What Is Financial Abuse?
Understanding the Hidden Form of Domestic Abuse

When we think of abuse, physical or emotional harm might come to mind first. But there’s another form of abuse that often goes unnoticed—financial abuse. It’s more common than many people realize, and it can be just as damaging as other forms of abuse.

Hi, my name is Chelsey Tschosik, LICSW, and I’m a licensed therapist based in Tacoma, WA, specializing in trauma-informed care, I work with clients across Washington State through secure telehealth services. I help survivors recognize the signs of financial abuse and take steps toward healing and independence.

In this post, I’ll explain what financial abuse is under U.S. law, how to identify it, and what you can do if you or someone you love is experiencing it.

What Is Financial Abuse?

Financial abuse, sometimes called economic abuse, is a form of domestic abuse where one person controls another’s ability to access money, work, or financial resources. This control can be used to isolate, manipulate, and trap someone in a relationship.

In the United States, financial abuse is increasingly recognized in both civil and criminal law, especially in the context of domestic violence, elder abuse, and coercive control. While not always prosecuted separately, financial abuse can be grounds for protective orders, divorce proceedings, and even criminal charges when tied to theft, fraud, or exploitation.

Legal Definitions & Protections

There’s no single federal law that defines financial abuse across all situations, but state laws often provide specific protections. In Washington State, financial abuse is covered under several statutes, especially those related to domestic violence and elder exploitation.

Examples of financial abuse under Washington law include:

  • Taking control of a partner’s bank accounts or credit cards without consent

  • Forcing someone to sign financial documents or contracts

  • Withholding money needed for essentials like food, healthcare, or transportation

  • Preventing someone from working or sabotaging their job

  • Stealing or misusing benefits, pensions, or personal property

Financial abuse often exists alongside emotional or physical abuse, but it can also occur on its own. This is why it's important to understand the warning signs.

Warning Signs of Financial Abuse

Financial abuse can happen in any relationship—romantic, familial, or even between caregiver and dependent. Here are common signs:

  • You’re not allowed to see your own bank statements

  • You have to ask permission to spend your own money

  • Your partner controls your income or forces you to hand over paychecks

  • You’ve been pressured into signing financial documents you didn’t understand

  • You’re being blamed for debts or financial problems you didn’t cause

  • You’re afraid to bring up money for fear of retaliation

Many people feel ashamed or confused when experiencing this type of abuse. But remember: abuse is never your fault.

How Therapy Can Help

If you’re experiencing financial abuse, you may feel stuck, isolated, or overwhelmed. A trained therapist can help you:

  • Recognize and validate your experience

  • Process complex emotions like shame, fear, and guilt

  • Set boundaries and rebuild self-worth

  • Create a safety and exit plan

  • Connect with community resources like legal aid, financial counselors, or domestic violence shelters

Healing from abuse—especially financial abuse—requires both emotional and practical support. Therapy can be a vital first step toward reclaiming control over your life and your future.

You're Not Alone. Support Is Available.

Healing Harbor, PLLC offers confidential, trauma-informed telehealth sessions for individuals across Washington State. Whether you're just starting to question your relationship dynamics or already planning your next steps, I'm here to support you.

You deserve financial independence, emotional safety, and a life free from control.

Ready to Talk?

If you’re concerned about financial abuse in your relationship or family, you don’t have to face it alone. Schedule a complimentary 20 minute consultation to see if therapy might be right for you.

👉 Schedule a Free Consultation
📍 Serving Tacoma and all of Washington State
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Additional Resources

  • Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence – wscadv.org

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-SAFE

  • Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) – Resources for financial assistance and protection