Kids and Financial Rewards
The problem: Your husband thinks your child should get money for making good grades; you think that's paying your child just for doing what she's supposed to do.

The solution: Financially rewarding a child for good grades isn't as outrageous as it may seem, says Rich. "In the adult world, we are paid for performance," he points out, "and we get more money when we perform better." But he cautions that for a cash reward to work, parents must set specific conditions: The academic goal must be realistic, and you pay only if the exact goal is achieved. If this still makes you uncomfortable, try limiting the reward to a small dollar amount or rewarding your child with a treat, such as a trip to an amusement park.

Fiscal Infidelity
The problem: You hide purchases from each other or keep secret accounts. If you can relate, you're not alone: In a recent survey by Redbook magazine and lawyers.com, 29 percent of adults questioned said they had been dishonest with a spouse about money. Once the financial cheating comes to light, it can have a devastating effect on a marriage.

The solution: As with physical infidelity, rebuilding trust can be a long, difficult process. "Financial infidelity leads to distrust," says Rich, as well as doubt that the two of you can function again as a team. Your first task is to establish some new ground rules. Maybe you'll always let each other know when one of you is planning a big purchase, or you'll limit the amount of money in a separate account. Bottom line: Do talk openly and try not to judge each other's need for a little financial privacy.