In the world of financial planning, the most powerful strategy isn't found in complex investment schemes or trendy market trends—it's about teamwork.

Douglas A. Boneparth, president of Bone Fide Wealth, has a compelling message for couples approaching 2026: stay actively involved in your finances together. With over two decades of experience as a financial advisor, Boneparth has witnessed firsthand the critical importance of mutual financial engagement, a lesson he learned dramatically during his own relationship journey.

The risks of financial disengagement can be profound. When one partner handles all financial responsibilities, the entire family becomes vulnerable. Imagine a scenario where illness, unexpected death, or divorce suddenly leaves the less-informed spouse scrambling to understand accounts, passwords, and complex financial plans. This nightmare scenario has played out countless times in Boneparth's professional experience, motivating him to advocate for collaborative financial management.

During the pandemic, Boneparth experienced this challenge personally. His wife Heather, a high-powered lawyer juggling multiple professional and family responsibilities, found herself disconnecting from their household finances. The physical and emotional labor she was carrying made money feel like one additional burden she couldn't manage—a situation that threatened their financial and relationship stability.

Their breakthrough came through honest communication. Heather courageously expressed that their current financial arrangement wasn't working, which prompted deep conversations about career goals, labor division, and team-based financial planning. This personal experience inspired the couple to spend two years interviewing other couples, ultimately co-authoring the book 'Money Together: How to Find Fairness in Your Relationship and Become an Unstoppable Financial Team'.

The core message is simple yet profound: effective financial communication isn't just about numbers—it's about partnership, transparency, and shared goals. By engaging together, couples can transform money management from a potential source of stress into an opportunity for deeper connection and mutual understanding.

For couples looking to strengthen their financial foundation in 2026, Boneparth's advice is clear: commit to staying mutually involved, have regular conversations about money, and view financial planning as a collaborative journey. The rewards extend far beyond balanced budgets—they can fundamentally enhance relationship trust and shared life vision.

As a member of CNBC's Financial Advisor Council, Boneparth brings credibility and compassion to this message. His work demonstrates that the most sophisticated financial strategy is remarkably straightforward: work as a team, communicate openly, and approach money as a shared resource and opportunity.