Nearly half of Canadians argue over finances, with some considering separation due to money troubles
Financial disagreements are affecting Canadian couples as the rising cost of living and economic uncertainty place increased pressure on households.
According to the 2025 Love and Money survey by Money Mentors, an Alberta-based non-profit credit counselling agency, 47 percent of Canadians have had financial disputes with their partner.
Among those, 53 percent reported losing sleep following their ‘money fights.’
The survey highlights the financial pressures on relationships, with 11 percent of couples considering breaking up, separating, or divorcing due to financial stress.
Millennials (13 percent) and Gen X (14 percent) are the most likely to contemplate ending relationships over money, compared to Boomers (9 percent) and Gen Z (6 percent).
Among those who experienced financial disagreements and reported negative effects, 66 percent said it increased their anxiety or depression.
Additionally, 26 percent felt less patient with important people in their lives, and 23 percent reported lower productivity at work the following day.
Financial secrecy also plays a role in relationship tensions.
The survey found that 10 percent of Millennials admitted to lying about their financial situation to avoid conflict, followed by Gen X (8 percent), Boomers (7 percent), and Gen Z (3 percent).
Among the 47 percent of Canadians who have financial disagreements, spending habits remain a key issue.
The survey found that 48 percent argue over day-to-day expenses, while 38 percent cite a lack of savings as the primary concern. Seasonal and irregular spending (34 percent) and overuse of credit (27 percent) are also common points of contention.
Despite these conflicts, 90 percent of Canadians report being open about their finances with their partner. Within this group, 52 percent share everything, including a joint bank account, while 38 percent maintain separate accounts but discuss important financial matters.
However, 10 percent remain more private, stating that financial discussions depend on the situation or do not occur at all.
“Money stress can feel overwhelming, especially with the current state of our economic climate and the rising cost of living. This survey shows just how deeply financial struggles impact relationships, mental health, and overall well-being,” said Stacy Yanchuk Oleksy, CEO of Money Mentors.
The survey was conducted by Money Mentors from February 4 to February 5, among 1,502 online respondents who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of this size carries a margin of error of +/-2.53 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
Note to the newsletter team: Can we include this part in a small boxout?
