Over two million Brits are left in debt after a break up, with a total of 1.2 billion in credit card debt between them across the country, according to uSwitch.com.
Let's start with credits cards and mortgage payments
On average, per couple, there is £457 left on credit cards when a break up takes place. Clearing this debt takes as long as a year to get rid of and in the worst cases actually takes longer than the relationship, with some who need 5 years to get back in the black.
This is just the beginning, for some exes the costs are not all in one place- with an average of £463 in joint mortgage debt, £313 in joint current accounts and £327 in online shopping accounts.
This could get even worse if both parties forget to cancel joint accounts and financial products post-split, with many being guilty of leaving such as this open for 5 years after they went their separate ways.
More worryingly, a third shared a pin code with their ex-partner and forgot to change it and 19% had a shared credit card they didn't cancel after they broke up.
The research shows that Brits are neglecting the 'financial conversation' before talking out joint financial products or discussing each other's spending history.
While sharing finances can be a positive step in a relationship and an easier way to manage outgoings and income, if things goes sour, it can be the worst decision a couple ever makes.
50% of people who have shared a finical product with etheir partner say that it has had a massive effect on their own finances and their credit score has worsened as a result.
Nicolas Frankcom, money expert at uSwitch.com said: "When it comes to finances, only fools rush in. Money might not be the sexiest pillow talk, but not addressing it can lead to financial, as well as emotional, heartache further down the line. Being left with debts that last longer than the relationship only rubs salt in the wound after a breakup.
"The reality is that couples can remain financially linked by their credit report long after a relationship breaks down and an account has been cancelled. If you do nothing else, make sure you keep a check on your own credit report so you can spot anything unusual on it. If you do break up with your partner, make sure to close all shared accounts and contact each of the three main credit agencies to remove any financial links between you and your ex."
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