What does Findom mean?
Findom is one of the more specific terms from the BDSM world and thus one of the most controversial. It is a combination of “financial” or “finance” and “Dom” (or sometimes referred to as Moneydom). It refers to a person whose dominance is focused on finances and who has control over the financial resources of a sub (the submissive person) within a power dynamic. In this context, the submissive is often referred to as a “Finsub.” The kink related to this dynamic is called Financial Domination or simply Findom.
What does a Findom do?
There are various forms of the Findom role. It can range from simply accepting cash or receiving bank transfers to total financial control. Many Findoms require payments, gifts, or vouchers from a sub. Depending on the play style, these payments may be requested as punishment or as part of a ritual. They may also serve as a prerequisite for interaction.
The amount and timing of payments are also factors determined by the Moneydom. In fact, some Finsubs send money or gifts without any prior action or request. Whether the recipient can be called a Findom in this case is subjective.
Distinguishing between Findom and Domina
At first glance, one might think a Findom is similar to a professional Dominatrix, as they are both paid. The distinction lies in the fact that a Findom does not charge for a service rendered, but simply demands money. While it is possible to combine sadomasochistic or sexual practices with Financial Domination, a Domina is not automatically a Findom and vice versa.
Findoms enjoy the power they hold over a sub by spending their money. It’s not just about the money and financial benefit but also about the superior position, the feeling of power, and the resulting dependency. While a professional Domina might also enjoy these aspects of their job, their primary focus is earning a living. It’s comparable to a chef: Not everyone who cooks is automatically a head chef, but many chefs surely enjoy cooking.
What should you consider?
The interests of those who enjoy blackmail often overlap with those of Findoms and Finsubs. Doms in 24/7 or TPE relationships often take on Findom roles as well. As a Findom, one clearly has a high level of responsibility toward their play partner. It’s not just about taking someone’s money; a Findom must control themselves and act with awareness and consideration.
This starts with obtaining explicit consent. It’s important to keep an eye on the previously agreed limits. There might be a range of amounts that are acceptable, followed by those that are questionable but still okay for the Finsub, and amounts that exceed their financial means. Balance must be maintained, or high sums should only be requested at larger intervals.
Additionally, a Moneydom should be aware that there is a possibility of getting into legal trouble in this role. After all, the money received is additional income, which must be taxed. Depending on the scale of the activity, one should consider how to report the earnings. Ultimately, even without any sexual activity, if you knowingly cater to someone’s interests and receive money in this context, it is considered a service, if not sex work.
