Financial abuse is present in 99% of all abusive relationships but it can be difficult to recognize because it often starts subtly. What may seem like support, generosity, or “taking care of you” can gradually become control.
What Is Financial Abuse?
Financial abuse occurs when one person uses money, employment, credit, or financial resources to control another person. The goal is often to create dependence and make it harder for someone to live independently or leave the relationship.
Common examples include:
- Preventing a partner from working
- Controlling how money is spent
- Restricting access to bank accounts or savings
- Opening credit cards or loans in someone else’s name
- Withholding child support or other financial obligations
Financial abuse doesn’t just affect a bank account. It can damage credit, limit employment opportunities, and make it difficult to secure housing or meet basic needs.
Financial Abuse vs. Healthy Financial Support
Healthy relationships can include shared finances and one partner supporting the other. The difference is independence.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have access to my own money?
- Can I make financial decisions without fear of consequences?
- Can I review my accounts and financial information freely?
- If I say “no,” what happens?
A helpful question is: Is this support, or is it control? Someone who genuinely wants to support your financially will not punish you for maintaining financial independence.
Financial abuse often leaves people feeling trapped, isolated, and powerless. But recognizing the signs is an important first step. Everyone deserves access to their own resources, the ability to make financial choices, and the freedom to build a secure future without control or coercion.
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/
Morris County, NJ 24-Hour Helpline & Referral: 1.877.782.2873
Passaic County, NJ 24-Hour Helpline & Referral: 1.973.881.1450
