Protecting Yourself From Financial Abuse In A Relationship Or Divorce

Financial abuse is one of the most insidious forms of domestic control, yet it often goes overlooked. While physical and emotional abuse tend to be more visible, financial abuse can quietly undermine a person’s autonomy, leaving lasting consequences even after a relationship ends. Victims may find themselves saddled with debt, denied access to funds, or unable to work or pursue education. In Illinois, survivors of financial abuse have legal protections and practical tools to regain independence, but recognizing the warning signs early is crucial to preventing long-term harm. If you would like to learn more and discuss your situation, reach out to our North Shore, Chicago divorce lawyer for a consultation.

What Financial Abuse Looks Like

Financial abuse occurs when one partner exerts control over another by manipulating access to money or resources. It is not limited to obvious theft or fraud; it can manifest in subtle yet powerful ways:

Controlling Access to Money
A common tactic is restricting a partner’s access to joint bank accounts, credit cards, or even cash. The abusive partner may insist on being the sole account holder, limit ATM withdrawals, or require receipts for every expenditure. Victims may be prohibited from accessing checking or savings accounts or from using household funds for personal needs. This level of control can make the victim entirely dependent, limiting their ability to make choices, leave the relationship, or maintain personal dignity.

Forcing Debt in the Partner’s Name
Some abusers coerce their partners into taking out loans, credit cards, or lines of credit solely in the victim’s name. In Illinois, this can result in serious long-term consequences, including damaged credit scores, legal liability for unpaid debts, and difficulty obtaining housing or loans in the future. Often, the victim only discovers the debt after the abuser has absconded or refused to contribute, creating financial hardship that can take years to recover from.

Preventing Education or Employment
Another form of financial abuse is actively preventing a partner from working or pursuing education. By limiting job opportunities or controlling transportation, childcare, and daily schedules, an abuser guarantees the victim remains financially dependent upon the abuser. This isolation can make the victim feel trapped and undermine self-confidence, further entrenching the power imbalance.

Manipulating Everyday Expenses
Financial abuse can also appear in smaller, daily ways—such as refusing to pay bills, insisting on extravagant household spending that drains joint accounts, or deliberately underfunding necessary expenses like groceries, medical care, or childcare. Over time, these tactics create an environment of fear, dependency, and stress, making it difficult for the victim to assert independence.

Recognizing Red Flags

Identifying financial abuse early can prevent significant harm and help victims plan their next steps safely. Some warning signs include:

Isolation From Financial Decisions
If your partner makes all financial decisions without your input, hides information about income or bills, or refuses to provide access to household funds, these are major red flags. Illinois victims often report being cut off from joint accounts, denied access to online banking, or told they cannot open individual accounts.

Hidden Accounts or Credit Cards
Abusive partners sometimes maintain secret accounts, make unauthorized transactions, or open credit cards without disclosure. Monitoring for unusual activity, discrepancies in statements, or missing financial documents can help victims identify these hidden tactics. Engaging a financial advisor or forensic accountant can be particularly useful in uncovering such hidden assets.

Threats or Coercion Around Money
Threatening eviction, withholding child support, or pressuring a partner to sign financial documents under duress are all forms of financial abuse. Illinois law recognizes that threats to financial security are a form of coercion, and courts can intervene to prevent further harm.

Legal Protections Available In Illinois

Illinois law provides several avenues to protect individuals from financial abuse, both during a relationship and in the context of divorce proceedings.

Orders of Protection
Victims of domestic abuse, including financial abuse, may petition the court for an Order of Protection under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (740 ILCS 22). These orders can restrict the abuser’s ability to control finances, prohibit harassing communication, and sometimes mandate temporary access to shared accounts or assets. Notably, an Order of Protection can also address related financial concerns, such as preventing the abuser from disposing of property or forcing the victim to pay unauthorized debts.

Divorce Court Remedies

Divorce proceedings in Illinois offer multiple remedies for victims of financial abuse:

• Temporary Support Orders: The court can grant temporary maintenance (formerly known as “alimony”) or child support to guarantee the victim has funds to cover living expenses while the case is ongoing.
• Fee Awards: Courts may order the abusive spouse to pay attorney’s fees or court costs, reducing the financial strain on the victim.
• Equitable Division of Assets: Illinois follows an equitable distribution standard, meaning the court divides marital property fairly. Judges consider misconduct, including financial abuse, when allocating assets and debts. This safeguards victims from unfair debt burdens or exclusion from marital wealth.

Criminal Consequences

Certain financial abuse actions—such as fraud, identity theft, or coercion—can also be criminal offenses under Illinois law. Filing a police report, in addition to pursuing civil remedies, can provide an additional layer of protection and documentation.

Practical Steps For Victims

In addition to legal remedies, there are practical strategies victims can use to regain control of their finances and build independence.

Gathering Documentation
Documenting financial abuse is vital. Keep records of bank statements, emails, text messages, loan documents, and any evidence showing coercion or unauthorized spending. Detailed records strengthen both protective order and divorce claims, helping the court recognize the abuse and take appropriate action.

Building Independent Credit
Victims should begin establishing personal credit separate from the abuser. This may include opening individual bank accounts, applying for secured credit cards, and monitoring credit reports. Even small steps, such as setting up automatic savings or contributing to a retirement account, can help rebuild financial autonomy over time.

Working With Financial Advocates
Certified financial planners, forensic accountants, or financial advocates can assist victims by analyzing joint finances, identifying hidden assets, and advising on long-term planning. At Merel Family Law, attorneys often collaborate with these professionals to promote fair settlements and prevent continued financial harm.

Education and Career Planning
Victims should consider training, education, or employment opportunities that strengthen financial independence. Illinois community colleges, vocational programs, and online courses can be valuable resources for adults re-entering the workforce or upgrading skills.

Case Example: Financial Independence Restored

Consider the case of Sarah, a Chicago resident who experienced financial abuse during her marriage. Her spouse controlled all household funds and coerced her into signing loans she never authorized. When she decided to leave, she worked with a family law attorney at Merel Family Law to gather documentation, petition for a protective order, and request temporary support. Through coordinated efforts with a financial advocate, Sarah uncovered hidden bank accounts and recovered a portion of marital assets. After her divorce was finalized, she established independent banking, repaired her credit, and secured a stable income—regaining both financial independence and personal confidence. Her experience illustrates that, with the right support and legal strategy, victims can reclaim their financial autonomy.

Reclaiming Financial Control And Moving Forward

Financial abuse is often hidden, but its consequences can be devastating. Victims in Illinois have access to legal remedies—including protective orders, divorce court remedies, and criminal avenues—as well as practical strategies for regaining financial independence. Recognizing the signs, documenting evidence, and taking proactive steps to protect autonomy are essential for both safety and long-term stability. Safeguarding your financial independence is not just about money; it is about reclaiming control over your life, your choices, and your future.

Merel Family Law has been helping clients with a full-range of family law needs since 2009. For your convenience, we have three offices in Illinois and one in Michigan, and are available by phone and Zoom. We have 24/7 live answering so you can reach out to us anytime. Call us today or whenever you are ready to talk.