Trust is the foundation of any relationship, and finances are one area where that trust can easily be broken. But with money coming and going in and out of accounts, it can be difficult to know if anything is amiss.
It’s not uncommon for one partner to have financial secrets from the other. Sometimes, it may be something extraordinary, such as a surprise trip they’ve been saving for. Other times, it can be something more nefarious.
Signs your spouse is hiding financial information
There are several reasons why your spouse may be hiding money. They may have an addiction that they’re ashamed of, such as a gambling addiction or compulsive spending.
Some spouses hide financial information from their partner because they see it as a way to maintain control within the relationship. In a worst-case scenario, they are planning to initiate divorce proceedings and want to hide marital assets so they don’t have to divide them with their soon-to-be ex.
Every situation is different, but there are some common signs that your spouse is hiding financial information, such as:
- There are strange charges on your bank statements and credit card bills.
- You notice a decrease in their pay going into your account.
- Your spouse gets defensive or evasive when you bring up finances.
- You are no longer receiving bank statements or discover your credentials no longer work when logging into your account.
- Having separate accounts isn’t necessarily a problem; however, if your spouse sets one up without your knowledge or insists on keeping all financial matters separate without an apparent reason, that could be a red flag.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s imperative that you approach the subject with your spouse with honesty and openness. Let them know you want to understand and work together on your financial matters. If they are unwilling to do so, you may want to seek input from someone who can review the situation and guide you on the best way to protect your interests.