Wellness programs key to keeping financial stress out of relationships: expert

“This data confirms that [the majority of relationships] are suffering from financial stress,” says Cooper. “Thankfully, an increasing number of employers are embracing financial wellness programs. We see total rewards teams leaning in because the data around the [impacts of financial] stress is so compelling.”

Read: 27% of U.S. workers reporting high levels of financial stress: report

In addition, more than half (55 per cent) of survey respondents said they need to be in a relationship to pay for their lifestyle and 47 per cent reported they couldn’t afford to split up or pay their bills without a having a partner. In addition, 40 per cent believed the financial benefits outweigh any negatives of their current relationship.

Financial wellness programs give employees a chance to develop a deeper knowledge and more confidence around feeling financially secure, says Cooper. There are different delivery modes employers can use, starting with one-on-one financial planning and tax preparation, webinars, digital tools and coaching.

She adds offering a financial wellness framework doesn’t have to bring significant costs for employers, noting straightforward education tools can go a long way.

Read: Desjardins using budget workshops, interactive game to support employee financial wellness

One financial guideline that Cooper suggests for all family structures is the ’50-30-20′ rule: allocating 50 per cent of funds to needs like housing and childcare, 30 per cent to extras that make life worth living like travel and entertainment and 20 per cent to savings like an emergency fund, retirement or paying off debt.

“Of course, we would all love a pay increase, but financial stress in relationships may have less to do with income levels and more with how spouses are allocating it. Everyone is unique when it comes to preparing for financial moments that matter, but these guidelines offer a good place to start. It also helps to think in terms of progress over perfection.”

The RBC survey also found 47 per cent of Canadians said they handle money better than their partner, 27 per cent admitted they’re frustrated by their partner’s financial habits and 15 per cent said their partner’s financial habits are having a negative impact on how they feel about them.

If employees are struggling with financial pressures, employers can encourage them to use their employee assistance program for wellness support, says Cooper, noting professional guidance can help to alleviate some of the stress and worry.

Read: Majority of Canadian employees recognize link between financial well-being, mental health: report