This is the season when everyone’s planning for next year. When it comes to money, I can assure you that the secret isn’t in some fancy investing tactic, hot stock tip, or obscure cryptocurrency.
If you and your partner set just one money resolution for 2026, make it this: You both stay actively involved in your finances.
As a financial advisor for more than 20 years who’s operated my own wealth management firm for nine, I know that this is the single most impactful commitment most couples can make. Yet it’s missing in so many relationships.
Leaving the money to be handled by one spouse leaves your family vulnerable. If something happens to the person handling everything (illness, death, or even divorce), the other is left to scramble. I’ve helped heartbroken spouses try to piece together accounts, passwords, and plans during the worst moments imaginable, and I wouldn’t wish this outcome upon anyone.
But even in less dramatic circumstances, it’s still ineffective to leave one overwhelmed person to make all the decisions. You miss out on the power of two perspectives, and the disengaged spouse loses their agency and confidence.
