Two thirds of couples say the rising cost of living is straining their relationship

Two thirds (64%) of couples claim higher living costs is making money a bigger issue in their relationship according to new research from Hymans Robertson Personal Wealth.

Despite this, less than half (46%) say they know how much their partner earns and only 14% of couples say they regularly discuss their finances together, suggesting many couples are navigating the rising cost of living without a clear shared understanding of their financial position. With the added strain caused by many couples failing to openly talk about money, this highlights the importance of employers offering practical financial wellbeing support in the workplace.

The financial wellbeing firm warns that when employees are struggling to manage money or align financially with a partner, it can increase stress and distraction at work. Providing access to clear financial guidance, education and practical tools can help employees feel more confident having financial conversations at home, supporting resilience and limiting the potential impact of financial pressures on wellbeing and productivity.

Commenting on the importance of workplace financial support, Ollie Le Farge, Corporate Client Manager, Hymans Robertson Personal Wealth said “Financial stress is becoming much more than a personal issue and ignoring it can cost more than just money. Rising living costs are reshaping the way couples talk, plan and feel about their finances, and for many, that pressure is beginning to spill over into their relationships. What may start as a short‑term worry about bills or budgeting can, without open conversation, quietly evolve into a deeper strain that affects confidence, trust and emotional wellbeing.

“These pressures don’t stop at the front door. When financial stress goes unresolved at home, it can quickly affect focus, wellbeing and performance at work, making financial wellbeing an increasingly important consideration for employers. Many employees are open to support, but without the right space or guidance, conversations about money often don’t happen, either at home or in the workplace, allowing pressure to build and distractions to grow. When financial wellbeing support works well, employees are more likely to engage earlier, feel confident asking questions and make informed decisions before issues escalate.

“Small, intentional interventions can make a meaningful difference. Creating an environment where financial conversations feel normal, supported and stigma‑free, alongside access to clear, practical guidance, can help employees feel more confident managing money and having constructive financial conversations with their partner.

“At a time when the cost of living continues to feel overwhelming, employers are well placed to take a proactive role. Supporting financial wellbeing isn’t just about easing pressure in the moment. It can help protect engagement, productivity and resilience over the longer term, and shows employees they don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.”