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Kevin Gallegos's picture

How to cut costs as a wedding guest…without skimping on quality

Kevin Gallegos
Vice President of Phoenix Operations
Kevin Gallegos's picture

Couples budgeting: When one makes more than the other

Kevin Gallegos
Vice President of Phoenix Operations
Katie Ross's picture

What to do when your spouse is bad with money and finances

Katie Ross
Community Education and Marketing Manager
Mary Kelly Blakeslee's picture

Workable solutions for couples when fighting about money

Mary Kelly Blakeslee, Ph.D.
Retired Psychologist
Michelle Cortes-Harkins's picture

How to have separate finances and have a successful marriage

Michelle Cortes-Harkins
MSW, CDFA™, CRPC®
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Finance for Couples

One of the top stress points for any relationship is how to handle money. Everyone brings a different perspective on on how to budget, save, and spend the money into the relationship. The experts at ExpertBeacon can help you keep your relationship smooth sailing and help your acheive your financial goals together.

How to cut costs as a wedding guest…without skimping on quality

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations Freedom Financial Network

Saying “I do” to a wedding invitation often involves saying “I do” to a host of purchases. Check these do’s and don’ts for ways to spend smartly as a guest – without skimping on celebrating the couple’s happiness. 

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations

Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...

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Navigating prenuptial agreements for same-sex couples getting married

As same sex couples tie the knot in the growing number of states where same-sex marriage is legally recognized, the idea of getting a prenuptial agreement isn’t top of mind. Many of these couples are still enjoying the euphoria of the recent court ruling allowing same sex marriage. Additionally, we have a limited view (if at all) of what a same-sex couple’s divorce would look like.

Still, understanding a prenuptial agreement and whether it is a fit for your situation is worth it. You can plan now to protect each other should the marriage not work out.

Kathleen M. NewmanAttorney

With extensive experience in all aspects of marital dissolutions, Kathleen M. Picotte Newman has represented many complex and ongoing matters in the personal, financial and business interests of her clients. You will likely first notice her quie...

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What to do when your spouse is bad with money and finances

Katie Ross Community Education and Marketing Manager American Consumer Credit Counseling

Marriage often means the communion of two salaries, and it can also mean the compacting of two debts, and—to an extent—an oil-and-water mix of spending habits. What do you do when your spouse is bad with money?

Katie RossCommunity Education and Marketing Manager

Katie Ross joined ACCC's management team in 2002 and is currently responsible for organizing and implementing high performance development initiatives designed to increase consumer financial awareness. With more than more than thirteen years of ...

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Workable solutions for couples when fighting about money

Money matters can often be a source of conflict in any marriage. The origins can be traced to actual financial problems for the couple, such as falling into debt due to overspending or a sudden loss of income, or different attitudes, values, and habits surrounding money stemming from each partner’s upbringing. Money is an emotionally laden issue, and sorting it out is like trying to untangle a box of hangers from your closet.

Mary Kelly Blakeslee, Ph.D.Retired Psychologist

I am a recently retired Psychologist. I had a private practice since 1985, first in Springfield, then Summit New Jersey. My practice consisted of individual and couples therapy, with adolescents and adults, covering issues of depression and anxi...

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Eliminate the money problems causing fights in your relationship

As a couple, sharing money with each other can be difficult. Two people reconciling and meeting in the middle can often be a challenge—regardless of the issue. However, as many couples have two distinct financial personalities—one being more of a saver and the other being more of a spender—many couples find themselves overspending, getting deeper in debt, and fighting non-stop about it. And it’s time to end the cycle.

Leslie H. Tayne, Esq.President

Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...

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Be honest about your personal financial situation when dating

Unfortunately, it’s not that uncommon for people to lie about their financial situation to their significant other. These lies could range from how much debt one has accrued, to credit scores, to their income. This article will provide advice on how to share the state of your finances with your romantic partner while you’re dating and if you choose to begin a future together.

John C. HeathDirecting Attorney

John Heath was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. He received his BA from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Ohio Northern University. Mr. Heath has worked as an attorney in both a private and public interest practices. He...

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Discuss money and budgeting before buying the engagement ring

Every year, millions of men will propose to their girlfriend, and will often make all of the decisions going into the proposal—the timing, the venue, the ring purchase—all alone and on his own terms. Sure, it’s romantic, but is this a healthy way to begin life together? How many other major decisions—that affect the couple—will be made by only one of the two?

Keith Klein, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CASL®Registered Financial Advisor

After more than 15 years as a financial service advisor, Keith Klein CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CASL® reached his own Turning Pointe and founded Turning Pointe Wealth Management. It had become clear that the best way for Keith to provide unbiased soluti...

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Having a baby is a milestone requiring financial planning

Kimberly Clouse Covestor Advisory Board Chair and Chief Client Advocate Covestor

Getting married, starting a family, changing jobs - these are all Money Milestones: exciting life events that will likely have a major impact on your financial situation. These Milestones should trigger a comprehensive review of your finances and possibly implementation of some new strategies. One of the most expensive Milestones is having a baby.

Middle-income families with a child born in 2012 can expect to spend over $240,000 over 17 years, according to a U.S. Agriculture Department report.

So how do you plan? 

Kimberly ClouseCovestor Advisory Board Chair and Chief Client Advocate

Kimberly Clouse is Covestor’s Advisory Board Chair and Chief Client Advocate. She partners with families, family offices, and foundations to help them navigate investment advice and make more informed decisions. A seasoned financial services exe...

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How to prepare yourself financially for a new baby

Starting a family can be a huge financial challenge. Between home preparation, long nights, diaper changes, and feedings, parents can easily overlook the endless tab they are about to rack up thanks to their new little bundle of joy. A million dollar baby is probably a stretch, but over the 18+ years you raise your child, you might come close. In the U.S., the average cost for a baby’s first year comes out to about $26,000 if you upgrade your house, use daycare, have insurance and buy the typical things parents buy.

Danielle CoatsRedfin real estate agent

As a veteran of the United States Navy, Danielle follows the Sailor’s creed in being a strong advocate for her clients. With pride, purpose and professionalism, she works tirelessly to educate and advise. Danielle is an experienced Redfin rea...

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Professional advice on financial planning for newlyweds

Congratulations newlyweds! Once the honeymoon is over, it’s time to consider how you will handle your finances moving forward. There is much to consider; this article will help you get started by walking you through some of the do’s and don’ts on financial planning for newlyweds.

Laura R. Knolle, MS, CFP®Vice President

Laura R. Knolle, MS, CFP® is a Vice President with EP Wealth Advisors. In her role with the firm, she specializes in working with clients to bring together all the pieces of their financial lives. Her expertise includes every aspect of financial...

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Advice on how to agree on budgeting and finances with your spouse

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations Freedom Financial Network

If you tend to operate more on the frugal side of things when it comes to finances, and your spouse tends to be more lavish, it can be challenging to get on the same page with budgeting, spending and family finances. Think about the following advice to keep communications flowing.

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations

Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...

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Prepare for your first baby with a solid financial plan

Samantha Reeves Senior Real Estate and Homebuying Expert Veterans United Home Loans

Without a doubt, having a baby is a life-changing experience. Give yourself one fewer thing to worry about by preparing your finances now, or you’re going to figure out your budget while changing diapers and feeding your little one.

Samantha ReevesSenior Real Estate and Homebuying Expert

Samantha Reeves is a former attorney and mortgage loan originator who now uses her expertise to educate veterans and military families about the homebuying process. Samantha writes for Veterans United Home Loans as the Senior Real Estate and Hom...

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Newly married couples should plan their finances together

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations Freedom Financial Network

Once the wedding bells stop ringing, the honeymoon is over, and the last thank-you note is written, the reality of day-to-day finances sets in for most newly married couples. When you are just starting out, talking about money may not sound romantic. But couples who have spent many years together learn that their financial situation can be a source of strength and partnership, or a force that can tear them apart. As you embark on a new relationship, consider this expert advice to make that relationship as solid and strong as possible.

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations

Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...

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Couples budgeting: When one makes more than the other

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations Freedom Financial Network

Years ago when it was common for one spouse to stay at home and the other to make a living for the family, budgeting was more clear-cut. With one income, deciding where expense payments would come from raised no questions. But today, with many two-income heads of households, many options and choices exist for budgeting.

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations

Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...

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How couples can work together when there are money problems

Differences in money management styles can ruin a relationship. Fighting about money is a common reason divorced couples say they couldn’t get along in their marriage. While couples can have money problems, even when they aren’t faced with a troubled economy or financial catastrophe, some financial conflicts between partners or spouses result from real hardships, such as losing a job, having a medical emergency, or experiencing investment losses. Here’s some advice on how couples can adjust their finances and money management when there are money problems.

Laura AdamsPersonal Finance Expert

Laura Adams is a personal finance expert and award-winning author of multiple books, including Money Girl’s Smart Moves to Grow Rich (St. Martin’s Press, 2010). She is frequently quoted in the national media and has been featured on FOX News...

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Work with your shopaholic spouse to end the overspending

It’s all too common: one spouse saves while the other spends, and it’s driving you crazy since you can’t meet any of your financial goals. Couples have been divided into these two categories for ages—often where the wife is the big-spending shopaholic and the husband is trying to keep up with paying off the credit cards. 

Stereotypes aside, however, anyone can be the big spender in the relationship. Any outgoing money can turn into a serious problem without a budget and self-control, and any couple who continue down such a path will find themselves in a financial crisis. 

Leslie H. Tayne, Esq.President

Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...

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How to have separate finances and have a successful marriage

Having separate financial accounts during marriage is becoming more common as couples marry later in life or enter into second marriages. So how do you keep the finances separate while still nurturing a healthy relationship? Follow this advice to financially prepare and succeed in your marriage together.

Michelle Cortes-HarkinsMSW, CDFA™, CRPC®

The focus of my practice is on women in transition; women who are changing employment, entering into motherhood, going through a divorce, widowhood or preparing for or starting retirement. I use tools from my social work background, such as a...

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What to do when your spouse lies about the household finances

A financial crisis is never an easy topic to discuss with your significant other, but it’s an issue that affects everyone in the household. If there’s one person you should feel comfortable discussing your finances with, it should be your partner, yet finding out your partner has been lying about your household finances damages that trust.

Leslie H. Tayne, Esq.President

Headquartered in Melville, N.Y. and led by financial attorney Leslie H. Tayne, Esq., The Law Offices of Leslie H. Tayne P.C. is the only New York State practice whose sole concentration is debt resolution and bankruptcy alternatives. Since its e...

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Money management advice for couples who are financial opposites

If you’re a saver and your partner is a spender, or vice versa, how can you manage your ideas and impulses when making joint financial decisions? Without being on the same page, your finances and relationship will struggle, and the arguments over money—saving vs. spending—will only get worse.

Hristina Dzhogleva & Cait LambertonProfessors of Marketing

Hristina Dzhogleva is assistant professor of marketing at the Carroll School of Management at Boston College. Hristina’s research focuses on dyadic decision making, self-control, and healthy eating. Hristina’s dissertation (completed at t...

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A prenup or postnup agreement can be really good for a marriage

Prenuptial agreements aren't just for the wealthy, and neither are postnuptial agreements. With a prenuptial agreement, you can protect your assets and your family. There are a number of things you can put in an agreement that will protect you and your children in case things go irreparably south.

Sari M. Friedman, P.C.Long Island Divorce Attorney

Sari M. Friedman has over 30 years of legal experience and has dedicated her career to protecting families throughout New York who are being torn apart by a divorce or who need experienced assistance with a legal matter of any kind. Sari Friedma...

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When having a baby you must assess and adjust your finances

According to a recent survey by T. Rowe Price, nearly three-quarters of kids believe they will definitely or probably go to college. This means that now is the time to create a plan and start saving, if you aren’t already. Stick with these dos and don’ts, and soon you will be well on your way to your college savings goal.

Stuart RitterCFP®

Stuart Ritter, a financial planner and vice president of T. Rowe Price Investment Services, has been with the firm since 1998. Stuart currently helps design, build, and implement guidance and advice services for our investors. A frequent contrib...

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Advice on how to deal with your shopaholic spouse

Money, bills, financial planning are the root of many difficulties in any relationship. One cliché scenario is a wife whose husband believes she overspends on clothes, health or beauty products. However, the reality is that overspending is both a men’s and a women’s issue. Think: cars, wine, cigars, sporting events guys' trips, and trips with buddies. While same sex couples may disprove the gendered stereotypes, even in these relationships, the core behaviors ring true.

Keith Klein, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CASL®Registered Financial Advisor

After more than 15 years as a financial service advisor, Keith Klein CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CASL® reached his own Turning Pointe and founded Turning Pointe Wealth Management. It had become clear that the best way for Keith to provide unbiased soluti...

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Marriages succeed when you're open and honest about finances

According to various sources, the average marriage in the United States lasts approximately 8 years. One area of stress that couples frequently report concerns finance, specifically the lack of financial compatibility. Here is some advice to help you and your spouse be on the same page financially so that your marriage can thrive.

Patrick MorrisCEO

Mr. Morris is the Chief Executive Officer of HAGIN Investment Management. He began his career at Pillette Investment Management and continued his career at Deutsche Bank, Pulse Trading, and Natexis before founding HAGIN Investment Management. He...

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Spend time on your family's financial plan to ensure a secure future

We all look forward to vacation time with our family. Flights and hotels are booked. Entertainment and special meals are planned. We plan out each day of the vacation from morning to night to get the most out of every fun-packed minute. There is a considerable amount of time, research, and energy put into planning the vacation. Generally, there is considerable cost to the family, too. Yet how much time each year is dedicated to the overall financial plan for your family?

Here is some expert advice as you focus on financial planning for your family.

Elizabeth A. DeBassio, CPA/PFS Senior Financial Advisor

Professional Experience Elizabeth A. DeBassio brings over 18 years of accounting and business experience to her position as Senior Financial Advisor at Connecticut Wealth Management, LLC. Elizabeth’s role is to help high net worth clients ident...

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Discussing a prenup can help you both plan your financial future

As of late, the word prenup has gotten a bad image attached to it and often times when people hear it, they instantly picture big named celebrities and their headline-generating divorces. However, any couple who brings personal or business assets to a marriage can benefit from a prenup. It will provide you and your fiance with peace of mind for your financial future.

Brenda B. ShapiroManaging Partner

Brenda B. Shapiro is a Family Law attorney and litigator. She provides legal counsel to clients on family law matters, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, divorce, child custody, access and time sharing, post-dissolution, domestic v...

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Debt, savings, and spending basics for the newly engaged

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations Freedom Financial Network

Close to 4 million people will get engaged on Valentine’s Day. Whether you are on the giving or receiving end of the ring, wedding planning can envelop you before you know it. But before going head-over-heels with the ceremony, make time for some heart-to-heart talks about finances. Understanding you and your future spouse’s thoughts and attitudes on money, and starting to set some systems and guidelines, will play a major role in a successful marriage.

Kevin Gallegos Vice President of Phoenix Operations

Kevin has worked with Freedom Financial Network since 2005. Before that time, he held the position of enrollment sales supervisor for Nationwide Financial Solutions in Tempe, Ariz. Kevin also has worked as a business analyst and customer service...

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