7 tips to strengthen your relationship through joint financial planning 

Money shouldn’t be a cause of fights among couples. But they do happen. Perhaps we can learn from Filipino-Chinese families, who have financial management deeply ingrained in their culture. For them, regular money talks are a cornerstone of a strong partnership.

What I have learned after many years of catering to the needs of wealthy clients is that joint financial planning isn’t just about managing wealth – it’s about building trust, encouraging communication, and having a shared vision for the future.

It all starts with understanding each other’s financial backgrounds and values. I have seen successful couples establish clear principles early on, discussing everything from income arrangements (single or double-income household) to how pooled funds will be managed.

Here are some tips to strengthen your relationship through joint financial planning:

1. Promote regular financial communication

Regular money discussions become a natural part of the relationship. Schedule them. It can be weekly or monthly. Couples learn to openly discuss both essential and discretionary expenses, ensuring their income aligns with their lifestyle and future goals.

2. Build unity through shared goals

When couples work toward common financial objectives, like saving for a beach house or building a retirement fund, they develop a stronger sense of partnership. This shared purpose creates motivation and unity in financial decision-making, making both partners more committed to their joint future.

3. Develop better spending habits

Joint financial planning encourages couples to adopt beneficial financial practices together, such as living below their means and prioritizing necessary expenses over luxuries. These shared habits create a foundation for long-term financial stability.

4. Create a framework for supporting individual interests

Financial planning helps couples find the balance between personal pursuits and shared goals. By discussing how to allocate resources for individual hobbies and interests while maintaining joint financial objectives, couples develop mutual respect and understanding for each other’s personal growth.

5. Establish a clear investment structure

Creating multiple “investment baskets” for different objectives gives couples a practical framework for managing money together. Whether it’s family funds, children’s education, retirement, travel, or saving for a dream home, this systematic approach keeps partners aligned and organized in their financial journey.

6. Encourage investment planning

Partners work together to explore various wealth-building opportunities, whether through primary jobs, side hustles, or investment vehicles like time deposits, UITFs, bonds, or equities. This collaborative approach to wealth building strengthens their financial partnership.

7. Enhance emotional intimacy

Working together toward financial independence creates deeper trust and emotional connection. When couples make financial decisions together and support each other’s financial growth, they build a stronger emotional foundation for their relationship.

What is not to like with this list of seven tips?

When couples embrace honest conversations about money, they build more than wealth – they strengthen their foundation of trust. Starting these discussions today, before financial stress hits, can transform both your future and your relationship.

(If you wish to know more about how to make financial planning work for you and your loved ones, please consult your relationship manager or trust account manager. Not yet a client? Please sign up here or go to any Metrobank branch.)

JENNY BAYLON is the Head of the Account Management Department at Metrobank Trust Banking Group, where she handles private wealth clients. Previously, she served as the Personal Trust Business Lead. Before joining Metrobank, she was a Senior Relationship Manager in wealth management for both local and offshore banks. In addition, she has extensive experience as a life insurance planner. She is also a certified trust professional and associate estate planner.