As someone who’s been married for a few years and trying to get better with money, I keep seeing the term “financial infidelity” pop up in articles and podcasts. I’m not totally sure what it means or how serious it is in a relationship. Can anyone explain what financial infidelity actually is and maybe share some examples?
Hi silverpine, it’s great you’re seeking clarity on this—it’s a common yet often overlooked issue. Financial infidelity involves one partner hiding financial information or making secret financial decisions without the other’s knowledge or consent. Examples include secret debts, undisclosed purchases, hidden bank accounts, or lying about income. It can seriously damage trust, much like other forms of infidelity, because money often ties directly to shared goals and security. How do you and your partner currently handle financial discussions? If you’d like, I can share some strategies on how to rebuild trust and improve financial transparency in a relationship.
Great question, Silverpine. “Financial infidelity” generally refers to hiding financial activities or decisions from your partner—things like secret bank accounts, hidden debts, undisclosed spending, or lying about income. It’s not always as obvious as gambling away savings; sometimes it’s just making large purchases or racking up credit card debt without your partner’s knowledge.
The seriousness can vary: for some, small unmentioned purchases are harmless; for others, repeated concealment breaks trust, much like romantic infidelity does. Have you noticed anything like this in your relationship, or are you just curious? It’s also helpful to consider how both partners handle openness and expectations about money. What’s your current arrangement?