Healing After Financial Abuse

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the many ways abuse can manifest. Many victims are affected by financial abuse. One of the most insidious forms of financial abuse is coerced debt — when an abuser uses threats, force, or manipulation to create debt in the survivor’s name.

Coerced debt can take many forms: an abuser may open credit cards in your name without your knowledge, force you to take out loans you don’t want, or insist you co-sign on large purchases that benefit only them. Sometimes, abusers will max out your credit cards and refuse to make payments, ruining your credit. In more extreme cases, they may even commit identity theft by using your personal information to rack up debt without your consent.

This kind of abuse leaves lasting consequences. Survivors often face damaged credit, legal threats from debt collectors, and barriers to housing, employment, and financial independence — all of which can make it harder to leave or stay safe after leaving an abusive situation.

At Western New York Law Center we understand the complexities of financial abuse and are here to help. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

We Can Help You:

1. Obtain Your Credit Reports

Knowing what debt exists in your name is the first step in addressing coerced debt. Many survivors aren’t even aware of the accounts opened or charges made until much later. We can assist you in requesting free credit reports from all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and help you review them for signs of fraud or unauthorized activity.

2. Dispute Coerced or Fraudulent Debt

If your credit report includes debt that was created through fraud, or without your consent, you have the right to dispute it. We can help you draft letters to creditors and credit reporting agencies.

3. Plan for Financial Safety

Just like safety planning for physical well-being, financial safety planning is vital for survivors of domestic violence. We can work with you to develop a personalized financial safety plan that includes steps like securing your personal information, protecting your income, and exploring options for financial independence. We can also connect you with trusted community resources, including shelters, counselors, and financial literacy programs.

You Are Not Alone

Financial abuse is devastating. The good news is it is also addressable. With the right support, survivors can begin to repair the damage, rebuild credit, and regain control over their finances and their future.

Western New York Law Center provides free, confidential legal assistance and can help you advocate for yourself.

Arianna Gabriel, Esq.