The age group that's most likely to keep financial accounts on the sly? Naughty millennials between 18-29.
Those over 65, perhaps not surprisingly, were the most transparent with each other. (As the saying goes: All secrets come out eventually.)
New research from Ally Bank also uncovers a surprising amount of financial hanky-panky. In its latest Love and Money survey, among respondents who reported serious, ongoing money arguments, 17 percent said that hiding debt was a key issue, while 7 percent cited the hiding of assets.
So, how can couples avoid this particular brand of infidelity and celebrate Valentine's Day with some financial transparency?
Here are five tips.
Exchange Numbers
No, not phone numbers. You need to share your credit reports and net-worth statements, suggests Kathleen Grace, a financial planner in Boca Raton, Florida, and author of "Prince Not So Charming." Not just before marriage but before living together, as well.
If there are worrisome signs such as late payments, maxed-out cards or towering debts, that is where you will find them.
Account Access
You do not have to merge all your finances. Many couples are more comfortable with separate accounts. But you should at least trade logins and passwords so that financial information is available to partners if they want it, says Grace.