Moving In Together? Here’s the Financial Checklist Every Couple Needs
Starting a new chapter with your partner? Make sure your finances are as in sync as your hearts with this essential checklist.
Moving in together — it’s exciting, full of promise, and sometimes, a little overwhelming. Beyond picking the perfect sofa or deciding whose plants go where, there’s a crucial part of this new chapter that often gets overlooked: your finances.
Whether it’s your first place as a couple or you’ve done the flatshare thing before, sorting out money matters early on can save you from awkward conversations down the line — and keep your relationship strong.
Here’s the ultimate financial checklist every couple needs before moving in together, so you can focus on building your life — not battling bills.
1. Open the Conversation Early
Money can be a tricky topic, but it’s essential to talk openly about your incomes, debts, spending habits, and financial goals. Being honest now builds trust and avoids surprises later.
2. Set a Joint Budget
Sit down together and map out your monthly expenses: rent, utilities, groceries, subscriptions, and extras like dining out or weekend trips. Decide what feels fair and sustainable for both of you.
3. Decide How You’ll Split Expenses
Equal shares? Proportional to income? A mix of both? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach — choose what works best for your situation. Discuss this thoroughly to avoid resentment.
4. Consider Joint Accounts, But a Preloaded Shared Card Works Better
While joint bank accounts can help manage shared expenses, they often come with complicated rules and less flexibility. A prepaid shared card offers a modern alternative: everyone tops up their share onto one card used exclusively for household bills — rent, utilities, groceries, and subscriptions. It’s more transparent, easier to track, and eliminates the hassle of bank transfers or overdraft worries.
6. Plan Big Purchases Together Using the Shared Card
For larger household items like a sofa or appliances, agree on how much each person will contribute, then load the funds onto your shared prepaid card. When it’s time to buy, the payment comes directly from the shared balance — making big expenses straightforward and stress-free.
5. Agree on Emergency Funds
Life is unpredictable. Setting aside a small emergency fund together helps you handle unexpected expenses without panic.
6. Plan for Big Purchases
Whether it’s a new sofa, a TV, or household appliances, decide together how to budget and save for these bigger expenses. Will you split costs evenly? A shared prepaid card can be a saver in such a case.
7. Keep Communication Open
Regularly review your finances together. Life changes, and so should your plans. Monthly or quarterly check-ins keep you both aligned and avoid misunderstandings.
Wrapping Up
Moving in together is a beautiful adventure — and managing your finances wisely can make it even better. With openness, planning, and a shared approach, money becomes a tool that strengthens your bond rather than a source of stress.
So, before you unpack those boxes, take a moment for this financial checklist. Your future selves will thank you.
Check the Partly app — our shared prepaid virtual card mobile application.