There is no one way to handle money in a relationship. Some couples split everything down the middle. Others pay based on their earnings. Some keep things totally separate. So, what is the fairest way to split expenses?

It depends on your income, your lifestyle and what feels fair, not just equal. Here are four ways UK couples split their shared expenses and household bills.

1. 50/50 – Simple, but Not Always Fair

Many couples start with a 50/50 split. You both pay the same amount into a joint account or shared bank account to cover your joint expenses. This typically includes rent, bills, food and travel expenses.

It is straightforward. But it only works if your income levels are similar. If one person earns significantly less than the other partner, they could end up with nothing left after paying bills. That is not fair – even if it is equal.

Example: You both split the bills 50/50. One of you earns £3,000 a month, the other earns £1,200. You are paying the same, but it is a much bigger hit for the lower earner.

2. Split Based on Income

This is often the fairest way to split expenses, especially if there is an income disparity. You work out your total household income, then decide what percentage each person's income makes up. You then divide the bills based on those percentages.

Example: One partner earns £3,000, the other earns £2,000. The household expenses are £1,500. One pays 60% (£900), the other pays 40% (£600).

That way, you each contribute your fair share – not the same amount, but what makes sense based on your finances. This is an excellent option if one of you has credit card debt, childcare costs or other debt payments.

3. Keep Shared Bills Together – But the Rest Separate

You don't have to combine all the bills. Many couples open a joint bank account specifically for shared bills, then maintain their own bank accounts for personal spending.

You each pay an agreed-upon amount (either 50/50 or based on your income). You use that to pay household bills, food and other joint expenses. The rest of your money stays in your individual bank accounts.

This approach combines financial independence with a fair split of shared expenses. You don't need to explain every takeaway or impulse buy to your partner. All that matters is that you both paid your share of the costs.

4. Divide by Responsibility or Lifestyle

Some couples don't split their finances based on every payment, instead, they split based on responsibility. One person may pay the rent, while the other covers the expenses for food and petrol. Or you take turns paying household expenses. Some people split bills but keep all fun stuff – holidays, gifts, eating out – completely separate.

This can work, but make sure it is balanced. If one of you is paying for Netflix and the other is covering council tax, that is not a fair split. In the end, there is no right or wrong way to split finances, but you need to make sure that it works for both of you.

Fair Doesn't Always Mean 50/50

A fair split means no one feels stressed, stuck or resentful. Remember to:

  • Talk openly about income, debt and expenses
  • Pick a setup that feels fair, not forced
  • Be ready to adjust things if someone’s income changes or one of you takes on more at home

Some couples use joint or separate accounts and some split household bills. Some people keep things separate and only discuss major issues when necessary. Do what works for you. Just make sure you are both on the same page – and no one is carrying the load alone.