As a Financial Adviser, 5 Things I’d Do To Protect Money in a Relationship

Financial adviser Brian Court advises couples to take steps to protect their finances even as they build a life together. He suggests maintaining individual bank accounts, creating a financial plan before moving in together, and being transparent about debts and credit histories. Court cautions against cosigning loans or joint credit accounts without fully understanding the responsibilities.

For significant assets like buying a home, he recommends having a written agreement. He also advises continuing to save for retirement, maintain individual credit, and regularly check credit reports. Court emphasizes that financial independence isn't a sign of distrust but good financial planning, and notes that while relationships are ideally meant to last, having financial security can make a breakup less financially devastating.