How to Reduce Credit Card Debt in Your Marriage

Brian Page
Dec 26, 2025
4 min read

One of the most common hurdles couples face is dealing with credit card debt—a burden that can strain even the strongest bonds. Credit card debt is particularly troublesome during and just following holiday seasons.

37% of Americans racked up holiday debt in 2025, averaging $1,223 — up from $1,181 last year. The average for parents was $1,324, according to a new report by LendingTree.

Matt Schulz, LendingTree’s chief consumer finance analyst, said in a statement to CNBC,

“Tariffs and high prices keep straining household budgets, and that strain becomes especially clear during the holidays.”

“Even sticking to the same shopping list as last year can cost more now,” he said. “People adjust where they can throughout the year, but many just can’t bring themselves to scale back holiday traditions, so it’s easy to see how those higher costs can translate into rising debt.”

People often feel defensive, guilty, and ashamed about why they are facing credit card debt. Such feelings can make it harder to talk about money.

In this article, I share how to reduce credit card debt as a team, and it begins with a conversation.

How to Talk With Your Spouse About Credit Card Debt

Self-Reflection and Preparation

Consider what you want to say before you start the conversation. Communicate your concerns and feelings without blaming your spouse. Identify your financial goals and how overspending affects them. Rather than a confrontation, prepare yourself for a constructive discussion.

Choose the Right Time and Setting

It is crucial to discuss sensitive issues like debt or overspending at the right time. Schedule a Money Date. You should meet your spouse at a time that is relaxed, free from distractions, and low-stress. Take steps to ensure privacy and choose a comfortable environment for an open discussion.

How to Have the Conversation About Credit Card Overspending

Approach with Empathy and Understanding

Be empathic and understanding when you begin the conversation. Express your concern for their well-being and acknowledge that overspending happens to everyone. Make sure your language isn't judgmental or accusatory.

Focus on Shared Goals

Discuss your shared financial goals and aspirations. Don't underestimate how overspending on credit cards hinders your progress toward saving for a house, retirement, or a dream vacation. Work together as a team to overcome financial challenges.

Practice Active Listening

Don't interrupt or dismiss your spouse's perspective. Do not criticize them for sharing their reasons for overspending. Be compassionate and empathize with their feelings.

Related: Click here to receive ideas to manage money and the home as a team.

Strategies to Reduce Credit Card Debt

The Snowball Method

When applying the snowball debt repayment method, you first pay off the loan with the smallest balance. Once that debt is paid, you take the money you were putting toward that payment and roll it onto the next-smallest debt owed.

The Avalanche Method

When applying the avalanche debt repayment method, you first pay the highest interest rate loans. Once that loan is paid off, you put that money toward the account with the next highest interest rate until you are done. Then you repeat the process.

The Hybrid Method

First apply the snowball method, paying off the loan with the smallest balance. After gaining the confidence you need to see the plan through, switch to the avalanche method.

You'll have the best of both worlds, the psychological boost of paying off a debt and then the most mathematically effective approach to tackling your debts.

Debt Creating Marital Problems

Is there a particular debt that sparks heated conversations or tension between you two? Maybe it’s a high-interest credit card that you can’t seem to make a dent in or a car loan that feels like it’s draining your monthly budget. Payoff that debt first, for the sake of your marriage.

Credit Card Debt Reduction Resources

Credit Card Debt Snowball Calculator and Credit Credit Debt Avalanche Calculator

Click here to access the calculator.

Credit Card Minimum Payment Calculator

Click here to access the calculator.

Ten Conversation Prompts to Begin the Conversation

"I'm stressed about our credit card debt. How do you feel about it, and how can we work together to address it?"

"How important is it for us to pay off our debt? Where does this goal fit among our other financial priorities?"

"Can we go through our monthly spending together and identify areas where we might cut back to allocate more towards our debt?"

"What are some realistic goals we can set for reducing our debt? Do we want to aim for a certain amount to pay off each month?"

"Should we consider methods like the snowball or avalanche method for paying down our debt? Which strategy feels more doable for us?"

"How can we adjust our current income and expenditures to better manage our debt? Are there any additional sources of income we can tap into?"

"What system can we put in place to monitor our spending and keep each other accountable without feeling like we’re policing each other?"

"How shall we celebrate small victories as we pay down our debt? What kind of rewards would motivate us without setting us back financially?"

"If we hit a setback, how should we handle it? What steps can we take to stay on track or readjust our plan if needed?"

"Once we've tackled our credit card debt, what are our next steps to ensure we maintain our financial health and avoid falling back into debt?"

Seek Professional Help if Needed

How to Reduce Credit Card Debt in Your Marriage

I support couples who want to better manage money or the home as a team in their relationship.

I'm the only Accredited Financial Counselor® and Fair Play Facilitator®, empowering high-achieving couples with systems to manage money and the home as a team — drawn from decades of national leadership and lived experience.

Click here to learn more about me and how I can help.

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