Merging lives often means merging finances, but how do you do it without stepping on toes? Jake Courtney, CFP®, CSLP®, from the SLP Wealth team, joins us to unpack common questions couples face when managing money together. From deciding whether to combine accounts to setting up smart bank structures that support your goals, we cover the practical steps and money conversations that can strengthen your relationship, how to set boundaries without starting fights, and which tools make budgeting as a couple way less painful.

Key moments:

(02:51) How Jake and Meagan approach money differently in their own relationships (11:30) Using Monarch together can spark helpful conversations, even without merging actual bank accounts (18:37) The hybrid model lets you combine finances without fully joining every dollar (23:09) Automating finances reduces stress and makes joint money management much easier (26:45) Set simple spending boundaries to avoid conflict and encourage open communication

Resources mentioned:

• Monarch Money
• YNAB