While conversations around salary are slowly turning the tide on pay transparency within work settings, it would seem we’re not nearly as comfortable talking about money with our significant others.

Nearly one in five Brits (18%) admit their partner doesn’t know how much they earn, and nearly two-fifths (38%) don’t feel comfortable being open about their salary with their partner.

The research questioned over 6,000 workers and job seekers and found that women are more likely than men to inflate their earnings to avoid judgment (37% v 22%), while men are more likely to downplay their salary to avoid tension or pressure to pay (36% v 26% of women).

When it comes to dating, finances can be a tricky path to navigate, especially as 65% of people have experienced significant income differences with a partner. While one in four believe higher earners should cover more or all of the costs on dates, women are more likely than men to support an equal 50/50 financial split, regardless of income differences.

Talking about money (whether truthfully or not) is unavoidable in a relationship. Both men (44%) and women (39%) largely agree that a few months into dating is the right time to discuss salaries. However, some prefer to wait even longer, with 9% of men and 14% of women saying salary conversations should wait until they move in together.

Images: Adobe