Mastering Your Finances Together: How to Establish a Monthly Financial Review with Your Partner

In every relationship, it's essential to learn how to work together when it comes to money. Open and honest communication is crucial for maintaining financial harmony. One effective way to achieve this is to have a monthly financial review meeting with your partner, or in less formal talk, it's a monthly meeting about your money together. This dedicated time to discuss your finances can help you set goals, track progress, and ensure you're on the same page when it comes to managing your money.

Why Monthly Meetings Matter

• Transparency: Monthly meetings encourage transparency about your financial situation, building trust and understanding.
• Staying on Track: Regular meetings help you stay focused on your financial goals, make necessary adjustments, and keep your finances on the right track.
• Reducing Stress: Knowing you have a dedicated time to discuss your finances can reduce anxiety and uncertainty.
• Strengthening Your Relationship: Working together on your finances fosters teamwork and ensures that you're both actively involved in managing your financial well-being.

How to Have a Successful Monthly Financial Review Meeting

1. Schedule Regular Meetings: Choose a day and time that works for both of you in advance, stick to your schedule, and prioritize these meetings.
2. Prepare in Advance: Each partner should come prepared with financial documents and an agenda of topics to discuss.
3. Start with the Positives: Begin the meeting on a positive note by acknowledging progress toward your financial goals and complimenting your partner.
4. Review Your Financial Situation: Go over your income, expenses, and savings. Discuss any changes since your last meeting.
5. Set Financial Goals: Discuss your short-term and long-term goals and create or update your budget.
6. Address Concerns: Use this time to discuss any financial concerns or conflicts and find solutions that work for both of you.
7. Allocate Responsibilities: Clarify who is responsible for what in terms of regular financial management responsibilities and next steps from the conversation.
8. Plan for the Future: Discuss long-term financial planning and make sure you're on the same page about your financial future.
9. Summarize and Follow Up: At the end of the meeting, summarize key points, decisions, and action items, and set a date for your next meeting.

Tips for a Healthy Financial Relationship

• Be Patient and Respectful: Financial discussions can be sensitive. Listen actively and respect your partner's perspective.
• Use "We" Language: Use inclusive language like "our finances" and "our shared responsibilities" to reinforce that you're in this together.
• Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your financial milestones, no matter how small.
• Seek Professional Help When Needed: If you encounter complex financial issues, consider consulting a financial advisor or financial therapist.

Conclusion

A monthly financial review meeting is a valuable tool for maintaining a healthy financial relationship with your partner. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you can ensure that your financial meetings are productive and beneficial to your partnership. Remember, open communication is the foundation of a strong and harmonious financial future together. Don't forget that all of this is what Tango was designed to do, help foster healthy conversations with your partner about money. Download the app and give it a try or set up the groundwork on your own first!