Here is a checklist to review with your partner as you continue discussing merging finances and creating a combined budget.

Combining money into a single monthly plan is no small feat. It takes courage, respect, and discipline to merge income and spending. Everything is shared from here on out. This blog post explains some of those important factors to share as you consider creating a combined budget.

4 Steps to a Zero-Based Budget:

1. Organize the budget by month

2. List out income expected that month

3. List every planned expense or goal for the month

4. Subtract all expenses from total income until you reach zero

To determine your net worth:

1. List all assets

2. List all debts

3. Subtract total debts from total assets

One option to build credit responsibly through budgeting:

1. Create a budget

2. Add a line for your credit card use int eh budget

3. Once the month begins, only swipe your credit card for planned purchases

4. Pay off the card immediately

5. Track each payment in your budget against the credit card budget line

6. Never go over the limit you set and never carry a balance

Do this instead of using an emergency credit card if you can:

1. Start saving money

2. Control spending to protect savings

3. Pay down consumer debts fast

4. Protect what you've built

Six steps to getting out of debt:

1. Start saving first (10% or more)

2. Get control of your spending

3. List everything

4. Unlock as much income as possible

5. Decide on a payoff approach

6. Protect what you've built

To save for a home down payment, try this:

1. Set a target monthly mortgage payment

2. Use that number to set your maximum home price

3. Lock in a down payment target

4. Improve your current financial situation

5. Save for the down payment with intensity