She Strengthens

The Financial Fault Lines That Can Destroy a Relationship

Have you ever been in a romantic partnership where everything seemed perfect until one financial misstep changed everything? One careless comment or reckless decision can reveal a deeper issue, making you wonder if this person is truly compatible with you.

Money: The Ultimate Relationship Test

Research shows that 70% of couples argue more about money than household chores, intimacy, or even what’s for dinner. While there’s no such thing as a “perfect partner,” certain financial behaviors can be major red flags. We asked 18 women about their financial deal breakers in a relationship, and their responses revealed some surprising patterns.

Extravagant Spending

Brynn’s ex-boyfriend spent over $1,000 on music festival tickets in one summer, despite being unable to afford moving out of his parents’ house. This kind of reckless spending can be a sign of deeper issues, such as immaturity or a lack of financial responsibility.

Distrust and Manipulation

Erica’s ex-boyfriend criticized her spending habits while hiding his own gambling problem. This kind of manipulation can be toxic and even abusive. It’s essential to find a partner who is honest and respectful of your financial decisions.

Financial Immaturity

Gemma broke up with her boyfriend due to his financial immaturity. At 26, he still lived with his parents and acted like a teenager when it came to money. This kind of behavior can be a sign of entitlement and a lack of responsibility.

Enabling Behavior

Steph’s boyfriend would frequently bail out his friend, affecting their ability to save. This kind of enabling behavior can be a major red flag, as it shows a lack of understanding about personal responsibility and boundaries.

Food for Thought

Lana’s date would constantly comment on the price of food, sucking the fun out of their evenings. Being overly cheap on food can be a deal breaker for some, especially if it reveals a deeper lack of appreciation for life’s pleasures.

No Savings, No Future

Sam’s partner had no retirement savings goals or financial plans, which was a major turnoff. Having a partner who is irresponsible with their finances can be a significant concern for the future.

Tech Obsession

Raquel’s boyfriend spent $5,000 in one month upgrading his gadgets, revealing a disturbing lack of financial discipline. This kind of obsession can be a sign of immaturity and a lack of priorities.

Stinginess

Keesha’s partner would request reimbursement for even the smallest expenses, showing a lack of generosity and trust. This kind of behavior can be a major turnoff and reveal deeper issues about control and power.

Debt and Dishonesty

Sarah’s partner hid his $20,000 credit card debt from her, revealing a lack of trust and honesty. This kind of deception can be a major red flag and even a deal breaker.

Career Ambition

Casey needs a partner who is motivated and ambitious in their career, as she values financial equality and a sense of shared goals. Having a partner who is unmotivated or unambitious can create feelings of resentment and imbalance.

Student Loan Debts

Rey’s boyfriend expected her to help pay off his student loans, which was a major turnoff. This kind of expectation can reveal a lack of personal responsibility and a sense of entitlement.

Joint Financial Decisions

Brianna’s partner would frequently give loans to family members without consulting her, showing a lack of teamwork and communication. This kind of behavior can be a major red flag and reveal deeper issues about trust and respect.

Shady Behavior

Terri’s partner would ask her for loans despite making more money than her, revealing a lack of transparency and honesty. This kind of behavior can be a major deal breaker and even a sign of financial abuse.

Family Planning

Denise’s partner had a fund to start a family, which was a major turnoff as she didn’t want children. Having different goals and values about family planning can be a significant issue in a relationship.

Credit Score Concerns

Monica’s partner had a terribly low credit score, which was a major concern for their future together. Having a partner with poor credit can affect your ability to achieve shared financial goals.

Charitable Giving

Blake’s partner was uncharitable and never wanted to part with money for a good cause, revealing a lack of empathy and generosity. This kind of behavior can be a major turnoff and reveal deeper issues about values and morals.

Celebrating Life’s Little Things

Valentina’s partner didn’t think special occasions were worth spending money on, revealing a lack of passion and excitement in life. Having a partner who doesn’t appreciate the little things can create feelings of boredom and dissatisfaction.

These financial deal breakers reveal the complexities of relationships and the importance of finding a partner who shares your values and goals. By being honest about your financial expectations and boundaries, you can build a stronger and more fulfilling partnership.