Dear Abby

Dear Abby

dearabby.com
The most widely syndicated columnist in the world. Providing common sense solutions to everyday problems.
Dear Abby Asked by Dear Abby
4/5/2022

Should married couples maintain separate bank accounts?

62%
Yes WINNER

21

38%
No

4

62%
Yes

21 Comments
Hilary
1
Hilary

One account for the main stuff, but an account for each. That way they can spent their own money on each other for birthdays without ruining the surprise. Also, just in case one spouse steals the money and runs. Or something happens to them and their account freezes.

Reply
Scooter Guy
1
Scooter Guy

Together for 40 years. We have our own accounts, and a joint account. Works for us.

Reply
Jay Jay
0
Jay Jay

Not married here, but I see nothing wrong with having separate accounts IN ADDITION TO a primary joint account.

Reply
Abby Normal
0
Abby Normal

My husband and I have always had separate accounts. We split the bills according to our means. He pays the "monthly" bills. Water, power, phones, etc. I pay the mortgage, etc. We have NEVER had a fight over $$. We agreed to a $100 limit before we have to discuss spending.

Reply
Jim Matney
0
Jim Matney

having an account to pay the bills and separate but not secret accounts helps keep up with the balance.

Reply
Shelley Green
0
Shelley Green

Share expenses whatever % you want. But having a bank account in your name only gives you some confidence, independence, security, which is a negative view of marriage but apparently necessary more today than years ago. Positive reason is your can buy gifts to your spouse and be a surprise gift.

Reply
LaVonda Widemon
0
LaVonda Widemon

It preserves both the man and the woman's individuality and sense of independence and makes clear each person's contributions.

Reply
M Paxton
0
M Paxton

I have my own account, as does my husband. It is easier to know what is going on. My husband and I trust each other and have access to each others accounts and passwords. It is just less confusing this way.

Reply
Tina Bouthillier
0
Tina Bouthillier

NOW i say yes due to my 2nd ex-husband decided to clean out our bank account and run off on me and the kids!!

Reply
Dawn Lambert
0
Dawn Lambert

Yes, each should have their own accounts. I learned a long time ago that my husband was a spender. It was hard to know what money we had in our account. He never would give share his receipts, we both worked After I acquired my own account it made my husband responsible for his spending

Reply
Vinnie Fusco
0
Vinnie Fusco

We have a joint account that we pay our monthly bills out of, then we each have our own personal savings account. That way if we want to buy something for each other we can do it, and the other won't know how much we spent, or know they are receiving something ahead of time.

Reply
Lyzey Roman
0
Lyzey Roman

I prefer to have separate bank accounts. It may work for some, it doesn't work for me. I've known couples who done this and it has been a disaster especially when one of them is a big spender with expensive taste.

Reply
Bonnie Batten
0
Bonnie Batten

We have a joint account for household expenses, and each have a separate checking account. It's worked well for 30 years.

Reply
Jane
0
Jane

It’s the best way.

Reply
Phil Soinski
0
Phil Soinski

Yes it makes it easier to see what the true accounts are for them both and who can help more at times.

Reply
LP Simmons
0
LP Simmons

SOME BODY IS NOT RESPONSIBLE

Reply
Shelly Kladke
0
Shelly Kladke

I voted yes but I must say its more of a both from me. My spouse is not exceptional with money. I am more goal oriented so I handle the majority of our finances. We each have a separate spending account and 1 joint account for the monthly bills. This way we can spend in peace.

Reply
Karen Saurer
0
Karen Saurer

Long ago my DH and I disagreed on where we wanted to do our banking, so separate accounts were started many years ago for us. We continue to disagree on what conveniences we prefer at a financial institution, so it will remain as it is.

Reply
B J Arey
0
B J Arey

We had separate accounts in different banks. We divided financials. Worked well for us.

Reply
Bob Pickett
0
Bob Pickett

not married but seems like a good idea to me if only for experience with finiance

Reply

38%
No

4 Comments
rover6rover
2
rover6rover

Are you a couple? Or are you two individuals who won't really commit to couplehood?

Reply
Don James
0
Don James

What is mine is her's and what's her's mine from day one.

Reply
soul sister
0
soul sister

maintenance costs from bank...easier to keep up with bills, deposits, etc. If one partner wants to get out of line then switch to separate ones.

Reply
linda tansey
0
linda tansey

i was married for over 30 years 1 accont foe bills 2 for savinds

Reply
Do you own an “ugly Christmas sweater”?
Dear Abby Asked by Dear Abby
1 year left

Do you own an “ugly Christmas sweater”?

Yes

0

No

0

Yes

0 Comment
No one has commented yet

No

0 Comment
No one has commented yet
Do you frequent an outdoor farmer’s market?
Dear Abby Asked by Dear Abby
1 year left

Do you frequent an outdoor farmer’s market?

Yes

0

No

0

Yes

0 Comment
No one has commented yet

No

0 Comment
No one has commented yet

We use cookies to ensure you get the best possible experience on our website. Learn more OK, GOT IT