X17 XCLUSIVE - Heidi Montag Files For Separation Over Money Issues

Heidi Montag filed for legal separation from hubby Spencer Pratt at the Santa Monica Courthouse this morning, and even though we couldn't believe it at first, this doesn't appear to be another publicity stunt. Judging by the solemn look on Heidi's bare and slightly puffy face (not to mention the fact that she's not wearing her wedding ring!), the reality starlet was in a decidedly glum mood as she left the courthouse with legal docs in hand.

A legal separation means that Heidi's earnings will become hers alone after the date of separation, and one of Heidi's close pals tells X17online exclusively:

"Heidi makes way more money than Spencer, and she wants to protect her finances. She's a Christian girl and she isn't ready to file for divorce just yet. The legal separation papers will solve the money problems, but other than that, she hasn't talked to Spencer in over a week."

That makes sense, but this couple hasn't exactly been 100% honest with the public when it comes to their relationship over the years. Is it possible that this is just another attempt to fool the press? After hearing the news, Hills co-star Audrina Patridge told X17online, "They always seem to want attention, so you never know what's real and fake with them."

What do you guys think? This seems pretty official to us, as Heidi cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for separating: