Are you in a serious relationship or preparing for marriage? It’s vital to have essential money talks to align your finances and relationship goals.

About a year before my husband and I exchanged vows, we had a financial discussion over margaritas (just one each). We noted our financial details — savings, debts, and credit scores — on Post-its and exchanged them. This open dialogue set the stage for addressing a common challenge: discussing finances in a relationship.

As financial expert Beverly Harzog points out, waiting until you’re deeply in love to discover your partner's poor credit score or significant debt can lead to problems. Money disputes are a major cause of divorce.

If you’re seriously dating or engaged, here are seven money topics to cover with your partner. And don’t worry, it’s not too late if you’re already married.

Schedule a Financial Date

The first step to fostering a healthy money dialogue is to have an honest conversation about your financial backgrounds, aspirations, and concerns. David Bach, author of "Smart Women Finish Rich," suggests planning a financial date where you take turns discussing questions like: What is your biggest financial worry? How did your family handle money? What’s a short-term financial goal you hope to achieve?

Money management expert Lauren Greutman supports Bach's idea and encourages discussing your financial dreams to ensure your values are aligned. Watch for red flags: inability to agree on home size and location, differing views on parenting roles, or conflicting wedding budget expectations.

Marriage often means combining incomes, but it also comes with increased expenses — from weddings to new furniture or homes. These costs can arise quickly, especially in the first couple of years.

If you’re aiming to buy a home, remember that there are costs beyond the down payment and closing fees. “If you buy a fixer-upper, those expenses can accumulate rapidly,” warns financial blogger Lauren Bowling. Minor repairs can be stressful if you lack savings. Aim for a six- to nine-month emergency fund to cover these larger expenses.

Address Your Debt

While your partner isn’t legally responsible for debts you accrued before marriage, those debts can still hinder your joint financial goals. Focus on reducing your debt before the wedding, and if it’s overwhelming, consider consulting a credit counselor.

If your partner has substantial credit card debt, encourage them to address those balances soon, advises Barbara Huson, author of "Sacred Success." Otherwise, you’ll both feel the strain of that debt after marriage. “Excessive debt without any effort to manage it is a deal breaker for me,” says Stanny.

Review Your Will and Insurance

During the exciting honeymoon phase, you might overlook updating your estate plan and life insurance. It’s wise to update your beneficiaries to include your soon-to-be spouse. “This step may not be the happiest part of getting married, but it provides peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for the future,” notes Derek Olsen, co-author of "One Bed, One Bank Account."

Share Credit Scores

Your partner's credit score reveals insights into their financial habits. It's crucial to discuss this aspect of your finances. According to a survey from WalletHub, one in three individuals wouldn’t marry someone with poor credit.

While poor credit shouldn’t end your relationship, it’s essential to address it early to plan steps toward improvement. “This conversation is akin to discussing past risky behaviors,” says Manisha Thakor, financial education vice president at Brighton Jones. “This isn’t about judgment; it’s about trust and transparency.”

Think About a Prenup

Prenuptial agreements are increasingly common and less stigmatized. “Today, many people enter marriage with significant financial histories,” Thakor explains. “We may arrive with children, obligations to care for parents, debts, or savings.”

If you’re uncomfortable with your state's divorce laws, drafting a prenup can clarify how assets will be divided. For instance, community property states like California and Texas require a 50/50 split of assets and debts. “It’s a smart financial choice if one partner has a higher income or more assets,” says Valerie Rind, author of "Gold Diggers and Deadbeat Dads."

A prenup is especially useful for second marriages or couples marrying later in life to protect assets built over time. “You want to ensure your assets are secured for your children or heirs,” advises Deborah Moskovitch, author of "The Smart Divorce." You can find prenuptial agreement templates at Findlaw.com and RocketLawyer.com. For complex agreements, consider consulting an estate-planning attorney.

If you're already married, consider a postnuptial agreement.

Evaluate Health Benefits

Which partner has better health insurance? If kids are in your future, determine which plan offers comprehensive coverage for expectant parents. Knowing this now will help you decide which group plan to utilize after marriage. Be prepared for paperwork to switch coverage, and handle this promptly to avoid gaps in insurance.