Last year a friend applied for a one year extension based on marriage and his income. His wife was asked to produce evidence of her income even though his income was over 40,000. (They weren't using the joint income option that was available at that time.) Are spouses being asked for this evidence? or was this an awkward officer?

Yes, she would need to provide proof of her income, such as tax statements, etc. Otherwise anyone could say they have 40k+ income without evidence. As far as I know the "wife's income" option is no longer available this year however.

"Yes, she would need to provide proof of her income, such as tax statements, etc. Otherwise anyone could say they have 40k+ income without evidence. As far as I know the "wife's income" option is no longer available this year however."

I don't think that's right. If he's using his income, which the OP says is the case, that implies that he has the needed tax statements or letter from his embassy.

That being the case, it was not a listed requirement for her to show her income.

As stated, that's now history.

"Yes, she would need to provide proof of her income, such as tax statements, etc. Otherwise anyone could say they have 40k+ income without evidence. As far as I know the "wife's income" option is no longer available this year however."

I don't think that's right. If he's using his income, which the OP says is the case, that implies that he has the needed tax statements or letter from his embassy.

That being the case, it was not a listed requirement for her to show her income.

As stated, that's now history.

Yes. Wife's income is no longer accepted. Has to be the husbands money/income.

I expect it was the officer asking for further assurance. The system seems to be that the interviewing officer is on the hook for your status so they like to be sure before they sign off.