What You Need to Know About Marriage & Money

Are you and your future spouse aligned financially? Taking time to discuss money before the big day can help you avoid conflict after you say “I do”.

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Love and Marriage... and Money

Managing money and setting financial goals are among the most important and challenging elements of any marriage or partnership. Our advisors want to help you and your partner with strategies to build a comfortable financial future.

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What are your financial goals?

Achieve financial security and peace of mind by establishing your mutual goals.

What life values are important to you?
What type of lifestyle appeals to you?
Will you have children?
Will you vacation every year?
Do you want to pursue a hobby or other outside interest?
Will you fund your children's higher education?

Before You Walk Down the Aisle

Shared goals are key to long-term happiness and harmony.

Start the conversation

Meet with a trusted advisor to define your goals and discuss priorities. Each of you should list questions or concerns on your own before discussing them together.

Discuss the "D" word

How much debt will each of you bring to your marriage? It's important for couples to openly discuss debt and work together on how to tackle it. Keep in mind that if you want to make a large purchase together, your spouse’s credit score could affect your ability to obtain a loan.

Consider your goals

Establishing mutual goals will lead to smoother planning, especially if the economy experiences a downturn and you need to adjust. Consider opening a savings account for short‐term goals and then meet with your advisor to plan for the longer term.

Open a joint checking account

This common, simple tool can streamline your household budget and identify potential marital disputes, even before they occur. Before opening the joint account, discuss how you will use it and who will be in charge of tracking the account.

Settling in for the Long Term

We can help you and your spouse or partner refine your financial planning over time.

Determine your risk tolerance

Our advisors will assess your tolerance for risk. Some couples may choose to have each spouse meet individually with an advisor to conduct separate risk assessments. This allows your advisor to get a true feel for your comfort level without influence from your significant other.

Identify priorities

We can help you establish mutual long-term goals and determine how to meet them. For example, when do you plan to retire? Do you plan to stay put or move to a new city? What size home appeals to you?

One couple, two portfolios

You and your spouse likely each have a 401(k) plan or another retirement account, making it critical to work with your trusted advisor to coordinate asset allocation across those separate accounts throughout your careers.

Plan your estate

Having an estate plan in place well before you reach retirement assures that you and your spouse’s affairs will be handled as you wish. An estate plan may also allow you to avoid probate court and make provisions to care for children and other beneficiaries upon your death.

Gliding into Retirement

Each of you should understand your options for retirement.

Know your options

Your advisor can help you understand your retirement income and benefits including post-retirement benefits and options with any pension plan, military or other employer-sponsored defined benefit plans. They can also help you navigate claiming strategies for Social Security benefits.

Test your plan

Should the unexpected occur, it’s important to determine whether you have the financial means to cope and still maintain your desired lifestyle. An advisor can help you consider whether you are prepared for scenarios such as serious illness, unexpected medical bills, the death of your spouse or a need for assisted living or nursing care.

Keep talking

Take time to review accounts, asset allocations and results together with your advisor. Consider any changes and make sure both you and your spouse have access to critical information such as account numbers, passwords and where account information is stored.

We can help you get there

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Checking Your Way

Whether you prefer online and mobile banking, unlimited debit card transactions or the opportunity to earn interest on your checking account balances, we have you covered. Access fee-free ATMs, chip debit cards, Cardless Cash, Mobile Deposit and Overdraft Services.

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Savings & Money Market

Be prepared for life’s little surprises with a savings or money market account. Whether you're just starting to save, building an emergency fund or saving for something special, we can help you reach your goals.

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Purpose of Financial Planning

The purpose of a financial plan is to define how your income and assets can provide for a lifetime of happiness. Healthy savings habits, spending discipline and appropriate investments are necessary to meet your goals. But, you need more than just a plan.

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Establish Your Legacy

Determine what story you want your wealth to tell about you and your family. If your financial plan indicates that you have more than necessary for a lifetime of financial independence, your wealth can be used now to create your legacy.

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Beth Wydra, AVP Branch Manager, Kenosha, WI

Your Trusted Partner for Life's Biggest Moments

No matter what financial needs you may have, we're here for you. Our experienced advisors work closely with you to build the right path to help you achieve your goals.

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