Keep open the lines of communication
Some couples choose for only one of them to go out to work. Others have that decision foisted on them through retrenchment or disability. Whatever the reasons, make sure you discuss how you will spend and save your money. This way you avoid the rifts that break up so many relationships.

Agree on your money management
Common money goals are a great uniter for couples. A budget, which is a list of expenses and how you will manage them within your income, is a good place to start. It will help focus your minds on financial priorities and how much you can afford to spend on luxuries. And it will also help ensure the bills are paid, so you don’t fall into a debt trap.

Don’t be financially unfaithfuL
Don’t depart from your financial plan. If you’ve both agreed on how much money you’ll be spending and on what, do exactly that.

SHOW THAT YOU VALUE non-salaried work
Just because someone doesn’t go out to work, doesn’t mean their contribution isn’t vital. A partner who stays at home to look after children, for example, saves money that would otherwise have gone on childcare. Make your partner feel valued for the things he or she does at home.

Safeguarding your finances
Insure against unexpected job loss, for example through retrenchment and disability, before these events happen. While both of you are working, try to live off one salary. This way, if one partner is unemployed, you can still maintain your lifestyle. Plus, you build a cash nest-egg in the meantime. As a rule, it’s best to keep the equivalent of at least three months’ salary in a savings account.

Be compassionate and understanding
Losing a job can dent self-esteem, so be caring and positive. Reassure your partner about the valuable role he or she plays in your relationship and family. Conversely, the partner left to bear the financial burden can feel resentful if he or she thinks the other person isn’t pulling their weight at home. Just as you agree on money management, it’s also good to discuss the responsibilities of the person who doesn’t go out to work.

Dream big – and take action
If one partner is uncomfortable with the other not working, talk about ways you can change this, for example, by enrolling in a course with a view to landing a job.

Protect your Edgars account
The Edgars Account Protection Partner Plan settles the outstanding value of your Edgars account in the event of your partner/spouse’s death, permanent disability or retrenchment. The plan covers your partner for the full balance of your Edgars account up to R20 000 for a maximum of R24 per month.
Apply in-store or call 0860 11 24 42 for more information.

"Love does not consist in gazing at each other but in looking outward together in the same direction."

- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900-1944)