• 22
  • July
    2011

The current economy is affecting more than taxes and jobs in Indiana. Bankruptcies have skyrocketed, home values have decreased, credit card debts have accumulated, and as a result, marriages are in trouble. Money problems are impacting couples all over the United States. As the economy continues to struggle, more and more couples are deciding to divorce, and finances seem to be a key factor or last straw that is helping to end these marriages.

It's a well known fact that financial problems add stress and strain to even the best of marriages. And while we keep hearing that we are on the road to economic recovery, couples are dealing with the left over realities of the recession and it can be ugly. Young professional couples are often inexperienced when it comes to handling money issues. Many families were living way beyond their means when the economy sank, and now they are finding themselves relying on credit cards or drying up their savings accounts in order to keep afloat. Some are even filing for bankruptcy.

Prolonged financial strain can cause division and hardship on any marriage. As food products, gas and clothing costs continue to spike, couples feel continued tension and pressure when it comes to making wise money decisions. Add in old student loans, accumulated credit card debt, pay cuts, and you have a lot to wade through as a couple. It is imperative that these stretched couples land on the same page.

That is why discussing money issues before they arise is so important. Older couples, who have been married for a long time, seem to ride through financial storms much better than those in new marriages. They have learned to plan and work through tough times. Moving forward and accepting where you are at financially may be the first and best step to surviving this economy with the person you love. Working together may not only help marriages survive this financial crisis, but also emerge in solid financial shape.