The following is a guest post from a representative of Mint.com.

The money talk is a dreaded but important step in every relationship. While you can’t put a dollar amount on love, financial transparency is one key to a successful relationship, and perhaps the most important part of marriage. 

It’d be hard to move in with someone and begin sharing bills without first knowing what their relationship to money is like. Getting engaged before you discuss outstanding debts that could become your own isn’t a smart move either. 

Don’t wait for an argument about money to have the talk. Instead, host a money talk date night and ease into the conversation. While this definitely isn’t a first date activity, you don’t have to wait too long before suggesting it. 

For tips on how to host a money talk date night read on! 

1. Play Money Talk Games

Having the money talk doesn’t mean pulling up your bank account or W2. You want to learn about your partner’s relationship with money first and foremost. 

To avoid being intrusive you can play a money talk game that turns the awkward conversation into a fun activity. We have multiple free money talk games for you to choose from, and many of them are finance versions of old classics. 

Find out your partner’s finance faux pas with a game of Never Have I Ever. You can also learn about your partner’s wants and dreams with our vision board activity or our game of Would You Rather. 

You can print a PDF version of all of these free printables at this download link. 

2. Appreciate Your Differences 

You and your partner aren’t going to match up on everything when it comes to finance. You may prioritize shopping and your partner may prioritize saving– and that’s okay! 

What’s more important is that you understand your partner’s approach to finance so you can compromise on the important things. While you should watch out for red flags (especially falsehoods), remember that everyone has their own relationship with money and you don’t need to break up over a few financial disagreements. 

Once you’ve learned about your partner’s views on money, take time to appreciate your differences and express gratitude. Even simply saying “I love how much energy you invest into your hobbies. It’s cool to see you spend both time and money working towards your passion.” 

3. Set Goals and Boundaries

While you’re having the money talk is also a great time to set financial goals and boundaries, especially if you are further along in your relationship. Discuss who picks up the dinner tab and how often–after all, it’s not very fair to have one person foot every bill, unless you’ve discussed this arrangement ahead of time. 

You can also set financial goals both big and small. Saving up for a trip to take together is a nice way to ease into financial goal planning together. 

The money talk might get a bad rep, but it’s an important step in your relationship. Talk about money early and often to avoid financial disagreements. Having open and honest communication with your partner is the best way to create a relationship based on mutual respect and understanding. 

Bio:
Karlyn is a writer who specializes in the lifestyle and finance spaces. She believes the best ingredients for relationship success are passion, purpose, and open communication.