1.) Dedicate a time

Let your partner know you’d like to talk about money and, together, pick a time and place that works for both of you. Choose a time when both of you can completely focus without distraction.

2.) Prepare your thoughts

Prepare a mental list of topics you’d like to discuss. Include the basics like budgeting, saving and sharing living expenses, along with any specific issues you’d like to change.

3.) Start with a vision

Don’t jumpstart the discussion with accusatory statements. Instead, start with a goal.

Here are a few to get you thinking:

• Would you like to spend a month touring Europe?

• Wouldn’t it be amazing to move out of this apartment and buy a home of our own?

• I’d love to retire at 55. Would you?

4.) Create a saving plan

Now you can start talking numbers. How much would it cost to spend a month in Europe? How much would we need to save for a down payment?

Together, create a savings plan that will help you reach your shared goal. Work out exactly how much money you’d need to put away each month, and how long it would take you to reach your goal.

6.) Build a budget

Before you can start saving, you’ll both need to trim your spending. Without pointing fingers, discuss specific ways to cut back. Together, work out a monthly budget that accounts for all expenses and your new savings goal.

7.) Discuss money management

If you aren’t already sharing expenses, now’s the time to bring it up. There are no hard rules here; every couple has their own system. But, if you’re living together, it makes sense to split some basic costs. You may want to go 50/50 on this or make another arrangement that better suits your individual incomes.

At this time, consider linking one of your accounts or opening a shared account at [credit union].

Be sure to keep at least one credit card open in your own name. It’s important to establish and maintain your own credit history independent of your partner’s.

8.) Recognize your partner’s strength

When dividing financial responsibilities, assign appropriate tasks that play to each partner’s strengths. Is your partner a stickler for dates and deadlines? Have them assume responsibility for paying the bills on time. Are you a numbers freak? You might want to be in charge of managing your joint investments.

You’ve made it through the money talk. Now, go make those dreams happen!

Your Turn: How did you bring up the big money issue with your partner? Share your best tips with us in the comments!