How to Save as a Couple the Easy Way
How to save as a couple without dying trying (and without drama)
Living as a couple can be as exciting as it is terrifying. Between sharing the Netflix account, fighting over who pays for the pizza and deciding whether to invest in a sofa or a trip, saving together can seem like mission impossible. But don't worry, you don't have to be Marie Kondo or a financial guru to do it. Here are some tips so that you and your partner can save together without ending up arguing (or divorcing!).
1. Talk about money (yes, without fear)
Okay, not the sexiest topic, I know. But if you talk about your financial expectations clearly from the start, you'll save yourself a lot of headaches later on. It is important that you know how much each one earns, what fixed expenses you have and, above all, how you want to distribute them. You don't need a PowerPoint, but being clear about it will keep your relationship from turning into a time bomb.
2. Make a budget together
It doesn't have to be as boring as it sounds. Think of it as a road map to know where your money is going. Create a list of fixed expenses (rent, bills, food) and decide how much you want to save each month. Try the technique of 50/30/20: 50% for needs, 30% for whims and 20% for savings. Sounds good, doesn't it?
3. Use apps to manage expenses (like Goin, of course)
Living as a couple in the digital age has advantages. You can connect your accounts to apps that manage your budget and help you save. Goin, for example, has tools to save automatically without you having to notice. You can save together for your goals (that trip to Bali? 👀).
4. Automatic and shared savings
If saving seems complicated to you, automating the process is the key. How about opening a joint account just for savings? Or better yet, set up automatic transfers every month. That way you won't have to debate whether to spend the money on a whim or save it for something bigger. The ideal is that you don't even have time to think about it, yuck! It has already been saved.
5. Shared but fair expenses
This is basic: balance is key. If one earns more than the other, it might not be fair to divide everything by 50%. You can do this in proportion to everyone's income so that no one feels stressed (or resentful). Remember to be flexible!
6. Take advantage of discounts and cashback
You don't have to be stingy, but you do need to be smart. Nowadays, there are a lot of ways to save on your everyday purchases. From discount coupons, to cashback for purchases on apps like Goin (yes, one more little wink). Every penny counts, and if you get money back for spending, all the better!
7. Have common goals
Ahorra with a goal. It's not just about saving money for the sake of saving. Think about that dream vacation, that new car or even a house. Have realistic and motivating goals. Doing it as a team will bring you closer together (and yes, maybe you'll even enjoy it).