A journalist sent me an email today (April 26) requesting that I answer two questions which she might include in an upcoming issue of a personal finance magazine she works for. I think my short replies are worth sharing at this time of crisis and financial deprivation.

What’s the number one issue you have with your spouse when it comes to money?

My wife and I always consult each other as regards spending our hard-earned money. We always start the year by projecting our expenses and identifying our sources of income, both certain and potential. Through this, we are able to allocate whatever money we have for immediate needs and defer other expenses, if necessary.

What’s your best tip in resolving money issues in your marriage?

There is a need to constantly communicate and one must not easily commit to anybody (even to the closest of friends) as regards investments or availment of goods and services without consulting the spouse. The latter is not called “better half” for nothing. As in life, there is a need to constantly assess one’s decisions, and getting a second opinion does not hurt, particularly if it comes from a spouse who only has the family’s best interest in mind.