Many marriages are fraught with disagreements over finances.5 Couples often bring different expectations about money to a relationship. Each partner can find it difficult to see the financial situation from the other person's perspective. Coming to an agreement about how your money will be handled is a critical component of a successful marriage. Agree on a budget, an approach to debt, and make a plan to live within your limits. It's also important to differentiate between needs and wants. While both are legitimate, couples can face problems if they try to fulfill all their wants without considering their budget.