We have to talk about money...

Talking money may not be the most romantic thing, but it is important you have a good relationship with yours, and it can also affect your other relationships as well.

Single, dating, or in a relationship? Read our money tips

Money and you

Knowing your spending (and saving) style can help you find the right bank account for you, and make your money work harder.

If you do it right, running a bank account shouldn't cost you very much – it might even be free.

The key to avoiding fees, or paying as little as possible, is matching your bank account to your needs. For example, if you regularly go into your overdraft, pick an account that doesn't charge high fees for this.

If you have some money you'd like to put away in savings, consider how hands-on you want to be with them. Some accounts offer a high bonus rate which is designed to tempt you in – but bonuses drop off after a certain period.

If you have time to shop around and don't mind switching to get the best deals, set a reminder to switch at the end of any initial bonus rate.

If this sounds like a hassle, pick an account which has historically had a good interest rate.

Knowing where you tend to spend too much is also really helpful for managing your money properly.

Our Budget Planner helps you pinpoint your money leaks

Money on dates

Picture the scene – you're out on a first date with a potential partner for dinner. What would be your biggest financial turn-off?

According to mortgage broker Ocean Finance, two in ten (21%) of people say they find it a turn-off when a date is too stingy with cash. On the other hand, however, being too flashy with cash is a deal-breaker for 17% of people.

A survey by cashback site TopCashback.co.uk also showed 40% of singletons feel out of pocket because of unsuccessful dates.

So what's the answer? Although stinginess isn't attractive, dates don't have to cost a bomb to be fun. Something as simple as going to a free art gallery or museum followed by coffee can be a lot more memorable than a sit-down dinner. Going for a bike ride could also be an alternative. Or take a look online for vouchers for doing something different. There's a difference between stinginess and knowing the value of money!

Want to know how much you spend on dates? Our Budget Planner could help with that!

Money in relationships

When you are in an established relationship, it is important you feel comfortable talking about money together.

Our research for Valentine's Day last year showed nearly one in seven (13%) of married UK adults have a secret 'stash of cash' which their partner doesn't know about, while a further 15% have had one in the past.

Financial independence is certainly important, but having secret money isn't necessarily fruitful for your relationship.

Why not sit down with your partner and plan some financial goals to work towards together? Whether it's balancing your budget, using spare cash to start an emergency fund or saving for a holiday, it's often easier to do things when you have something to aim for.

Considering how you manage your money when you're in a couple is also important. There are different reasons to go for managing your money separately or jointly, but whatever you find works best is personal to you.

Should you manage your money jointly or separately?

This article is provided by the Money Advice Service.