When to discuss your investments with your significant other?

[Jerry Poon]

Not sure if this is the right place to post this, but here goes.

My SO and I rarely talk about money. It has not come up because I do not want to let on that I have a portfolio of assets, mainly because I do not like talking about money. However, it will need to come up at some point because I want to have her onboard to align or parse out our long-term goals.

What are your general thoughts on this? When did you broach the subject with your partner? How did you do it?

Any advice or suggestions are greatly appreciated!

[Alex Breshears]

I would say immediately. lol. If this is someone you want to build a life with, in any capacity, having that person understand your long term goals and commitment to them is crucial. It's not even about the money at this point, it is about making sure your goals are aligned. Imagine finding out later down the road that they are vehemently against real estate investing for whatever reason. Would you maintain the relationship then?  Now if you are more in the headspace of trying to build a household budget together, setting savings goals etc, that is a different conversation, but will still touch upon those long term goals. It is possible to stay in a relationship where you two have different expectations and goals around your financial lives, but the further apart you are the more friction there will be.  Finances are often the number one rule marriages break up, so think about that part too. Having "the money talk" with someone you want to build a life with is crucial.  Now think about why you are uncomfortable with discussing money with someone you obviously trust because you want them in your life over the long term.  Is it programming from childhood? Do you think this person will "go after your money"?  I would think about what's holding you back, and address that question first. Programming can be hard to get over, so just take it one step at a time!