Smart Planning: Finances, Family Contributions, and Retirement Before Marriage [VIDEO]

This message highlights key financial conversations couples should have before getting married: First, partners should decide how they’ll share expenses. Next, couples should discuss financial support from parents, especially any money provided for a down payment: is it a gift or a loan? Another important topic is retirement accounts. Money saved before marriage is separate property, but commingling it—such as adding marital funds—can turn it into marital property. Overall, discussing these issues early can prevent future disputes.