What options do I have with a car financed in my name in an abusive relationship?

Question

I'm in an abusive relationship and trying to get out. My husband had me finance a car in my name only, and now he refuses to pay for it. I can't afford both car payments due to my limited income. We have one child in the home. We didn't have any formal agreement about him paying for the car, just conversations and texts. What can I do about the car since it's in my name?

Jennifer Setters · Answer

1. Prioritize Your Safety First 
If you are in immediate danger, contact a local domestic violence shelter or hotline (e.g., the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233). 
Consider reaching out to a domestic violence advocate for guidance on financial and legal matters. 
2. Financial & Legal Options for the Car 
Since the car is in your name, you are legally responsible for the loan, even if your husband agreed to pay for it. However, you still have options: 
 
A. Repossession (Voluntary Surrender) 
If you can’t afford the payments, you can voluntarily return the car to the lender. This will negatively impact your credit but may prevent additional debt from piling up. 
After repossession, the lender may sell the car and require you to pay the remaining balance (deficiency). 
B. Sell or Trade the Car 
If the car is worth more than the remaining loan balance, selling it privately or trading it in may be an option. 
If you owe more than the car's value, you might need to cover the difference or roll it into another loan (which should be a last resort). 
C. Loan Refinancing or Transfer 
Check if your lender allows loan refinancing to lower the payments. 
See if a trusted family member or friend can refinance the car in their name. 
D. Legal Recourse Against Your Husband 
Since you have texts indicating that he agreed to pay, you may be able to take him to court (small claims or family court) for repayment. 
If you're filing for divorce or separation, the judge might consider the car debt in the division of assets and debts. 
E. Protection Order & Legal Assistance 
If you are leaving an abusive relationship, you may qualify for a protective order, which can sometimes include financial relief. 
Speak with a licensed family law attorney about your legal options, including how the car debt may be addressed in a separation or divorce. 
3. Seek Legal Help 
Since financial abuse is often part of domestic abuse, consulting a licensed attorney in Nevada (or your state) is important. You can find legal help through: 
 
Nevada Legal Services (https://nlslaw.net) 
State Bar of Nevada – Lawyer Referral Service (https://nvbar.org) 
Local domestic violence shelters, which often have legal assistance programs

Q: What options do I have with a car financed in my name in an abusive relationship?