Annie’s Mailbox: New hubby’s debt now yours

Dear Annie: Two months ago, I married “Aiden” after more than a year of dating. He’s a loving husband and I am happy. The problem is, Aiden’s financial life is a mess. He owes back taxes, has credit card debt and forgets to pay his bills.

I’m extremely organized with my money, pay all my bills promptly and have money saved. I don’t owe anybody a dime. How can I protect myself from Aiden’s messy financial life? Will this affect my ability to get a loan? As a married couple, is our financial life now “one”? Please help me. – Worried in Hawaii

Dear Hawaii: If you have combined accounts, you may be legally responsible for all of Aiden’s debts. It might be wise for you to keep separate accounts until Aiden’s credit cards are paid off and his taxes are straightened out. His credit rating also can affect your ability to buy a house or get a loan in the future. Until Aiden can learn to be more financially responsible, it would be a good idea for you to handle the money. The two of you also should get some credit counseling so you can up a budget while pulling Aiden out of debt. Contact the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (nfcc.org) at (800) 388-2227.

Dear Annie: Last August I met the man of my dreams. I thought I had finally found someone to spend the rest of my life with. “Boyd” works alternate 12-hour shifts. Right now, he is working nights. I know he is tired when he comes home, but lately he has been distant. When I question him, he says he is exhausted. Annie, I know in my heart that something is wrong, but he won’t talk to me.

It is really hard for me to sleep alone, so I don’t fall asleep until a few hours before he gets home. I thought returning to bed when Boyd does would be a way for us to share time together, but lately, he doesn’t seem to care if I join him or not. I have noticed the same attitude with other things that used to be special between us.

We no longer hold hands or share looks the way two people in love do. Is he trying in his own way to tell me it is over, or am I just paranoid because of my past lousy experiences? – Lost

Dear Lost: It’s possible Boyd is simply exhausted, and when you wait up for him, he feels pressured to “perform,” which makes him resentful. (Some men misinterpret cuddling as a sexual advance.) We recommend you give him some space, while making your home a relaxing refuge for him. If something else is going on, you will find out soon enough.