How to distinguish between financial and economic abuse (e.g., sabotaging someone's ability to work vs. taking their income)
Abuse isn’t always physical. Many survivors face harm that’s hidden but just as damaging, like financial and economic abuse. Knowing the difference between these two types of abuse is important because both can severely impact someone’s freedom and safety.
What is financial abuse?
Financial abuse is when someone controls, exploits, or misuses another person’s money or financial resources without permission. This can include:
Taking their income or savings
Forcing someone to hand over their paycheck
Running up debts or loans in their name
Stealing money or assets
Controlling access to bank accounts or credit cards
Financial abuse is about directly taking or controlling money. It often leaves survivors dependent and vulnerable.
What is economic abuse?
Economic abuse is a broader form of control that sabotages a person’s ability to earn, access, or use money. It can include:
Stopping someone from working or attending school
Controlling transportation so they can’t get to a job
Withholding money for essentials like food, bills, or childcare
Preventing someone from applying for benefits or financial help
Sabotaging work opportunities, such as harassing at work or withholding necessary documents
Economic abuse is about blocking or limiting someone’s ability to support themselves financially.
Why the distinction matters
Both financial and economic abuse harm a person’s independence and safety. But understanding the difference helps in identifying the abuse and finding the right support.
For example, if a partner takes all your earnings, that’s financial abuse. If they won’t let you work or study, that’s economic abuse. Sometimes, both happen together — one feeds the other to trap someone in the relationship.
How to spot these abuses early
You’re always asking permission to spend money, even on small things.
Your partner controls all the bills and your access to accounts.
You’ve been stopped or pressured not to work or study.
You don’t have access to your passport, ID, or important documents.
You’re forced to hand over your earnings or sign financial papers.
Your partner makes you feel guilty or scared about money.
If any of these sound familiar, it could be a sign of financial or economic abuse.
Getting Help and Support
It’s important to know that help is available, and you don’t have to face this alone.
Women’s Aid offers practical information on financial and economic abuse and how to spot early signs. Visit: womensaid.org.uk
Refuge explains the impact of economic abuse and offers support for survivors. Learn more at: refuge.org.uk
FREEVA Leicester provides confidential, culturally aware support for people facing financial and economic abuse. Find out more here: freeva.org.uk
Remember
Financial and economic abuse are forms of coercive control designed to isolate and trap survivors. Recognising the signs early can make a huge difference.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these types of abuse, reach out to a trusted organisation like Zinthiya Trust or the services above. Your safety and independence matter.
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