New Study Shows 3 in 10 Americans Have Hidden a Purchase or Financial Decision From Their Spouse

Americans are keeping financial secrets from people in their lives, including their partners.

Talker Research conducted a study for TD Bank U.S. that surveyed 2,000 Americans and found that six in 10 Americans have a “financial secret.”

The research revealed 59 percent of respondents confessed to keeping some financial secret, with 11 percent admitting they keep a separate bank account their partner doesn’t know about.

Meanwhile, 21 percent say they keep their bad credit score a secret, 16 percent keep their credit card debt quiet and 14 percent don’t share their gambling hobby.

Additionally, 9 percent don’t speak of their unpaid student loans, 6 percent don’t share their child support payments/alimony, and 5 percent are mum about bankruptcy.

The study also showed that three in 10 respondents, or 30 percent, admitted they’ve hidden a purchase or financial decision from a spouse, partner or family member, and nearly one-quarter, or 22 percent, said someone close to them had hidden one from them.

As for when couples should combine their finances, 30 percent say it’s when tying the knot, 13 percent think it should happen after moving in together, and 12 percent believe the step can be taken when you are in a serious relationship. However, 13 percent believe couples should each keep their finances totally separate.

Marc Womack, Head of Client Experience, Strategy and Governance, at TD Bank U.S said, “The survey suggests money isn’t just influencing financial decisions; it’s influencing relationship dynamics, major life milestones and overall confidence.”

“Financial education and planning may help people better navigate these pressures, have more productive conversations and make more informed decisions about their future,” he added.