We all want to feel financially secure. Talking more openly about money even when it’s difficult can help improve your finances and your relationships. This guide can support you in starting those conversations and feeling more confident about them.
Why it’s important to talk about money
Avoiding money conversations can create confusion or hurt those around you. For example, if you and your partner share joint accounts or bills, one person’s financial decisions can affect the other’s credit rating.
The same goes for family members. If you’ve never spoken with elderly relatives about their wishes or financial plans, you might be unprepared if something urgent happens.
Talking about money helps everyone understand where they stand, whether you’re in a relationship, leaving one, or supporting others.
Sometimes, just having someone to talk things through with, like a friend, relative, or financial expert, can make a tough situation feel more manageable.
Why don’t we like talking about money?
Money is still a taboo subject for many people. Here are some common reasons people avoid money talks, and why it’s worth rethinking them:
“I’m terrible with money”
Even if your money situation hasn’t worked out before, you can turn things around. Every step you take shows you’re making an effort and people will see it. A great place to start is by making a simple budget.
Budget planner
To help you manage your money, try our free and easy-to-use Budget planner.
“Life’s too short to worry about it. It’ll work itself out.”
Life is short, but ignoring money won’t make things better. Small changes now, like starting a pension, can make a big difference later. If you join a workplace pension, your employer may add money too.
Find out more in our guide Why should I save into a pension?
“I want to talk, but I don’t know who to ask.”
It can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. MoneyHelper offers free, impartial guidance, and we can connect you with trusted organisations for extra support. Find out how we can help on our Contact us page.
Have you missed a payment?
Use our Debt advice locator tool to find free and confidential debt advice online, over the phone or near to where you live.
“I’ll look stupid”
If you’ve made mistakes, the sooner you deal with it the better. Feeling stupid isn’t worse than losing your home or worrying about how to put food on the table.
Debt Support Community Facebook group
Hearing how others tackle debt might help you stay motivated and feel less alone. Our private Debt Support Community Facebook groupOpens in a new window is free to join and might give you some helpful tips – but always remember that only a professional debt adviser can offer personalised debt advice.
“I’ll sound stupid.”
Everyone makes mistakes. What matters is dealing with them. Facing the issue now is far better than letting it grow into something unmanageable.
“People will judge me.”
Many people feel embarrassed about their spending habits, but don’t let fear of judgment hold you back. Being honest, especially with someone you trust, can help you move forward.
“My partner handles the money. I don’t need to worry about it.”
It’s fine to share responsibilities, but it’s important to understand your own finances too. You never know when you might need to manage things on your own.
“My partner won’t let me deal with money.”
If someone is controlling your access to money against your wishes, this could be financial abuse. You have options, and support is available. Read our guide Financial abuse: spotting the signs and leaving safely.
“I don’t want to worry my family.”
You can talk to an expert before involving family. But in many cases, bringing them in can help you work through the issue together.
Join our Facebook group
Join our private Budgeting and Saving Facebook groupOpens in a new window for money-saving tips and support from a community of savers.
“Things are too bad. There’s no fixing it.”
All the debt advisers we recommend have spoken to people who have been in challenging situations. Some have felt better simply by talking. They’ve then been able to get help. Talking is the first step towards changing your financial circumstances.
Always start with priority debts like rent, mortgage, or fuel bills.
Find out more in our guide How to prioritise your debts.
“I can’t afford professional advice”
There are lots of places you can get free guidance from professionals. Need help with debt? Use our Debt advice locator tool.
Got questions about pensions? Learn more in our guide Understanding what Pension Wise is and how to use it.
Whatever the reason, the hardest part is often just starting the conversation about money. But once you do, it gets easier.
How to talk about money
If you’re ready to talk but not sure where to start, download our free guide How to talk about money guideOpens in a new window (PDF, 8MB)
It includes tips on how to:
set shared money goals
start tricky conversations
handle things if the chat doesn’t go to plan.
Start the conversation today because talking about money can change everything.
