Is the house "his" or "yours"? (Meaning...are you on the title and/or mortgage?)

If it's only in his name, then you could find an apartment if you choose to move out. Would you be able to move to a lower cost of living area?

If it's only in your name, could you sell it fairly easily?

Regardless, it sounds like you have a good plan, which is wonderful. I'm glad you're seeking counseling. Good luck!

I agree that counseling is a good idea.

Any way to increase income or decrease expenses?

It actually is "my" house. He is not on either the deed or the mortgage. I did, however, accept assistance from the government (Save the Dream) to keep my house from being foreclosed on, and his name is on that paperwork. I have 3.5 years before I would be eligible to sell it without having to pay back that assistance.

If I were to find myself single, I would absolutely be able to increase my income.

Hmm. One more thing to do this week...make sure I know exactly where all the money in our joint account is going!

Further down the line, would a roommate be a possibility?

And yes, it's very important to know where the money in your joint account is going. In fact, I'd probably look over past statements as well for any unusual activity.

You should also be able to set it up so that you get an alert (email and/or text) every time there is a transaction on the account. That way you know right away if he purchased something.

What is it about being married that's limiting your income now?  Just curious.

It isn't my income that's limited, it's the way the income is spent. We've not been able to agree on how to spend some of the money. That and he doesn't want me to work a second job.

That makes sense, if you were on your own then anything you made would be spent at your discretion.