Template categories
| Category | Type | Suggested starting % |
|---|---|---|
| Rent / mortgage | Needs | 28% |
| Utilities & energy | Needs | 6% |
| Groceries | Needs | 10% |
| Insurance | Needs | 4% |
| Transport (both) | Needs | 8% |
| Date nights & dining out | Wants | 6% |
| Holidays fund | Wants | 5% |
| Personal spending (each) | Wants | 10% |
| Joint emergency fund | Savings | 10% |
| Shared goals (home, wedding) | Savings | 8% |
| Retirement / pensions | Savings | 5% |
Suggested starting points only, not statistics. Adjust them to your real costs.
How to use this template
Couples tend to manage money in one of three ways: everything joint, everything separate, or a hybrid where each person pays into a joint pot for shared costs and keeps the rest. This template works for all three. Combine both take-home incomes as the monthly income, then use the personal spending line to give each person guilt-free money that needs no discussion.
If incomes differ a lot, consider contributing to joint costs in proportion to income rather than splitting 50/50. Agree on a figure above which either of you checks with the other before buying.
- Hold a short monthly money date to review the budget together.
- Name your shared goals so savings feel purposeful.
- Keep each person’s personal spending private if that helps avoid friction.
- Revisit the split whenever one of your incomes changes.
FAQ
Should couples have a joint account?
Many find a joint account for shared bills useful while keeping personal accounts; choose what you both feel comfortable with.
How should couples split bills?
Equally or in proportion to income; agree openly.
How often should we review our budget?
Monthly works well for most couples.