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Financial planning for newlyweds
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December 14, 2001: 5:13 p.m. ET
Going to the chapel? Remember to talk about how you behave at the bank.
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NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - So you're getting married...if so, you may want to take the stars out of your eyes -- for just a little while, at least -- and deal with a few financial considerations. It's an especially good idea to sit down and talk money with your honey if you're dealing with joint assets, joint bank accounts and joint taxes for the first time.
Couples need to talk about money to get started on the right financial footing together. Before you get hitched, pay off old debts, set aside an emergency fund and talk about your spending style together. Read below for a few other tips to help ease the transition when you're marrying your finances as well as your hearts.
Finances for newlyweds
1) Make a pre- or post-nuptial agreement. They allow each party to hold on to assets they believe are theirs.
2) Build an estate plan. Make a will, a living will, a healthcare proxy and power-of-attorney documents.
3) Get out of expensive debt. Pay off and control credit-card debt.
4) Set a budget. Hammer out financial goals. Agree on investing strategies.
5) Max out your retirement plans. Contribute to workplace plans and investigate IRA opportunities.
6) Set aside an emergency fund. Put three to six months' of expenses in a savings or money market account.
7) Review medical coverage. Check and see who has the better medical plan.
8) Review insurance policies. Check beneficiaries, look for discounts in auto and homeowners' insurance. 
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