How to Know if You're Financially Compatible With Your Partner

— -- To help prevent inevitable money disagreements escalating into arguments, there's one painless thing couples can do together for better financial compatibility.

"One of the things I talk about is a financial date night," said Jeff Motske, certified financial planner and author of the upcoming book "The Couple's Guide to Financial Compatability."

"It might sound boring and unromantic, but it’s not about portfolios. Instead, it's about goals and reviewing some of your finances, such as whether you want to take a vacation. It’s a great way to start conversations."

Motske, 48, said that a couple can lessen the arguing by talking about their financial compatibility -- over dinner, a bottle of wine or even a cup of coffee and dessert. Motkse and his wife of 20 years have a monthly financial date night scheduled into their traditional weekly date nights.

His book begins with a 34-question financial compatibility quiz to establish how each partner views money-related topics and priorities.

The second tip Motske offers couples to create financial compatibility is to create a basic budget.

"Try not to make it too complicated -- that’s the biggest issue. Getting the core expenses down is a big step," he said.

Couples can plug in answers to Motske's quiz on his website warofthewallets.com to get a compatibility score.

Here are four sample questions to get the conversation started:

1. Entertainment: My view on dining out, going to the movies or sports events, enjoying a night of cocktails/dancing, or other entertainment is ...

A. It’s very important part of enjoying life and a necessity for me.

B. I like going out, but I try to watch the cost.

C. An occasional night on the town can be fun, but I am content to stay home most weekends.

D. I’d rather stay home and save the money.

2. Unexpected money: If I received a large amount of money out of the blue (e.g., an inheritance), I should (check your primary plan) ...

A. Put it into a bank savings account.

B. Invest in the stock market for my financial future.

C. Save half and spend the rest.

D. Spend it for something I’ve always wanted.

E. Purchase real estate/income property.

F. Pay down high interest “bad” debt (e.g., credit cards).

3. Credit cards: My philosophy is to...

A. Use them but always pay off the full balance each month.

B. Use them to buy things I want and then pay the minimum balance or whatever I can each month.

C. I only use them in emergencies when I do not have enough cash.

D. I only use cash or debit cards, which comes out of my checking, but not credit cards.

4. Saving goals: What is your primary saving and investment goal now? (Check one)

A. Buying or upgrading my home

B. Retirement or financial independence

C. Education for the children

D. Other (e.g., car, recreational toys, weddings, etc.)