Stay Informed

Financial abuse is a form of domestic violence that is rarely discussed, yet is commonly present in abusive relationships. Financial abuse occurs when an abuser makes the victim become financially dependent on them. Financial abuse is a form of abuse because the abuser is using a form of power and control over their victim. This form of abuse creates barriers for victims and makes it difficult for them to leave an abusive relationship.

Some red flags include, but are not limited to:

• Accumulating debt on victim’s behalf
• Forbidding attendance at school
• Forbidding employment
• Forcing welfare or tax fraud
• Requiring accountability and justification of every penny spent
• No bank accounts in victims name
• Denying financial support as a means of control
• Victim is required to work and pay bills while abuser never financially contributes to household

As the holiday season approaches, it is important to discuss these red flags of financial abuse. In certain cases, victims may be forced to work overtime in order to accommodate holiday finances. In other cases, victims may find themselves in severe physical, verbal and/or emotional situations over holiday finances. Either way, it is important to note that financial abuse is a form of domestic violence and should not be tolerated in our community.

As always, Marjaree Mason Center is here to help you or someone you may know who is being affected by domestic violence through our 24/7 confidential hotline (559.233.HELP).