Many thanks to all who have replied to my concerns. One more question. If we separate finances, what should I do about mortgage payments? The house is in both our names. If I separate paychecks and expenses (we each earn about the same amount of money as the other) what should we do about the mortgage? How should we pay that and rent on an apartment? Am I right to be worried that if I stopped payment on the mortgage and left her to pay it since she's living in the house I would be at a disadvantage on distribution of property if we get a divorce?
We aren't in credit card debt. We can pay our bills so far, and she did sell assets in her name to put cash into our joint accounts, saying "neither one of us should worry about money at this time." However, my concern is where we might be 3 months from now if we/she continue at this pace. We won't be broke, but if a divorce happens three or so months from now (who knows, it may be longer, or never?) I will walk away with very little cash. Her parents are wealthy enough to buy her any new house she wants, and give her all the money she wants/needs for retail therapy. As I noted before, however, part of her MLC is trying to gain a sense of self-confidence and independence, so maybe she wouldn't want their money. She's been very dependent on them financially for much of her life.
I suppose we sell the house, and I would get furniture, etc. that we've jointly accumulated. Maybe I'm over-worried about this; a lack of money has always been a fear of mine.
Many thanks to all, and I wish you well in whatever your situation is.
