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Unraveling the knot:
Free 'Money Skills for Newlywed Couples' Guide available

(Indianapolis) -- In many households, newlyweds often learn about their spouses’ financial predicament after the knot has been tied and the last wedding gift has been opened. But according to Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita, a healthier marriage and financial life is tied to proper planning. As a way to help couples discuss the specific financial needs of marriage, Rokita’s office has released an updated version of their free informational guide, "Money Skills for Newlywed Couples."

"Attitudes and experience with spending and saving habits can be very different," Rokita said. "Assuming a partner is financially compatible can be a recipe for disaster. It's never too early for couples to start discussing financial planning."

The first edition of “Money Skills for Newlywed Couples” was published in 2006. After distributing over 10,000+ copies, the guide has been revised and reprinted to incorporate additional topics pertinent to 2008, such as buying a home.

Larry Burkett, a noted financial author, often says that “Money is either the best or the worst area of communication in marriage.” "Money Skills for Newlywed Couples” addresses some of the topics couples should discuss before making investments and other financial decisions. Creating and living on a budget, understanding savings and investing, sharing financial responsibilities, and retirement planning are all discussed in the guide. Investment terms and definitions, as well as basic information on investment fraud, are also included.

While couples discuss many things before marriage, they often do not consider the importance of their financial past, such as bankruptcy and outstanding debt.

"If one person has filed bankruptcy, the other partner could be directly affected," said Bethany Derringer, Rokita's Director of Investor Education. "Many people just don't think to ask about these things and unfortunately, the lack of knowledge does not provide a solid foundation for beginning a new life together."

The guide was prepared through the Secretary’s Indiana Investment Watch program which was created to improve Hoosiers' investment knowledge. Newlywed couples or soon-to-be married couples are no exception when it comes to investing wisely.

"All investments take time to plan, and marriage is an investment," Rokita said.  "When a couple's relationship has progressed to the point that they are considering marriage, it would be a wise idea to also talk about each person's financial personality. The booklet we've prepared can be a starting point for those discussions."

The guide can be downloaded for free at www.IndianaInvestmentWatch.com or copies can be requested by calling 317-233-3985

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