An abuser’s goal is usually to control the survivor, and they will often use any means necessary to accomplish this. In addition to hurting an individual emotionally and physically, an abusive partner may also negatively impact a survivor’s finances. Financial or economic abuse occurs when an abusive partner extends their power and control into your financial situation. This abuse can take many forms and may include:

• Providing an allowance and closely monitoring how you spend it, including demanding receipts for purchases.

• Depositing your paycheck into an account, you can’t access.

• Preventing you from viewing or accessing bank accounts.

• Preventing you from working, limiting the hours that you can work, getting you fired, or forcing you to work certain types of jobs.

• Maxing out your credit cards without permission, not paying credit card bills, or otherwise harming your credit score.

• Stealing money from you, your family, or your friends.

• Withdrawing money from children’s savings accounts without your permission.

• Living in your home but refusing to work or contribute to the household.

• Forcing you to provide them with your tax returns or confiscating joint tax returns.

• Refusing to provide money for necessary or shared expenses like food, clothing, transportation, medical care, or medicine.