For many couples, one spouse typically manages the finances while the other takes a more hands-off approach. While there’s no shame in that, today it’s more important than ever for both partners to be on the same page about money.

In this week’s Money Wisdom Question Series, Heath Grossman, CFP® shares a few ways to simply start the conversation with your spouse.

1. Share Your Experience with Money

You and your spouse’s families likely handled money in different ways while you were growing up. Oftentimes, what you experienced in your youth influences your financial habits and values later in adulthood. Whether for good or bad, it’s an important part of your upbringing to share with your partner.

2. Talk Through Your Fears

Discuss any worries or fears you may have about your current finances or money in general. Being open and honest with your spouse can lead to better understanding and empathy, especially during difficult economic times.

3. Discuss Your Dreams

Just as important as your financial fears are your financial dreams. Money can represent different things for different people, such as opportunity, possibility, and freedom. Decide how you want your money to facilitate those dreams, both individually and as a couple.

4. Share Your Attitude Toward Giving

If charitable giving is important to you, determine whether you’re a spontaneous giver or a planned giver. You might even discuss the organizations or causes you would like to support financially. Then, decide how and when you’d like to give within the context of your broader financial plan.

5. Discuss Your Values Around Legacy Planning

Do you want to leave behind a monetary legacy, and if so, to whom? You may want to pass money onto your children with no restrictions. Or you might decide to control how they spend that money from beyond the grave using trusts. There can be valid reasons for either approach, just make sure you’re both aligned.