Half of Brits secretly save for breakups: The rise of the ‘independence fund’ generation

Love might be in the air, but so is caution. According to new research from Novuna Personal Finance, half of UK adults – that’s nearly 27 million people – admit to having an ‘independence fund’: a secret stash of savings set aside specifically in case their relationship breaks down.

Percentage of people in UK cities with ‘independence funds’ 

A staggering 17 million Brits (31%) are currently hiding entire savings accounts from their partners, with secret balances averaging £4,739 – revealing a quiet financial revolution where people want to be prepared for the worst. 

Even though 86% of people say financial honesty is important in a relationship, Brits are still treading with caution when it comes to their finances. 43% confess they’re not telling the whole truth about money and 42% have made major purchases in secret.
 

Britain’s Biggest Financial Secrets

Among those keeping money matters hidden, the most common secrets include:

•    Hidden savings or investments (51%)
•    Concealed salaries or bonuses (39%)
•    Secret splurges on self-indulgent treats (33%)

Young Brits Leading a Relationship Rethink

Millennials and Gen Z are redrawing the lines of love and money. Among 25- to 34-year-olds, a huge 79% have an independence fund, and 67% admit to making large purchases without telling their partner.

Yet at the same time, this age group is also more forward-thinking and prioritises financial security. One in four (25%) say the most attractive money trait in a partner is being a savvy investor. And if handed an unexpected £10,000 windfall, 40% would invest every penny – more than any other age group.

But it's not all about going it alone. One in three (34%) young adults now have fully merged finances with their partner – a higher rate than among over-55s (24%) – suggesting that financial teamwork is alive and well among younger couples, even as they seek autonomy.

Financial Openness: The New Relationship Goal

Despite all the secrecy, it’s clear that couples want to be more financially honest and empowered. 89% of Brits feel financially compatible with their partner, and the average couple talks money seven times a month.

And when it comes to big decisions, Brits are becoming more financially self-aware:

•    44% would reconsider a relationship if their partner tried to control their finances

•    40% say overspending is their number one red flag in a partner

•    20% would save every penny of a surprise £10,000 – showing just how far financial discipline has come

Theresa Lindsay, Chief Marketing Officer at Novuna Personal Finance, commented:

“There’s a quiet shift happening in relationships today – financial independence is becoming just as important as emotional connection. While many couples are still working together to build their future, more people are also putting individual safeguards in place, just in case.

“The positive takeaway here is that Brits are becoming more financially empowered – but transparency and trust still matter. Open conversations about money are the foundation for any long-term relationship.”