Nearly one-half of adults surveyed admitted to keeping financial secrets from their partners.  Some of my clients tell me that they keep spending and/or debt levels secret in an attempt to avoid fighting over the subject.  It is true that financial fights are among the top causes of all break-ups.   Keeping money woes a secret, however, is probably not a good long term solution.  The truth is bound to come out eventually.  Rather than wait for a car repossession to force the subject out into the open, it is advisable  to broach the topic earlier.  Ideally, we should discuss our financial lives early in a serious relationship.   Be honest about your situation.  If your finances are a mess, be prepared to tell your partner why you think things got to this point and what steps you have been taking to turn things around.  This will, ideally elicit helpful suggestions and a team approach going forward.