Diana says...
Playing hide-and-seek with purchases is a no win situation. Treating yourself to small purchases here and there won’t send your partner over the edge, but frequent shopping secrets can lead to problems in both your personal and financial life. First of all, using plastic for impulse shopping habits can quickly push credit card balances out of control. Secondly, as you discovered, sparks can fly over surprise credit card expenses. Boost your relationship with your partner by discussing how much joint income you have, how much money you have left over for spending each month and what your financial goals are.

Diana Cawfield is an award-winning financial writer with more than 10 years experience. Send her your questions here.