Press Room

Survey reveals how many American couples are struggling with issues linked to financial infidelity. 

Washington, D.C. – A recent National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) conducted by Harris Poll has revealed that financial infidelity is a concern for some couples this Valentine’s Day. The survey found that 25% of the general population agrees that they sometimes hide their purchases and spending from their spouse or partner. Additionally, 53% of military servicemembers with a spouse/partner and 48% of servicemember spouses/partners agree with the statement. 

The survey also revealed that while the majority of people with a spouse/partner (94%) believe it’s important to be honest about finances with their spouse/partner, 35% still wish they had guidance or advice on how to talk to their partner about money. This sentiment was especially prevalent among military servicemembers and their spouses or partners, with 69% and 72% respectively wishing for guidance or advice on how to talk about money. 

Financial infidelity can cause significant stress and conflict in a relationship, but the NFCC is offering three tips for couples who may be dealing with financial infidelity: 

1. Communicate openly and honestly: Regular, open, and honest communication is key to avoiding financial infidelity.
2. Set clear financial goals: By setting clear financial goals, couples can work together to achieve their shared vision for their future. 
3. Get professional help: Nonprofit credit counselors can provide guidance and advice on how to talk about money while helping you get back on track managing your debt. 

“Financial infidelity can have serious consequences for a relationship, but it’s never too late to start being honest and open about money with your partner,” said Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Membership and Communications for the NFCC. “We encourage couples to seek help from a nonprofit credit counselor, who can provide support and guidance to help them navigate these difficult conversations and achieve financial stability together.” 

Financial infidelity can sink a relationship, but it doesn’t have to. If you’re saddled with unpaid loans or credit card debt, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling can help.  

For more information on the NFCC, visit www.nfcc.org.

About the NFCC

Dedicated to educating Americans about how to reduce personal or household debt responsibly, the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) is a trusted, nationwide resource for education and support in building financial management skills. Through its network of nonprofit agencies and certified counselors, the NFCC offers impactful approaches to debt reduction and improved credit standing, whether consumers are struggling with credit card debt, decisions about housing, or student loans. For more information about the NFCC or to be connected to a certified counselor, please call 800-388-2227 or visit www.nfcc.org. 

About the Harris Poll Survey

The 2022 Financial Literacy and Preparedness Survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NFCC and Wells Fargo from November 23 to December 14 , 2022 among 2,007 U.S. adults ages 18 and older representative of the U.S. general population and 501 U.S. adults ages 18 and older who are currently active, enlisted members of the U.S. military, excluding reserve members and those in the National Guard (i.e., “servicemembers”), 250 U.S. adults ages 18 and older who are spouses/partners of servicemembers, and 500 U.S. military veterans.