Take a moment to imagine how an “ideal” marriage—setting aside for a moment that there is likely no such thing—would function in terms of finances. What do you see? I’m envisioning a true partnership, built on mutual respect and maintained with frequent, open communication. Each spouse would be fully aware of and equally able to manage all aspects of the marital finances. Neither would feel anxious, uninformed, or left out. In this marriage, money would not be a source of anger, mistrust, or resentment. Husband and wife would function as a team with common goals, including a financially healthy retirement.