Financial Recovery After Abuse: The Path to Buying Your Own Home

Financial abuse — controlling access to money, running up debt in a partner's name, sabotaging employment — is one of the most common forms of domestic violence. It can leave survivors with damaged credit, no savings, and debt they didn't choose.

The financial damage is not your fault. It was done to you deliberately. And it can be rebuilt.

First steps: check your credit reports at annualcreditreports.com and look for accounts you don't recognize. Unauthorized accounts may be identity theft by your abuser and can be disputed. Open a bank account in your name only, at an institution your abuser doesn't use, with statements going to a safe address. List every financial account attached to your name so you know what you're working with.

To rebuild credit: dispute fraudulent accounts with the credit bureaus — a police report documenting financial abuse can support your case. A secured credit card or credit-builder loan, used consistently for 12–18 months, can meaningfully improve your score. On-time payments are the single biggest factor in credit scoring — even small bills count.

You don't need 20% down. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down for buyers with a 580+ credit score. Down payment assistance programs exist in most states for first-time buyers. HUD-approved housing counselors (hud.gov) can identify local grants and programs.

Safe Haven Title works with survivors at every stage — including those who aren't ready to purchase yet. If cost is a concern when you are ready, ask about our survivor assistance program.

In immediate danger? Call 911. National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 | Text START to 88788 (24/7, free, confidential).

This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship with safehaventitle.com, NewTech Partners LLC, or their staff. Laws vary by jurisdiction, consult a licensed attorney or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.