Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the hardest steps a survivor can take—but rebuilding life afterward, especially financially, can feel just as overwhelming. Abusers often use financial control as a way to maintain power, leaving survivors with little money, no credit, or gaps in employment. The good news? You can regain financial independence. With the right resources and strategies, you can rebuild your life on your own terms.
1. Find Immediate Financial Assistance
The first step in securing independence is ensuring you have the essentials: food, shelter, and transportation. There are emergency resources designed to help survivors get back on their feet, including:
- Domestic Violence Shelters & Grants – Many shelters offer not only a safe place to stay but also financial assistance for housing, food, and transportation. Organizations like The National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233) can connect you to local resources.
- Emergency Cash & Food Assistance – Programs like SNAP (food stamps), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), and local nonprofits can provide short-term relief.
- Crime Victim Compensation – If you reported the abuse, some states offer financial aid for medical expenses, relocation costs, and lost wages.
2. Secure Employment & Career Training
If your abuser controlled your work life or finances, re-entering the job market might feel intimidating, but there are programs designed to help.
- Employment Assistance – Workforce programs like Dress for Success and Goodwill offer job training, resume help, and interview coaching for survivors.
- Remote & Flexible Work – If transportation or childcare is a barrier, look into remote jobs or gig work through platforms like Upwork, Rev, or FlexJobs.
- Education & Training Grants – Many colleges offer scholarships for single parents and survivors. Programs like the Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP) help survivors pursue higher education.
3. Take Control of Your Finances
Even if you’re starting from zero, small financial steps can add up to long-term stability.
- Open a New Bank Account – Choose a bank your abuser doesn’t have access to and set up an account in your name only.
- Check Your Credit Report – Visit AnnualCreditReport.com or Credit Karma to review your credit history. If your abuser took out debt in your name, a financial counselor can help dispute it.
- Create a Basic Budget – Focus on necessities first (housing, food, bills) and build from there. Free apps like Money Monarch or YNAB can help track spending and savings. Every Dollar has been my go to.
Financial independence is a process, but every small step moves you forward. Lean on resources, ask for help, and trust that you have the strength to rebuild. Your future is yours to create—one empowered step at a time.
– Anonymous Client
“Through the Client’s Eye” blog series stems from the desire of Modern Legal clients to share information to those who have yet to endure a family law matter. Each client’s story is exquisitely unique; however, there are many times when a client will say at the end of the case, “I wish I had known…” This blog series focuses on filling that gap as a means to help anyone who is about to start or is in the midst of a family law dispute. The comments contained in each blog reflect the feelings and viewpoints of the respective client. All identifying information has been withheld to protect said client’s identity as well as any related legal matter.
Inspired by her own experiences with domestic violence and the family court system, Theresa E. Viera became the first lawyer in her family, graduating from the University of North Carolina School of Law. She has dedicated her career to helping families find healthy solutions through various legal tools, including negotiations, mediation, collaborative law, and litigation when necessary. With years of experience in Family Law, she strives to inspire others and make a positive impact on the lives of her clients, just as her mother’s attorney once inspired her.
