Financial troubles are destroying marriages at an alarming rate, with new research revealing that money conflicts remain the leading cause of divorce in America. According to a Forbes Advisor survey, approximately one-third of divorcees identified financial problems as both the primary source of conflict during their marriage and the ultimate reason for their separation. Understanding these financial mistakes in marriage can help couples avoid letting money issues tear their relationship apart.
The survey findings highlight how widespread money-related marital problems have become across the country. Financial educators and certified credit counselors report that communication breakdowns about financial responsibilities and expectations typically drive couples toward divorce, rather than one partner being solely at fault. These issues often begin as small missteps that gradually escalate into relationship-ending conflicts.
Hidden Debt and Financial Infidelity Drive Divorces
Concealing debt or other financial information from a spouse represents one of the most damaging financial mistakes in marriage. A 2025 Debt.com survey found that 37% of respondents considered hiding debt equivalent to breaking marriage vows. Notably, the same percentage of divorcees reported that either they or their former spouse had concealed debt during the marriage.
Credit card debt has emerged as an increasingly common divorce catalyst in recent years. The Debt.com survey revealed that 42% of divorcees said credit card debt contributed to their split in 2025, compared to 34% in 2024 and just 29% in 2023. This sharp increase coincides with average credit card interest rates climbing to nearly 21%, making this type of debt particularly difficult to manage.
However, the problem extends beyond simply having debt. According to the survey, 65% of couples who ultimately divorced never sought professional help for their debt problems, suggesting that avoidance of the issue proved more destructive than the debt itself.
Mismatched Spending Habits Create Deep Resentments
Different approaches to spending money represent another critical financial mistake in marriage. A Western & Southern Financial Group survey asked married couples which financial topics they wished they had discussed earlier, and spending habits topped the list at 32%. These differences become especially contentious when one partner prefers saving while the other spends freely.
Additionally, divorcees identified disagreements about major purchases—including furniture and vehicles—as the biggest source of financial strain during their marriages. These conflicts often stem from fundamental differences in financial values that couples never addressed before tying the knot. Most married people admit they never discussed basic financial topics such as savings, debt, or bill-splitting before marriage.
Unequal Financial Responsibility Creates Tension
Many couples fall into a pattern where one spouse manages all household bills and financial accounts while the other remains uninformed about details. While this arrangement might seem natural when one partner has more financial expertise, it frequently leads to serious problems. The spouse handling everything often feels resentful about carrying the entire burden, while the other feels excluded from financial decision-making.
Meanwhile, experts emphasize that financial setbacks can actually strengthen marriages when couples address them together. Rather than avoiding money conversations during emotional moments, couples should schedule specific times to discuss finances calmly and constructively.
Regular Money Dates Prevent Communication Breakdowns
Financial professionals recommend establishing recurring “money dates”—monthly or weekly meetings to review budgets, upcoming expenses, financial goals, and discretionary spending plans. These scheduled conversations ensure both partners stay informed and engaged with household finances. In contrast to reactive arguments about money, proactive discussions help couples align their financial values and priorities.
Furthermore, couples should divide financial responsibilities in a way that feels equitable to both partners. Experts often suggest splitting shared costs proportionally based on income—for example, a spouse earning 70% of household income would cover 70% of expenses. Both partners should know how to locate all shared financial assets in case of emergencies, regardless of who handles day-to-day management.
Professional Help Can Save Marriages
Couples experiencing financial stress should not hesitate to seek professional guidance. NFCC-certified credit counselors can provide expert advice on debt, budgeting, and credit issues, including specialized Debt Management Plans. For retirement planning, investing, and tax strategies, licensed financial advisors such as Certified Financial Planners or Chartered Financial Consultants offer valuable expertise.
While financial challenges will continue affecting marriages nationwide, experts emphasize that most money-related divorces are preventable through open communication and shared responsibility. Couples who establish regular financial discussions and seek help when needed stand a much better chance of overcoming monetary obstacles together rather than letting them destroy their relationship.
