Discuss money matters frequently. Even if one person pays the bills and handles most of the finances, both should talk about the state of the family finances at least once a month. When talking about these issues, communicate in a nonaccusatory way, says San Diego certified financial planner Jean Sinclair. In some cases, this can amount to thousands of dollars. Coordinate employee benefits.
Some couples can save by eliminating duplicate coverage.
It might be more economical for one spouse with a cafeteria benefits plan to drop health insurance in favor of disability insurance and become a dependent on the spouse's medical plan. But be sure to consider the cost of adding a dependent. Seek help from company benefits departments in weighing the options. It has become increasingly popular for newly hitched husbands and wives to set up a joint household account while maintaining individual discretionary accounts. Financial advisers say separate personal spending accounts can sharply reduce bickering over money.