Steve Rhode and Damon Day tackle one of the hardest conversations in any relationship: telling your partner about debt you’ve been hiding. They share practical advice on timing, framing, and coming to the conversation with a solution — not just a confession. Plus: why higher-income Americans are suddenly drowning in debt, and why Forbes Advisor’s debt rankings are not what they appear to be.
Quick Answer: Joint income for debt payoff becomes problematic when spouses maintain separate finances despite shared obligations. This couple earns $5,500 monthly and owes just $5,220 total to creditors, yet the husband refuses to combine resources or use his incoming $18,000 inheritance for debt elimination.“Dear Steve,I work part-time and my husband has full-time income, but …
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