I think each partner in a couple should have a cash stash or a checking account of their own or SOME money that they don't have to be accountable for. I think most household financial advice experts will say this.
I know many couples where each has his/her own account and pays a proportion into a joint household account. Other couples pool everything. I've done it both ways. I like it better when my money is separate. But in my recent marriage we pooled everything, and there was never any conflict over money. In my first marriage, many years ago, there was constant conflict over money. He took care of it and we fought over money all the time.
There should be nothing morally wrong or questionable about wanting your own checking account. Why don't each of you open one? Each of you can save up for presents for the other, for special trips, or just treats of some kind. Try not to make it a harbinger of bad things to come.
I like Lou's approach.
And then of course, there's Lady Bird Johnson, who said, "I wouldn't have a joint checking account with the Archangel Gabriel."
