Financial Abuse is Domestic Abuse

Financial abuse is the most pervasive form of domestic abuse, affecting nearly 99% of total domestic violence cases. 

Why is it important to address financial abuse? Manipulating money and other economic resources is one of the most prominent forms of coercive control. Lack of access to economic resources is often why many abuse victims feel that they have no choice but to stay with an abuser. Economic barriers to leaving can result in staying with an abusive partner for longer and experiencing greater danger. Economic abuse doesn’t rely on physical proximity, so it can continue after separation. Those who finally leave an abusive partner are often left in debt or lack the financial security to rebuild their lives after leaving.

How to identify financial abuse – Financial abuse is a subtler form of abuse. It can be more difficult to identify and observe than emotional abuse or overt violence. Some examples of this include:

• Taking your money or stealing from you.
• Sabotaging your job – calling constantly or making you miss work.
• Preventing you from choosing your own career or working.
• Withholding necessities, such as shelter, medications, clothes, and food.
• Withholding credit cards or using yours without permission.
• Rigidly controlling your finances.