Money is the cause of quarrels for three out of 10 couples

Money is the number one cause of quarrels for three out of 10 couples in the UK, according to a new survey by Starling Bank wth couples aged 45-54 having the most disagreements (39%), along with parents (37%).

The research, which questioned 4,000 over 16s in the UK, found that couples who share finances have fewer disagreements about money than those who don’t (27% vs 32%). Half of the people surveyed have a joint account (50%) with most holding one with their partner (35%), family member (8%), a friend (3%) or housemate (3%).

Across the nation, Norwich, Nottingham and Sheffield residents are more likely to have joint accounts (54%), compared with people who live in Brighton who are least likely to pool their finances with someone else (40%).

Couples typically decide to make the leap and open a joint account after being in a relationship for 3.5 years. However Gen Z couples (16 – 24 years old) are quicker off the mark and generally open an account in just under two years of being together. People are also more likely to open a joint account when they hit ages 25-34 (35%) compared to 15% of 16 – 24 year olds, suggesting that finances are frequently brought together when making big life commitments such as moving in with a partner, buying a home or starting a family.

The most popular reason for opening a joint account is to make managing money an equal task (33%), followed by ensuring all joint items are paid for (30%) and to save for items together (26%). For one in five couples (20%), the main reason for combining their finances is to show a bigger commitment to one another.

On average people put 51% of their monthly income into their joint account. A quarter of those surveyed (25%) put 100% of their income into a shared bank account each month, and a further 48% of people put at least 50% of their income into a joint account. The findings also reveal that 27% of men put 100% of their income into a joint account, compared to 23% of women. The person earning the most money in the relationship, typically puts 53% of their income into the joint account, whereas those who earn less put in 61% on average – suggesting that couples are splitting bills and household expenses equally, regardless of individual income.

People primarily use their joint accounts to pay bills (69%), general household expenses (66%) and save for holidays/travel costs (46%).

Helen Bierton, Chief Banking Officer at Starling Bank said “Managing finances can be a very challenging part of living with someone, whether that’s a partner, family member or housemate. It’s clear that having a better view of shared finances helps towards having more positive conversations about money, which is important during a time when budgets are tighter, and many people are reducing spending on non-essential items.”

“A joint bank account doesn’t mean you lose your independence. Our findings reveal the main reasons for opening a shared account are to manage collective household expenses such as bills or rent, or save up for something big together.”