12 Measures to Safeguard Your Financial Security During Exit from a Violent Relationship

Leaving an abusive relationship can be a difficult and daunting task, and it is important to take steps to protect your finances during this process. The following are 12 measures you can take to safeguard your financial security:

• Gather important financial documents. This includes documents such as bank statements, bills, credit card statements, tax returns, and any other documents that contain important financial information. Having these documents in a safe place will be important when you need to access your accounts or file for benefits.
• Open a bank account in your own name. If you don't already have one, consider opening a bank account in your own name. This will give you control over your own money and make it more difficult for your abuser to access your funds.
• Create a budget. Creating a budget will help you understand how much money you have coming in and going out, and will help you to plan for expenses.
• File for any benefits you may be eligible for. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for benefits such as unemployment, food stamps, or cash assistance.
• Consider obtaining a restraining order. If you are in immediate danger, consider obtaining a restraining order. This will prohibit your abuser from contacting you and can also prohibit them from accessing your financial accounts.
• Change your passwords. Make sure to change any passwords that you have shared with your abuser, including online banking, credit card, email and social media account passwords.
• Contact your bank and credit card companies. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your situation and ask them to place fraud alerts on your accounts.
• Close any joint accounts. If you have any joint accounts with your abuser, close them as soon as possible to prevent them from accessing your money.
• Get professional help. There are many organizations and resources available that can provide you with financial advice and assistance.
• Take care of your credit score. Try to maintain a good credit score because it may be necessary for loans or rental applications later.
• Be aware of your rights. Learn about your rights in relation to your finances and the property you own. This can help you to make informed decisions about what to do next.
• Make a plan for the future. Leaving an abusive relationship can be difficult, but it is an important step in building a better life. Make a plan for your future that includes goals for your finances, your career, and your overall well-being.

Leaving an abusive relationship is a very difficult process, but it is important to remember that you have options. By taking the steps outlined above, you can take control of your finances and start to rebuild your life. Remember to take things one day at a time, and to reach out for help when you need it. You are not alone and there are many resources available to help you through this process.

It is also important to keep in mind that, in addition to financial abuse, there are other forms of abuse, such as emotional, psychological, sexual and physical abuse. Leaving an abusive relationship can be hard and you may need to look for a safe place to stay and to talk to someone you trust. Many shelters can help you with a safe place and also with legal matters, counseling, and job search.

In case you are afraid that your abuser may track you, consider notifying your current and past addresses, phone numbers, email accounts and social media profiles to the authorities, so that they can take the appropriate measures to protect you.

Above all, remember that you deserve to live a life free from abuse, and that you have the right to take control of your finances and your future.

Leaving an abusive relationship is not an easy decision, and it can be a complicated process, not just emotionally, but also financially. Abusers often use finances as a tool of control, and it can be hard to regain control of your money when you leave. However, by taking proactive steps to protect your finances, you can give yourself the peace of mind and stability you need to move forward.

One of the first steps you should take is to establish your own credit history. If you have shared credit accounts with your abuser, it's important to close these accounts and open new ones in your own name. This will help to establish your own credit history and will make it easier for you to get loans or credit cards in the future. You should also order a copy of your credit report from the three main credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) and review it for any errors or unauthorized accounts.

Another important step is to keep track of all your income and expenses. This will help you understand your financial situation and identify any areas where you may be vulnerable. You should keep track of your income, including any government benefits, paychecks, or other sources of income, and also track your expenses, such as rent, bills, and groceries.

It's also important to know your rights when it comes to your finances and property. This includes understanding what you're entitled to in terms of alimony, child support, and property division. This can be complicated, especially if you're not familiar with the legal system, so it's a good idea to seek the help of a lawyer or legal aid organization.

Another important step is to develop a plan for the future. While it's important to focus on the immediate concerns, such as finding a safe place to stay and getting medical care, it's also essential to think about your long-term goals. This might include finding a new job, going back to school, or buying a home. Having a plan in place can help you to feel more in control and give you something to work towards.

It's also important to find a support system. Leaving an abusive relationship can be a traumatic experience, and it's essential to have someone to talk to. Support groups and hotlines can be a great resource, and they can help you to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. You should also consider talking to a therapist or counselor, who can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies.

Finally, it's important to be aware of the warning signs of financial abuse, such as your abuser preventing you from working, limiting your access to money, or controlling your spending. By being aware of these warning signs, you can take steps to protect yourself before leaving the relationship.

In summary, leaving an abusive relationship is a difficult and complex process, but by taking proactive steps to protect your finances, you can give yourself the peace of mind and stability you need to move forward. Remember to seek professional help, understand your rights, and have a plan for the future. Be sure to have a support system, know your income and expenses, take care of your credit score, be aware of warning signs, and most importantly remember that you deserve to live a life free from abuse.