Financial Abuse: The Hidden Form of Control

Financial abuse occurs in 99 percent of domestic violence cases, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence. Yet it is one of the least recognized forms of abuse. It does not leave bruises, and it often happens in silence. But financial abuse is devastatingly effective at trapping victims in harmful situations by stripping away their ability to be financially independent.

What Is Financial Abuse?

Financial abuse is a form of interpersonal violence that occurs when one intimate partner has control over the other's access to financial resources, which diminishes the victim's capacity to support himself or herself and forces him or her to depend on the perpetrator financially. It is also known as economic abuse or financial exploitation.

Financial abuse is a form of control. The perpetrator uses the victim's money and assets to exert power over them, usually with the goal of gaining and maintaining control over the victim.

Financial abuse can be subtle and hard to detect — it often occurs in silence, without obvious signs of wrongdoing. Victims may feel embarrassed or ashamed about speaking up because they fear being judged by others as needing help. In addition, victims may feel ashamed about having financial problems, believing they are responsible for these difficulties alone.

How Financial Abuse Shows Up

• Controlling access to money - Limiting or monitoring how the victim spends money, giving an "allowance," or requiring them to ask permission for purchases.
• Preventing employment - Sabotaging job interviews, forcing the victim to quit their job, or creating obstacles to career advancement.
• Running up debt - Opening credit cards in the victim's name or coercing them into taking on debt.
• Hiding assets - Keeping financial information secret so the victim does not know the full picture of shared finances.
• Using money as punishment or reward - Withholding funds when the victim "misbehaves" or rewarding compliance with financial access.

Why Financial Abuse Is So Effective

Financial abuse works because it removes the practical means to leave. Without access to money, savings, or credit, victims often feel trapped. Many also carry shame about their financial situation, which can prevent them from reaching out for help. Understanding that financial abuse is a deliberate tactic of control, not a personal failing, is an important part of breaking free.

How Can Peer Support Help With Financial Abuse?

Financial abuse is a serious problem and one that can be difficult to identify. It may occur in any relationship, but it is most common in long-term marriages or relationships. The financial abuse survivor needs to know that they have options for seeking out help and support. Peer support can offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process what has happened and begin rebuilding.

How ShareWell Supports Survivors of Financial Abuse

At ShareWell, our peer support groups offer a safe, non-judgmental space where survivors of financial abuse can share their experiences and begin to rebuild. Connecting with peers who have been through similar situations helps reduce shame, provides practical insight, and reminds you that you are not alone. Recovery from financial abuse takes time, and having a supportive community alongside you makes the journey less overwhelming.

Ready to connect with others who understand? Join an online support group today.

To view our sessions on Financial Stress, click here.