Posted By Only half of Canadian couples discuss finances in detail, an IG Wealth Management study conducted by Pollard found. This week may be a good time to examine your joint lifestyle and retirement goals.
By Blair Evans
Special to Financial Independence Hub
Valentine’s Day is here and while love may be in the air, there’s an often-overlooked gift that can strengthen your relationship: a meaningful conversation about finances.
Unsurprisingly, many Canadian couples shy away from discussing money with their partners. According to a recent study by IG Wealth Management, in partnership with Pollara Strategic Insights, only half of married or common law Canadians discuss finances with their partner in detail, with roughly a third talking about it only briefly.
Yet, when thinking about your future together, especially retirement, these conversations are crucial. You and your partner should be aligned on your retirement goals and lifestyle to ensure you plan appropriately and are fiscally prepared to enjoy those golden years.
Transparency on Finances can pay off in multiple ways
Transparency around your finances and having proactive conversations with your partner can also pay off come tax season.
Working together to file each of your tax returns can unlock opportunities to maximize deductions and credits.
You may be able to transfer unused credits, like tuition and disability amounts, to your partner to help alleviate their tax bill.
Couples can also combine their medical expenses and charitable donations together to minimize their overall tax obligation.
If your relationship is built for the long haul, it’s important to plan for life’s uncertainties. Building an emergency fund, as well as having an updated will and power of attorney, along with proper life and disability insurance plans are essential to prepare for any emergencies or untimely circumstances.
Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at your favourite restaurant or cooking a special meal at home this Valentine’s Day, take a moment to celebrate your love while also planning for what’s next. If these financial conversations feel overwhelming, a financial advisor can help you navigate through the complexity.
Blair Evans is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Certified Financial Planner. He is an Assistant Vice-President of Tax & Estate Planning at IG Wealth Management.
