Conflicts over cash have a negative impact on the relationships of nearly 18 million (32 per cent) adults in the UK, with money issues and bill splitting creating tension among families, couples and friends.

N26 polled 2,000 people to find out how often they argued about money. It found partners bear the brunt of financial conflicts, with a third (32 per cent) of people saying they are most likely to argue with their other half over money.

Those aged 25 to 34-years-old, who may be looking to plan a wedding, purchase a property or start a family, are fighting the most, with almost half (44 per cent) admitting that finances have caused friction with their partner.

Important life milestones are also creating tension, with money issues causing more than one in six (15 per cent) to fight with their family.

A third (32 per cent) of 18 to 24-year olds, who may be negotiating with their parents over the cost of attending university, moving out of the family home or buying a car, are falling out with their family over finances.

Splitting bills

Day-to-day money dilemmas, such as how to split bills, are also creating conflicts. Nearly half (47 per cent) of adults have taken the hit and paid a joint bill in full at least once just to avoid arguments.

Young people in particular disagree about bills with more than half (51 per cent) of 18 to 24-year olds and 55 per cent of 25 to 34-year-olds having argued about paying or splitting a bill.

More broadly, young people are worried about everyday spending; more than half (57 per cent) of 18 to 24-year-olds are concerned about paying for basic items like food, while a third (33 per cent) are worrying about household utility bills.

Will Sorby, UK general manager at N26, said: “When you’re feeling the heat of financial pressure it’s easy to see why those closest to us suffer the fallout of associated stress and anxiety. Whether you’re trying to buy a house or reining in your guilty spending pleasures, money issues are often at the heart of tensions with loved ones.

“Day to day, we have all experienced that sinking feeling when the bill arrives after dinner and drinks, or when you’ve spent too much at the weekend. Life is stressful enough without quibbling over the rent or splitting the bill, where arguments can be easily avoided by using new financial tools and apps. N26’s instant spending alerts and financial goal-setting and budgeting function, Spaces, helps people stay ahead of their spending and feel in control of their finances.”