The ultimate financial red flag for couples is when one or both partners are unwilling to talk about money. Open communication is essential for financial alignment and a healthy relationship.
Joint bank accounts foster teamwork, reduce financial fights, and simplify money management. Combining finances aligns couples with a shared vision and ensures transparency in handling expenses and investments.
Couples often overspend on housing and cars. These are the two largest expenses that can strain finances if not properly managed or calculated for affordability.
Ramit recommends combining all income into a joint account and then allocating a portion to individual accounts for personal spending. This ensures both partners feel financially secure and aligned, regardless of income differences.
Prenups are beneficial for individuals with significant premarital assets, such as investments, property, or businesses. They provide clarity and protection in case of unforeseen circumstances but are unnecessary for most couples.
Ramit suggests starting financial conversations naturally during pivotal moments, such as planning a trip or moving in together. It’s important to approach these discussions with curiosity and openness rather than immediately diving into detailed financial planning.
Couples should save for their wedding early, set a realistic budget, and double it to account for unexpected costs. If they can afford it, they should avoid going into debt and focus on creating a meaningful experience.
Renting can be a financially sound choice, especially in high-cost areas. Ramit advises against the societal pressure to buy a home and instead suggests investing the money saved from renting to build wealth.
Parents should involve children in financial decisions from a young age, such as planning family expenses or making purchases. This helps them develop a healthy relationship with money and understand its value.
Money is not just about numbers but also about emotions, power dynamics, and shared values. Couples should focus on aligning their financial goals and visions for a rich life rather than fixating on small, inconsequential expenses.
Scott and Ed open the show by discussing the Surgeon General’s report linking alcohol and cancer, the ongoing ski patrol strike at Park City Resort, and Meta’s new board members. Then Ramit Sethi, bestselling author of “I Will Teach You to Be Rich” and the brand new book, “Money For Couples,” joins the show to discuss how couples should navigate their finances. He explains what he thinks is the ultimate financial red flag, and why he believes couples should have joint bank accounts. Ramit also breaks down how much couples should spend on weddings – and reveals what he thinks about prenups.
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