Moving in together is a huge relationship milestone. But combining two financial lives under one roof? That requires planning.
The Money Conversation You Need to Have
Before you sign that lease, talk about:
- How will you split rent? 50/50 or proportional to income?
- Who pays which bills?
- Joint account or separate with shared expenses?
- How do you each feel about savings goals?
Setting Up Your Shared Budget
With Pocket Clear's Partner Mode, you can:
- Link your accounts with a simple 6-digit code
- See "My," "Partner," or "Combined" expenses
- Tag expenses as yours or shared
- Track who paid for what without awkward spreadsheets
Common Shared Expenses to Track
Fixed Monthly Costs
- Rent/Mortgage
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)
- Renter's or home insurance
Variable Shared Costs
- Groceries
- Household supplies
- Date nights and entertainment
The 50/50 vs. Proportional Debate
There's no right answer—only what works for you:
- 50/50: Simple, clear, feels equal
- Proportional: If one earns $80k and the other $40k, split 2:1
Pocket Clear shows totals either way, so you can adjust as needed.
Tips for Financial Harmony
- Weekly money check-in: 10 minutes to review spending together
- Personal spending money: Each keep some "no questions asked" budget
- Shared savings goal: Vacation fund, emergency fund, or house down payment
- Be transparent: No hiding purchases—trust is everything
Start Tracking Together
Download Pocket Clear free. Simple expense tracking for couples and expats.