Financial Control as Abuse: How to Spot Economic Exploitation at Home
- LegalEASE DVA Taskforce
- Jul 21
- 2 min read
When we think of abuse, physical or emotional harm often comes to mind. But abuse can also take the form of economic exploitation—a subtle yet deeply damaging form of control that can trap individuals into unhealthy or dangerous relationships. Financial abuse is often overlooked, but it’s a powerful tool used by abusers to dominate and isolate their partners.
What Is Financial Abuse?
Financial abuse involves controlling a person’s ability to acquire, use, and maintain financial resources. It can happen in romantic relationships, family dynamics, or even between roommates or caregivers. The goal is to create dependency and limit the victim’s freedom.
Common Signs of Financial Abuse
Here are some red flags that may indicate financial control is being used as a form of abuse:
1. Restricted Access to Money
The abuser controls all bank accounts.
The victim must ask for money or justify every expense.
The abuser gives an “allowance” and monitors spending.
2. Sabotaging Employment
Preventing the victim from working or attending job interviews.
Harassing them at work to get them fired.
Discouraging career advancement or education.
3. Stealing or Misusing Funds
Using the victim’s credit cards without permission.
Forcing them to sign financial documents or loans.
Draining joint accounts or hiding assets.
4. Creating Financial Dependency
Making the victim quit their job.
Refusing to contribute to shared expenses.
Keeping the victim in the dark about household finances.
5. Manipulating Debt
Racking up debt in the victim’s name.
Refusing to pay bills to ruin their credit.
Using financial threats to control behavior.
Why It’s So Dangerous
Financial abuse can leave victims feeling trapped, especially if they have children, no income, or poor credit. It can make it nearly impossible to leave an abusive situation, find housing, or rebuild independence.
How to Protect Yourself or Someone You Know
If you suspect financial abuse, here are steps to consider:
Document everything: Keep records of financial transactions, communications, and any evidence of control.
Open a separate bank account: If safe to do so, start building financial independence.
Seek support: Contact domestic violence hotlines, financial counselors, or legal aid services.
Create a safety plan: Especially if leaving the relationship could escalate the abuse.
Resources
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (US): https://www.thehotline.org/
- WomensLaw.Org: Financial Abuse | WomensLaw.org
- The Exodus Project: https://www.theexodusproject.com/resourcesemergencyassistance/
