can a spouse control all money in a marriage? If the other doesn’t agree

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can a spouse control all money in a marriage? If the other doesn’t agree

My husband refused to give me new credit cards after our computers were hacked. Also, refuses to put my name on accounts and investments. Is that legal?

Asked on September 17, 2019 under Family Law, Michigan

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 5 years ago | Contributor

Yes, one spouse can do this. The law does not get involved in a couple's finances or domestic relations unless and until there is a divorce case filed--without a divorce (or possibly legal separation, depending on the state) case, the court and law have no authority to tell the members of a married couple how to live their lives, how to treat each other, etc. So he does not have to give you credit cards or put your name on the accounts or investments, just like if you have your own job or income, you can keep your money away from him (e.g. in your own account; have your own credit card; etc.). If you end up in a divorce case, then the court wil divide assets and assign support, but not until then.


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