the reason i ask this question is.. what if you know your spouse is really greedy and considers that all the expenses should be split in half even though he makes 5 times more than you make.
each time you spend your own money or make a large purchase (not exceeding $250), you are always criticized, however he expects you to spend your money on him (purchasing hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise) and he buys you stuff from walmart (changing the gift boxes to make it appear as if he spends alot on it). **
Prior to marriage**, when you purchased a vehicle, he flipped out because it was so expensive and he has also borrowed several thousands of dollars (prior to marriage) but never returned it.
Obviously the warning signs were present before marriage, but what do you do now that you are married?
Kahtifa, it can't really be an "equal" split if he makes five times more money than you.
Here's an idea...although I don't know how well it would work. You and him can have a joint account....and a personal account. And if you're working....you can contribute a set portion of your pay check into the joint account. The remaining amount of your pay check can go into your PERSONAL ACCOUNT (which he should not and will not have access to). The money in your "joint account" can be spent on household expenses and joint activities (such as eating out, vacations, etc).
For personal expenses (let's say you want to buy yourself a car...or clothes...etc)......you can take from your personal account. That way....hopefully....he won't throw a fit if you want to treat yourself to a nice outfit because the money came from your own personal account.
************ I'm getting the vibe that you're feeling stressed about your husband's behavior. If your husband's obsession over money and expenditures are casing a strain over the marriage..........PLEASE.......talk to him about this issue and make him aware of how you feel. I understand that the economy is under strain and that times are tough for everyone, but money should not be taking priority over relationships.