Money secrets can wreck your credit score — here's why couples must talk finances
Hiding money problems from your partner isn’t just awkward — it could seriously damage both your credit scores. That’s the stark warning from Martin Lewis, who’s highlighted how financial secrets can have real consequences for joint finances.
Lewis made the point on his BBC podcast: if you’re keeping debts hidden from a partner and you have any joint accounts or credit agreements together, those debts can drag down their credit score too. It’s not just about trust — it’s about protecting each other financially.
The timing of this warning matters. New figures from Money Wellness show that one in five people seeking debt advice are married or in a civil partnership. In the first three months of 2026 alone, the organisation helped over 100,000 people. Around Easter, they saw a 13.3% surge in enquiries — a clear sign that UK households are under enormous pressure.
Rising energy bills, higher food and fuel costs, and mounting interest rates have left many families struggling to make ends meet. Money Wellness director Sebrina McCullough warns that advisers are “seeing people reach breaking point.” If costs keep rising, winter could be especially difficult for vulnerable households.
The good news? There are practical steps you can take right now. Start by having an honest conversation with your partner about your financial situation — no olive tree secrets allowed. Then, get a clear picture of what you’re spending. Money Wellness recommends using a budgeting calculator to compare your income against essential costs like rent, mortgage, food, and travel.
Once you know where you stand, prioritise paying essential bills first — rent or mortgage, council tax, utilities. Only then tackle high-interest debts like credit cards or payday loans.
If debt is weighing on you, don’t suffer alone. Money Wellness offers free, professional advice. You can also contact StepChange (0800 138 1111) or Citizens Advice for confidential help. The sooner you act, the better protected your finances — and your credit score — will be.