Financial help
Money is often what keeps people trapped. Here's how to change that.
Financial abuse — controlling money, sabotaging work, ruining credit — happens in nearly every abusive relationship. Rebuilding financial safety takes time; these are the tools survivors use to start.
Emergency cash
TANF, state emergency assistance, and DV-specific emergency funds through local shelters. Advocates on the hotline can connect you with same-day help in your area.
Victim compensation
Every state runs a victim compensation program. You can be reimbursed for medical bills, therapy, lost wages, relocation, and childcare — even without a criminal case.
Housing
HUD's Emergency Housing Vouchers and VAWA housing protections. Transitional housing programs at DV shelters typically last 6–24 months.
Credit repair
You can dispute debts opened in your name without consent. The Allstate Foundation's Moving Ahead curriculum walks through step-by-step credit rebuilding.
Benefits
SNAP (food), Medicaid, WIC, and unemployment insurance. Survivors are often eligible even if a partner previously exceeded income limits.
Long-term savings
Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) — matched savings programs — are available through many DV organizations.
Programs & tools
HUD Domestic Violence Housing Resources
Emergency housing rights, VAWA housing protections, and finding transitional housing.
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The Allstate Foundation — Moving Ahead
Free financial empowerment curriculum for survivors: safety, budgeting, credit repair, and long-term financial independence.
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TANF Emergency Assistance
State-administered temporary cash assistance. Many states have emergency provisions for DV survivors.
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State Crime Victim Compensation
Every state offers compensation for medical bills, lost wages, counseling, and relocation for crime victims, including DV.
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Modest Needs — Emergency Grants
Small emergency grants (usually paid directly to a creditor) for individuals in short-term financial crisis.
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findhelp.org (formerly Aunt Bertha)
Search free and reduced-cost food, housing, transportation, and health resources by ZIP code.
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211 — United Way Community Services
Free, confidential referrals to local resources: shelter, food, utilities, health care, and crisis services.
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Advocates can help you access all of these — you don't have to figure it out alone. Talk to someone free and confidentially.