How to prepare financially for marriage.

Life is constantly changing, in-fact as it is said the only constant there is, is change. With this in mind, Metro Accounting and Taxes developed this guide to ensuring that individuals facing changing situations, give forethought to the financial implications that such changes might bring.

What are the financial implications of marriages? Those who have recently changed their marital status or who are planning such a change may have important financial and legal decisions to make. These decisions might deal with property ownership, providing for children’s welfare, post-mortem planning, and day-to-day finances.

For the young, newly married couple, areas of financial concern primarily include: (1) life insurance, (2) form of property ownership, and (3) money management.

Life Insurance

When it comes to insurance needs, the basic rule is that you need enough coverage to sustain your family’s present income level should you die. If you are the only breadwinner, or if you plan on starting a family soon, then you should purchase enough life insurance to ensure the financial continuity of your family if you are not around.

Property Ownership

If you intend to buy a home or other property or if you and your spouse already own property together, then you need to consider the best way for you to hold that property. Will the property be held solely by one spouse? By both spouses jointly? Because of the complex legal implications of the various forms of property ownership, you should seek legal advice about this issue.

Money Management

It is important to carefully consider how the two of you will handle your day-to-day finances. New couples should be prepared to discuss financial goals, resolve differences (or at least agree to disagree) in spending habits, and establish a budget and/or saving and investment plan.

You’ll also need to think about whether you want a joint bank account, separate accounts, or both. How much do you want to spend on vacations? On monthly food bills? Entertainment? Gifts? Personal items? What are your long-term financial goals?

Do you have a financial plan? If you don’t, then now is the time to prepare one. Even if you do have a financial plan in place, since your marital status has changed it might be time to review and update it.

For these and other pertinent life changing events, let the Financial Advisors at Metro Accounting and Taxes be your trusted financial partner. Call the office at 470-240-5143.

User | 15/10/2017