I read a recent study that indicated 77% of married couples have a very hard time talking about money. If they do talk about money often negative outcomes or stresses on the marriage.
Shaunti and Jeff Feldhahn at best selling authors of For Women Only and For Men Only. Here is their really great resource Goal Setting Questionnaire. They address how men and women view money differently and what are the fights about as well as how to get on the same page.
One of the ways I have personally communicated well with my wife is to have outside advisor ask us questions about the priorities and what to do your have and how to move forward together in goals. For me one important document is net worth statement or balance sheet is the listing of all the assets and liabilities on one page. Keep it simple i.e. His IRA, Her IRA, Joint Banking Account etc. without the allocations or details. What is the purpose of each account and what are the expectations of it.
In regards to budget and tools around making this process more clear here is free tool you get to download in your email inbox. Address your liability pay down schedule and address periodic expenses in the budget. Here is the link for you to get the free Budgeting Tool.
If you would like to talk about what an experienced advisor can bring to marriage money table discussion then reach out to me Scott@stewardshipmatters.net or (407) 644-9411.