Hi Ladies, I really just read the thread & post based upon my needs, but I could not let this pass.
A ring is wonderful thing to have, however the ring can not be the foundation on your relationship and marriage. No matter what happens in life we will always have bills and debt issues. Ask yourself this question: if he pay off his bills or debt and buy a ring, then 6 months later his finaces are out of order again what is he going to do, leave because his finaces are not in order. My point is this: A man will hide behind the fiance excuse because they are not ready or afraid to make the next step. I don't know your guy and this may not be the case. I notice you said his money is not where he wants it to be, it may never be , but he will always have you (IF HE LOOK AT THE BIGGER PICTURE) because love is sooooo much greater then money.
Often as females we get caught up in weddings and the ring because our friends expect us to to produce something grand. Sometimes friends and family make comments about dating too long etc.... and we fall into a trap.
I would advise you too to seek pre-marital classess to discuss some issues because he may have more issues to discuss and don't know how to bring it up. My guy and I did pre-marital w/o rings, not even engaged at the time, we had talked about marriage. That was the best thing for us because they covered so many things such as money,sex, aging parents, children, household chores and why men and women have fears about marriage.
My closing remarks: Do not give into the hype about a ring or having a big fancy wedding, because in do time you will have all of that and more. The ring can not make a marrige work,it can not fix your problems or bring happiness into your household. Before you seek to do any planning or prep yourselF for a wedding or ring seek pre-martial help because their are some hidden issues on the table. If he is not willing , then I advise you to think about what you want and are you willing to stay on his time leaving in the unknown. Do some soul searching, because your feelings & needs are important also. I hope and pray that my post is helpful to you.