Financial Abuse: What It Looks Like and How to Recognise the Signs

Financial abuse is one of the most overlooked forms of domestic abuse, yet it is one of the most powerful ways an abuser can gain and maintain control. It often happens alongside emotional, psychological or physical abuse, but it can also occur on its own. 

At Non Violentiam CIC, we support women, mothers and families affected by all forms of domestic abuse, including financial control. Understanding what financial abuse looks like is an important step in recognising unhealthy relationships and accessing support. 

What Is Financial Abuse? 

Financial abuse is a pattern of controlling a person’s access to money, financial resources, or financial independence. It is used to limit freedom, create dependency, and prevent someone from leaving a relationship. 

It can happen in intimate relationships, families, or situations where one person has power over another’s finances. 

Financial abuse is not always obvious. In many cases, it builds gradually over time. 

What Financial Abuse Can Look Like 

Financial abuse can take many forms, including: 

• Controlling all household income and spending 

• Giving an “allowance” and monitoring every purchase 

• Preventing someone from working or studying 

• Forcing someone to quit their job 

• Taking wages, benefits, or bank cards 

• Building debt in someone else’s name 

• Refusing to contribute to household bills 

• Hiding financial information 

• Not allowing access to bank accounts 

• Using a partner’s money without permission 

• Damaging credit scores intentionally 

• Pressuring someone to sign loans or contracts 

• Withholding money for essentials like food, transport, or medication 

Over time, this behaviour creates dependency and reduces a person’s ability to leave or make independent decisions. 

Signs You May Be Experiencing Financial Abuse 

You may be experiencing financial abuse if you: 

• Have no control over your own money 

• Need permission to spend even small amounts 

• Feel anxious about asking for money 

• Don’t know how much money you or your household has 

• Have had your wages or benefits taken from you 

• Are not allowed to work or study 

• Have debt you did not agree to 

• Feel trapped because you cannot afford to leave 

• Are constantly blamed for financial problems 

Financial abuse often goes hand in hand with emotional abuse, including guilt, intimidation and manipulation. 

Why Financial Abuse Is So Powerful 

Financial abuse is particularly damaging because it removes independence. 

Even if someone recognises the abuse, they may feel unable to leave because: 

• They have no access to money 

• They are in debt 

• They are financially dependent on the abuser 

• They are responsible for children or housing costs 

• They fear homelessness or instability 

This form of control is often used deliberately to keep someone trapped in the relationship. 

Financial Abuse in Different Forms of Relationships 

While financial abuse is commonly associated with intimate partner relationships, it can also occur in other settings: 

• Family members controlling inheritance or benefits 

• Adult children controlling elderly parents’ finances 

• Carers managing money without consent 

• Joint business or shared financial arrangements used as control 

Financial abuse is always about power and control, regardless of the relationship. 

The Impact of Financial Abuse 

The effects of financial abuse can be long-lasting and far-reaching. Survivors may experience: 

• Debt and poor credit history 

• Anxiety and stress around money 

• Loss of independence 

• Difficulty finding housing 

• Barriers to employment 

• Low self-esteem and confidence 

• Ongoing financial instability after leaving 

Even after a relationship ends, rebuilding financial stability can take time and support. 

How Financial Abuse Links to Other Forms of Abuse 

Financial abuse rarely exists in isolation. 

It is often connected to: 

• Emotional abuse (guilt, threats, humiliation) 

• Coercive control (monitoring and restricting freedom) 

• Physical abuse (threats or violence used to enforce control) 

• Psychological abuse (manipulation and fear tactics) 

Together, these behaviours create a pattern of control that can be difficult to recognise at first. 

Can Financial Abuse Be a Crime? 

Yes. In the UK, financial abuse can be part of coercive or controlling behaviour, which is a criminal offence. 

This includes restricting access to money, controlling spending, and preventing someone from working or accessing financial resources. 

If you are unsure whether your situation meets a legal threshold, specialist domestic abuse services can help you understand your options. 

What You Can Do If You Are Experiencing Financial Abuse 

If it is safe to do so, you may want to consider: 

• Speaking to a trusted friend or professional 

• Opening a separate bank account (if possible) 

• Keeping copies of important financial documents 

• Noting down patterns of financial control 

• Seeking advice from a domestic abuse service 

• Exploring benefits or housing support options 

You do not have to take action alone. Support is available to help you plan safely. 

How Non Violentiam CIC Can Help 

At Non Violentiam CIC, we understand that financial abuse can feel overwhelming and isolating. 

We support women and families experiencing: 

• Financial abuse and economic control 

• Domestic abuse in all forms 

• Coercive and controlling behaviour 

• Housing insecurity linked to abuse 

• Trauma and recovery needs 

• Barriers to independence and wellbeing 

Our approach is trauma-informed, practical and focused on helping survivors rebuild stability and confidence at their own pace. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is financial abuse in a relationship? 

Financial abuse is when one person controls, restricts, or misuses another person’s money or financial resources to gain power and control. 

Can financial abuse happen without physical violence? 

Yes. Financial abuse can occur on its own or alongside emotional, psychological, or physical abuse. 

Is financial abuse common? 

Yes. It is one of the most common but least recognised forms of domestic abuse, often going unnoticed for long periods. 

What should I do if I think I’m experiencing financial abuse? 

You can speak to a trusted person or contact a domestic abuse organisation for confidential support and advice tailored to your situation. 

You Are Not Alone 

Financial abuse can make you feel trapped, powerless, and uncertain about your future—but support is available. 

At Non Violentiam CIC, we believe everyone deserves financial independence, safety, and control over their own life. 

If you are experiencing financial abuse or are unsure about your situation, reaching out for help is a strong and important first step.