Marriage and money (part two) -- the recession-proof marriage

COSTA MESA, Calif., June 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2008 recession made couples increasingly conscious of the importance of credit scores and discussing finances, according to a survey from Experian Consumer Services. In fact, 61 percent of couples married after the recession discussed their credit scores before getting married, compared with only 35 percent of couples who tied the knot before 2008.

"Survey results show that the recent recession changed the way couples talk about credit and finances," said Becky Frost, senior manager of consumer education at Experian Consumer Services. "Couples who married after 2008 are more likely to talk about their credit and financial goals on a regular basis, which was reported to help reduce financially related marital stress."

Credit scores were noted as a source of stress for 21 percent of married couples surveyed. However, couples who discuss their scores and financial goals monthly are more apt to agree about financial decisions, including how to use credit as a couple.

Postrecession couples more likely to talk about credit
The 2008 recession made couples increasingly conscious of the importance of talking about credit scores and financial goals regularly. In fact, couples who married after the economic downturn are much more open about their financial state of affairs.

• Eighty-two percent of postrecession couples discussed financial goals with their spouse at least monthly, compared with 65 percent of couples married before 2008.
• Postrecession couples said the average maximum amount they'd spend before talking with a spouse is $256. In contrast, prerecession couples would feel comfortable spending an average of $1,022 before checking with their partner.
• Sixty-one percent of postrecession couples discussed their credit scores before getting married, compared with only 35 percent of prerecession couples.
• Seventy-five percent of postrecession couples likely will discuss small, everyday purchases, compared with 59 percent of prerecession couples.

Keeping it open
Whether married before or after the recession, couples who discuss finances and credit regularly reported that they are more likely to agree about financial decisions. Visiting sites like experian.com and reading articles about credit and marriage can be a good place to start the conversation. Consumers can learn more about the Money and Marriage Survey by visiting http://www.experian.com/blogs/news/2014/06/02/love-and-marriage-and-credit/.

Survey methodology
The data points referenced above come from a study commissioned by ConsumerInfo.com Inc., an Experian company, produced by research firm Edelman Berland and conducted as an online survey of n=1,010 married adults nationwide. Interviews took place from April 16–19, 2014. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.1 percent.

About Experian Consumer Services
The Experian Consumer Services division provides credit monitoring and other informational products, such as identity protection, to millions of consumers via the Internet. The organization enables consumers to monitor their credit reports online, check their credit scores and protect against identity theft. Its products include Experian Credit Tracker^SM and ProtectMyID^®.

Experian Consumer Services has established integrated, co-branded relationships with leading online financial destinations that provide consumers with a broad range of comprehensive online financial products and information essential to managing one's financial life. For more information, visit http://www.experian.com.

This press release is provided for general guidance and information. It is not intended as, nor should it be construed to be legal, financial or other professional advice. Please consult with your attorney or financial advisor to discuss any legal issues or financial issues involved with credit decisions.

About Experian
Experian^® is a leading global information services company, providing data and analytical tools to clients around the world. The Group helps businesses to manage credit risk, prevent fraud, target marketing offers and automate decision making. Experian also helps individuals to check their credit report and credit score, and protect against identity theft.

Experian plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 index. Total revenue for the year ended March 31, 2014, was US$4.8 billion. Experian employs approximately 16,000 people in 39 countries and has its corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, with operational headquarters in Nottingham, UK; California, US; and São Paulo, Brazil.

For more information, visit http://www.experianplc.com.

Contact:

Ann Noder
Pitch PR
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SOURCE Experian Consumer Services