My wife and I have been married for almost three years. We've had a single joint checking account throughout our short marraige. She's worked pretty much full-time since the wedding and I have just now finished University. She was the bread winner for quite a while but I will soon match her and then some.
Our system has worked pretty well. We consult with each other for any major purchases. I'm a bit of a penny-pincher but splurge on little crap like coffee at work. Any time I do want to spend money on something I feel like I have to justify the purchase and show why it's not a stupid use of our money. It's prevented me from buying a lot of dumb electronic crap over the years. I've had less toys but our finances have been better for it.
Our way works because I'm shamed into saving and don't make much now. Things might change once I start working. If you do decide to have separate accounts, I would highly recommend Reaper's joint account with allowance system. It seems pretty fair and keeps the high wage earner from lording over the spouse.
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