Canadians are reconsidering relationships over money, a survey shows

Financial stress is not just about numbers; it takes an emotional toll. More than half of couples surveyed (52%) reported anxiety, poor sleep or depression after arguing about money. The commonest triggers? Daily expenses (28%) and insufficient savings (24%).

To make it easier to navigate these difficult conversations, we spoke with Stacy Yanchuk Oleksy, CEO of Money Mentors, who shares practical strategies couples can use to speak openly about money and reduce conflict.

The hidden side of monetary stress

It’s not only arguments that reveal financial tensions. The survey found that 11% of respondents admitted to lying to their partner about personal funds to avoid conflict, and 13% have thought of lying about it.

The rising cost of living increases the pressure. In 2025, the buyer price index (CPI) increased by 2.1%. Although that is lower than the two.4% increase in 2024, Canadians have seen the fee of products increase by almost 20% over the past five years.

This regular increase can erode savings and cause couples to rely more heavily on credit. As Yanchuk Oleksy notes, “Debt problems do not improve mental health.” This added burden can challenge almost any relationship.

Related reading: As Canadians grapple with rising costs, calls for credit counseling are increasing

Build a solid financial foundation as a pair

Before discussing funds together with your partner, Yanchuk Oleksy recommends, “Be clear about who you are with your money.” Know your personal money values ​​and habits first. Once you understand your funds, you and your partner can determine together find out how to handle the cash going forward.

There isn’t any right or mistaken method to handle money as a pair, so long as you communicate and develop a system that works for each of you. Some options include:

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• Fully merge accounts
• Keep funds completely separate
• A hybrid approach

Approach the conversation with curiosity. Understand your partner’s financial mindset, triggers, and goals as you’ll expect them to. Taking an interest in what shapes your partner’s perspective can make it easier to manage your funds more successfully as a pair.

A note about credit scores: When opening a joint account, keep in mind that your creditworthiness stays individual. Each partner’s credit rating is influenced by how they handle money.

Navigating difficult conversations about money

Money arguments occur in every relationship, whether you have been together for 2 months or 10 years. When that point inevitably comes, Yanchuk Oleksy offers this recommendation:

1. Breathe. If you are feeling a panic attack or feel your heart rate increasing, stop and breathe. Just a few deep breaths can assist calm your fight-or-flight response.
2. Remember that you just are on the identical team. “When you realize that money is about more than just dollars and cents, you can be more compassionate toward your partner.” Remember that you just are a team.
3. Call a nonprofit organization Credit counseling agency if obligatory. A neutral expert can make it easier to create a manageable budget, find community resources, and offer support.
4. Have regular conversations about future money. Curiosity shouldn’t stop after the honeymoon phase. Don’t be afraid to ask for money casually. What are your partner’s money triggers? How were they raised to take into consideration money? This can assist avoid surprises later.

If your partner doesn’t go to credit counseling, go alone. The advice is confidential, has no impact in your credit rating and you’ll be able to then share your findings together with your partner.

The final result

As Yanchuk Oleksy says: “Money is never just about money. It’s how you think about it and what relationship you have with it.” Most couples experience financial struggles in some unspecified time in the future, but with compassion, open communication, and a plan, you’ll be able to overcome financial challenges together.

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About Jessica Gibson

Jessica Gibson is a private finance author with over a decade of experience in online publishing. She enjoys helping readers make informed decisions about bank cards, insurance, and debt management.