Younger Couples: Let's Talk Money First, Then Commitment

The survey also found that younger couples struggle more than older ones to see eye-to-eye on finances, and that can cause a significant strain on their relationships. 

Whereas 85% of baby boomer and older respondents said they see eye-to-eye with their partner, 77% of millennials and 67% of Gen Zers said they did so. Forty-two percent of millennials and 34% of Gen Zers said finances are a significant or the most difficult issue in their relationship, compared with just 17% of older respondents who said this.

Financial challenges within relationships do appear to improve with time, according to the poll. While 24% of Gen Zers said one person in the relationship blames the other for a financial decision that led to a significant loss of money, just 4% of boomers and older respondents said the same thing. 

The research showed that, almost across the board, reports of financial challenges in relationships tended to slope downward over time. This happens as couples address financial issues, establish joint financial goals and plans, generate more income and accumulate more wealth. 

Among couples who have been together for more than five years, 52% of millennials, 42% of Gen Xers and 46% of boomers and older folks said they have become more compatible financially over time.

“When couples collaborate and follow through on a financial plan, their compatibility grows,” Mitchell said. “Shared values, a supportive financial advisor and a clear financial plan can act like a magnet, bringing partners closer together instead of pushing them apart.”