In view of the complex financial situation in patchwork families, the 3-account model is recommended for managing finances. Behind this is a simple recommendation: both partners ideally keep their own personal checking account for their wage and salary payments, child support, alimony payments, pocket money, etc. For joint finances, a joint account is opened to handle rent, household expenses, vacations and similar expenses. The 3-account model helps to keep track of everything and divide joint expenses fairly.