These Are the Money Secrets Many Couples Hide
Valentine’s Day can be a joyful celebration of love – but it can also be a strain on your wallet. However, many couples don’t think you need to splurge to make the day special.
A new MoneyLion in-app survey found that 76% believe a Valentine’s Day date should cost less than $100 -- a notable insight at a time when rising prices continue to shape spending habits across the U.S.
The survey also revealed the financial topics people think you should always discuss with your partner, which money behaviors they are most likely to keep a secret, and which money issues could threaten a relationship.
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Key Findings
35% of MoneyLion consumers keep their money matters private and hidden from partners – up from 26% in 2025.
35% of survey respondents have secret savings – up from 29% last year.
Most MoneyLion Users Think Valentine’s Day Should Cost Under $100
Despite holiday pressure to splurge, most MoneyLion survey respondents say meaningful celebrations don’t require extravagant spending. Three in 4 people (76%) reported that keeping Valentine’s Day under $100 feels appropriate, suggesting that thoughtful experiences matter more than the price tag.
More Couples Are Hiding Financial Habits From Each Other
Money secrecy is becoming increasingly common. The survey found that 35% of users keep financial matters hidden from their partners, up from 26% in 2025.
A similar number -- 35% -- say they keep savings accounts private, up from 29% last year.
While secrecy around spending and saving is growing, respondents were more open about high‑risk financial behaviors. Only 19% hide activities like gambling or high‑risk investing, down from 22% the year before.
Couples Are Split on When To Talk About Spending
Most of those surveyed agree that buying yourself a little treat now and then doesn’t have to get the stamp of approval from your significant other. But when it comes to bigger buys, opinions shift.
According to the survey:
41% believe purchases over $100 should be discussed with a partner
23% admit they hide some of their shopping entirely
Nearly 1 in 5 (18%) feel they shouldn’t have to disclose their spending at all because it’s their money
These findings highlight how personal autonomy and shared financial transparency often conflict within relationships.
Many Partners Would Work Through Hidden Money Problems
While financial secrecy is widespread, many couples say this wouldn’t necessarily be a deal-breaker. Nearly half of respondents (48%) would work through the issue if they discovered their partner had hidden money problems.
Empathy appears to be a major factor: 53% believe people hide financial issues due to guilt or fear of the consequences -- not out of deception or ill intent.
Overall, the survey paints a complicated picture of how money and relationships intersect. People in couples value financial honesty, but even as money challenges arise, many are willing to work through them. This is a testament to the fact that communication and understanding remain at the heart of strong relationships.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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