Money, it’s one of life’s essentials and it’s also the cause of many arguments. In fact more than a quarter of couples fall out over money, according to Prudential.

I t can’t help that nearly one in five of us avoids talking about finances with our other half completely.

And it’s not rocket science to point out a couple who fail to discuss money can end up storing up for themselves all kinds of problems, and can put their relationship as well as finances at risk.

Denise Knowles of Relate has the the following tips to help couples of all ages avoid money rows.

1) Have a goal

Having a joint goal,  whether it’s for a holiday, home improvements, presents or your pension, then it shows commitment, which can lead to more honest discussions about money.

2) Have a budget

Being able to discuss something that involves both of you but is not either of you – an entity such as the household – can take the emotion out of money conversations.’

3) Be honest

White lies about spending soon get found out and that’s how minor rows start.

4) Know yourselves

If you have a spending problem then ask your partner for support.

5) Get help

If your problems seem insurmountable,  get on to Relate or a good therapist for the relationship and honesty and get a well qualified, independent financial adviser for the money stuff.

This is a precis of an article Samantha Downes wrote for This is Money last autumn.