The money talk
There are some cards that should be face up on the table when dealing with committed relationships, and one of those cards should display money. Many couples shy away from it, but it is something that should be communicated and understood.
Many of the arguments in relationships surround money, cheating, or sex, so it only makes sense to talk about these from the get-go to prevent arguments down the road.
We asked several women about the importance of the money talk, and how they address it in their relationships.
Bridget:
It is extremely important for couples to talk about money. I told my man upfront how much money I made doing hair, so he knew what he should be doing if he could. And he told me how his hustle went so between two of us, we struck a balance.
Natalie:
I told my man my salary so he knew that when I paid the mortgage and car note and utilities I had no food and no money to put gas in my car. He simply filled in the blanks and we’re good. I’d rather to put it on the table than pretend and go hungry.
Shellie:
I think it is best to put money on the table as a topic from the first date because I personally have to know. I am not dating a broke man so I need to know where you work and how much money you’ve got in the bank. I did this with my current man and believe me, as awkward as he was with me interviewing him about his finances, he now sees why I did it.
Kadian:
I talk about money and I don’t back down even when my man wants to switch the subject. I think you need to be open about how much money you make at your job or your man will think you’re doing fine so he doesn’t need to make a big contribution. Well, for me, I am showing you pay slips.
Deneille:
I talk about money and I am open to my man about what I make because I need him to help me at intervals, as simple as that.
