chase.com
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