Living on one income may be feasible, but the biggest costs often extend beyond monthly expenses, says financial blogger Dawn Cher. Couples who decide one partner will stop working may overlook the need for savings and buffers in case of unforeseen difficulties, as well as the less visible impacts of pausing a career.

Cher shares a personal experience: after the birth of her second son, she took a career break to focus on breastfeeding and recovery, having planned financially for this step. Similarly, a friend recently resigned to stay home with a newborn, relying solely on her husband's income.

Cher notes that some individuals pause their careers due to burnout or to start businesses that may not generate immediate income.

However, returning to work can be challenging. A 2017 regional survey by recruitment firm Robert Walters found that nearly half of hiring managers in Singapore had not hired a single returning woman in the past year. Many returning workers face changed job expectations, salaries, industry conditions, or employer perceptions. Some even find their previous roles or careers no longer exist, partly due to advances in artificial intelligence.

Cher also reflects on her upbringing with both parents working, which involved reliance on nannies, domestic helpers, and tuition teachers.

These factors underscore the complex financial and professional considerations couples must weigh when one partner stops working.

Sources

CNA Latest News: The hidden costs when one partner stops working