Many couples find themselves in need of financial help. Money problems between couples can cause arguments and lead to separation or divorce. I've been married 15 years. One thing I know for sure, in marriage there has to be communication, unity, and like-mindedness when it comes to money and money management.

If you are already married, it is never too late to establish some money rules for your relationship and having a good spending plan. Setting money management guidelines will reduce arguments, mistrust, confusion, frustration, and worry. An established spending plan will help you live debt free and avoid credit problems in the future, giving you financial freedom. If you desire to improve your money situation as a couple, learn how to live debt free and to finally experience financial freedom, keep reading. I will share some guidelines of money management for couples to help you, as a team, move towards your financial goals.

How much money do you make as a couple?
It always amazes me while coaching couples when one spouse does not know how much the other makes. How will you decide budgeting issues, how to save money, spending plans and finally get ahead of your personal finances as a couple if you do not know the total amount of money you are working with each month? Unless your spouse has serious issues; pool your resources together to advance financially and obtain financial freedom. Operate your household under one joint checking account, and review your incoming and outgoing expenses weekly together. Have a joint spending plan and stick to it.

Live on a budget.
Come up with a written plan together, for how you will spend your money each month. You should have in your plan all the categories you spend money on each day, week, month, quarter, and year. The first priority is making sure to earmark money in your budget for debt elimination. Make sure to put in your spending plan things that come up that you forget about. For example, birthday gifts, dry cleaning, car repairs and tags, homeowner association fees, and hair care. Those are miscellaneous expenses that need to be paid, but most people seem to forget about. With a budget, the goal is to know exactly how much money comes in and goes out each month. Ideally, you will increase the harmony of your married life and decrease the worries and uncertainties of how to manage your personal finances.

Have an emergency fund.
Save for the unexpected by having an emergency fund. Set aside savings from your paycheck each pay period. The goal is to save three to six months of wages in case of financial emergencies, because anything can happen. You can often anticipate coming difficulties such as layoffs or unusual expenses, like the need for a new roof. This is the time to get serious about working to become debt free so when the storm strikes, you won't be adding to an already difficult burden.

Keep your credit rating excellent.
Pay attention to your credit rating. Make it a rule and habit to pay your bills on time to avoid late fees, higher interest rates, and a bad credit rating. The better your credit rating, the more money you save in every area of your life.

Do not be an impulsive shopper.
Do not be a spontaneous buyer. My husband and I practice the 24-hour rule. The 24-hour rule is when you wait 24-hours to see if you really truly need the item. If after 24-hours with research, you determine you still need the item -- go get it. If possible, pay for the item with cash or a bank debit card to remain debt free.

Don't allow money management problems to create disunity in your relationship. Communicate, plan, and build a strong financial future. 

Sharman Lawson is a financial coach, speaker, and author of the book 12 Steps to Eliminate Debt Forever! Visit her website at www.sharmanlawson.com.