<prompt> Human: To break it down: 4,000 in cash 16,000 in savings We have two cars, both paid but old. Going to sell one. Were going to drive to CO and plan on fitting everything in one car. We have student loans lets say 70,000 between the two of us we plan on fully attacking these first to get them paid off using the snowball method. Weve been interviewing and plan on having a job before we head over there. We plan on renting a one bedroom in either Lakewood or Lowry. Or somewhere close to Denver. Were pretty minimalistic and frugal, we enjoy the simple life. We plan on buying everything once were there furniture, household needs etc... Its our first time living alone, any financial or just general advice for us?  <response>: I know you love each other, but the two of you be honest about the fact that you could break up. Mingled finances will make that messy, and especially painful if one just bugs out in a snit. Obviously the same thing happens in divorce, but at least then law and lawyers are around to give some structure. No such luck with shacking up.The only advice I have is: both of you make a budget, live on the budget the one making the most money should put hisher name solely on the lease, and keep your finances separate including savings, even for a car andor house DP, but have a joint checking account solely for this months bills that you contribute to proportionately to your income. Thatll have to be adjusted as your wages change over time.The reason I suggest a common expense account is to forestall why didnt you pay your half of the light bill? arguments. 