The summer months are fast approaching. Along with the the trips to the beach, the number of weddings increase in the summer. If you are getting married soon, or thinking about it, you need to talk about your finances with your soon-to-be spouse. Money is a definite issue of contention in most marriages. If you've made mistakes in the past, you need to let your spouse know before you get married. It is also good to set up a budget and ground rules before you get married.

It is easier to make your marriage work if you combine finances once you are married, but you shouldn't do it before then. If you are living together you should both contribute to the household finances, but you should have your own checking and savings accounts, and your own debt. Do not cosign with a significant other that is not your spouse. This will protect you in case you split up.

Money can be a stressful topic, but if you talk about it and set up guidelines that you both follow, it shouldn't be a big deal. It is important to compromise and work together. Listen to each other and respect each other. You can work it out, so that this does not become a big issue in your marriage.

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