How money can be a dealbreaker in a relationship

Whether you’re just dating or thinking of settling down, your partner’s attitude towards money matters.

They might be frugal almost to a fault.

Or perhaps they’re frivolous with money, spending as if it’s about to go out of fashion.

So it’s no wonder that so many of us consider their partner’s money habits a dealbreaker.

Daters have ended relationships because of money

According to research by Spring, nearly one in five people (18%) have either ended or chosen not to pursue a relationship because of the other person’s approach to money.

Meanwhile, one in five (20%) say financial responsibility is one of the main things they look for in a future partner.

And significantly, almost three-quarters (71%) say similar financial goals are important when they’re picking a long-term partner.

“When couples feel aligned on money, it can take pressure off daily life and create more room for the moments that matter,” said Derek Sprawling, head of money at Spring.

Being open about your finances makes a difference

Another interesting finding of the study is that couples are increasingly happy to talk to each other about money.

In fact, almost half (45%) of those polled said they always or often speak to their partner about their financial goals or worries.

The survey also found that lots of couples don’t want just one of them to shoulder the main financial responsibility.

More than six in ten (61%) said they prefer planning financial goals together, and over half (56%) said they enjoy regularly checking in about money.

And encouragingly, nearly six in ten (57%) revealed they find it easy to discuss money worries with their partner.

Talking about money can improve your relationship

In 2024, 23% of Money Wellness customers said money worries were affecting their relationships. 

By 2026, that figure had risen to 35% - a 12% increase.

So it’s really important to be open and honest with each other and, if possible, find a partner whose attitude towards money is compatible with yours.

If you’re transparent about money with your spouse or partner and have shared values, you can avoid misunderstandings and conflict.

And if you do face financial problems, you’ll be more likely to take positive action to tackle it, rather than suffer in silence and let the issue get worse.

That can only be good for your relationship and help you build a sense of mutual trust.