Playbook: The Role of Financial Institutions in Responding to Domestic Financial Abuse

Financial abuse, a pervasive yet underrecognized form of domestic abuse, involves the control or restriction of an individual's access to economic resources. This form of abuse can have long-term impacts on financial stability and well-being, persisting even after an individual leaves an abusive relationship. Despite its prevalence—affecting nearly all individuals who report domestic abuse—financial abuse remains insufficiently documented in terms of national rates and economic costs in the United States. Financial institutions (FIs), due to their trusted role in individuals' financial lives, are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to domestic financial abuse.

This playbook presents a strategic framework for FIs to support victim-survivors through four key workflows: fostering a supportive internal culture, preparing employees to recognize and respond to abuse, educating and supporting clients, and enhancing protective product features and partnerships. By adopting these practices, FIs can play a critical role in addressing domestic financial abuse, promoting financial inclusion, and helping victim-survivors regain economic control and security.