Main content Domestic Violence: Checklist of Things to Take When You Leave

    Domestic Violence: Checklist of Things to Take When You Leave



    Topic Overview

    Here are some helpful items to get together when you are planning on leaving an abusive situation. Keep these items in a safe place until you are ready to leave or in case you need to leave suddenly. If you have children, take them. And take your pets, too, if possible.

    Checklist for preparing to leave an abusive situation
    Identification for yourself and your children
    • Birth certificates
    • Social Security cards (or numbers written on paper if you can't find the cards)
    • Driver's license
    • Photo identification or passport
    • Welfare identification
    • Green card
    Important personal papers
    • Marriage certificate
    • Divorce papers
    • Custody orders
    • Legal protection or restraining orders
    • Health insurance papers and medical cards
    • Medical records for all family members
    • Children's school records
    • Investment papers/records and account numbers
    • Work permits
    • Immigration papers
    • Rental agreement/lease or house deed
    • Car title, registration, and insurance information
    • Records of police reports you have filed, or other evidence of abuse
    Funds
    • Cash
    • Credit cards
    • ATM card
    • Checkbook and bankbook (with deposit slips)
    Keys
    • House
    • Car
    • Safety deposit box or post office box
    A way to communicate
    • Phone calling card
    • Cell phone
    • Address book
    Medicines
    • At least 1 month's supply for all medicines you and your children are taking, as well as a copy of the prescriptions
    A way to get by
    • Jewelry or small objects you can sell, if you run out of money or stop having access to your accounts
    Things to help you cope
    • Pictures
    • Keepsakes
    • Children's small toys or books

    Source: National Women's Health Information Center at www.WomensHealth.gov.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference March 8, 2012
    Medical Review: Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
    Reference Brigid McCaw, MD, MS, MPH, FACP - Family Violence Prevention


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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