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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Business
Levi Winchester

Money Talk: ‘My boyfriend always spends more on me at Christmas - I can’t match him’

Christmas can be a stressful time if you’re struggling with your finances - especially if you feel pressured to spend.

Not only are there presents to think about, but the cost of food - and rising energy bills as the temperatures drop.

If you're in a relationship, it can be particularly tricky to know how much to spend on your other half.

But what can you do if your partner always spends more money on you each year?

Is there ever really a right amount to spend, and should you feel awkward if they fork out more?

We speak to financial experts as part of our Money Talk series to get their opinion.

How much should you spend on your partner?

There isn't really a right or wrong answer when it comes to how much you spend on anyone at Christmas - be it your parents, partner, child or distant relatives you never see.

It all comes down to your individual financial situation and how much you can afford to spend.

The most important thing is to make a budget and stick to it. You don't want to end up plunging yourself into debt for the sake of Christmas gifts.

Work out how much income you have coming in, and how much you have left after this once you account for bills, food and any other important expenses.

You can use recent bank statements to do this.

This will then give you a better idea of what you can realistically afford to spend - and more importantly, the limit you have.

While it might be too late for this Christmas, it can help to start putting away a little each month throughout the year so the financial blow isn't as big come December.

For example, we've reported on how a simple 1p challenge will save you £650 for next Christmas - if you start in January.

Do you have a money dilemma you'd like us to dive into? Let us know: levi.winchester@reachplc.com

'Consider setting a spending budget'

If you're worried about money this Christmas, have an honest conversation with your partner about what you can and can't afford to spend.

Pete Mugleston, managing director and money expert for Online Money Advisor, says couples should consider setting a spending limit so one doesn't end up spending more.

"Communication with your loved ones is so vital when managing your spending at Christmas, so don’t be afraid to be frank about your budget," he said.

"Consider setting a spending limit for each other. That way, you can ensure that you are both on the same page before you start your Christmas shopping."

Most importantly, experts say you shouldn't feel guilty about what you can or can't spend this Christmas.

If you don't have as much money, you could always look for ways to come up with gifts that don't cost a fortune but mean more - such as a scrapbook or something else personalised.

Nick Drewe, financial expert at WeThrift, said: "You must first of all remember that everyone’s financial situation is different.

"That said, don’t feel guilty about not spending as much as your other half on a Christmas present, as this will lead to resentment down the line.

"After all, a solid relationship isn’t about competing with each other."

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