The long-term happiness of a couple may depend on how they tackle the tough issues of family finance. This book gives the help couples need to understand the options for such fundamental financial functions as checking accounts, household budgeting, basic insurance coverages, how to file tax returns, developing reserves for the kids' needs and will preparation.

With the same common-sense approach, Coghill and Pattak also address more complex financial issues, including investment options and estate planning, and the special concerns that apply to those in second marriages-and those unmarried living together.

Because regular communication is vital to any relationship, the authors close each chapter with a section called ''Pillow Talk,'' an entertaining but useful communication exercise for couples. Spiced by profiles of actual couples offering their solutions to the financial challenges of marriage, this book is the gift every couple should have.