Experian: Financial strain leads to breakups for more than a quarter of Americans

COSTA MESA, CALIF. (Feb. 10, 2025) — As Valentine’s Day approaches, new research[1] released today from Experian^® uncovers the critical role of financial transparency and communication in sustaining romantic relationships. According to the research, 27% of Americans have had relationships end due to their own or their partner’s financial issues.

In addition, 1 in 4 U.S. adults have either been on the giving or receiving end of an ultimatum that finances had to be improved for the relationship to progress, and 34% of U.S. adults admit they’ve hidden a purchase from their partner.

“Transparency and open and honest conversations about finances are crucial for building trust, ensuring a healthy relationship, and achieving financial goals as a couple," said Christina Roman, Consumer Education and Advocacy Manager for Experian. “We’re committed to being a resource for couples or individuals looking to improve their financial health. By discussing financial goals and setting clear boundaries, couples can avoid misunderstandings and work toward a secure financial future together.”

Whether you’re newly matched or in a long-term relationship, here are three ways to protect your financial health in relationships, according to Experian:

1. Communication is key: Money isn’t meant to be a taboo topic in relationships. In fact, nearly 80% say they discuss financial goals with their partner. Make money part of your regular conversations with your partner.
2. Set a budget: More than 3 in 4 (76%) say it’s important their partner talks to them prior to making any major purchasing decision and 54% have a monetary threshold at which they need to consult their partner prior to making a purchase. This is $500 or more for 33% of couples, and over half (61%) spend $100 or less on partner gifts for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries. Create a budget, revisit it regularly, and determine a spending style that works for you and your partner.
3. Create savings goals together: Saving money is top of mind for most and this is true in romantic relationships, with 93% claiming it’s important for them to save money as a couple. Opt for date nights at home or find other low-cost ways to spend time together. Experian can also help consumers save money by canceling unwanted subscriptions, negotiating your bills for lower rates, and more.[2]

For additional money-saving tips from Experian and personal finance experts, join Experian’s upcoming #CreditChat “Breaking Up with Bad Spending Habits: A Financial Detox Plan” on Feb. 12 at 3 p.m. EST on X or Threads.

Consumers can manage their credit and find other tools to improve their financial health by downloading Experian’s free mobile app or visiting www.experian.com.

About Experian

Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. We help to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using our unique combination of data, analytics and software. We also assist millions of people to realize their financial goals and help them to save time and money.

We operate across a range of markets, from financial services to healthcare, automotive, agrifinance, insurance, and many more industry segments.

We invest in talented people and new advanced technologies to unlock the power of data and innovate. As a FTSE 100 Index company listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN), we have a team of 22,500 people across 32 countries. Our corporate headquarters are in Dublin, Ireland. Learn more at experianplc.com.

[1] Experian commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 2,004 adults throughout the United States. The margin of error is +/-2 percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent. Fieldwork took place between Jan. 3 and Jan. 6, 2025.

[2] Subscription Cancellation and Bill Negotiation are available with eligible paid memberships and requires connecting payment account(s) to Experian account. Results will vary. Not all bills or subscriptions are eligible for negotiation/cancellation. Savings are not guaranteed, and some may not see any savings.