Sharing the Love (and Money)

On the money special

- By Andy Webb

On The Money is here to help with your problems. So, with Valentine’s Day around the corner and in true agony uncle tradition, this month I’m helping some readers with their relationships.

These two questions showcase some pretty common worries when you’re getting serious with your significant other. I’m sure you’ll relate and hopefully you can use my answers as a chance to chat to your partner about how you both manage your money.

How do we split our income when our baby arrives?

Q: My partner and I are expecting our first child and I’m wondering what the best way to share our finances is. We live together but don’t have any joint bills, as we live with my mum. We just pay her rent individually, and we are in the process of saving up for a mortgage deposit.

We have the same monthly income as we work at the same place, but come maternity leave, things are going to change dramatically where I am concerned. I really don’t want to ask my partner to send me money all the time as I’m so used to being independent and having my own money. What would you advise? - Emily

Congratulations! That’s going to be such an exciting time for you, but also a big change to your finances.

I’d suggest that first of all you both work out a combined budget. Though you don’t have any bills to pay, there will still be some ongoing costs, not to mention the significant expense of having a child.