It’s estimated that up to 40% of divorces result from financial problems. This is not surprising since we live in a culture in which talking about money is as taboo as talking about religion at a dinner party. From a young age, we learn not to ask people about money; indeed, we don’t inquire how much someone makes or even try to ask questions to understand someone’s financial goals.

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In light of this cultural aversion to talking about money, many partners dive headfirst into relationships and marriages, only to find out later that they’re financially incompatible. But whether we like it or not, money is essential to our lives. Money is not something couples should stuff under the rug and ignore. Money should be discussed between couples out in the open.

In a recent interview on the “Live Richer Podcast,” Bachelor Nation alum and podcaster Jason Tartick shed some light on why not talking about money in relationships could cause major issues.

“Based on the studies we did for my book and the studies that we researched, in 43% of married and cohabitating couples, at least one person is committing financial infidelity,” he said.

Couples should understand each other’s money values and goals, their money attitudes, and trauma about spending or lack of it. Households can learn to work together to hold each other accountable and create a financial life that makes both parties happy.

Lifestyle Investor Justin Donald follows a similar process of “staying within financial harmony that aligns with your values, ethics and goals.”

“You want to be on the same page with your significant other to achieve your dreams,” he said.

And he’s not the only financial expert that emphasizes the importance of being aligned with your partner. Here, Matt Watson, CEO of Origin Financial, shares why he believes couples should start discussing money as early as possible.

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Talking About Money Brought My Partner and I Closer Together

Watson and his wife Alyson — both highly successful entrepreneurs — actually began talking about money before they married. They asked each other about how their parents related to money, what their goals were as a couple and how money would play a role in the new family they were making. They inquired about how they manage and think about money now, and they sought to understand how each wanted to evolve and grow financially in the years ahead.

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These conversations might have been uncomfortable for most couples, but for them, the money talk brought them closer together. Today, happily married with children, their relationship and financial values have meshed in a more substantial way.

“The first step to being better with money is to talk about money,” Watson said. “Talking about money is fundamental, and it’s a muscle that my company, Origin, helps people grow.”

The very act of talking about money, whether it’s with your spouse, partner or financial advisor, is something we should all start doing. He did this in his own relationship, making money acceptable for him and Alyson to talk about. This opened the door to collaborating to create the financial life they both aspired to.

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Now, years into a relationship built on — among other things — financial accountability and alignment, Watson’s all-in-one financial management platform, Origin, has unveiled a suite of tools designed to help couples co-manage their financial lives.

“Origin is built to empower couples to take control of their finances together,” Watson said. “From tracking spending and investments to planning for the future with estate planning and tax management, Origin offers a comprehensive approach to financial wellness.”

Origin’s platform encourages couples to link their accounts, providing a clear, unified view of their financial situation. This transparency fosters better communication and helps couples make informed decisions together.

“One of the biggest challenges couples face is understanding their joint financial picture,” Watson said. “With Origin, both partners can see where the money is going, set goals together and track progress in real time. This joint effort reduces stress and builds a stronger, more united approach to financial management.”

In addition to its powerful tracking and planning tools, Origin offers access to certified financial planners who can provide personalized advice tailored to each couple’s unique situation. These experts help couples navigate complex financial decisions and ensure they are on the right path to achieving their goals.

Watson’s vision for Origin extends beyond just managing money; it’s about helping couples build a future together. Whether saving for a home, planning for children’s education or preparing for retirement, he aspires for Origin to provide the tools and support needed to turn dreams into reality.

“The goal is to create a platform where couples feel empowered and supported in their financial journey,” Watson said. “By bringing money conversations to the forefront, we can help couples avoid misunderstandings and work together towards a shared future.”

We Need To Break the Taboo Around Money Talks

Ultimately, Origin aims to shift the cultural narrative around money. By normalizing financial discussions, couples can break free from the stigma and build healthier, more transparent relationships.

“Talking about money shouldn’t be taboo,” Watson concluded. “It should be an integral part of any relationship. With Origin, we’re making it easier for couples to have these essential conversations and, in doing so, strengthen their bond.”

In a world where financial discord can tear relationships apart, Watson and Origin ensure that money, when managed together, can bring couples closer — and make them wealthier. Through open dialogue, joint planning and professional guidance, couples can survive financial challenges and thrive together.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Financial Expert: Why I Started Talking About Money With My Partner Before We Got Married