 TITLE: What Are the Financial Perks of Getting Married? CONTENT: Simplify Your Life With Joint Bank Accounts\n-------------------------------------------\nMarriage isn't always just a legal and romantic union—for many couples, it means uniting financial lives as well. This move isn't for everyone (some may want to maintain their financial independence), but it's not uncommon for couples to join their accounts once they tie the knot. The decision can mean a simpler budget as you combine financial obligations and tackle them as a team—with combined incomes.\nHaving a joint bank account you pay all your expenses from can be a great way to cut down on financial squabbles and have more household accountability for where money goes. There are several ways you may choose to manage the account as a couple. You might, for instance, deposit your paychecks into one checking account you use to manage your bills while maintaining a joint savings account for long-term goals like homeownership. Or, you might keep your individual checking accounts and transfer a certain amount of money every month into an account you use for bills, and into another one you both use for savings.\nJoining financial lives can result in tough conversations if there's an income disparity, or if one partner has misgivings about doing so. Take it slow, and try not to make any hasty decisions or put your partner in an awkward position. With or without shared accounts, budget and plan for the future together so that neither debt nor retirement can throw your marriage bliss off course. Remember, you have your whole life ahead of you. END