Relationships are hard, especially if you and your partner make very different salaries. If your boo makes six figures and you make half of that or vice versa, that can create some problems. Money is one of the major things that can make or break a relationship.
Here at NYGal, we want to make everything easy for you. So, we’re here to guide you through this difficult situation. Here’s how to manage when you and your boo make completely different salaries.
Buy Gifts That Fit the Occasion
If you make twice the amount your partner makes, you can’t just throw money around like it’s nothing. Of course, if it’s his birthday or your anniversary, you can splurge a bit and buy something expensive; but if he’s just having a bad day, don’t just throw a Rolex at him to make him feel better.
If your boo is the only who makes more, make sure he knows that the same thing goes for him. The gift must match the occasion. Smaller occasions mean smaller gifts.
Split The Check Fairly
We’re in a new age where it’s alright for women to pick up the check. However, if you’ve been together for some time now, you’re probably splitting the bill. Going 50/50 is fine for some couples but if there’s a huge salary difference, that’s going to be a problem.
50% of a $200 bill might be a lot for the lesser earner. So, it’s not fair to always split things down the middle. Try to do it equally. One person can pay the bill while the other one leaves the tip. Do whatever best fits your situation.
Don’t Throw Money Into The Argument
We know that in the heat of the moment, we all say some crazy things. We try to hurt the other person the most. If you guys are having an argument, leave money out of it. Like we said before, money can break a relationship. If you constantly throw money in the other person’s face, eventually they’ll get tired of it and leave. No one wants that.
Be Open About Your Finances
The next step in a relationship is usually marriage for most people. Marriage requires you to be very open about your finances. In this stage of your relationship, you might share bank accounts. So, it’s important to discuss all of your finances.
If you’re running low on money because you’ve been shopping too much, be honest and tell your partner. Also, if you have way too much money that didn’t come from work, you should mention that too. Relationships are partnerships. If you can’t talk about money with your bae, you might need to rethink your relationship.
Act As A Unit
Financial hardships happen to almost everyone and it’s okay. You should be able to go to your partner and ask for help when you need it and vice versa. If you’re in a financial bind and can’t afford your portion of the rent, your boo should be willing to make up the rest.
You two are a unit and should act as such. You can’t be selfish in a relationship, especially when it comes to money. This could be your future husband or wife, so you need to be willing to say “what’s mine is yours.” If you can’t say that, just be single. That’s cool too.
