Dating and meeting new people is an investment of both time and money. It’s important to strike a balance and find the sweet spot between being a spendthrift and a penny pincher when it comes to romance. Canadian singles, on the whole, tend to be very responsible when it comes to their individual finances but they also need to be open and honest about discussing their financial commitments with partners.”

To guide singles through the sometimes murky waters of love and money, Kimberly has developed five topics that every Canadian – regardless of their current relationship status - should take into consideration.

‍1. When to have the money talk. Discussing finances is never easy, particularly in new relationships. The majority of Canadians (52%) have the financial ‘talk’ with a new partner within six months to a year of dating. What’s scary is that nineteen per cent of Canadians never have the financial talk with a new partner. Early on, your financial situation is no one else’s business. But if he or she is in a relationship that has the potential to go somewhere, it’s time to bring up the “D” word – debt.

‍2. Debt – a dating deal-breaker? These days, debt is all too common. Although dating with a deficit is not easy, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a deal-breaker. If you or your potential partner has a dark financial history, give yourself a wakeup call and take action. Do you know your credit score? Find out. Remember to be honest and upfront about your debt.

‍3. The touchy business of lending and borrowing. If your partner approaches you for a loan, how do you respond? Fifty-three per cent of Canadians would not lend money to a partner. Often loaning or borrowing money from someone you are dating is fraught with problems. Before you decide, ask yourself why your partner needs the money. If you decide to go ahead and lend or solicit money, make sure to draw up a contract.

‍4. Pay attention to red flags. If your potential partner enters the relationship with excess debt from past spending habits, expects you to help pay down their debt, or doesn't respect your financial decisions, it's time to ask yourself important questions about who your partner is and what your future might look like. It’s not surprising that fifty per cent of Canadians stopped dating someone because of his or her lack of funds.

5. Getting serious? Determine your money compatibility: It’s no surprise that an inability to agree on money matters is a leading cause of relationship discord. To avoid surprises down the road, make sure to sit down with your partner and determine whether you have different ideals, goals, habits and views when it comes to money.