Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a widespread and deeply troubling issue in South Africa, with its effects felt in countless homes across the country.

While physical and emotional abuse often takes centre stage in discussions, there is another form of abuse that is just as destructive – financial abuse.

Financial abuse involves the use of money or economic resources as a tool to control, exploit, or harm another person. It can occur in various relationships, such as between intimate partners, family members, caregivers, or even within professional settings.

According to Jessica Pillay, financial adviser at Momentum Financial Planning, this form of abuse is often hidden in plain sight, but its impact can be devastating, leaving victims financially trapped and emotionally drained.

According to the 2022/23 Victims of Crime Survey by Statistics SA, a significant proportion of women have experienced various forms of gender-based violence, including physical and sexual violence. 

What often goes unnoticed, however, is that financial abuse is present in the overwhelming majority of domestic violence cases, with many victims enduring severe economic control by their abusers.

“Financial abuse involves using money as a weapon to control, manipulate, and undermine a partner’s independence, often leaving them dependent and voiceless,” says Pillay.

The statistics speak for themselves as 21 percent of South African women report having experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, and more than half of these cases involve financial abuse.

Stats SA (2022) reports that economic violence is a significant part of the broader GBV epidemic, with many women trapped in abusive situations because of their lack of financial independence.

More than 50 percent of women in abusive relationships report being subjected to some form of financial control or economic violence.

As South Africa reflects on the 16 Days of Activism (held from 25 November to 10 December every year) against gender-based violence, Pillay says it is essential for women – particularly those in abusive situations – to understand what financial abuse looks like and to ask themselves, “do I have a financial voice, or am I constantly silenced”.

According to her, financial abusers often try to limit ability to work, pursue a career, or study, effectively cutting off your access to financial independence. 

“By keeping you financially dependent, they maintain control over you,” she said.

In a meantime, she said “a controlling partner may prevent you from seeking medical care or deliberately make it difficult for you to access healthcare services, putting your well-being at risk”.

These are just a few examples of how financial abuse can play out, but the impact is far-reaching. Pillay says it’s important to recognise the signs so that you can take action to protect yourself.

“Strength doesn’t come from the body; it comes from your will. If you decide to take control of your financial life, the solutions are within reach.”

“By recognising the signs of financial abuse, understanding your rights, and taking steps to protect yourself, you can break free from the cycle of control and build a secure, independent future. It’s time to own your power and your financial life and start shaping a future where you are the one in charge,” she says.